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Science News for November 20, 2013


Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers break a theoretical time barrier on bouncing droplets

Researchers have found a way to reduce the contact time of water droplets on surfaces by at least 40%, potentially aiding in ice prevention and wing efficiency. The breakthrough could also have implications for ecology and industry, including reducing corrosion and improving turbine blade efficiency.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateNov 20, 2013

Study is first to explain type of antimalarial drug resistance

A recent study published in PLOS ONE has provided the first explanation for type of antimalarial drug resistance. The research found a link between autophagy and resistance to malaria parasites, with implications for developing new antimalarial drug therapy.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 20, 2013

Mental stress + heart disease: Stronger presence in women under 50

Researchers found that women younger than 50 with a recent heart attack experience restricted blood flow to the heart in response to psychological stress. This may explain why younger women who are hospitalized after a heart attack face a greater risk of complications and dying compared to men of the same age.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateNov 20, 2013

Study shines light on what makes digital activism effective

The study reveals that digital activism is more successful when targeting governments rather than businesses, with social media tools playing a crucial role in its effectiveness. Effective campaigns employ a combination of social media tools, including tweeting alone being less successful.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateNov 20, 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.

EORTC head & neck cancer trial shows assessing HRQOL is valuable to both patients and their doctors

A recent EORTC trial found that assessing HRQOL (health-related quality of life) is crucial for both patients with head and neck cancers and their doctors. The study showed that patients in the sequential treatment arm experienced less swallowing and speech problems compared to those in the alternating chemoradiotherapy arm.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·JournalCancer·DateNov 20, 2013

Large study links nut consumption to reduced death rate

A large study of over 30 years found that eating a daily handful of nuts significantly reduces the risk of death from any cause. The study also found that regular nut-eaters were more slender than those who didn't eat nuts, contradicting a common worry about weight gain.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 20, 2013

Virtual sailing simulator shows key role of recreation

Researchers found that a virtual sailing simulator improved quality of life, self-confidence, and overall well-being for participants with chronic spinal cord injuries. The study showed rapid improvement in sailing skills and successful completion of sailing lessons on the water.

SourceKennedy Krieger Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation·DateNov 20, 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.

Metabolically healthy obesity does not guarantee clean bill of health

Research found that obese people who are metabolically healthy still face an increased risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The study analyzed data from over 5,700 participants and found that normal weight individuals with multiple metabolic abnormalities also faced a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateNov 20, 2013

BU, MIT team engineers add new wrinkles to waterproofing

A team of engineers from BU and MIT have engineered a wrinkled surface that sheds liquid much faster than a smooth one, reducing contact time by 37%. The innovative approach uses surface texture to reshape drops as they recoil, making surfaces stay drier longer.

SourceBoston University College of Engineering·JournalNature·DateNov 20, 2013

Novel material stores unusually large amounts of hydrogen

Researchers synthesized a new material that can store up to three times more hydrogen than most metal hydrides, with an unusual structure not observed in other known hydrides. The discovery could contribute to the development of high-capacity hydrogen fuel cells and potentially lead to the discovery of unprecedented properties.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 20, 2013

Framework could improve southeast rainfall forecasts

Researchers developed a new statistical model to forecast summer rainfall in the Southeast, identifying key climate factors that influence rainfall intensity. The three-cluster finite normal mixture model improves accuracy for seasonal predictions.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateNov 20, 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.

Aging erodes genetic control, but that's flexible

Biologists at Brown University found that gene silencing via chromatin in fruit flies declines with age, but administering life span extending measures such as lower calorie diets or increased expression of the protein Sir2 restores the loss of gene silencing due to age. The study suggests a possible line of research to develop more pr...

SourceBrown University·DateNov 20, 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.

Research uncovers secrets of Mars' birth from unique meteorite

A Florida State University scientist has discovered a 4.4 billion-year-old Martian meteorite that may be the first recognized example of ancient Martian crust. The analysis reveals information about the origin and age of Mars' crust, confirming that the planet did not experience a giant impact that melted it in its early history.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalNature·DateNov 20, 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.

