Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for November 19, 2012


Electronic visits offer accurate diagnoses, may lead to overprescribing of antibiotics

Researchers found that e-visit patients were more likely to receive antibiotics and less likely to have relevant testing ordered by their physicians before receiving medication. Despite this, the study suggests that e-visits can improve access to care and convenience for patients without compromising quality.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 19, 2012

BaBar experiment confirms time asymmetry

Researchers observed a long-theorized exception to time reversal symmetry, finding certain particle types change into one another six times more often in one direction than the other. The BaBar experiment provided clear conditions for a direct measurement of time violation, confirming quantum field theory.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 19, 2012

Happy youngsters more likely to grow into wealthy adults, study finds

A study by University College London reveals that happy adolescents tend to earn higher levels of income later in life. The research found that happy individuals are more likely to get a degree, find work, and get promoted quicker than their gloomier counterparts.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 19, 2012

Vision stimulates courtship calls in the grey tree frog

A new study published in Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology found that male grey tree frogs increase their courtship calls when they can see a female approaching. The research, led by Dr. Michael Reichert, suggests that visual cues play a crucial role in attracting mates in nocturnal anurans.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateNov 19, 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.

Failed explosions explain most peculiar supernovae

A type of exploding star that fails to detonate, known as a failed explosion, is probably the cause of most peculiar supernovae. These dim stars are anywhere from 10-100 times fainter than normal ones and may account for approximately 15% of all type Ia supernovae.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 19, 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.

New species literally spend decades on the shelf

A study found that it takes an average of 20.7 years for a newly collected species to be described, with some species taking up to 12 years. This long 'shelf life' poses a significant challenge for conservation efforts, which may come too late if not addressed promptly.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 19, 2012

'Different kind of stem cell' possesses attributes favoring regenerative medicine

Researchers have created a new stem-like state of adult epithelial cells, which exhibit attributes favoring regenerative medicine. These cells do not express genes found in embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells, making them stable and less prone to forming tumors.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 19, 2012

Does your job increase your breast cancer risk?

A Canadian case-control study found that women in jobs with high exposures to carcinogens and endocrine disrupters had an elevated breast cancer risk. The study highlights the importance of occupational studies in identifying environmental risk factors.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateNov 19, 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.

Inpatient sleeping drug quadrupled fall risk

A commonly prescribed inpatient sleeping drug has been associated with a significant increase in falls among hospital patients. The study found that zolpidem use was linked to a fourfold higher fall rate compared to non-users.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Hospital Medicine·DateNov 19, 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.

Immune cell migration is impeded in Huntington's disease

Researchers found that immune cells, including microglia, are defective in their ability to migrate in Huntington's disease. The study suggests that changes in immune cell function may underlie some of the symptoms of HD.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 19, 2012

Dry leaves make for juicy science

A team of middle school students, led by a University of Arizona graduate student, conducted the first systematic study on leaf shrinkage when drying out. They found that leaves shrink about 20% on average, but variables such as species and structural investment determine the amount of shrinkage.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateNov 19, 2012

Chronic pain in parents appears associated with chronic pain

A cross-sectional study of over 5,370 adolescents found a significant association between parental chronic pain and chronic pain in offspring. The study suggests that family pain models and shared environmental factors play an important role in the origin of chronic pain.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateNov 19, 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.

JCI early table of contents for Nov. 19, 2012

Researchers identify new therapeutic approaches for acute myeloid leukemia (AML), find immune cells defective in Huntington's disease, and discover signaling pathways contributing to muscle weakness in myotonic dystrophy. Targeting C/EBPG and C/EBPA, or normalizing GSK3β activity may help treat these conditions.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 19, 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.

School exclusion policies contribute to educational failure, study shows

A UT-Austin study reveals that punitive school policies pose significant barriers to educational attainment for students with criminal records. Compared to non-arrested peers, arrested teens dropped out of high school at a rate 22 percentage points higher and were less likely to enroll in four-year colleges.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalSociology of Education·DateNov 19, 2012

A code of silence in acute myeloid leukemia

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that a transcriptional regulator called C/EBPG was highly expressed in AML samples with an epigenetically silenced C/EBPA gene. By blocking this epigenetic modification, researchers were able to reduce C/EBPG and restore normal myeloid blood cells.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 19, 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.

