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Science News for November 13, 2013


Danish researchers predict risk of valvular heart disease

Danish researchers have identified a clear link between narrowed heart valves and high levels of lipoprotein(a) in the blood, which may help prevent valvular heart disease. The study found that people with very high levels of lipoprotein(a) are two to three times more likely to develop aortic stenosis.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 13, 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.

Plasma experiment demonstrates admirable self-control

A joint experiment between Chinese and American scientists successfully demonstrated a tokamak fusion reactor's ability to maintain high fusion performance for extended periods. The experiment exploited plasma self-generations of electrical current, reducing the need for external coils and increasing cost-effectiveness.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 13, 2013

BU study finds gymnasts' face high exposure to flame retardants

A recent study published in Environmental Science and Technology found that competitive gymnasts have a higher exposure to potentially harmful flame-retardants than the general population. The average concentration of PentaBDE in gymnasts' blood sera was 4-6.5 times higher than in general U.S. population groups.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateNov 13, 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.

Study: Your brain sees things you don't

Researchers found that brainwaves indicate the brain processes and understands hidden objects in everyday life, despite the subjects not consciously perceiving them. The study challenges existing models of how the brain processes visual information, suggesting a more complex role for the brain in interpreting visual input.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 13, 2013

Study finds widespread use of opioid medications in nonsurgical hospital patients

A study analyzing over 1 million hospital admissions found that over 50% of nonsurgical patients were prescribed opioids, with high doses and late discharge increasing the risk of adverse events. Regional variation in prescribing rates was also observed, with a 37% difference between the highest and lowest regions.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of Hospital Medicine·DateNov 13, 2013

Redesigned protein opens door for safer gene therapy

Researchers at KU Leuven developed a new protein fusion that combines HIV and MLV replication proteins to create a safer viral vector for gene therapy. This fusion protein reduces the risk of cancer-causing mutations when integrated into human cells, paving the way for more effective treatments for blood diseases.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 13, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Compound stymies polyomaviruses in lab tests

Researchers at Brown University have identified a small molecule compound called Retro-2 that successfully controls the spread of three polyomaviruses in human cell cultures. The compound protects up to 90.5% of cells from infection, offering new hope for treatment options.

SourceBrown University·JournalmBio·DateNov 13, 2013

McMaster researchers test bandaging for swollen arm

Researchers found that simple compression bandages are as effective as expensive daily lymphatic massages in treating breast cancer-related arm swelling, known as lymphedema. The study followed over 100 women with breast cancer and found no difference between the two treatments.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateNov 13, 2013

Feral cats avoid urban coyotes, are surprisingly healthy

A recent study found that feral cats in urban areas tend to avoid core activity areas of urban coyotes, which can be up to 40% of their home range. This avoidance is likely due to the threat posed by coyotes, leading to a reduced impact on wildlife in urban green spaces.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 13, 2013

Snow melts faster under trees than in open areas in mild climates

Researchers at the University of Washington have found that tree cover causes snow to melt more quickly in warm climates. In contrast, open areas tend to keep snow on the ground longer into the spring and summer. The study used temperature data from around the world to support its findings.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalWater Resources Research·DateNov 13, 2013

Squeeze and you shall measure -- squeezed coherent states shown to be optimal for gravitational wave

Physicists at the University of Warsaw and Hanover demonstrate that experimentally available squeezed states are optimal for improving the precision of measurements in gravitational wave detectors. This breakthrough improves sensitivity by up to 30%, allowing for more accurate detection of subtle spacetime vibrations.

SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalPhysical Review A·DateNov 13, 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.

Lignin-feasting microbe holds promise for biofuels

A rainforest microbe, Enterobacter lignolyticus SCF1, breaks down lignin by breathing it, potentially improving biofuel production. The microbe's enzymes degrade 56% of lignin in 48 hours, opening up new possibilities for efficient and sustainable biofuels.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateNov 13, 2013

Building a better tokamak by blowing giant plasma bubbles

Researchers at the National Spherical Torus Experiment have successfully created giant plasma bubbles using a method called Coaxial Helicity Injection, which harnesses the power of magnetic reconnection. The simulation results shed light on the complex mechanisms behind this phenomenon, revealing how forces and currents interact to gen...

