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Science News for July 8, 2013


Consuming soy peptide may reduce colon cancer metastasis

Researchers found that consuming soy peptide lunasin orally reduced the number of metastatic tumors in mice with human colon cancer cells. The highest dose of 20 mg/kg of lunasin achieved a 94% reduction in tumors, showing promise for new cancer treatment approaches.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Cancer Therapy·DateJul 8, 2013

Robot mom would beat robot butler in popularity contest

A recent study published in Computers in Human Behavior found that people express more positive feelings towards a robot that takes care of them than one that needs care. Researchers observed 60 interactions between college students and a social robot, Nao, to determine how human perception of robots changed based on their role.

SourcePenn State·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateJul 8, 2013

Medical safety innovation gets a boost from systematic analysis

Researchers from Drexel University analyzed hospital discharge data in Pennsylvania to identify patient safety events, which resulted in non-fatal adverse events for 9% of patients. These events added an average of $35,000 to hospital stays and 3 days in length.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Healthcare Risk Management·DateJul 8, 2013

Melody modulates choir members' heart rate

Researchers found that choir members' heart rates synchronize when singing in unison, with a direct link between melody and cardiac activity. This effect is similar to controlled breathing exercises, which regulate vagus nerve activity.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateJul 8, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

JCI early table of contents for July 8, 2013

Researchers found that macrophages are essential for embryo implantation in the uterus. The absence of these cells leads to reduced hormone levels, causing embryos to fail to implant. Restoration of macrophage function or hormone replacement therapy can revive pregnancy, shedding new light on a potential cause of infertility.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 8, 2013

Corals cozy up with bacterial buddies

A new study reveals that healthy Red Sea corals harbor bacterial communities deep within their tissues, including the previously unknown species Endozoicomonas. This symbiotic relationship is believed to aid the coral's nutrient recycling, contributing to its overall health and survival.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJul 8, 2013

Not-weak knots bolster carbon fiber

Researchers at Rice University developed a new type of carbon fiber with unique properties, achieving '100% knot efficiency' where the fiber is equally likely to break anywhere along its length. The fibers were created by spinning large graphene oxide flakes into fibers, resulting in enhanced strength and flexibility.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 8, 2013

Getting to the root of the matter

Scientists identified a network of genes that promote root growth in low-nitrogen conditions, making them suitable for sustainable biofuel production. The discovery provides new insights into the genetic mechanisms underlying plant development and could lead to the creation of nitrogen-efficient crop varieties.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalNew Phytologist·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

Temperature increases causing tropical forests to blossom, according to study

A recent study by Florida State University researcher Stephanie Pau found that tropical forests produce more flowers in response to only slight increases in temperature. This is the first study to combine long-term flower production data with direct estimates of cloud cover based on satellite information.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 8, 2013

Salk researchers identify potential biomarker for cancer diagnosis

A team of scientists at the Salk Institute found that disrupted micronuclei, which can trigger massive DNA damage on chromosomes, might play an active role in carcinogenesis. They also identified biomarkers to detect these structures, suggesting a new tool for cancer diagnosis.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell·DateJul 8, 2013

TU Vienna develops light transistor

The TU Vienna has successfully developed a light transistor that can be controlled by an electrical potential, enabling efficient miniaturization and use in optical computers. This breakthrough utilizes terahertz radiation and the Faraday effect to rotate the polarization direction of light.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

Buckling up to turn

Researchers at MIT used high-speed video to record individual marine bacteria and found that a small flexible rod called the hook bucks during forward swims, causing the cell to tumble and reorient. This unusual mechanism helps bacteria navigate toward food in nutrient-sparse ocean waters.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateJul 8, 2013

Finding the Goldilocks sites to store CO2 underground

Scientists compare results from three commercial-scale carbon capture and storage projects, revealing that not all sites are equal and successful implementation requires careful appraisal. The study's findings highlight the importance of long-term monitoring at CCS storage sites to ensure secure storage.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 8, 2013

New metallic bubble wrap offers big benefits over other protective materials

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new metallic bubble wrap that provides improved protection, lightness, and flexibility compared to traditional materials. The material has been shown to be strong enough to protect contents in areas as thin as a few millimeters, while also being heat- and chemical-resistant.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateJul 8, 2013
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Rhode Island Hospital successfully manages case of severe EEE

The hospital's aggressive approach helped manage brain swelling, stop seizures, and minimize brain injury in the patient. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention note that EEE is one of the most severe mosquito-transmitted diseases in the U.S., with a mortality rate of approximately 33%.

