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Science News for December 17, 2012


Combo-snacks of cheese and vegetables cut kids calories

A new study from Cornell University found that serving kids combined snacks of cheese and vegetables led to a 72% reduction in calories consumed. The results showed that children eating these snack combos were just as satisfied as those who ate only potato chips, making it an effective tool for reducing childhood obesity.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateDec 17, 2012

RIT scientists decode 3 bacterial strains common to grapevines and sugarcane

Scientists at Rochester Institute of Technology have published the whole genome sequence of three bacteria associated with Jamaican sugarcane and Riesling grapevines. The genomes reveal genetic instructions that make up individual organisms, providing data for the prevention or management of diseases afflicting crops.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateDec 17, 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.

Adhesion disturbed by noise

Researchers found that adding noise to a micro-textured surface can lower the energy barrier for an object to roll, mimicking gecko feet's adhesive properties. This study could lead to applications in gecko-inspired adhesives, tire adhesion, and digital operations.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateDec 17, 2012

Total donates high-speed computer cluster to UH

The University of Houston has received a high-speed computer cluster donation from Total, expanding its computing capabilities for research and education. The cluster will be used for large-scale simulations, data analysis, and teaching students about systems administration.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateDec 17, 2012

Mental health lags behind global health and lifespan improvements

A leading researcher's findings reveal that mental health is not improving at the same rate as global health and lifespan, with autism prevalence found in males, those without higher education, and social housing residents. Training Health Visitors to assess and support mothers after childbirth can prevent depression in adults.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 17, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Duke Medicine News new immune therapy successfully treats brain tumors in mice

Researchers at Duke Medicine have developed an artificial protein that stimulates the body's natural immune system to fight cancer. In a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the therapy was shown to cure brain tumors in six out of eight mice, with no harm to surrounding normal tissue.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2012

Mapping effort charts restoration tack for Great Lakes

A new study maps environmental stresses and ecological services in the Great Lakes, highlighting areas of high cumulative stress and potential for protection. The analysis provides a comprehensive perspective on restoration, identifying locations where multiple problems intersect and opportunities for targeted remediation.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2012

How to get fossil fuels from ice cream and soap

Scientists have created a way to convert naturally occurring fatty acids found in soap and ice cream into ready-to-use fuel and household chemicals. This breakthrough in synthetic biology has the potential to create renewable energy from sustainable sources.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 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.

Univ. of MD School of Medicine to study drug-resistant malaria in Myanmar

The University of Maryland School of Medicine is launching a study on drug-resistant malaria in Myanmar, using new genetic markers to track the spread of artemisinin-resistant malaria. The researchers aim to develop tests to identify and monitor the disease, which has caused significant treatment failures in Southeast Asia.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2012

Who likes bling? The answer relates to social status

Researchers found that feeling inferior in social status leads people of all races to crave expensive products. Whites who imagined themselves in low-status positions rated high-status goods more positively than those in higher positions.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateDec 17, 2012

Autoimmune disease – retraining white blood cells

Researchers develop method to reprogram T-cells involved in autoimmune diseases by attaching pancreatic protein to red blood cells, eliminating symptoms of type I diabetes in mice. The approach aims to minimize risks and side effects while targeting specific immune cells involved in the disease.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 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.

New type of cell division discovered

Researchers have discovered a new type of cell division called klerokinesis, which appears to be an evolutionary failsafe mechanism that could rescue cell functions during embryonic development. By analyzing human retinal pigment epithelial cells, the team found that klerokinesis can help maintain genomic integrity and potentially prev...

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 17, 2012

Study offers insights into role of muscle weakness in Down syndrome

A new study investigated muscle weakness in a mouse model of Down syndrome and found that factors in the nervous system may play a more dominant role in explaining muscle weakness. The research team discovered altered pathways in DS muscle, including breakdown of proteins and neuromuscular transmission.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateDec 17, 2012

Brain imaging identifies bipolar disorder risk in adolescents

Researchers used brain imaging technology to identify young people at risk of bipolar disorder, showing clear differences in brain activity when compared to controls. Young people with a genetic risk of bipolar displayed reduced brain responses to emotive faces, particularly fearful faces.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateDec 17, 2012

Surviving sepsis with LECT2

A recent study published in The Journal of Experimental Medicine found that patients with sepsis had abnormally low levels of the inflammatory protein LECT2. Injecting LECT2 into septic mice promoted bacterial clearance by immune cells and increased their production of survival-promoting factors.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateDec 17, 2012
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.