Comments, traffic statistics help empower bloggers

Researchers found that female bloggers enjoyed blogging due to feelings of empowerment and community connection. Site metrics like traffic visitors and comments predicted continued interest in blogging. Bloggers who felt a strong sense of agency were more influential.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Computer-Mediated Communication·DateNov 19, 2012

Experimental drug improves memory in mice with multiple sclerosis

Researchers have identified a key biochemical marker for cognitive impairment in MS brains and developed an experimental compound to manipulate it, improving learning and memory in mice. The finding has the potential to speed development of new drugs for treating cognitive impairment in MS patients and those with Alzheimer's disease.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 19, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mosquitos fail at flight in heavy fog

Researchers found that mosquitoes struggle to fly in heavy fog, despite their ability to withstand raindrops. The study reveals that the tiny fog particles overwhelm the mosquito's gyroscopic sensors, leading to flight failure.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateNov 19, 2012

Templeton Foundation awards grant for meditation research

The Shamatha Project, led by Clifford Saron, investigates the long-term impact of intensive meditation training on cognitive, emotional, and physical processes. The new grant will aid analysis of original data and explore how changes in meditation practice relate to personal growth years later.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateNov 19, 2012

NASA sees sun's 2 Prominence Eruptions

NASA's Solar Dynamic Observatory captured two prominence eruptions on Nov 16, 2012, releasing plasma into space. The eruptions occurred between 1-5 a.m EST and did not appear to be Earth-directed.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 19, 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.

Stress management counselling in the primary care setting is rare

Only three percent of patients receive stress management counselling, highlighting the need for restructuring primary care delivery to include this crucial service as prevention. Stress management counseling is associated with longer office visits, underscoring the importance of providing this support earlier in the disease process.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 19, 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.

Former JLab director honored with prestigious Slack Award

Hermann Grunder, founding director of Jefferson Lab, received the Francis G. Slack Award for his pioneering work on superconducting technology and innovative faculty joint appointments, significantly strengthening nuclear physics in the Southeast.

SourceSoutheastern Universities Research Association·DateNov 19, 2012

Singular polymer, multiple functions

Researchers at the University of Akron have developed a biocompatible polymer structure that can fight infection, filter water, and perform various healing functions. The system can be fabricated and specialized to meet specific needs, offering versatility and convenience.

SourceUniversity of Akron·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 19, 2012

Hold the ice: NYU chemists reveal behavior of antifreeze molecules

Researchers have found a family of molecules that can delay or halt the freezing process by interacting with crystal surfaces, potentially leading to new methods for improving food storage and industrial products. The study's findings may also provide insights into how nature's own anti-freeze molecules work.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 19, 2012

Research finds evidence of a 'mid-life crisis' in great apes

Researchers found that great apes, including chimpanzees and orangutans, experience a midlife low in well-being, consistent with the U-shape in human happiness. The study suggests that evolutionary or biological explanations may contribute to this phenomenon.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 19, 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.

Multiple sclerosis 'immune exchange' between brain and blood is uncovered

Researchers at UCSF discover an 'immune exchange' between the brain and blood that allows disease-causing B cells to move in and out of the brain, providing a potential key to unlocking better treatments and diagnostics. The study suggests that targeting specific B cells could lead to precision therapies tailored to each patient's needs.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 19, 2012

Alcohol provides protective effect, reduces mortality substantial

A study published in the journal Alcohol found that patients with higher blood alcohol levels were less likely to die from injuries, even among those with severe injuries. The protective effect was observed across various injury types and increased with higher blood alcohol concentrations.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAlcohol·DateNov 19, 2012

No elevated 10-year risk of heart disease for people who become ill during a large E. coli outbreak

A new study published in Canadian Medical Association Journal found no elevated 10-year risk of heart disease for people who became ill during the Walkerton E. coli O157:H7 outbreak. The study involved 898 adults who consumed polluted drinking water and monitored their cardiovascular health over time.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 19, 2012

Rice unveils super-efficient solar-energy technology

Rice University scientists have developed a super-efficient solar-energy technology that converts sunlight into steam directly, with an overall energy efficiency of 24 percent. The 'solar steam' method uses nanoparticles to heat water instantly vaporizing it and creating steam from nearly frozen water.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 19, 2012

New energy technologies promise brighter future

Researchers unveil creative technologies to capture kinetic energy in Florida's oceans, convert waste thermal energy to electricity, and develop nanophosphor-based grow lights. These innovations could change our sources of energy and improve indoor agriculture.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Technology and Innovation·DateNov 19, 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.