Temple's Dr. Steven Houser recognized by the American Heart Association

Dr. Steven R. Houser, Director of the Cardiovascular Research Center at Temple University School of Medicine, has made significant contributions to cardiovascular research over nearly three decades. He received prestigious honors from the American Heart Association for his work on heart cell function and regenerative pathways to repair...

SourceTemple University Health System·DateNov 20, 2013

Roman emperor's virtual villa to be unveiled Friday

Researchers unveil an immersive digital experience of Hadrian's Villa, featuring interactive exploration and historically accurate avatars. The virtual world simulation combines scholarly studies with cutting-edge technology to recreate the ancient site.

SourceIndiana University·DateNov 20, 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.

Researchers use CT and 3-D printers to recreate dinosaur fossils

Using CT scans, researchers created a non-destructive method to separate fossilized bones from surrounding sediment. They then printed the bones using a 3-D printer, producing an accurate replica that could be shared with other research facilities.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateNov 20, 2013

Impacts of plant invasions become less robust over time

A UCSB study found that invasive plants' ecosystem impacts decrease over time, but native species may need additional assistance to recover. Long-term monitoring revealed declining nitrogen mineralization rates and reduced self-reinforcing effects on soil nutrients.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateNov 20, 2013

Too much weekly sport seems to be as bad as too little for teen wellbeing

A study of over 1,200 teenagers found that the ideal amount of weekly sports participation is around 14 hours, which is double the official recommendation. This level of engagement was associated with better mental and physical wellbeing, while excessive exercise had detrimental effects.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateNov 20, 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.

Box office success linked to blogging, study finds

A study by Pradeep K. Chintagunta of the University of Chicago Booth School of Business found that gender, income, race, and age are key indicators of a movie's box office performance in individual markets. The study suggests that studios should adjust their advertising strategies based on these demographics.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Booth School of Business·JournalManagement Science·DateNov 20, 2013

Frequent breaks from sedentary behavior makes kids healthier

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that frequent interruptions in children's sedentary time can have a positive impact on their health. The research, which analyzed data from over 500 children aged 8-11, showed that breaks in sedentary behavior were associated with lower risk scores for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 20, 2013

IUPUI study: Finding Occam's razor in an era of information overload

A new study led by Steve Pressé reveals a preferred strategy for picking mathematical models with the greatest predictive power, emphasizing simplicity and avoiding unnecessary complexity. The study's findings support Occam's razor principle, suggesting that simpler theories are more likely to be correct.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 20, 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.

Scientists far from finish line in understanding anemia in female athletes

Researchers debunk the notion that hepcidin spikes cause exercise-induced anemia, highlighting the need to understand what causes anemia to prevent it. The study provides insight into high hepcidin levels in non-exercisers with long-term anemia.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalInternational Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism·DateNov 20, 2013

Tropical Cyclone Helen headed for landfall in India

Tropical Cyclone Helen is expected to intensify and make landfall in the coastal plain of Krishna Delta in Andhra Pradesh, India. The storm's track is predicted to shift westward due to a mid-level subtropical ridge, with forecasters warning fishermen to return to shore.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 20, 2013

3 new wafer trapdoor spiders from Brazil

Scientists have discovered three new species of wafer trapdoor spiders in Brazil, expanding our knowledge of the genus Fufius. The discovery highlights the morphological variability of the species and provides insight into their distribution across different environments.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateNov 20, 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.

PTSD raises risk for obesity in women

Women with PTSD experience rapid weight gain and increased risk of being overweight or obese compared to those without the disorder. The study analyzed data from 50,504 women and found that symptoms of PTSD rather than trauma itself drove the weight gain.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateNov 20, 2013

New crizotinib side-effect

A University of Colorado Cancer Center study found that crizotinib treatment reduces kidney function in ALK positive non-small cell lung cancer patients. Kidney function recovered after treatment, but additional tests are recommended if concerns arise.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalCancer·DateNov 20, 2013

'Undruggable' mutation meets its match

A team of scientists at the University of California, San Francisco has identified a previously unknown pocket on the K-Ras protein that can be targeted by a new compound. This compound inhibits only mutant K-Ras and leaves normal protein untouched, offering real translational implications for cancer patients.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateNov 20, 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.