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 13, 2013

Finding antitumor T cells in a patient's own cancer

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have developed a method to isolate and expand antitumor T cells from human tumor tissue. These T cells recognize specific proteins on cancer cells, making them potential candidates for targeted immunotherapy.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateNov 13, 2013
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.

Deletion of any single gene provokes mutations elsewhere in the genome

Researchers found that deleting a single gene in yeast cells leads to compensatory mutations in another gene, which could affect genetic analysis in cancer and other fields. This discovery suggests that genomes are highly interconnected and that removing one part can cause another part to warp elsewhere.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalMolecular Cell·DateNov 13, 2013

Lifting fusion power onto an (optimized) pedestal

Scientists have developed a new technique to optimize the transport barrier in fusion plasmas, which is crucial for increasing future fusion power performance. By understanding the pedestal's behavior and its limitations, researchers can predict and improve its pressure and width, leading to enhanced fusion power production.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 13, 2013

Nature's glowing slime: Scientists peek into hidden sea worm's light

Researchers have found that the bioluminescent display of a marine worm produces a long-lasting blue glow through a slimy mucus secreted from its body. The mucus contains riboflavin, vitamin B2, which is acquired by the worm through its diet or symbiotic bacteria.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPhysiological and Biochemical Zoology·DateNov 13, 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.

Buffaloberry may be next 'super fruit'

The buffaloberry contains high amounts of lycopene and methyl-lycopenoate, making it an excellent source of antioxidants and nutrients. The fruit is also being considered as a natural food colorant and has potential applications in commercial wine production.

SourceInstitute of Food Technologists·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateNov 13, 2013

Tossed on the waves: Charting the path of ejected particles

Scientists at DIII-D National Fusion Facility shed light on mechanisms that eject fast ions from plasma, enabling detailed tests of models predicting these effects in future reactors. By analyzing particle interactions with multiple waves, researchers gain unprecedented insight into fundamental wave-particle physics.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 13, 2013

New way to dissolve semiconductors holds promise for electronics industry

Researchers have discovered a novel liquid that can dissolve nine types of key semiconductors at room temperature and normal air pressure. The finding holds promise for improving electronic applications such as solar cells by creating low-cost, semiconducting thin films.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 13, 2013

Natural disasters of the past can help solve future problems

Researchers are using past natural disasters to develop models of potential future events, highlighting the importance of local community resilience. By analyzing geological and social parameters, scientists aim to create a more robust framework for disaster preparedness.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNatural Hazards and Earth System Sciences·DateNov 13, 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.

Schools help kids choose carrots over candy bars

Research led by Michigan State University found that schools offering healthful snack options can significantly improve students' diets. By implementing Smart Snacks nutrition standards, schools can boost daily consumption of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, leading to improved overall nutrition.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalChildhood Obesity·DateNov 13, 2013

Taiwan scientists report first case of new bird flu virus in humans

Researchers identified a novel avian-origin H6N1 virus that closely resembles chicken H6N1 viruses circulating in Taiwan since 1972. The virus has a mutation that could increase its preference for human SAα-2,6 receptors, making it more infectious to humans.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateNov 13, 2013

Major chemical companies turn to new specialties for growth

In response to economic downturns, large chemical firms are reorganizing by acquiring specialty companies with high market potential. DuPont's Danisco acquisition and Dow's Rohm and Haas purchase have proven successful in shedding underperforming businesses.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateNov 13, 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.

Fossil of new big cat species discovered; oldest ever found

A team of researchers has discovered the oldest known big cat fossil, a 4-million-year-old skull of a new species called Panthera blytheae. The find challenges previous assumptions about the evolution of big cats and suggests they evolved in central Asia before spreading to other regions.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateNov 13, 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.

Probiotics may add functionality to fruit juices

Fruit juices could serve as carriers for probiotics, offering a dairy-free alternative. The study found that certain strains are stable in fruit juice without affecting sensory scores.

