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Science News for June 6, 2012


Researchers recommend steps to improve implementation of global road safety

A new study recommends 10 characteristics for effective implementation of global road safety, including adequate funding and coordinated efforts across multiple sectors. The Road Safety in 10 Countries project aims to reduce road traffic injuries in 10 low- and middle-income countries by evaluating and implementing road safety solutions.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJun 6, 2012

New technique for detecting mold contamination in homes and other buildings

Scientists have developed a fast and easy method to detect and identify single spores of seven common types of mold using Raman microspectroscopy. The new technique involves collecting air samples on aluminum foil and analyzing the spores for potential contamination in homes and buildings.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 6, 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.

The American Society for Microbiology honors Lilliam Casillas-Martinez

Lilliam Casillas-Martinez, a Professor at the University of Puerto Rico-Humacao, has been recognized for her exceptional teaching and mentorship of women from low-income backgrounds. Her research focuses on geomicrobiology and metagenomics, with an emphasis on undergraduate education and community outreach.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 6, 2012

The American Society for Microbiology honors Patrice Courvalin

Dr. Patrice Courvalin has made significant contributions to understanding antibiotic resistance, including the discovery of vancomycin resistance in Enterococcus and the elucidation of transposition mechanisms. His work has led to a revision of the dogma describing natural dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 6, 2012

Assembling, visualizing and analyzing a tree of all life

Researchers will create an open, dynamic evolutionary framework to continuously update the tree of life, incorporating new biodiversity data. Computational tools will enable scientists to visualize and analyze the entire tree, facilitating comparative biology research and discovery of new medicines.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateJun 6, 2012

The American Society for Microbiology honors Micah I. Krichevsky

Dr. Micah I. Krichevsky has been recognized for his commitment to advancing women in microbiology through the American Society for Microbiology's Alice C. Evans Award. He established Bionomics International and developed a standardized method for computer coding of microbiological data, impacting research globally.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 6, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cell contents may be key to controlling toxicity of Huntington's disease protein

A new study suggests that the toxic effects of the huntingtin protein on cells may not be driven exclusively by its length, but also by which other proteins are present in the cell. The researchers found that yeast cells containing human huntingtin protein with an expanded region exhibited toxicity differences based on the presence of ...

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJun 6, 2012

The American Society for Microbiology honors Geoffrey L. Smith

Geoffrey L. Smith, a renowned virologist and leader in the field of microbiology, has been awarded the GlaxoSmithKline International Member of the Year Award. He is recognized for his numerous original contributions to virology and his role as a leader in various scientific institutions.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 6, 2012

Researchers love triangles

A research team at Case Western Reserve University discovered that gold catalysts in the form of a triangle or higher order structures can produce longer, faster-growing nanowires. These wires could be used to build next-generation invisible computer chips and highly-sensitive sensors.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 6, 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.

Nanomedicines promise fewer side effects in treating cancer

New nanomedicine cancer treatments aim to focus on tumor cells while sparing healthy tissue, potentially reducing severe side effects. These nanoparticle-based medications can deliver anti-cancer drugs directly to tumors through tiny blood vessel passages.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJun 6, 2012

New drug found effective against rare form of basal cell skin cancer

A phase II clinical study shows that vismodegib can dramatically shrink basal cell skin cancers and prevent new ones in patients with basal cell nevus syndrome, a rare genetic condition. The treatment offers an alternative to surgical removal, but side effects remain a consideration.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 6, 2012

Study: Why hot, humid air triggers symptoms in patients with mild asthma

A study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that hot, humid air triggers an increase in airway resistance in patients with mild asthma, leading to coughing and airway constriction. Inhaling an asthma drug before exposure to hot, humid air prevented this reaction.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 6, 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.

Analysis tracks how health care value has changed over 200 years

The study analyzed Massachusetts General Hospital records to examine the value of healthcare over time. The analysis revealed four distinct eras: low costs and high mortality from 1821 to 1910, rising costs with declining mortality during the mid-20th century, and increasing costs with minimal changes in mortality since 2001.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 6, 2012

Ecologists call for preservation of planet's remaining biological diversity

Scientists recommend halting biodiversity losses to prevent ecosystem collapse and reduce essential goods and services like food and water. The research, a scientific consensus statement, summarizes evidence from over 1,000 ecological studies and highlights the urgent need for international action.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalNature·DateJun 6, 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.