The last croak for Darwin's frog

Scientists confirm the extinction of Darwin's frogs caused by chytridiomycosis, a fungal disease affecting amphibians. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect the remaining species, emphasizing the importance of preserving biodiversity.

SourceZoological Society of London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 20, 2013

Involving patients in their nurses' shift change reduces medical errors and satisfies patients

Research at St. Michael's Hospital found that bedside handover, where patients are involved in the transfer of accountability with their care team, can reduce potential errors and improve patient engagement. The study also showed that this approach increases patient safety, satisfaction, and better informs care plans.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of Nursing Care Quality·DateNov 20, 2013

Brain still injured from concussion after symptoms fade

Studies show that concussions can lead to brain abnormalities four months after symptoms have resolved, with memory and behavioral issues improving more quickly than physical injuries. These findings suggest that healing from concussions may be similar to recovering from burns, with tissue scabs forming before the body is fully healed.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateNov 20, 2013

Long-term unemployment may accelerate aging in men

A new study has found that long-term unemployment may accelerate aging in men by shortening their telomeres, which protect genetic code from degradation. This association was found in a study of over 5,600 Finnish men born in 1966.

SourceImperial College London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 20, 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.

Spanish scientists identify a new ancestral enzyme that facilitates DNA repair

Researchers have discovered the human enzyme PrimPol, which recognises and repairs DNA lesions during replication, preventing breaks in chromosomes. This ancient enzyme has been found in archaebacteria and is thought to have played a key role in genome evolution and cancer development.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateNov 20, 2013

Coffee may help perk up your blood vessels

A study of 27 healthy adults showed that drinking caffeinated coffee significantly improved blood flow in a finger, with a 30% increase compared to decaffeinated coffee. The researchers suggest that caffeine may help open blood vessels and reduce inflammation, providing new insights into how coffee may benefit cardiovascular health.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 20, 2013

Hedgehog's long snout finds a cure

A groundbreaking discovery in 1993 led to the development of a cancer treatment, Erivedge, which targets the hedgehog signaling pathway. The breakthrough was made by researchers investigating fundamental mechanisms regulating vertebrate brain development.

SourceHuman Frontier Science Program·DateNov 20, 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.

Let's just harvest invasive species -- problem solved?

Researchers found that harvesting invasive plants for biofuels is hindered by high costs, lack of specialized equipment, and variable cell wall composition. Despite this, alternative uses for invasive biomass, such as combustion for electricity, may offer a more practical solution.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalBiological Invasions·DateNov 20, 2013

Illinois receives Grand Challenges Explorations grants

The University of Illinois has won Grand Challenges Explorations grants to develop a single-dose vaccine for multiple animal diseases and a system to study the microscopic parasite Cryptosporidium. This funding aims to address pressing disease problems in developing nations, improving animal health and productivity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateNov 20, 2013

Dismantling Syria's chemical weapons in the midst of war

Close to 1,400 tons of chemical weapons remain in Syria, requiring multiple strategies for destruction. Destroying the stockpile will require specialized equipment and careful handling of precursor chemicals.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateNov 20, 2013

Drug strategy blocks a leading driver of cancer

Researchers at UCSF have developed a new strategy to block the mutated ras protein, which drives three out of ten cancers, including lung and colon cancers. The small molecules efficiently kill ras-driven cancer cells in human lung cancer cell cultures.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateNov 20, 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.