SourceInstitute of Food Technologists·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateNov 13, 2013

Fusion foe lends a helping hand

Recent experiments have found that lithium bound to carbon walls in fusion devices plays a key role in improving plasma performance. The combination of lithium, oxygen, and carbon improves deuterium retention and reduces recycling, leading to enhanced energy confinement and reduced edge plasma instabilities.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 13, 2013

New antenna spreads good vibrations in fusion plasma

Researchers have developed a novel device called the Shoelace Antenna to regulate heat and particle flow through the plasma boundary in a tokamak fusion reactor. The antenna exploits naturally occurring resonant vibrations to achieve this goal.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 13, 2013

New generation of micro sensors for monitoring ocean acidification

A team of scientists and engineers from the National Oceanography Centre successfully tested a new device that can measure pH levels in seawater. The sensor uses a dye that changes color with pH, allowing for accurate long-term monitoring of ocean acidification, which is impacting marine ecosystems.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalAnalytica Chimica Acta·DateNov 13, 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.

Better batteries through biology?

Researchers at MIT have found a way to add genetically modified viruses to the production of nanowires, which can serve as one of a battery's electrodes. This increases the surface area, allowing for more efficient charging and discharging.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 13, 2013

The 'evolution' of Little Red Riding Hood

A new study using phylogenetic analysis explores the relationships among different folktales, including 'Little Red Riding Hood', to identify distinct groups spread across regions and cultures. The research suggests that folktales evolve gradually over time, with elements blending together as they spread.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 13, 2013
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Can the eyes help diagnose Alzheimer's disease?

Researchers found significant loss of neurons in the retina's inner nuclear and ganglion cell layers, suggesting Alzheimer's disease presence. The study suggests a potential new way to diagnose or predict Alzheimer's through eye examination, using optical coherence tomography.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·DateNov 13, 2013

ORNL study uses neutron scattering, supercomputing to demystify forces at play in biofuel production

A study at Oak Ridge National Laboratory used neutron scattering and supercomputing to demystify the forces behind pretreatment processes in biofuel production. The research revealed unexpected findings about water molecules trapped between cellulose fibers, which can either dehydrate or separate into different phases when heated.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateNov 13, 2013

NIH study finds low-intensity therapy for Burkitt lymphoma is highly effective

A new clinical trial found that low-intensity chemotherapy regimens are highly effective in treating adult patients with Burkitt lymphoma, resulting in excellent long-term survival rates of over 90%. The treatment reduces toxicity compared to standard high-dose chemotherapy, leading to improved outcomes for adults.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 13, 2013

Gut microbes in healthy kids carry antibiotic resistance genes

A study by Washington University School of Medicine found that healthy children have numerous antibiotic resistance genes in their gut microbes. The research highlights the need for responsible antibiotic use to prevent the spread of resistance and serious illness.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 13, 2013
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.

Grant supports Clemson study of coastal biodiversity

A Clemson University scientist is studying the impact of environmental changes on lucinids, a common species of clam found in Southern coastal marine sediments. The research aims to understand how these clams contribute to coastal biodiversity and develop strategies to manage natural resources.

SourceClemson University·DateNov 13, 2013

USC study reveals a protein that keeps people -- and their skeletons -- organized

A new USC study found that the protein Lkb1 promotes orderly skeletal growth and prevents skeletal tumors by controlling the progression of immature cartilage cells. This discovery sheds light on how this protein helps keep people organized, with implications for understanding human diseases such as cancer and diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2013

NHS 111 increases ambulance and urgent and emergency care use

The NHS 111 service increased emergency ambulance calls, attendances at emergency care departments, and use of urgent care services during its first year of operation. Despite being designed to direct patients to the most appropriate level of care, NHS 111 did not reduce these pressures.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateNov 13, 2013

NASA sees a re-awakening of ex-Depression 30W in a different ocean

Ex-tropical storm 30W has re-developed into a low-pressure area near Chennai, India, with heavy rainfall and thunderstorms expected to make landfall within the next two days. The system is moving west-southwest at 9 knots per hour, bringing up to 10 inches of rain to northern Tamil Nadu and southern Andhra Pradesh.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 13, 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.