SourceLifespan·JournalNeurocritical Care·DateJul 8, 2013

Cosmochemist discovers potential solution to meteorite mystery

Researchers suggest that chondrules may have formed from high-pressure collisions between planetesimals, which would explain their composition and origin. This theory resolves a long-standing puzzle in cosmochemistry and provides a potential solution to the mystery of how these glassy spherules were embedded within meteorites.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalGeochimica et Cosmochimica Acta·DateJul 8, 2013

Sleepless nights can turn lovers into fighters

UC Berkeley psychologists found that people are more likely to lash out at their romantic partners over relationship tensions after a bad night's sleep. Couples who fight more are less happy and less healthy.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJul 8, 2013

Cancer research brief: Targeting pancreatic cancer drug resistance

A team of scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory has discovered a way to prevent pancreatic tumor cells from responding to chemotherapy. The antibody FG-3019 targets survival cues inside the tumor mass, increasing the effectiveness of treatment and reducing drug resistance.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

'Scent device' could help detect bladder cancer

Researchers from the University of Liverpool and University of the West of England have developed a device that can detect bladder cancer through urine scent analysis. The ODOREADER device analyzes chemicals in gas emitted from urine to produce a 'profile' that can be used to diagnose cancer cells in the bladder.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 8, 2013

July/August 2013 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

Researchers found that most men report little shared decision making in PSA screening, with only 8% reporting full shared decision making. Coupling physician education with patient activation improves rates of shared decision making and influences physicians' attitudes about screening.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 8, 2013

NASA sees Tropical Storm Chantal develop quickly in Atlantic

Tropical Storm Chantal is expected to bring significant rainfall to the Leeward and Windward islands with isolated totals reaching up to 6 inches. The storm developed from an unseasonally strong easterly wave that moved off the African coast on July 3.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

2 blood pressure drugs linked to lower risk of heart disease in diabetics

Two angiotensin-receptor blockers, telmisartan and valsartan, have been shown to reduce hospitalization for heart attack, stroke, or heart failure in people with type 2 diabetes. Researchers found a lower risk of cardiovascular illnesses associated with these drugs compared to other treatments.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 8, 2013

Glimpse into the future of acidic oceans shows ecosystems transformed

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that ocean acidification can have a profound impact on marine ecosystems, causing a loss of functional diversity and resulting in a homogenized community dominated by turf algae. This can lead to cascading effects throughout the ecosystem, making calc...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 8, 2013

Denormalizing smoking: Making the case for banning cigarettes in parks and on beaches

Denormalizing smoking is fostering lower smoking rates by banning cigarettes in public settings, according to researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health. The paper analyzed the evidence for bans and found that government acting in the name of public health can restrict smoking to protect smokers themselves.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

NASA's TRMM satellite sees Tropical Storm Erick along Mexican coast

Tropical Storm Erick brought heavy rain and strong winds to the Mexican coast, with NASA's TRMM satellite tracking its movement. The storm weakened over the next two days, but not before causing rough surf and ocean swells that posed a life-threatening risk to southern Baja California.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 8, 2013

Nanomaterial to help reduce CO2 emissions

Researchers have developed a new nanomaterial that can separate carbon dioxide from nitrogen in flue gas mixtures, reducing CO2 emissions from coal-fired power stations. This material has remarkable selectivity and is energy-efficient, allowing for easy regeneration and reuse.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 8, 2013

Nurse practitioners provide more primary care in states with least restrictive regulations

A study by the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston found that states with fewer nurse practitioner regulations had more patients receiving primary care from nurse practitioners. States with less restrictive regulations saw a 2.5 times increase in primary care patients, compared to the most restrictive states.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 8, 2013

Inhibiting macrophage MerTK signaling creates an innate immune response against cancer

Research by a University of North Carolina-led team shows that inhibiting MerTK signaling in macrophages can activate the immune system to kill cancer cells, slowing tumor growth and metastasis. The study's findings suggest combining this approach with existing therapies may offer a new avenue for activating anti-tumor immunity.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 8, 2013

Earthworms could help scientists 'dig' into past climates

Researchers found that earthworms retain a memory of temperature in calcite granules, offering a new method to reconstruct past climates. This discovery has the potential to enhance and benchmark climate change models.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalGeochimica et Cosmochimica Acta·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