Ancient Siberian genome reveals genetic origins of Native-Americans

A 24,000-year-old Siberian individual's genome shows close affinity to modern Native Americans and west Eurasians, contradicting the traditional East Asian origin story. This finding indicates two distinct Old World populations contributed to the formation of the First American gene pool.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNature·DateNov 20, 2013

Scripps oceanography researchers engineer breakthrough for biofuel production

Researchers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography have developed a method to genetically engineer marine algae to produce more lipids, the fat molecules that store energy for fuel. This breakthrough enhances biofuel production and has the potential to lower costs and increase efficiency.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 20, 2013

USF researchers show invasive sparrows immune cells sharpen as they spread

Researchers found that house sparrows' immune cells become more attuned to finding dangerous parasites at the edge of their range in Kenya. This adaptation may help the birds thrive in new areas with novel pathogens. The study aims to understand what gives invasive species an edge, informing efforts to manage and eradicate them.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·DateNov 20, 2013

Scientists create perfect solution to iron out kinks in surfaces

Researchers develop technique to make curved surfaces appear flat to electromagnetic waves, enabling bespoke antenna design for increased efficiency and reduced weight. This breakthrough could lead to ultra-fast wireless communication over surface in near future.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 20, 2013

Insomnia linked to mortality risk

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital found a link between insomnia symptoms and higher mortality risk in men, particularly those with difficulty falling asleep and non-restorative sleep. The study, published online in Circulation, followed over 23,000 men for six years and found modest increases in cardiovascular-related death.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalCirculation·DateNov 20, 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.

New research gives clues of antibiotic use and resistance in US children's hospitals

Researchers found that surgical patients in US children's hospitals account for 43% of all antibiotic use, with pneumonia, appendicitis, cystic fibrosis, and skin infections being high-usage conditions. The studies provide insights into antibiotic resistance patterns and opportunities for targeted antimicrobial stewardship efforts.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateNov 20, 2013

Dartmouth-led study shows diet alone can be significant source of arsenic

A Dartmouth-led study reveals that arsenic exposure can be significant through dietary means, especially from consuming alcohol and Brussels sprouts. Researchers found a strong correlation between toenail clippings and arsenic levels, particularly in those who drank more alcohol and ate more dark meat fish.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalNutrition Journal·DateNov 20, 2013

Blood vessel tangles in brain best left alone, study suggests

Research finds that treating arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in the brain can increase risks of stroke and death, while managing symptoms may be safer. The study suggests observing patients with AVMs for at least five more years to confirm this finding.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 20, 2013

Magnetic nanoparticles could aid heat dissipation

Researchers at MIT have discovered a way to boost heat transfer using magnetic nanoparticles, which could lead to more efficient cooling systems. The system relies on a slurry of tiny magnetite particles that are attracted to the heated surface by magnets, resulting in significantly improved heat transfer.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·DateNov 20, 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.

Evidence of destruction in Tacloban, Philippines

The study analyzed ASTER images of Tacloban before and after the typhoon, revealing widespread destruction. The storm surge caused mud-covered ground, bare trees, and destroyed buildings, with some areas showing no vegetation.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 20, 2013

Current practice may over-diagnose vitamin D deficiency

Researchers found that genetic differences in a vitamin D carrier protein referred to as D-binding protein could explain the discrepancy between diagnosed vitamin D deficiency and lack of symptoms in black Americans. The study suggests that current methods may not accurately determine vitamin D deficiency, leading to unnecessary treatm...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 20, 2013

Aging impacts epigenome in human skeletal muscle

Researchers at the Buck Institute identified a suite of epigenetic markers that separated younger from older individuals, with changes associated to genes regulating neuromuscular junction activity. The study provides a method for studying sarcopenia and offers potential targets for intervention.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalAging Cell·DateNov 20, 2013

Linking risk factors and disease origins in breast cancer

Researchers identified epigenetic alterations associated with the aging process in disease-free breast tissues, which are further altered in breast tumors. These changes may contribute to the development of breast cancer by increasing cancer risk.

SourceLandes Bioscience·JournalEpigenetics·DateNov 20, 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.