Flexing fingers for micro-robotics: Berkeley Lab scientists create a powerful, microscale actuator

Researchers developed an elegant and powerful new microscale actuator based on vanadium dioxide material, which expands and contracts in response to temperature variations. The actuators are smaller than human hair width and offer large force and displacement, suitable for biological and microfluidic applications.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 17, 2012

Genetic manipulation of urate alters neurodegeneration in mouse model of Parkinson's disease

A study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers found that mice with elevated urate levels showed significantly less neurodegeneration and improved movement abnormalities compared to those with low urate levels. The results support the possibility that increasing urate levels may slow progression of Parkinson's disease.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2012

Boreal bird species of conservation concern affected by climate change

A study found that climate change is affecting boreal bird species populations, with some groups increasing in density while others are declining. The research suggests that habitat-specific responses to climate change may be driving these trends, with open mires and mountain heaths being more rapidly affected.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNature Conservation·DateDec 17, 2012

Study uncovers mechanism used by BRCA1 to suppress tumors

Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center discovered that BRCA1 targets cyclin B and Cdc25c proteins, regulating the G2/M checkpoint and halting cell division to allow DNA repair. This novel function explains BRCA1's role in maintaining genomic integrity and suppressing tumor growth.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalOncogene·DateDec 17, 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.

Can instilling racial pride in black teens lead to better educational outcomes?

A University of Pittsburgh study published in Child Development found that African American adolescents with a sense of racial pride tend to have more success in school and are less vulnerable to the effects of racial discrimination. The study suggests that racially conscious parenting strategies can be a key factor in student success.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalChild Development·DateDec 17, 2012

Hair care issues contribute to exercise barriers for African-American women

A study by Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center reveals that hair care complications are a primary factor deterring African-American women from exercising. The research found that over 40% of respondents reported avoiding exercise due to hair-related issues, with many using heat straighteners or chemical products to style their hair.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateDec 17, 2012

Farm soil determines environmental fate of phosphorous

A new study by Brown University finds that farm soils mediate the environmental consequences of modern farming, particularly with phosphorus, a key agricultural nutrient. The research compares soybean production in US, Brazil, and Argentina, revealing how soil type and management impact phosphorus usage and environmental pollution.

SourceBrown University·JournalBioScience·DateDec 17, 2012

NASA sees dangerous category 4 Cyclone Evan lashing Fiji

Cyclone Evan is one of the strongest to affect Fiji in almost two decades, causing widespread damage and flooding. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center uses NASA satellite data to forecast its path, which may be the strongest storm to hit Fiji since 1993.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 17, 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.

Following Phragmites home

Researchers mapped large stands of invasive Phragmites along the US Great Lakes coastline using satellite technologies. The resulting dataset provides a highly accurate picture of the extent of Phragmites invasion, allowing for targeted control efforts and future range extension modeling.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalJournal of Great Lakes Research·DateDec 17, 2012

Dust-plumes power intercontinental microbial migrations

A recent study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology reveals that transpacific dust plumes carry thousands of unique microbial species to North America. The researchers detected archaea at high altitudes, which has potential applications in biotechnology and medicine.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateDec 17, 2012

Chances seen rising for chikungunya outbreaks in NYC, Atlanta, Miami

A Cornell University computer model predicts chikungunya outbreaks in NYC during August-September 2013, Atlanta from June-September, and year-round in Miami. The virus is transmitted by Asian tiger mosquitoes, which are rising in numbers due to climate change.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateDec 17, 2012

Preventive detention for oxidizing agents

Researchers discover that cells under oxidative stress deposit oxidized glutathione in a cellular waste repository called the vacuole, protecting themselves from damage. This finding challenges previous assumptions about oxidative stress and its link to various diseases.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 17, 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.

Immune cells use tethered slings to avoid being swept away

Researchers discovered that neutrophil membrane tethers act like slings to anchor the cell and maintain control during high-speed blood flow. This unique structure enables neutrophils to navigate through narrow venules without being swept away, allowing them to effectively present their antigen-sensing ligands at the infection site.