The American Society for Microbiology honors Bruce S. Rabin

Bruce S. Rabin has made significant contributions to the understanding of the immune system's interaction with the nervous system, endocrine organs, and mental health. He has elucidated many dark corners of immunology and brought sound immunologic principles to the study of mental health and disease in humans.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 6, 2012

Pandemic preparedness

Researchers developed a web-based service that simulates pandemic flu spread, forecasts hospitalizations, and determines optimal ventilator placement. The Texas Pandemic Flu Toolkit uses data from the Outpatient Influenza-Like Illness Surveillance Network and factors like humidity predictions to inform public health interventions.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateJun 6, 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.

Growing presence of drug-resistant tuberculosis fuels need for more screening, faster testing and faster development of new combination therapies, experts say

A nationwide survey in China reveals one in 10 newly diagnosed TB patients are infected with drug-resistant strains, with over 5,000 cases annually. Experts emphasize the need for rapid testing to determine drug resistance and developing new combination therapies to combat multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 6, 2012

Study predicts imminent irreversible planetary collapse

Researchers warn of an impending catastrophic event where the planet's ecosystems irreversibly collapse due to extreme fluctuations in climates and biodiversity loss. The study suggests that governments must take immediate action to reduce population growth, invest in sustainable technologies and adopt environmentally-friendly practices.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalNature·DateJun 6, 2012

Geoengineering could disrupt rainfall patterns

A team of European scientists found that geoengineering could lead to significant rainfall reduction in large areas, including a 15% decrease in North America and 20% in parts of South America. Climate engineering is unlikely to be a substitute for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceEuropean Geosciences Union·JournalEarth System Dynamics·DateJun 6, 2012

The American Society for Microbiology honors Brent Barrett

Brent Barrett, a renowned clinical microbiologist, has been honored with the 2012 Scherago-Rubin Award for his exceptional work in diagnostics and continuing education. Barrett's dedication to bench-level clinical microbiology has gained national recognition, making him a leading expert in his field.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 6, 2012

The American Society for Microbiology honors Bess B. Ward

Bess B. Ward has received the 2012 Procter & Gamble Award in Applied and Environmental Microbiology for her sustained influence on marine microbiology and contributions to understanding nitrogen cycling processes in low-oxygen regions of the ocean.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 6, 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.

The American Society for Microbiology honors Akiko Iwasaki

Dr. Akiko Iwasaki is recognized for her groundbreaking work on tissue-specific properties of dendritic cells and the critical role of autophagy in innate immune recognition of viruses. Her research has a fundamental impact on the fields of autophagy and antiviral immunity.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 6, 2012

New secrets from 'Bay of the Pirates' warship that sunk 2,300 years ago

A new study puts finishing touches on the history of the 'Bay of the Pirates' warship's beak-like weapon, identifying a major threat to preserving it. The analysis revealed that the ancient wooden marine treasure is made of pine with waterproofing agents and contains copious sulfur that can turn into corrosive acid.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJun 6, 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.

MARC travel award announced for the 2012 XXVII Congress of ISAC

The FASEB MARC Program has selected Dr. George Jules to receive a $2,000 travel award for his poster/platform presentation at the 2012 XXVII Congress of the International Society for Advancement of Cytometry. The program aims to increase diversity in biomedical research by promoting underrepresented minority students and scientists.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateJun 6, 2012

Stress may delay brain development in early years

Researchers found that children who experienced more intense stressful events had lower scores on tests of spatial working memory and short-term memory. Brain scans revealed smaller volumes of the anterior cingulate region, a key area for these cognitive processes. The study suggests stress may delay brain development, but further rese...

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateJun 6, 2012

Tracing the brain's connections

Scientists at Harvard University have created a comprehensive list of inputs that connect directly to dopamine neurons in the brain, revealing new connections and insights into Parkinson's disease and addiction. The study uses genetically-modified rabies virus to track neural pathways, providing quantitative data for future investigati...

SourceHarvard University·JournalNeuron·DateJun 6, 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.