BUSM/BMC study shows decrease in sepsis mortality rates

A recent study from Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center found that severe sepsis mortality rates decreased significantly between 1991-1995 (47%) and 2006-2009 (29%). The decline occurred without the development of new pharmacological treatments for severe sepsis.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateNov 13, 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.

Tomato therapy: Engineered veggies target intestinal lipids, improve cholesterol

Researchers at UCLA found that engineered tomatoes can reduce the negative effects of unsaturated lysophosphatidic acids (LPAs) in mice, which are linked to high cholesterol and inflammation. The tomatoes produce a peptide that mimics HDL ('good') cholesterol, stopping increases in 'bad' cholesterol and inflammation.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateNov 13, 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.

Gene linked to common intellectual disability

Researchers have identified a genetic mutation leading to a reduction in proteins in the brain, causing intellectual disability. The study highlights the importance of unraveling the causes of these conditions, with potential implications for up to 3% of the population affected.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateNov 13, 2013

CVI puts research into practice on firearms and domestic violence

The report provides a summary of laws and policies to better protect victims of domestic violence, highlighting the link between firearms and lethal intimate partner violence. Several federal and state laws, including the Gun Control Act of 1968 and Texas law, prohibit gun ownership by abusers in domestic violence cases.

SourceSam Houston State University·DateNov 13, 2013

Science on the trail of The Wolf and Little Red Riding Hood

A study using phylogenetic analysis maps out the evolution of folk tales, revealing that Little Red Riding Hood shares a common root with The Wolf and the Kids, which originated in the 1st century AD. The research sheds light on the migration patterns of humans in ancient times by determining the origins and evolution of folk stories.

SourceDurham University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 13, 2013

Hot lithium vapors shield fusion facility walls

Researchers have successfully shielded fusion facility walls using lithium vapors, extending protection to 10 times longer than expected. The breakthrough could alleviate concerns about plasma contamination and aborting fusion reactions in future devices.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 13, 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.

Researchers warn against high emissions from oil palm expansion in Brazil

A new study warns that Brazil's oil palm expansion could lead to extremely high emissions of carbon dioxide if not strictly controlled. The researchers found that if plantations spill over into conservation or indigenous areas, the total amount of CO2 emissions may exceed the carbon intensity of petroleum diesel.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateNov 13, 2013

Healing powers

Researchers from the Carl-Philipp Heisenberg group have identified a key mechanism for limiting tissue tension during cell division, enabling epithelial closure and wound healing. By orienting cell division through mechanical tension, cells can maintain their integrity and ensure proper tissue development.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateNov 13, 2013

Women with asthma could face a delay in becoming pregnant

Research from Bispebjerg University Hospital in Denmark found that women with asthma took longer to conceive compared to those without. The study revealed a higher proportion of prolonged time to pregnancy among asthmatic women, particularly those with untreated asthma.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateNov 13, 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.

Early uses of chili peppers in Mexico

Researchers have found evidence of chili pepper residues in ancient pottery dating back to 400 BC, suggesting that Mixe-Zoquean cultures may have used chili peppers for multiple culinary purposes. The discovery opens the door for further research into the uses of chili peppers in prehistoric times.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 13, 2013

Fatty acid produced by gut bacteria boosts the immune system

A new study found that butyrate, a fatty acid produced by gut bacteria, induces the production of regulatory T cells in the gut, boosting the immune system. This discovery supports the use of butyrate as therapy for inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and may lead to personalized preventive medicine.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature·DateNov 13, 2013

'Missing heat' discovery prompts new estimate of global warming

Researchers have reconstructed 'missing' global temperatures using a combination of satellite and surface data, revealing that the Arctic is warming rapidly. The new study suggests that the rate of warming since 1997 has been two and a half times greater than previously estimated.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalQuarterly Journal of the Royal Meteorological Society·DateNov 13, 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.