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 17, 2012

Injured coral? Expect less sex

Research found that injured coral colonies in The Bahamas still produced low numbers of eggs four years after damage, and sperm-producing factories were also scarce. This suggests that damaged corals may divert resources away from reproduction towards growth and injury repair.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology·DateDec 17, 2012

PRT versus IMRT toxicity in Medicare beneficiaries with prostate cancer

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found no significant difference in toxicity between proton radiotherapy (PRT) and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) among Medicare beneficiaries with prostate cancer at 12 months post-treatment. Despite its widespread use, PRT's benefits and harms remain unknown.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 17, 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.

Study estimates prevalence of pediatric caustic ingestion injuries

A study estimates the prevalence of pediatric caustic ingestion injuries to be around 807 children per year, resulting in a significant economic burden of nearly $23 million. Legislative measures such as labeling requirements for caustic substances have contributed to a decline in injury rates over the years.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateDec 17, 2012

Achilles' heel of pathogenic bacteria discovered

Scientists at Max Planck Institute discover that EF-P plays a crucial role in protein production of pathogenic bacteria, leading to the development of new specific antibiotics. Intestinal bacteria lacking EF-P are less fit and not as virulent.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateDec 17, 2012

Reproduction and life span are intertwined

The study reveals that removing the worm's germ cells triggers production of dafachronic acid, activating microRNAs that promote longevity. This discovery adds to our understanding of how longevity is regulated.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateDec 17, 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.

Radio waves to kidneys lower persistent high blood pressure

A new study found that directing short bursts of radio waves at nerves surrounding the kidneys lowered blood pressure for at least six months and up to one year. The procedure, called renal denervation, has significant public health implications in treating resistant hypertension.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateDec 17, 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.

Plant sniffs out danger to prepare defenses against pesky insect

Researchers at Penn State discovered that plants can detect and respond to insect odors, leading to improved defenses. The tall goldenrod plant's ability to sense the sex attractant emitted by male flies makes it less appealing to female flies, reducing damage and increasing seed quality.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2012

Harnessing the ID in glioma

Researchers found ID proteins essential for retaining glioma-initiating cells in a specific extracellular niche, maintaining their cancer-promoting properties. The study's results suggest ID proteins as potential therapeutic targets for glioma treatment.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 17, 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.

CNIO researchers develop new databases for understanding the human genome

Researchers have created two new databases, APPRIS and ChiTaRS, to study the human genome and its variants. The databases contain thousands of genomic variants associated with specific diseases, providing a powerful tool for analyzing mutations in protein variants related to illness.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateDec 17, 2012

Arming US troops with insect-protective gear

Scientists have created effective barriers and gear to shield deployed soldiers from disease-causing insects. Insecticides and pesticide application equipment are being tested and evaluated for long-lasting residual protection against mosquitoes, sand flies, and other arthropods.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateDec 17, 2012

University of Tennessee study predicts extreme climate in Eastern US

A University of Tennessee study predicts extreme climate changes in the Eastern US, with heat waves becoming more severe in most regions. The Northeast and Southeast will experience significant increases in precipitation, leading to a greater risk of flooding.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 17, 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.

Speaking skills crucial for hearing impaired children in the classroom

Research suggests that speaking skills play a vital role in closing the gap between hearing-impaired and normal-hearing children in the classroom. Children with better speech intelligibility exhibit higher social competence and reduced feelings of loneliness, according to Tel Aviv University researcher Prof. Tova Most.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalThe Journal of Deaf Studies and Deaf Education·DateDec 17, 2012

Father's death affects early adolescents' futures in developing world

A father's death can have long-term effects on a child's later success in life, particularly for late childhood and early adolescence. Research suggests that bereaved children may experience lower adult living standards, earlier marriage, and smaller incomes due to the loss of a father's earning power.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Biosocial Science·DateDec 17, 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.