A new way of looking at photosystem II

A team of researchers from Berkeley Lab and SLAC used ultrafast X-rays to produce the first images of photosystem II microcrystals at room temperature. The study reveals new insights into the complex's composition and atomic structure, crucial for understanding its role in photosynthesis.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2012

The American Society for Microbiology honors Anthony R. Richardson

Anthony R. Richardson has been honored with the Merck Irving S. Sigal Memorial Award for his pioneering work on the metabolic adaptations of Staphylococcus aureus to host immunity. His research has profound implications for understanding the evolution and emergence of highly virulent pathogens.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 6, 2012

Medical marijuana outlets not linked to crime

A new study found no correlation between medical marijuana dispensaries and higher crime rates in Sacramento neighborhoods, challenging growing concerns about the impact of dispensaries on crime. The study looked at violent and property crime rates in 95 areas with varying density of medical marijuana outlets.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateJun 6, 2012
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Tocilizumab is more effective than adalimumab at reducing signs and symptoms of RA

The ADACTA trial showed that tocilizumab was more effective than adalimumab in reducing signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), with significant improvements in DAS28, low disease activity, and ACR20/50/70 responses. Safety results were similar between groups.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 6, 2012

Scientists uncover evidence of impending tipping point for Earth

A team of scientists warns that human activities may be driving the planet toward an irreversible change in the biosphere, threatening biodiversity and global stability. Better predictive models are needed to mitigate or adapt to potential changes.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·DateJun 6, 2012

Stealth behavior allows cockroaches to seemingly vanish

Researchers at UC Berkeley discovered cockroaches can fling themselves under a ledge to vanish from sight. By leveraging their grappling hook-like claws and swinging like a pendulum, they retain most of their running energy.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 6, 2012

The American Society for Microbiology honors Aaron R. Jex

Aaron R. Jex has made significant contributions to the study of parasitic species, developing molecular-based tools for detection and identification. His research also focuses on exploring the genomics and transcriptomics of parasites of global socioeconomic importance.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 6, 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.

Biomarkers may predict the progression of spinal damage in patients with ankylosing spondylitis

Researchers identified five biomarkers that can predict the progression of structural damage in the spine of patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis, who are already at high risk of disease progression. These biomarkers include matrix metalloproteinase 3, bone-morphogenetic protein 2, and vascular endothelial growth factor.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 6, 2012

Sea temperatures less sensitive to CO2 13 million years ago

A recent study has found that sea temperatures were warmer and less sensitive to CO2 levels 5-13 million years ago. The research team used an organic compound as a 'fossil thermometer' to analyze ocean temperatures alongside carbon dioxide reconstructions, providing evidence of a transition in the Earth's climate system.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalNature·DateJun 6, 2012

How plants make cocaine

Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology have discovered a new enzyme in the coca plant that catalyzes a key step in cocaine biosynthesis. The discovery sheds new light on the evolution of tropane alkaloids and reveals that the pathways in coca and belladonna evolved independently.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2012

DSM-5 to include controversial changes to criteria for substance use disorders

The DSM-5 combines abuse and dependence diagnoses into a single disorder, requiring two or more symptoms. Critics argue that this change may lead to over-diagnosis and deviation from international diagnostic standards. Proponents claim it simplifies diagnosis for clinicians and laypeople alike.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateJun 6, 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.

The American Society for Microbiology honors Myron M. Levine

Levine pioneered molecular approaches to develop live oral vaccines, including attenuated Salmonella Typhi and Shigella. He has made significant contributions to vaccine research, including epidemiologic field studies and large-scale controlled trials.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 6, 2012

Wiring the brain, through experience

Researchers at Harvard University found that mice brains undergo an explosion of neuromuscular branching before birth, with some muscle fibers contacted by up to 10 nerve cells. However, within days, most connections are pruned away, suggesting experience selects which connections to keep.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNeuron·DateJun 6, 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.

News alert: Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons June highlights

The June issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons highlights the negative impact of smoking on bone and joint health. Smokers face increased risks of postoperative complications and bone density loss, but preoperative counseling programs can mitigate these effects. The journal also discusses treatment option...

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateJun 6, 2012

Researchers at IRB Barcelona uncover new clues about the origin of cancer

Researchers at IRB Barcelona have identified specific combinations of errors in cell integrity processes as crucial to initiating tumors. The study reveals that genomic instability alone is not sufficient for tumor development and highlights the need for further investigation into cancer's complex origins.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2012

Some factors that impact islet transplantation explored in Cell Transplantation papers

Researchers found that fresh islet cells are superior to cultured islet cells in terms of success rate and blood glucose levels after transplantation. However, the results of islet isolation did not correlate with clinical outcomes for kidney transplantations from non-heart-beating donors.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateJun 6, 2012

Homo heidelbergensis was only slightly taller than the Neanderthal

A new study analyzing 27 complete human limb bones found in Atapuerca (Burgos, Spain) has estimated the height of various species of the Pleistocene era. The reconstruction suggests that Homo heidelbergensis, like Neanderthals, were similar in height to the current population of the Mediterranean.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateJun 6, 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.