Martian history: Finding a common denominator with Earth's

Researchers studying Martian meteorites found that the planet formed from similar building blocks to those of Earth. However, the composition of water on Mars differs significantly from that of Earth, suggesting a distinct geologic history. The study provides new insights into the origin and evolution of water on the Red Planet.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateNov 19, 2012

CAMH scientist wins Polanyi Prize

Dr. Aristotle Voineskos has won the prestigious Polanyi Prize for his research combining brain imaging and genetics to improve diagnostic classification and treatment strategies for severe mental illness.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·DateNov 19, 2012

Medications are being discontinued -- and the pharmacist may not know

A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that 1.5% of discontinued medications are refilled by pharmacies, causing potential harm in 12% of cases. The researchers highlight the need for improved communication between providers and pharmacies to reconcile medication lists.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 19, 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.

Smoking in pregnancy tied to lower reading scores

Researchers at Yale University have found that smoking during pregnancy is associated with lower reading scores in children. The study analyzed data from over 5,000 children and found that those exposed to high levels of nicotine scored 21% lower on reading accuracy and comprehension tasks.

SourceYale University·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateNov 19, 2012

After 121 years, identification of 'grave robber' fossil solves a paleontological enigma

After 121 years, researchers have correctly identified the 'grave robber' fossil as a unique branch in the evolutionary tree. The discovery pushes back the endpoint for the fossil's lineage by 45 million years and shows that this family of mammals survived the extinction event that marked the end of the Age of Dinosaurs.

SourceCarnegie Museum of Natural History·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 19, 2012

The Journal of Biological Chemistry commemorates an important 1987 discovery

The Journal of Biological Chemistry published a series of articles assessing the cys-loop ligand-gated ion channel superfamily, which includes GABA A and glycine receptors. These proteins target neurotransmitters to regulate functions such as muscle contraction, anxiety, and pain.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 19, 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.

New tumor tracking technique may improve outcomes for lung cancer patients

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have developed a new real-time tracking technique that can better predict and track tumor motion during radiotherapy, sparing healthy tissue. The technique has shown to deliver higher levels of radiation to moving tumors while reducing dose to critical organs.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalMedical Physics·DateNov 19, 2012

Greenland's viking settlers gorged on seals

Researchers analyzed 80 Norse skeletons to find that they mainly consumed seals, which made up 50-80% of their diet. This challenges the prevailing view of Norse as farmers and suggests a more adapted and flexible way of life.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalJournal of the North Atlantic·DateNov 19, 2012

Some cells don't know when to stop

Researchers found that certain 'checkpoint mutants' ignore the normal signal to stop replicating DNA after losing nucleotides, instead continuing to unwind and create damaged DNA strands.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalMolecular and Cellular Biology·DateNov 19, 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.

Toward competitive generic drug prices in Canada

The Canadian premiers' commitment to reduce generic drug prices is a significant change. The government should learn from past attempts and aim for universal public coverage for medications.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 19, 2012

A new factor of genetic susceptibility to Alzheimer's disease

A new factor of genetic susceptibility to Alzheimer's disease has been identified through a large-scale international study. Mutations in the TREM2 gene on chromosome 6 are associated with a five times greater risk of developing late-onset Alzheimer's disease, according to researchers.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 19, 2012

A 3-D light switch for the brain

Scientists have developed a new tool that can deliver precise points of light to a 3-D section of living brain tissue, allowing for unprecedented control over individual neurons. This technology, called optogenetics, has the potential to treat conditions such as Parkinson's disease and epilepsy.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateNov 19, 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.

Kids with psoriasis likely to be obese or overweight

A large international study shows that children with psoriasis are twice as likely to be overweight or obese as healthy children, and US children with severe psoriasis have four times the odds. Lifestyle interventions, such as increasing exercise and decreasing caloric intake, are crucial to reducing the risk of metabolic diseases.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateNov 19, 2012

Many seniors' sleep habits are similar to those of young adults, study suggests

A recent study reveals that more than half of retired people aged 65 and over report sleeping at least 7.5 hours per night, contradicting common stereotypes about elderly sleep patterns. The study, led by Timothy H. Monk, Ph.D., found that most seniors do not have reliably earlier bedtimes than younger adults and often experience dayti...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalHealthy Aging & Clinical Care in the Elderly·DateNov 19, 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.

