Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for October 31, 2013


Results of the TRANSLATE-POPS trial presented at TCT 2013

A new trial found that routine availability of platelet function testing had a modest impact on selecting and dosing anti-clotting therapy. However, no significant effect was observed on major adverse cardiac events or bleeding complications.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateOct 31, 2013

Scientists discover why newborns get sick so often

New research reveals that newborns are born without the toll-like receptor 3, a key protein needed to protect against viruses. This impairment makes newborn immune cells unable to recognize and react to certain viruses, increasing their susceptibility to infections like herpes simplex virus.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateOct 31, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Results of the ARCTIC-INTERRUPTION trial presented at TCT 2013

A new trial found that patients who have no major cardiac events in the first year following coronary stenting may not require extended dual antiplatelet therapy, reducing the risk of bleeding complications. The study suggests a potential shift towards shorter treatment durations for this group of patients.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateOct 31, 2013

Stem cell scarring aids recovery from spinal cord injury

Researchers found that scar tissue formed by stem cells after spinal cord injury helps to prevent further damage and facilitates the survival of damaged nerve cells. The study suggests that more rather than less stem cell scarring could limit the consequences of a spinal cord injury.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalScience·DateOct 31, 2013

A high protein diet and meal replacements can reduce rebound weight gain

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that anti-obesity drugs, meal replacements, and a high protein diet can help maintain weight loss. Exercise had no clear effect on weight loss maintenance, while dietary supplements were not associated with reduced rebound gain.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateOct 31, 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.

'Flipping the switch' reveals new compounds with antibiotic potential

Researchers at Oregon State University have discovered a new way to produce novel compounds with antibiotic potential by deleting a master regulator gene in a common fungus. This finding opens up the door to studying dozens of new compounds and potentially discovering new antibiotics.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 31, 2013

Results of the GIANT trial reported at TCT 2013

The GIANT trial found that identifying slow responders to clopidogrel through genetic profiling and adjusting treatment leads to reduced adverse events and similar ischemic event rates compared to those with a favorable genetic profile. This suggests alternative treatment strategies for patients identified as CYP2C19 poor metabolizers.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateOct 31, 2013

Patients' 'immune fingerprints' may help diagnose bacterial infections and guide treatment

A new study found that a patient's immune response may provide better insights into bacterial infections than conventional tests, leading to more accurate diagnoses and appropriate antibiotic treatment. The research identified unique 'immune fingerprints' associated with certain pathogens and predicted the nature of the infection.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateOct 31, 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.

Gaming technology unravels 1 of the most complex entities in nature

Researchers used gaming technology to capture atomic movements in carbohydrates, shedding light on their role in neuronal development, inflammation and cell structure. The study provides a new view of biochemical barcodes and opens opportunities for designing drugs or biomaterials that mimic carbohydrate shape.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalCarbohydrate Research·DateOct 31, 2013

Leading cause of heart disease ignored in North America's poorest communities

Researchers say Chagas disease remains a leading cause of heart disease in impoverished North American communities, with inadequate healthcare and limited treatment options available. The editorial calls for increased medical awareness, scientific cooperation, and public-private partnerships to develop new tools and treatments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateOct 31, 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.

Researchers model familial amyloidosis in vitro using iPSC technology

Researchers have generated disease-specific induced pluripotent stem cell lines from a patient with familial transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR), a lethal protein-folding disorder. The study successfully recreates essential aspects of the disease in vitro, validating this iPSC-based system as a platform for testing therapeutic strategies.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateOct 31, 2013

Results of the REPRISE II trial reported at TCT 2013

The REPRISE II trial demonstrated low rates of complications with the second-generation transcatheter aortic valve, including minimal post-procedure paravalvular aortic regurgitation. The device successfully addressed challenges associated with TAVR, improving outcomes for patients with severe aortic stenosis.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateOct 31, 2013

Researchers discover how retinal neurons claim the best brain connections

Neurons from the retina connect to the brain first, controlling the abundance of a protein called aggrecan. This allows cortical neurons to get the best spots for connections once two weeks have passed. Understanding this mechanism could help repair damaged neural networks and develop regenerative therapies.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 31, 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.