X-class solar flare: Nov. 19

A significant X-class solar flare occurred on Nov. 19, 2013, peaking at 5:26 a.m. EST, causing disturbances in the atmosphere where GPS and communications signals travel. The flare was classified as an X1.0 class, indicating its intensity.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 20, 2013

Mount Sinai finds brain abnormalities linked to impaired self-awareness in cocaine addiction

Researchers at Mount Sinai found long-term cocaine abuse linked to deficits in parts of the brain monitoring behavior, suggesting targeted treatments based on quantifiable biological abnormalities. The study's findings challenge clinical assumptions about addicted individuals' motivations and behaviors.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateNov 20, 2013

Large dishes increase how much cereal kids request, eat, and waste

A new Cornell study found that larger bowl sizes lead to increased requests for cereal and milk by kids, resulting in higher intake and waste. Using smaller dishware may be a simple solution for caregivers concerned about their kids' caloric intake.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateNov 20, 2013

UCI engineering school gets grant from Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

The Henry Samueli School of Engineering at UC Irvine has received a $100,000 grant to further develop its stored energy solar stove, which enables carbon emissions-free cooking. The technology uses a solar collector to concentrate sunlight on an energy storage device, storing heat that can be released as needed.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateNov 20, 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.

National survey finds frog abnormalities are rare

A 10-year study on national wildlife refuges found frog abnormalities at less than 2% overall rate, but higher rates in specific 'hotspots'. The study suggests that these hotspots have local causes and can recover over time.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 20, 2013

UT Arlington's Nguyen named American Heart Association fellow

Kytai Nguyen, associate bioengineering professor at UT Arlington, has been elected as a fellow of the American Heart Association. Her research focuses on cellular engineering, tissue engineering, and stem cell therapies to develop new strategies for combating cardiovascular diseases.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateNov 20, 2013

Focusing on faces

Researchers found specific neurons in the amygdala of autistic individuals respond differently to faces, with reduced processing of the eye region compared to control-group individuals. These neurons also responded more strongly to mouths than eyes, shedding light on abnormal face processing in autism.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateNov 20, 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.

Study reveals higher levels of control and support at work increases wellbeing

A recent study from Queen Mary University of London found that high levels of control, emotional support, and low job strain significantly contribute to better wellbeing. The research suggests increasing positive aspects of work, rather than just reducing negative ones, may lead to improved morale and greater wellbeing.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 20, 2013

What composes the human heart? U of T researchers crunch the numbers

Researchers at U of T's IBBME and McEwen Centre for Regenerative Medicine identified the optimal human heart cell composition and ratio associated with heart function. The discovery has led to the engineering of the first-ever living, three-dimensional human arrhythmic tissue.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 20, 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.

Excessive testosterone raises mortality risk in older men

A study published by The Endocrine Society found that older men with optimal testosterone levels lived longer, while those with high or low levels had a higher mortality risk. Higher DHT levels were also associated with reduced ischemic heart disease mortality.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateNov 20, 2013

Study finds differences in brains of children with nonverbal learning disability

A Michigan State University study discovered anatomical differences in the brains of children with nonverbal learning disability compared to those with Asperger's and high-functioning autism. The research found smaller spleniums in children with NLVD, which may lead to more targeted intervention strategies.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalChild Neuropsychology·DateNov 20, 2013

Geneticists receive funding to improve citrus production and health

UC Riverside plant geneticists Mikeal Roose and Timothy Close are developing a genetic tool to improve citrus breeding. They will use high-density SNP genotyping arrays to study citrus varieties and hybrids, identifying genes for disease resistance, fruit quality, and other essential traits.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateNov 20, 2013

Tiny antisense molecules increase 'good cholesterol' levels in obese primates

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed an approach to increase beneficial HDL cholesterol levels in non-human primates by targeting shared nucleotide sequences that inhibit microRNAs. This strategy showed a nearly 40% increase in HDL levels, outperforming current therapies.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 20, 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.

Job market mixed for college grads

The job market is forecasted to be mixed for college graduates, with hiring for MBAs declining by 25% due to huge layoffs in the banking industry. However, many other fields are expected to see significant increases in hiring, including manufacturing, nonprofits, and retail.

SourceMichigan State University·DateNov 20, 2013

NASA's TRMM satellite sees Melissa's tropical transition

NASA's TRMM satellite monitored Tropical Storm Melissa's transition to a tropical storm, revealing intense rainfall rates of up to 55 mm/hour. The satellite's Precipitation Radar data also showed the storm's structure, including towering convection near its center.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 20, 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.