Method for assessing hand bone density may prevent hip fractures

A new study from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden suggests that digital X-ray radiogrammetry (DXR) used on standard hand radiographs can help identify patients at higher risk of hip fracture. DXR is a technique comparable to more costly methods and may be used preventively to identify people at risk for osteoporosis.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalEuropean Radiology·DateNov 19, 2012

CCNY landscape architect offers storm surge defense alternatives

Professor Catherine Seavitt Nordenson suggests using soft infrastructure to mitigate flood damage without harming outlying areas. Techniques include restoring wetlands, creating reefs and artificial islands, and seeding oyster beds to absorb water and dissipate wave energy.

SourceCity College of New York·DateNov 19, 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.

NIH awards Georgia malaria research consortium up to $19.4 million contract

The NIH awards a five-year contract of up to $19.4 million to the Malaria Host-Pathogen Interaction Center (MaHPIC) at Emory University to study malaria parasite interactions with human and animal hosts. The project will integrate data from various research areas, including metabolomics, lipidomics, and mathematical modeling.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateNov 19, 2012

Study examines surgical outcomes after head and neck cancer at safety-net hospitals

Safety-net hospitals provide head and neck cancer surgical care to vulnerable populations without increased short-term mortality, morbidity, or costs. The study found a disproportionate amount of care provided to uninsured or underinsured patients, highlighting the need for healthcare reform to address economic challenges.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateNov 19, 2012

Sound bullets in water

Scientists develop a device that can form and control sound bullets in water, with potential uses for underwater imaging and biomedical applications. The device, inspired by Newton's cradle, focuses high-amplitude pressure pulses into compact sound bullets that can be tightly focused on a target area.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateNov 19, 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.

Faulty development of immature brain cells causes hydrocephalus

A recent study published in Nature Medicine has identified a new cause of hydrocephalus, a devastating neurological disorder affecting newborn babies. By bypassing a faulty cell signaling defect with a drug treatment, researchers were able to reduce the severity of the condition and improve patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 19, 2012

The benefits of gratitude, how weight stigma affects health, and more

New research reveals the benefits of gratitude for social and personal well-being, as well as its cultural variations. Additionally, studies show that weight stigma can negatively affect health and performance, while questioning traditional assumptions about monogamy's benefits.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateNov 19, 2012

New study review examines benefits of music therapy for surgery patients

A new study review from the University of Kentucky found that music therapy can reduce pain, anxiety, and recovery time for surgery patients. Patients who received music therapy were less anxious before procedures, recovered more quickly, and required less sedative medication.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalSouthern Medical Journal·DateNov 19, 2012

Unemployment may be associated with increased heart attack risk

A study of 13,451 US adults found unemployment, job losses, and short work periods were associated with increased risk for acute myocardial infarction. The risks were highest within the first year of unemployment, but also linked to multiple job losses, regardless of time unemployed.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 19, 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.

Researchers use computer simulations to find true cost of HIV screenings

A new study at the University of Cincinnati uses computer-based simulation modeling to estimate the operational disruption and lost opportunity costs of introducing HIV testing into emergency departments. The research aims to provide valuable guidance for hospitals and policymakers on implementing HIV screening programs.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateNov 19, 2012

Major advance in using sunlight to produce steam without boiling water

Scientists have developed a method to generate steam using sunlight and nanoparticles, which can be used for purification of drinking water, sterilization of medical instruments, and sanitizing sewage. The approach produces steam with virtually no wasteful heating of the surrounding liquid, achieving an energy efficiency of 24%.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 19, 2012

Invisibility cloaking to shield floating objects from waves

Researchers describe a new method for invisibility cloaking using ocean floor topography to shield floating objects from waves. By manipulating internal waves, objects can be protected from surface waves, offering potential benefits for offshore structures and fishing.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateNov 19, 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.

£12 million funding to tackle devastating livestock and poultry viruses

Two new research projects have been awarded £12.2 million in funding to tackle Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus and emerging poultry viruses. The projects will focus on developing novel solutions for disease control, including the use of weakened viruses to prompt an immune response.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·DateNov 19, 2012

Genetic factor holds key to blood vessel health

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine identified a genetic factor KLF4 that prevents blockages from forming in blood vessels. The study found that a shortage of KLF4 makes the lining more prone to plaque buildup and clot formation, while sufficient levels protect against toxins and disease.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 19, 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.