Is global heating hiding out in the oceans?

A new study reconstructs Pacific Ocean temperatures over the last 10,000 years and finds that middle-depth waters have warmed 15 times faster than natural fluctuations. This suggests that oceans may be storing heat from human emissions, potentially buying time before climate change accelerates.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalScience·DateOct 31, 2013

Knowing who their physician is boosts patient satisfaction

A Vanderbilt study found that providing patients with a simple biosketch card about their doctor can improve patient satisfaction scores by 22%. The study showed that patient comfort with care is crucial for recovery, and this intervention is an easy and cost-effective way to enhance the patient experience.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Trauma·DateOct 31, 2013

Study tracks risk of VL exposure in Brazil's urban areas

Visceral Leishmaniasis is a severe disease causing spleen, liver, and bone marrow damage if untreated. In Brazil's largest cities, like Belo Horizonte, VL cases are on the rise, with high fatality rates despite available diagnosis and treatment.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateOct 31, 2013

Research identifies ways to improve access to mental health services

Researchers identified barriers to mental health care access, including inadequate community support and lack of tailored psychological interventions. A new model of care, incorporating community groups and well-being services, improved awareness and use of mental health services among underserved populations.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalProgramme Grants for Applied Research·DateOct 31, 2013

Defective nanotubes turned into light emitters

UPV/EHU researchers have developed a new source of light emitter based on defective boron nitride nanotubes, which can emit light across the whole spectrum from infrared to far ultraviolet and control it in a simple way. The device functions on the basis of natural defects in the nanotube, enabling controlled emission.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 31, 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.

Oligomeric proanthocyanidin suppresses the death of retinal ganglion cells

Researchers have found that oligomeric proanthocyanidin has a protective effect on retinal ganglion cells against oxidative stress-induced injury, providing potential treatment for neural diseases. The compound, enriched in grape seeds, shows promise in preventing cell death in optic neurodegenerative conditions.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateOct 31, 2013

Newly identified proteins make promising targets for blocking graft-vs.-host disease

Researchers at Michigan Medicine have identified two new proteins, Wapal and Synj1, that control T-cell responses and may help reduce graft-vs.-host disease. The study found that blocking these proteins reduced GvHD in mice, suggesting a promising approach for improving bone marrow transplant outcomes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 31, 2013

UTSA researchers develop prototype football kicking simulator

The UTSA Center for Simulation, Visualization and Real-Time Prediction has developed a virtual training system to aid football kickers through real-time feedback and analysis. The system uses computer sensing and mathematical models to predict football trajectory and analyze kicking mechanics data.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·DateOct 31, 2013

Research finds severe hot flashes reduced with quick neck injection

Researchers found that a quick neck injection of local anesthesia can reduce severe hot flashes in women by as much as 50 percent for at least six months. The treatment uses bupivacaine hydrochloride to target the stellate ganglion nerve bundle, providing symptom relief without hormonal therapy.

SourceNorthwestern Memorial HealthCare·DateOct 31, 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.

Automated system promises precise control of medically induced coma

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a computer-controlled system to automate the process of administering anesthesia, promising more precise and efficient control. The system uses brain activity monitoring to adjust drug infusion and maintain a deep state of anesthesia, reducing the need for manual intervention.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateOct 31, 2013

NIH scientists develop candidate vaccine against respiratory syncytial virus

The NIH has developed a candidate vaccine against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which elicited high levels of RSV-specific antibodies in animal studies. The vaccine was designed using structural information to inform its development, and early-stage human clinical trials are planned.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateOct 31, 2013

Scent marking

A study found that scent marking increases males' mating and reproductive success, as females prefer to mate with males who deposit more conspicuous scent marks. However, surprisingly, female mice tend to socialize with lower-marking males, suggesting a complex relationship between scent marking and social behavior.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateOct 31, 2013

Study gives Catholic schools poor marks

Catholic schools do not offer superior academic performance compared to public schools, according to a national study led by Michigan State University. The study found that math scores for Catholic students dropped between kindergarten and eighth grade, while public school students showed slight improvements.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Urban Economics·DateOct 31, 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.