Targeting errant immune system enzyme kills myelodysplastic cells

Scientists have successfully targeted a malfunctioning immune system enzyme to eliminate diseased cells from patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), a blood disorder and precursor to leukemia. The research provides a molecular target for designing new drugs, offering a promising treatment option.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateJul 8, 2013

NASA satellite sees 2 views of Tropical Storm Soulik over Marianas Islands

Tropical Storm Soulik has become more organized and is expected to intensify rapidly, potentially reaching typhoon strength by July 9. The storm's eastern quadrant covered the Marianas Islands in NASA's Aqua satellite images, showing a brilliant visible image of the storm's center near the northern islands.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 8, 2013

Immune cells play a role in early pregnancy

Researchers found that macrophages help regulate corpus luteum development during embryo implantation, which is essential for successful pregnancy. The absence of macrophages can lead to infertility due to disrupted hormone levels, but restoring them or administering hormones can correct this issue.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 8, 2013

Using the sun to illuminate a basic mystery of matter

Scientists have detected relativistic antiparticles, specifically positrons, produced in nuclear interactions of accelerated ions in solar flares. This remote detection using microwave and magnetic-field data has significant implications for understanding the basic structure of matter and high-energy processes.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

Ethical quandary about vaccinations sparked by tension between parental rights and protecting public health

A study by NYU Langone researchers found that states with simpler vaccination exemption processes have higher non-medical exemption rates, contributing to outbreaks of childhood infections. States with looser requirements are more likely to see parents opt-out of vaccinating their children, putting others at risk.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 8, 2013

NASA's polar robotic ranger passes first Greenland test

GROVER successfully demonstrated autonomous operation in Greenland's harshest environment, collecting radar data and transmitting information in real-time. The robot's performance was affected by extreme polar conditions, but the results promise potential for future autonomous robotic platforms to support scientific research.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 8, 2013

Improved interpretation of volcanic traces in ice

Researchers at GEOMAR have developed a model to track the global distribution of sulfur particles following large eruptions, providing more accurate estimates of eruption strength and tracing previously undetermined volcanic activities. The study improves the interpretation of volcanic traces in ice cores from Greenland and Antarctica.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·DateJul 8, 2013

Tailoring diabetes treatment to older patients yields dramatic results

A study led by the University of Exeter found that 27% of over-70s with type 2 diabetes achieved better glycaemic control through individualized care alone. Researchers introduced a 'one-size-fits-all' approach for older patients, which proved ineffective due to multiple complications.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

Adverse effects of phthalates on ovarian response to IVF

A new study found that phthalate exposure is associated with reduced fertility in women undergoing IVF treatment. Exposure to specific phthalates was linked to lower IVF success rates, including implantation failure and reduced oocyte retrieval rates.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJul 8, 2013

Plant biologist Stephen Long presents at prestigious 2013 AAAS Riley Lecture

Biotechnology and sustainable bioenergy crops are crucial to overcome challenges such as global atmospheric change, yield stagnation, and societal acceptance. The US has a unique opportunity to increase crop production and modify crops for rising CO2 levels.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·DateJul 8, 2013

Researchers uncover that moths talk about sex in many ways

Moths have developed ears sensitive to bat echolocation cries as a defense mechanism, but also use their hearing and avoidance behavior to communicate sexually. Researchers found that different moth species employ varying methods to court females with sound.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

UCSB's NCEAS find tropical forest blossoms are sensitive to changing climate

A new study by UC Santa Barbara's NCEAS found that tropical forests are sensitive to small changes in temperature, producing more flowers. The study analyzed global data and satellite information, indicating that clouds mainly affect short-term growth, while longer-term changes are due to temperature.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 8, 2013

Egg donation in European clinics: Why do women do it?

A study of 1423 egg donors across 11 European countries found that altruism is the primary motivation, but financial compensation plays a significant role in some countries. The majority of donors are young women who expect personal benefits, and their age affects their motivations.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJul 8, 2013

Measuring molecules in their undistorted form

Researchers at Bielefeld University can now determine the three-dimensional structure of gaseous molecules with unprecedented precision. The university's electron diffractometer allows for the analysis of small molecules in their pure state, shedding light on fundamental questions about atomic arrangements.