Teleconcussion validated in Mayo Clinic case study

A Mayo Clinic case study validates teleconcussion as a useful means to assess concussed patients in rural Arizona. The program uses telemedicine technology to bring concussion expertise to underserved areas, addressing the lack of access to neurological expertise in metropolitan areas.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalTelemedicine and e-Health·DateNov 19, 2012

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Nov. 20, 2012

Two new clinical practice guidelines from six organizations address testing for patients with stable ischemic heart disease (IHD), recommending thorough history and physical examination prior to additional testing. A separate study found that adding testosterone to sildenafil therapy does not improve erectile function in men with low t...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 19, 2012

The fragility of the welfare state

An experimental study by Universidad Carlos III de Madrid found that income redistribution in the welfare state is not based on a consensus to relieve misfortune, but rather due to fear of unequal treatment. The researchers concluded that the social contract supporting the welfare state is fragile and lacks a Hobbesian element.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalExperimental Economics·DateNov 19, 2012

Study suggests repeat testing common among Medicare beneficiaries

A recent study suggests that diagnostic tests are frequently repeated among Medicare beneficiaries, with 55% of those undergoing echocardiography having a second test within three years. This finding raises questions about the routine repetition of diagnostic tests and their impact on healthcare costs and patient health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 19, 2012

American oak skeletonizer moth invades Europe

The North American Oak Skeletonizer has invaded Europe on planted Northern Red Oaks since 1989. The moth's arrival is attributed to air transport of cocoons from NATO aircraft, leading to the discovery of this previously unknown species in Europe.

SourceNaturalis Biodiversity Center·JournalNota Lepidopterologica·DateNov 19, 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.

Lava dots: Rice makes hollow, soft-shelled quantum dots

Researchers at Rice University have created a new type of nanoparticle called lava dots, which are hollow and coated versions of quantum dots. The particles were discovered using a 'molten-droplet synthesis' technique and can be used as catalysts for hydrogen production, chemical sensors, and solar cells.

SourceRice University·JournalNanotechnology·DateNov 19, 2012

Protecting US troops against sand flies

Researchers are studying different methods to kill sand flies, including screening insecticides and developing diagnostic tools. Sand fly resistance to pesticides is also being studied, which could help protect military personnel and others affected by this pest.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateNov 19, 2012

Astronomers directly image massive star's 'super-Jupiter'

Astronomers have discovered a super-Jupiter orbiting the star Kappa Andromedae, with a mass about 12.8 times greater than Jupiter's. The object's ambiguity between being a planet or brown dwarf allows researchers to explore theoretical limits of planetary formation.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 19, 2012

Can't stop? Smoking less helps

A 40-year study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that smokers who reduced their cigarette consumption saw a 15% reduced risk of mortality and a 23% reduced risk of cardiovascular mortality. Formerly heavy smokers had the most to gain from smoking reduction.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateNov 19, 2012

Embattled childhoods may be the real trauma for soldiers with PTSD

A study of Danish soldiers found that childhood experiences of family violence and emotional problems predicted the onset of PTSD. The researchers suggest that social support and camaraderie during army life minimized mental health benefits for these soldiers, leading to increased symptoms after deployment.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 19, 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.

Study examines postdischarge complications after general surgery

A study of postdischarge complications after general surgery procedures found that 16.7% of patients experienced a complication, with the majority occurring within 30 days of discharge. Proctectomy, enteric fistula repair, and pancreatic procedures had the highest postdischarge complication rates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateNov 19, 2012

UBC professor wins Canada's top pharmaceutical research award

Robert E.W. Hancock, a UBC microbiologist, has received the Prix Galien 2012 Research Award for his groundbreaking research on complex interactions between antibiotics and bacteria. His work focuses on developing new therapeutic approaches to infectious diseases like malaria.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·DateNov 19, 2012

Decreased kidney function leads to decreased cognitive functioning

A study by Temple University found a significant association between decreased kidney function and reduced global cognitive ability, abstract reasoning, and verbal memory. Researchers tracked 590 individuals over five years to examine the longitudinal impact of renal decline on cognitive functioning.

SourceTemple University·JournalNephrology Dialysis Transplantation·DateNov 19, 2012