Results of the HYBRID trial presented at TCT 2013

The HYBRID trial found that combining minimally invasive CABG with percutaneous coronary intervention is feasible and safe for patients with multi-vessel disease. At one year, 89.8% of the hybrid group was free from major adverse cardiac events.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateOct 31, 2013

Danish research provides new knowledge about the body's fight against HIV

Danish researchers have discovered how the body's immune system responds to HIV infection, identifying key proteins and mechanisms that can be targeted for improved treatments. The study's findings aim to enhance the immune system's ability to defend against uncontrolled virus growth.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 31, 2013

Women under 60 with diabetes at much greater risk for heart disease

A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that young and middle-aged women with type 2 diabetes are at a significantly increased risk of coronary artery disease, comparable to men's risk. The study analyzed data from over 10,000 participants and suggests distinct genetic and hormonal factors may contribute to the higher risk.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalDiabetes Care·DateOct 31, 2013

CWRU researchers aim nanotechnology at micrometastases

Researchers at CWRU aim to build nanoparticles that can infiltrate and quash aggressive cancers that survive traditional therapy. They will perfect molecular coatings called ligands to enable nanochains to home in on micrometastases.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateOct 31, 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.

A new way to monitor induced comas

Researchers have developed a computerized system that can track patients' brain activity and automatically adjust drug dosages to maintain the correct state during medically induced comas. The system uses EEG patterns and real-time feedback to optimize anesthesia levels, eliminating the need for constant monitoring by nurses.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateOct 31, 2013

Results of the FREEDOM sub study reported at TCT 2013

A recent study of diabetic patients who underwent revascularization for multi-vessel coronary artery disease found that insulin-treated patients experienced higher rates of major adverse cardiovascular events, including death, stroke, and myocardial infarction. CABG was found to reduce mortality and myocardial infarction rates compared...

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateOct 31, 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.

New techniques produce cleanest graphene yet

Researchers create cleanest graphene by making electrical contact only along its 1D edge and using a contamination-free assembly technique. This results in improved performance, including high electron mobility and low sheet resistivity, making it suitable for electronic devices.

SourceColumbia University·JournalScience·DateOct 31, 2013

Sex determiner gene of honey bee more complicated that previously assumed

A new study reveals that the honey bee sex determiner gene has 87-145 alleles, a significant increase in genetic diversity compared to previous estimates of 20 alleles. This discovery is crucial for apiculture, as it helps minimize the risk of inbreeding and produces diploid drones.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateOct 31, 2013

New climate-studying imager makes first balloon flight

The HyperSpectral Imager for Climate Science (HySICS) has made its inaugural engineering balloon flight, collecting radiance data for nearly half of its eight and a half hour flight. This technology advance enables climate predictions and trends to be seen with higher accuracy using shorter duration data sets.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 31, 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.

Results of DUTCH PEERS (TWENTE II) trial reported at TCT 2013

The DUTCH PEERS (TWENTE II) trial found that two third-generation permanent polymer-based drug-eluting stents had low rates of adverse clinical events, establishing the non-inferiority of a zotarolimus-eluting stent. The study also showed no significant differences in individual components of the primary endpoint.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 31, 2013

Results of the OPTIMIZE trial presented at TCT 2013

The OPTIMIZE trial found that shortening dual antiplatelet therapy after drug-eluting stent implantation may reduce bleeding risks and treatment costs. Patients who received shorter-term therapy had similar rates of NACCE as those on longer-term therapy.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateOct 31, 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.