Monitoring material changes in the hostile environment of a fusion reactor

Researchers at MIT's Plasma Science and Fusion Center have developed a novel diagnostic instrument that can remotely map the composition of material surfaces inside a magnetic fusion device. This new approach promises to provide scientists with insights into the dynamic interaction between fusing plasma and its surrounding materials.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 13, 2013

Impulsivity, rewards and Ritalin: Monkey study shows tighter link

A new monkey study links impulsivity, rewards, and ADHD medication Ritalin, shedding light on the brain's reward processing mechanism. The study found that methylphenidate improved impulsive behavior in monkeys, but did not eliminate it, suggesting a potential link between the drug and temporal discounting.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateNov 13, 2013
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.

Back to the future: Nostalgia increases optimism

Research from University of Southampton reveals that nostalgic thoughts increase optimism and self-esteem, providing a positive outlook on the future. The studies also highlight music's role in evoking nostalgia, further supporting its capacity to promote psychological comfort.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateNov 13, 2013

Monkeys 'understand' rules underlying language musicality

Researchers found that South American squirrel monkeys can detect structural dependencies in musical patterns, similar to those found in human languages. This suggests that the ability to process dependencies may have evolved in human cognition along with human language.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalBiology Letters·DateNov 13, 2013

Elsevier launches new open access journal: Photoacoustics

The new open access journal Photoacoustics is launched by Elsevier to publish original research and review contributions in the fast-growing field of photoacoustics. The journal aims to capture exciting developments in this highly promising field and contribute to its growth.

SourceElsevier·JournalPhotoacoustics·DateNov 13, 2013

Study finds context is key in helping us to recognize a face

A new study found that people's decisions on recognizing faces are dependent on the context, not just repeated exposure. The brain's fusiform face area learns familiar information about faces, while the superior temporal sulcus influences recognition reports based on social context.

SourceRoyal Holloway, University of London·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 13, 2013

Sobriety, spirituality linked for teens in treatment

A study by researchers from The University of Akron found that increased spirituality in teens undergoing substance abuse treatment is linked to greater likelihood of abstinence, positive social behaviors, and reduced narcissism. This shift was strongest among teens who reported a spiritual identity at discharge.

SourceUniversity of Akron·JournalAlcoholism Treatment Quarterly·DateNov 13, 2013
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.

Automated test construction can better assess student mastery of common core state standards

A new algorithm for automated test construction has been developed to improve the alignment and validity of assessments for the Common Core State Standards. The study found that this approach can provide more accurate measures of student mastery, which is essential for effective instructional time use by school leaders. Additionally, t...

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Researcher·DateNov 13, 2013

Scorpions use strongest defense mechanisms when under attack

New research found that scorpions choose their strongest defensive behavior based on both physical characteristics and performance measurements. The study also revealed a correlation between scorpion shape, pinch force, and venom strength when defending themselves from predators.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 13, 2013

Astronomers reveal contents of mysterious black hole jets

A team of astronomers discovered that black hole jets contain ordinary atoms, including nickel and iron, which provide the positive charge. The jets are accelerated to high speeds, with some moving at 66% of the speed of light, revealing new insights into their formation.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·JournalNature·DateNov 13, 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.

Wireless sensors used to study meditation's effect on heart health

Researchers at Scripps Translational Science Institute used wireless health sensors to collect data from meditators, studying the immediate effects of meditation on blood pressure and markers of stress. The study aims to guide better treatments for high blood pressure and other health conditions.

SourceScripps Health·DateNov 13, 2013

Novel gene therapy works to reverse heart failure

A new gene therapy has shown promising results in reversing heart failure by delivering the SUMO-1 gene directly to the heart. In preclinical testing, the therapy improved cardiac function, reduced heart volumes, and enhanced blood flow compared to other treatments.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 13, 2013

Improving detection of radioactive material in nuclear waste water

Researchers have designed a highly sensitive nanosensor using graphene oxide to detect extremely low levels of uranium and plutonium in nuclear waste water. The discovery has significant implications for identifying potential leaks and ensuring environmental and human health safety.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateNov 13, 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.

Menstrual cycle influences concussion outcomes

Researchers found that women injured during the premenstrual phase had slower recovery and poorer health one month after injury compared to those injured during other phases. The study suggests that sex hormones like estrogen and progesterone may play a role in concussion outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateNov 13, 2013