SourceBielefeld University·DateJul 8, 2013

Innovative MIT study estimates extent to which air pollution in China shortens human lives

A new MIT study estimates that air pollution from coal emissions in China shortens lives by 2.5 billion years, with particulate matter levels over 400 micrograms per cubic meter found in the region. The research uses quasi-experimental methods to project life expectancy losses for 500 million Chinese residents north of the Huai River.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 8, 2013

An unlikely competitor for diamond as the best thermal conductor

Researchers from Boston College and Naval Research Laboratory discovered boron arsenide's unexpectedly high thermal conductivity, rivaling that of diamond. The material's unique vibrational properties allow for efficient heat conduction at specific frequencies.

SourceBoston College·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

Nearly half of sarcoma surgeries done by nonsurgical oncology specialists

A recent study found that orthopedic oncologists and surgical oncologists conducted only 52% of sarcoma surgeries, while general surgeons, plastic surgeons, and orthopedic surgeons performed the remaining 48%. This disparity may impact patient outcomes due to varying levels of expertise in removing deep-seated tumors.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Surgical Oncology·DateJul 8, 2013

Detection of single photons via quantum entanglement

Physicists at Innsbruck University develop new method to measure single photons, achieving a detection probability of 12%. The technique uses quantum logic spectroscopy and entangled ions to gain practical knowledge about single particles.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature Photonics·DateJul 8, 2013

New anti-cancer compound shows promise for breast cancer

Researchers at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have discovered that BH3-mimetics, currently in clinical trials for leukaemia, could offer hope for treating aggressive oestrogen receptor-positive (ER-positive) breast cancers. The compounds were effective when combined with tamoxifen in preclinical models, improving treatment outcomes.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalCancer Cell·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

Eavesdropping on lithium ions

Scientists have created a device that allows researchers to observe individual lithium ions in lithium-ion batteries, providing new insights into the complex processes involved. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient battery designs with increased power density and longer lifetimes.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 8, 2013

Fixed payments not a barrier to quality of care in HMOs, study finds

Patients in Medicare HMOs were more likely to receive recommended preventive services and rated their primary care physicians favorably compared to traditional fee-for-service plans. The study found that older, larger not-for-profit HMOs performed better on these measures than smaller for-profit ones.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

Scientists solve titanic puzzle of popular photocatalyst

Researchers at University College London have uncovered a groundbreaking explanation for the properties of mixed-phase titania catalysts, revealing that anatase has lower energy levels than previously thought. This discovery will aid in developing more efficient photocatalysts with applications in clean energy and self-cleaning coatings.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 8, 2013

OU researchers receive OCAST awards for health research projects

University of Oklahoma Norman campus researchers received $135,000 OCAST grants for three-year health research projects. The recipients will study advanced treatments for bone defects, viral RNA structure to develop new drugs, and the control of mosquito-transmitted diseases.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

IVF for 200 euro per cycle

A study in Belgium demonstrates that simplified IVF methodology can be successful and cost-effective, with estimated costs as low as €200 per cycle. The research aims to make infertility care universally accessible to couples in developing countries.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJul 8, 2013

Second door discovered in war against mosquito-borne diseases

A team of researchers has discovered a second gateway that could turn the tide against mosquito-borne diseases. The discovery reveals a new receptor in the sodium channel that allows mosquitoes to survive exposure to insecticides.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 8, 2013

Annals of Internal Medicine tip Sheet for 9 July 2013

The US Preventive Services Task Force found insufficient evidence to recommend for or against screening for primary open-angle glaucoma. Two commentaries explore the physician's role in preventing gun violence, including the importance of discussing guns with elderly patients and advocating for mental health treatment.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 8, 2013

Sydney's urban areas to be hit hardest by global warming

Researchers found that urban heat island effect combined with global warming could increase Sydney's temperatures by up to 3.7°C by 2050. Green spaces and bodies of water can help reduce the impact, with studies showing a marked effect on reducing the urban heat island effect.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalClimate Dynamics·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

Medicaid programs vary in coverage of preventive care, report says

A new report by George Washington University researchers finds that many Medicaid beneficiaries lack access to essential preventive services. The study highlights gaps in coverage for critical services such as screening tests for colorectal cancer, high blood cholesterol, HIV infection, and diet counseling for obesity prevention.

SourceGeorge Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 8, 2013

Harvard researchers warn of legacy mercury in the environment

Researchers found that significant reductions in emissions will be necessary to stabilize current mercury levels, as legacy mercury persists for decades. The study highlights the need for aggressive reductions to mitigate future increases in ocean mercury levels.