Stress eaters may compensate by eating less when times are good

A new study suggests that stress eaters show dynamic patterns of eating behavior, with 'munchers' eating more after being stressed but less when pleased, while 'skippers' do the reverse. This challenges the idea that stress eaters need to regulate their eating habits to prevent weight gain.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 31, 2013

The secret's in the (robotic) stroke

Researchers at NYU-Poly used underwater robots to examine how golden shiner fish interact with a robot's coloration, size, and movement. The results show that the fish are drawn to a robot mimicking their natural colors and movement patterns, influencing their swimming behavior.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 31, 2013

Project could save the eyesight of thousands

Scientists from the University of Sheffield have partnered with an Indian team to develop a new technology that can rapidly diagnose and treat corneal infections, potentially saving thousands of patients' eyesight. The technology uses polymers that trap bacteria or fungi in place, allowing for easy removal.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·DateOct 31, 2013

Cellular tail length tells disease tale

Researchers at Simon Fraser University found that a mutation in the CNK2 gene affects cilia length, leading to misinterpreted signals and fatal diseases. The study provides new insights into the importance of cilia disassembly speed in determining cell function.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 31, 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.

Gene found to foster synapse formation in the brain

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered that the gene SRPX2 is necessary for vocalizations and synapse formation in mice. The study adds to scientific understanding of how language develops and how synapses are formed.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience·DateOct 31, 2013

Geoengineering the climate could reduce vital rains

A new study finds that geoengineering approaches to mitigate global warming could result in reduced rainfall and snowfall worldwide. The research suggests that these techniques would not only fail to address the root problem of climate change but also have unintended consequences, such as altered regional precipitation patterns.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateOct 31, 2013

Making electrical contact along 1-D edge of 2-D materials

Researchers at City College of New York develop novel edge-contact geometry to bridge 3D world to 2D graphene without contaminating its properties. The technique enables remarkably low contact resistance, opening possibilities for device applications and pure physics studies.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalScience·DateOct 31, 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.

Low-frequency rTMS prevents chronic epileptic seizure

A study by Prof. Xiaoming Wang and team found that low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) suppressed electrical activity in epileptic rats, leading to improved nonlinear electroencephalographic parameters. This suggests a potential antiepileptic effect of low-frequency rTMS in treating chronic epilepsy.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateOct 31, 2013

Scientists modify Botox for the treatment of pain

Researchers develop a new molecule combining elements of Botox and tetanus toxin to alleviate inflammatory pain, offering potential relief for chronic pain conditions and epilepsy. The engineered molecule could improve quality of life for those suffering from chronic pain with a single injection providing prolonged pain relief.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalBioconjugate Chemistry·DateOct 31, 2013

Houston we have a problem: Microgravity accelerates biological aging

A new study published in The FASEB Journal found that microgravity accelerates biological aging, causing inflammation among endothelial cells, which leads to atherosclerosis and cell senescence. The research highlights the challenges of sending humans deeper into space for longer periods.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateOct 31, 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.

New knowledge about serious muscle disease

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have made significant discoveries about muscular dystrophy, a collective term for neuromuscular disorders affecting 3,000 people in Denmark. The study found that proteins with attached sugar molecules, specifically mannose, play a key role in the disease's progression.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 31, 2013

Supreme Court's Obamacare decision established new limits on federal authority, IU paper says

A new paper by Tim Lemper argues that the Supreme Court's decision in National Federation of Independent Business v. Sebelius established new limits on Congress' power to regulate commerce and use federal funds to coerce states. The court's decision placed groundbreaking limits on federal regulation, setting a precedent for future cases.

SourceIndiana University·JournalBusiness Horizons·DateOct 31, 2013

Former missile-tracking telescope helps reveal fate of baby pulsar

Researchers have discovered a steady change in the pulses of the Crab pulsar, indicating its strong magnetic field is moving towards the equator. The findings, made possible by a 42-ft telescope used to track ballistic missiles, provide insights into the star's interior and evolution.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalScience·DateOct 31, 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.