Piracy all at sea

Researchers analyzed maritime piracy data from 2002 to 2009, identifying target vessels and violence levels. Bulk carriers and container ships were most targeted, with increasing reports of kidnapping and violent attacks.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Shipping and Transport Logistics·DateJun 6, 2012

Geckos, cockroaches, and robots dive off ledge, swing under to safety

Researchers have identified and characterized a new behavior in geckos and cockroaches, allowing them to run off ledges and execute a pendulum-like motion to swing underneath. This discovery has inspired the development of robots that can also perform this acrobatic move, with potential applications in search-and-rescue missions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 6, 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.

Stealing life's building blocks

Researchers found that parasitic flowers share large parts of their genome with host vines through horizontal gene transfer, and some borrowed genes are likely functional. The process may convey an evolutionary advantage to the flowers, which have replaced vertically inherited copies.

SourceHarvard University·JournalBMC Genomics·DateJun 6, 2012

The real culprit behind hardened arteries? Stem cells, says landmark study

Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, used genetic tracing to identify a previously unknown type of stem cell as the real culprit behind vascular diseases. This multipotent vascular stem cell is capable of differentiating into various specialized cell types and plays a key role in the calcification of blood vessels.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 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.

Baby's genome deciphered prenatally from parents' lab tests

Researchers successfully sequenced the fetal genome without invasive sampling, enabling the detection of thousands of disorders. They overcame obstacles by applying statistical modeling and technical advances to resolve maternal haplotypes with high accuracy. The breakthrough paves the way for comprehensive prenatal genetic screening.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 6, 2012

The American Society for Microbiology honors Susan Sharp

Dr. Richardson's research focuses on the role of basic bacterial physiology in the virulence of human pathogens, with a particular emphasis on Staphylococcus aureus. His work has shown that certain compounds can be lethal to the pathogen, leading to new insights into the battle between host and bacterium.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 6, 2012

Spinoza prize for Leiden astronomer Xander Tielens

Xander Tielens receives the Spinoza prize for his groundbreaking work on PAHs in space, which has shed light on the importance of these molecules in star and planet formation. His research has also explored the role of PAHs in the early stages of life.

SourceLeiden University·DateJun 6, 2012

To quit smoking, try eating more veggies and fruits

A University at Buffalo study found that smokers consuming the most fruit and vegetables were three times more likely to abstain from tobacco use for at least 30 days. These findings persisted even when adjusting for other factors such as age and health orientation.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateJun 6, 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 research leads to sensors that detect contaminants in water

Researchers at the University of Notre Dame have developed a new sensor that can detect organic contaminants in water at very low concentrations. The sensor uses silver nanoparticles and graphene oxide films, allowing for side-selective deposition of metal ions.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateJun 6, 2012

The American Society for Microbiology honors Sandeep Kishore

Sandeep Kishore has been recognized for his groundbreaking research on malaria parasites and his efforts to integrate basic sciences and public health perspectives in global health. He developed an open-source curriculum on neglected diseases, which has evolved into a longitudinal four-year program with full administrative support.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 6, 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.

Stanford researchers help predict the oceans of the future with a mini-lab

Researchers created a mini-lab in Australia's Great Barrier Reef to simulate predicted future ocean conditions and test the reaction of corals. The study, published in Scientific Reports, provides new insights into how reefs respond to ocean acidification and can inform conservation efforts.

SourceStanford University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 6, 2012

Too few salmon is far worse than too many boats for killer whales

A new study reveals that southern resident killer whales in the Pacific Northwest are more stressed when there is a scarcity of Chinook salmon to eat. Hormone levels show that the whales thrive when they arrive in the Salish Sea in late spring and have access to Fraser River Chinook, which helps them build up their fat reserves.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 6, 2012

Botswana, climate and tourism

The Okavango Delta, Botswana's largest tourist draw, is vulnerable to climate change impacts on wildlife and wetlands. Climate change could jeopardize the country's $2 billion tourism sector, with over 50,000 visitors annually.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Tourism Policy·DateJun 6, 2012

20 years after Rio Earth Summit

Ecologists call for urgent action to preserve planet's remaining biodiversity, essential for natural ecosystem services like food and wood production. The 17 prominent ecologists' consensus statement highlights the critical role of biodiversity in maintaining ecosystem functions and human health.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature·DateJun 6, 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.