SourceHarvard University·JournalGlobal Biogeochemical Cycles·DateJul 8, 2013

Rotman Professor receives fellowship to study employee stock ownership

The University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management professor will investigate the causes and effects of equity-based compensation across international employees. He aims to understand how compensating international employees with domestic company stock impacts their work.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

Early life and in utero factors found to influence testicular function in adulthood

A new study suggests that early life factors such as impaired fetal growth and exposure to maternal smoking may lead to reduced semen parameters in adulthood. The study found that around one in six men had sperm parameters below the normal threshold, with poor fetal growth and smoking exposure associated with lower sperm quality.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJul 8, 2013

'Watermark Ink' device wins R&D 100 Award

The Watermark Ink device can instantly identify unknown liquids based on their surface tension, exploiting chemical and optical properties of nanostructured materials. This technology offers a cheap, fast, and portable way to perform quality control tests and detect liquid contaminants.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·DateJul 8, 2013

In baseball, bigger still better

Research by Adrian Bejan reveals that elite athletes in these sports are taller and heavier, allowing for more force to be applied as they move forward. This applies to pitchers like Max Scherzer, golfers like those in the top 10 of driving distance, and boxers who maximize punching power by gaining size.

SourceDuke University·JournalInternational Journal of Design & Nature and Ecodynamics·DateJul 8, 2013

Immune cells essential to establishing pregnancy

Macrophages are essential for producing progesterone, a crucial hormone for embryo implantation. Insufficient macrophages lead to poor embryo implantation and miscarriage. Treatment with progesterone can reverse the effects of reduced macrophage levels.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 8, 2013

Irregular bed times curb young kids' brain power

Research found that irregular bedtimes in early childhood are associated with lower intellectual performance in reading, maths, and spatial awareness, particularly for girls. The effects of disrupted sleep on brain development and learning are still not fully understood but may have lasting impacts on health throughout life.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

The aging population and emergency departments

Research from Brigham and Women's Hospital finds that the aging US population will lead to longer emergency department visits and more frequent hospitalizations, but not an increase in overall ED visits. The study predicts a 10% increase in time spent by patients in EDs nationwide, highlighting the need for efficient patient flow.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 8, 2013

New opportunities to treat bowel cancer

Researchers have discovered genetic processes that cause specific types of bowel cancer and identified effective drugs targeting these genes. The findings offer the opportunity to develop personalized treatment based on a person's genetic profile, with promising results for alternative second- or third-line treatments.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalCancer Cell·DateJul 8, 2013

LSUHSC research adds new info to improve pediatric dental sedation

Researchers from LSUHSC report that children sedated with meperidine and hydroxyzine experienced vomiting, prolonged sleep, and irritability, while those sedated with midazolam had fewer side effects. The study recommends educating parents on safe medication use and post-procedure care to improve child safety and comfort.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalAnesthesia Progress·DateJul 8, 2013
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.

Gunning for trouble: Study of young assault victims finds risky mix of gun possession and aggression

A new study by the University of Michigan Injury Center found that nearly one in four young assault victims have a gun, mostly obtained illegally, which increases their risk for future firearm violence. The study also revealed high rates of substance use, fighting, and attitudes favoring retaliation among those with guns.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 8, 2013

Seizures late in life may be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease

Patients with epilepsy and mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) showed earlier cognitive decline than those without epilepsy. Epilepsy increases the risk of seizures and accelerates symptoms in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Identifying and treating epilepsy could improve clinical outcomes for patients.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateJul 8, 2013

CPAP therapy reduces nightmares in veterans with PTSD and sleep apnea

A new study suggests that CPAP therapy significantly reduces nightmares in veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and obstructive sleep apnea. Treatment compliance improves when patients experience restful sleep without frequent nightmares, leading to better overall health outcomes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalSLEEP·DateJul 8, 2013

Study shows 'dead zone' impacts Chesapeake Bay fishes

A 10-year study by the Virginia Institute of Marine Science found that low-oxygen 'dead zones' in Chesapeake Bay are impacting demersal fish species, including Atlantic croaker and summer flounder. The study showed a drastic decline in species richness and catch rates under low-oxygen conditions.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateJul 8, 2013

What do rotten eggs and colon cancer have in common?

Researchers at UTMB found that colon cancer cells produce large amounts of hydrogen sulfide, which they use to make energy and grow. Blocking the production of this compound, CBS, was shown to curb tumor growth in mice.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 8, 2013
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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