Can Aβ worsen cognitive impairment following cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury?

Researchers found that amyloid beta-peptide worsened cognitive impairment following cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury by inducing glycogen synthase kinase 3β and protein phosphatase 2A activity, resulting in tau protein phosphorylation. This study suggests a potential link between Alzheimer's disease and cerebral ischemia.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateOct 31, 2013

US policy should encourage highly skilled, foreign Ph.D. students to stay, CU-led study finds

A CU-led study suggests that attracting and retaining highly skilled foreign Ph.D. students can revitalize innovation and economic growth in the US. The researchers found that increased student diversity boosts innovative research and that high-performing foreign-born Ph.D. students improve the creation of knowledge in US universities.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience·DateOct 31, 2013

Results of the TATORT-NSTEMI trial presented at TCT 2013

The TATORT-NSTEMI trial found that aspirating blood clots does not significantly reduce microvascular obstruction or the risk of death in patients with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Standard PCI without thrombectomy was shown to be equally effective.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateOct 31, 2013

Patient in 'vegetative state' not just aware, but paying attention

Researchers found a patient in a vegetative state who could filter out unimportant information and home in on relevant words. Using brain imaging, scientists also discovered that the patient could follow simple commands, providing new insights into the ability of patients in these states to pay attention.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·DateOct 31, 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.

Tagging aquatic animals can disrupt natural behavior

Researchers at University of British Columbia studied the energy cost of satellite tags on aquatic animals, finding significant drag increases on smaller or juvenile animals. The study provides a universal formula to calculate drag for various marine species, promoting accurate data collection and conservation strategies.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateOct 31, 2013

Plant production could decline as climate change affects soil nutrients

A study published in Nature finds that climate change could lead to a decline in plant production due to changes in soil nutrients. As drylands become drier, the imbalance of essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus may affect crop growth, livestock forage, and fuel production.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·JournalNature·DateOct 31, 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.

Study offers new theory of cancer development

A new study at Harvard Medical School proposes that aneuploidy is a driver of cancer development rather than just a result. Researchers analyzed genome sequence data from over 8,200 pairs of cancerous and normal tissue samples to identify patterns in tumor evolution.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateOct 31, 2013

Scientists capture most detailed picture yet of key AIDS protein

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine and TSRI have determined the atomic-level structure of the tripartite HIV envelope protein, known as Env. The findings provide a detailed picture of the complex protein and its sites of vulnerability that could be targeted by future vaccines.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalScience·DateOct 31, 2013

Mid-level health workers as effective as physicians

A study published in the Bulletin of the World Health Organization finds that mid-level health workers, such as midwives and nurses, can deliver clinical outcomes comparable to physicians in certain services. The research analyzed 53 studies conducted in 18 countries and suggests opportunities for all countries to exploit.

SourceBulletin of the World Health Organization·JournalBulletin of the World Health Organization·DateOct 31, 2013

Evolution of new species requires few genetic changes

Scientists have found that only a few genetic changes are necessary to spur the evolution of new species, even in populations still in contact and exchanging genes. The study reveals key genetic areas affected by natural selection and differing in just 12 small regions of the genome.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 31, 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.

Important breakthrough in identifying effect of epilepsy treatment

Researchers at Royal Holloway University have made a significant discovery about how valproate blocks seizures in the brain. By using a simple amoeba, they identified the specific chemical responsible for seizure progression and found that its decrease can cause even more seizure activity.

SourceRoyal Holloway, University of London·JournalNeurobiology of Disease·DateOct 31, 2013

How protein suicide assure healthy cell structures

Researchers from Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia discovered that Polo-like kinase 4 (PLK4) must self-destruct to ensure normal centriole formation. This destruction mechanism controls centriole number and prevents diseases like cancer and infertility in fruit fly model organisms.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 31, 2013

A new weapon in the fight against superbugs

Researchers have used a novel imaging technique to study the interaction between an antimicrobial peptide and cell membranes, gaining insights into how it kills bacteria. The findings suggest that the peptide creates nanometer-sized pores in the cell membrane, leading to its disintegration and death.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateOct 31, 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.