JCI early table of contents for Dec. 17, 2012

Researchers identified ID proteins as regulators of glioma progression and potential therapeutic targets. In contrast, the loss of TREM-1 increased inflammation and worsened lung infection outcomes in mice. Additionally, breast cancer cells interact with stroma to drive metastasis through HIF-dependent signaling pathways.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 17, 2012

A genetic defect in sex cells may predispose to childhood leukemia

Researchers identified a possible hereditary mechanism for childhood leukemia, linking a genetic defect in sex cells to the disease. The study found that atypical forms of the PRDM9 gene variant increase children's risk of developing acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalGenome Research·DateDec 17, 2012
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.

Nanofibers clean sulfur from fuel

Researchers developed nanofiber mats of metal oxide that scrub sulfur from fuels, improving performance for catalysis, energy applications, and toxic gas removal. The material stays stable and active after several cycles, with a fibrous structure granting immunity to sintering.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 17, 2012
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 form of cell division found

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison discovered a new form of cell division called klerokinesis, which helps prevent faulty cell division leading to cancer. In experiments with human cells, they observed that cells with extra chromosomes could recover normal sets through klerokinesis, potentially lowering cancer incidence.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateDec 17, 2012

Elsevier announces its acquisition of the Journal of Choice Modelling

Elsevier has acquired the Journal of Choice Modelling, a leading publication in choice modelling, which covers topics such as transport and marketing. The journal will continue to publish four issues in 2013 and maintain access for a wide range of readers through ScienceDirect.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Choice Modelling·DateDec 17, 2012

AGU: Journal highlights 17 Dec., 2012

Researchers detect volcanic carbon monoxide emissions via satellite sensors, estimating a global emission of approximately 5.5 teragrams per year. Antarctic sea ice thickness affects algae populations, with varying seasonal patterns and relationships between surface, interior, and underside layers.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 17, 2012

Chronic worriers at higher risk for PTSD

A recent study published in Psychological Medicine found that individuals with chronic anxiety are more vulnerable to developing PTSD. The research analyzed data from over 1,000 participants and found that those who scored higher on neuroticism as the study began were more likely to develop PTSD.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateDec 17, 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.

Rice University opens new window on Parkinson's disease

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a new way to monitor protein aggregation in living cells, which could lead to the development of drugs that break up fibrils. The metallic probe, made of ruthenium, binds with misfolded alpha-synuclein proteins and can be tracked using photoluminescence spectroscopy.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 17, 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.

Physicians should not prescribe ADD drugs to healthy people

Cognitive enhancement medications, used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), may not be suitable for healthy individuals due to limited evidence and potential risks. Physicians in Canada are advised to prioritize their professional integrity and limit healthcare resources by refusing prescription requests.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 17, 2012

What's in a genome?

A whole-genome sequence of the fruit fly Drosophila mauritiana has been completed, revealing high genetic diversity across its chromosomes. The researchers identified two large regions with conserved sequences and propose that these may be the result of intragenomic conflict, potentially acting as 'speciation genes'.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalGenome Research·DateDec 17, 2012

Rationing soft drink sizes: A good public health move

The Canadian Medical Association Journal advocates for regulating sugary drinks to combat obesity. New York City's 16-ounce limit is seen as a successful model, and critics argue that similar measures can be taken without threatening personal choice.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 17, 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.

Purines fend off surgery-related damage

Researchers discovered purines, specifically adenosine, can generate outside cells to protect organs from anesthesia-induced damage. Activating adenosine receptors in critical organs like lungs and heart also provides protection.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 17, 2012

Environmental threat map highlights Great Lakes restoration challenges

A comprehensive environmental threat map reveals high stress levels in some areas of the Great Lakes, with cumulative effects of multiple stressors impacting ecosystem health. The map provides a scientific foundation for sustainable management of the lakes, highlighting areas where human benefits and stress intersect.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2012

Breast cancer cells growing in 3D-matrix revert to normal

Researchers found that breast cancer cells can reorganize into normal structures when exposed to compression force, suggesting a possible new approach to treating the disease. The study used 3D-matrix and elastic chamber to apply forces and observed significant changes in cell behavior.

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 17, 2012

Is the US health care system a target for cyberterrorism?

The US healthcare system is a $2.5 trillion industry heavily reliant on the internet, making it a target for cyberterrorism. Experts predict a wave-like attack that could leave staff untrusting of electronic data and demoralize IT teams. To protect itself, the healthcare system must remain vigilant and implement better security measures.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTelemedicine and e-Health·DateDec 17, 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.