Appalachian infant death rates point to healthcare deficit

Infant mortality rates remain high in Appalachia, with white infants facing disproportionately higher deaths compared to non-Appalachian regions. Poverty and limited access to physicians contribute to the deficit, emphasizing the need for improved prenatal care and healthcare policies.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Journal of Rural Health·DateJun 6, 2012

The American Society for Microbiology honors Jeff Chen

Jeff Chen, a University of California, Davis student, has been awarded the Raymond W. Sarber Award for his outstanding research contributions to microbial sciences. Chen's work explores various aspects of microbiology, including yeast genetics and cellular biology.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 6, 2012

Sexual orientation fluctuation correlated to alcohol misuse

Research reveals that individuals with uncertain sexual orientations, such as bisexuality, are more likely to experience heavy drinking and negative consequences from alcohol use. The study suggests that this phenomenon may be linked to stress and stigma associated with not fitting into traditional hetero- or homo- sexual categories.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateJun 6, 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.

MARC travel awards announced for the 2012 ISMB/ISCB Conference

The FASEB MARC Program has announced the recipients of its travel awards, promoting diversity in biomedical research. The program conferred $3,700 worth of awards to 2 individuals, including Deborah Muganda-Rippchen and Robert Ness.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateJun 6, 2012

The American Society for Microbiology honors Stuart B. Levy

Stuart B. Levy receives the 2012 Abbott-ASM Lifetime Achievement Award for his decades-long dedication to understanding antibiotic resistance. His work has elucidated key mechanisms and control of resistance in bacterial and mammalian cells, leading to new treatments and strategies.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 6, 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.

Why belly fat isn't all bad

Researchers have found that the omentum's fat cells can suppress the immune system by sequestering activated T cells, a finding that could lead to new drugs with fewer side effects. The omentum also helps regenerate damaged tissues through mesenchymal stem cells.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 6, 2012

Study: Insomnia linked to hypertension

A new study from Henry Ford Hospital found that individuals with insomnia are more likely to develop hypertension due to frequent nighttime wakings and delayed sleep latency. The research highlights the importance of addressing sleep disorders to prevent related health issues.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateJun 6, 2012

Mystery to the origin of long-lived, skin-deep immune cells uncovered

Researchers at A*STAR's Singapore Immunology Network discovered that long-lived, skin-deep immune cells called Langerhans cells originate from two distinct embryonic sites - the early yolk sac and the foetal liver. These cells play a critical role in initiating protective responses against harmful foreign invaders.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJun 6, 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.

Modeling the demise of migrating brain tumor cells

A theoretical model simulates brain tumor cell evolution under treatment, revealing that peripheral cells need to be targeted. The model suggests enhancing TTF treatment by applying specific frequencies, leading to increased plasma membrane permeability and cancer cell demise.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateJun 6, 2012

Study links PTSD to hidden head injuries suffered in combat

Researchers found an association between mild traumatic brain injury and PTSD severity using advanced imaging techniques. The study suggests that subtle brain injury can predispose soldiers to psychiatric illness when coupled with extreme chronic stress.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateJun 6, 2012

Killer whale at risk due to inadequate prey population

Researchers measured hormone levels to distinguish between two theories for the whale's decline, supporting the inadequate prey hypothesis. The data suggest that recovering Chinook salmon populations is critical to killer whale recovery.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 6, 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.

The American Society for Microbiology honors L. Barth Reller

L. Barth Reller, a renowned clinical microbiologist, has been recognized with the 2012 TREK Diagnostic ABMM/ABMLI Professional Recognition Award for his outstanding contributions to the field. He is also an accomplished mentor and trainer of medical microbiologists, having mentored 38 fellows who now hold leadership positions globally.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 6, 2012

Studies show new drug to be effective in treating skin cancer, Stanford researchers say

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows that vismodegib is effective in treating basal cell carcinoma, a common cancer caused by sun exposure. Researchers found that patients with Gorlin syndrome who took vismodegib developed an average of two new tumors per year, compared to 29 in those taking placebo.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 6, 2012

Have you heard? Nearly 15 percent of work email is gossip

A new study from Georgia Tech found that nearly 15 percent of work emails are gossip, with lower-level employees sharing more information than higher-ups. The researchers analyzed hundreds of thousands of emails from the former Enron corporation and discovered that negative gossip is prevalent among employees.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateJun 6, 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.