Should physicians prescribe cognitive enhancers to healthy individuals?

A Canadian medical journal report argues that physicians should consider refusing to prescribe cognitive enhancers to healthy people. The authors suggest that the risks and regulations of prescription drugs outweigh the potential benefits of enhanced mental performance, which are uncertain and may not be achieved with these substances.

SourceInstitut de recherches cliniques de Montreal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 17, 2012

Plumes across the Pacific deliver thousands of microbial species to West Coast

Scientists detected over 2,100 unique microbial species in two large dust plumes originating in Asia, significantly higher than the 18 found using traditional culturing methods. The discovery challenges existing understanding of the atmosphere as a conveyor belt and highlights its potential as an ecosystem.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateDec 17, 2012

Perceived stress may predict future risk of coronary heart disease

A meta-analysis of six studies involving nearly 120,000 people found that high perceived stress is associated with a 27% increased risk of incident coronary heart disease. The study suggests that reducing stress may improve heart health in the future, particularly for older individuals.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·DateDec 17, 2012

New technology may enable earlier cancer diagnosis

Researchers at MIT have developed a new technology that can detect cancer biomarkers in the urine, potentially enabling earlier diagnosis and improved patient outcomes. The system uses nanoparticles to amplify tumor signals, making it easier to identify specific proteins secreted by cancer cells.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateDec 17, 2012

Bullying by childhood peers leaves a trace that can change the expression of a gene linked to mood

A study by Isabelle Ouellet-Morin found that bullying by peers alters the structure surrounding a gene involved in mood regulation, making victims more vulnerable to mental health problems. The research suggests that victimization experiences in childhood can change not only stress response but also gene functioning related to mood.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateDec 17, 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.

Food insecurity predicts mental health problems in adolescents

A new study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found that food insecurity is strongly associated with adolescent mental disorders. The study examined 6,483 adolescents aged 13-17 years and found that a one standard deviation increase in food insecurity was linked to a 14% increased odds ...

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateDec 17, 2012

'Mind the gap!'

The Natura 2000 network's effectiveness in covering European species is evaluated, with mixed results. The analysis shows that the network mostly covers target species but has gaps in representation, especially for narrow-ranged species.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNature Conservation·DateDec 17, 2012

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Dec. 18, 2012

A recent study of over 4 million patients found that reducing hospital stays does not increase readmission rates or patient mortality. The UK colonoscopy guidelines were also compared to US guidelines, showing that the UK guidelines may detect advanced adenomas two years earlier without increasing colonoscopy rates. Additionally, adali...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 17, 2012

UI-led team confirms 'gusty winds' in space turbulence

A UI-led team has made the first direct measurement of space turbulence, confirming the existence of 'gusty winds' in space. The discovery sheds light on the role of turbulence in heating the sun's atmosphere and regulating star formation.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 17, 2012
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Investigating ocean currents using uranium-236 from the 1960s

A team of researchers has identified the bomb-pulse of uranium-236 in corals from the Caribbean Sea, revealing information on ocean currents. The findings suggest that southern hemispheric waters carry uranium-236, which helps investigate inter-hemispheric water exchange and global heat transport.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateDec 17, 2012

Hybrid tunnel may help guide severed nerves back to health

Researchers developed a novel hybrid conduit that combines soft and electrically-active materials to guide nerve regeneration and reconnection. The design showed promising results in rats, with significant muscle mass gain compared to other designs.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateDec 17, 2012

GOOOAAALLL! What soccer can teach health researchers

Health research often focuses on quantifiable aspects, but soccer fans appreciate complexities that make top players excel. Researchers need to tap into these 'intangibles' when evaluating treatments and interventions.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalBMJ Open·DateDec 17, 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.

UH Case Medical Center & Reach Ventures form Socrates Analytics to market hospital data software

Socrates Analytics provides a cloud-based software program that collects, standardizes, analyzes, and reports on disparate hospital billing, administrative, and operating room data. This enables hospitals to interpret complex administrative data, view trends, outliers, and variability in care processes, ultimately improving efficiency ...

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·DateDec 17, 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.