Chickens to benefit from biofuels bonanza

Research reveals Yeast Protein Concentrate (YPC) can be separated from cereal matter and is a cost-competitive substitute for imported soya-based protein feeds. This could partially replace fish meal on commercial fish farms, benefiting 800 million chickens reared for meat production each year.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·JournalFood and Energy Security·DateOct 31, 2013

NYU study on incarcerated youth shows potential to lower anti-social behavior and recidivism

A NYU study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that mindfulness training, combined with cognitive behavioral therapy, improved attentional task performance in incarcerated adolescents. The intervention showed a protective effect on youths' attentional capacity, leading to better self-control and reduced anti-social behavior.

SourceNew York University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateOct 31, 2013

Can putting your child before yourself make you a happier person?

A study published in Social Psychological and Personality Science found that more child-centric parents experience higher happiness and a sense of purpose from having children. This contradicts popular media claims, suggesting that prioritizing children's well-being can actually improve parental well-being.

SourceSAGE·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateOct 31, 2013

New stem cells go back further

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have successfully created induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells) that can be kept in a pristine state, paving the way for growing transplant organs to order. The breakthrough enables the production of 'humanized' mouse models containing human-derived tissues.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature·DateOct 31, 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.

Dogs know a left-sided wag from a right

Dogs exhibit asymmetric brain organization, with left-brain activation linked to right-tail wagging and right-brain activation tied to left-tail wagging. This difference affects emotional responses in dogs, who display anxious behavior when seeing a dog with a left-tail wag and relaxed responses when seeing a dog with a right-tail wag.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 31, 2013

Suzaku study points to early cosmic 'seeding'

Researchers found iron concentration is uniform across Perseus Galaxy Cluster, indicating widespread dispersal of heavy elements in the early universe. The team attributes this to supernova explosions and active black holes, suggesting a period of intense cosmic activity.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature·DateOct 31, 2013

LSUHSC's Noel recognized nationally for outstanding achievement

Dr. Noel's landmark study with the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition documented a drastic increase in cases of kids swallowing powerful neodymium magnets. His work led to recalls, lawsuits, and increased awareness about the dangers of these magnets.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateOct 31, 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.

Michael M. Yartsev wins Eppendorf/Science Prize

Michael M. Yartsev's research using bats to study neural coding mechanisms underlying three-dimensional spatial memory and navigation has provided novel insights into the mammalian brain. His award-winning essay highlights a discovery that place cells in bats help navigate 3D space, differing from previously identified processes in rats.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateOct 31, 2013

NIH-funded scientists reveal structure of HIV protein key to cell entry

Researchers have developed a detailed picture of the HIV envelope trimer, critical for understanding how HIV enters cells and creating potential vaccines. Atomic-resolution imaging revealed the structure of the Env trimer, its assembly, and interaction with broadly neutralizing antibodies.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience·DateOct 31, 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.

Global warming as viewed from the deep ocean

A new study reveals that the Pacific Ocean is absorbing heat at a rate 15 times faster than in the past 10,000 years. This surge in heat absorption may provide scientists with more time to address climate change but is not a solution, according to researchers.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScience·DateOct 31, 2013

CU-Boulder-led team gets first look at diverse life below rare tallgrass prairies

A CU-Boulder-led research team has gained insights into the vital but rarely considered microbial communities thriving in dark, fertile soils beneath the lost tallgrass prairie. The study reveals a dominant phylum of bacteria, Verrucomicrobia, which played a crucial role in the ecosystem's productivity and fertility.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience·DateOct 31, 2013

Biochemists find incomplete protein digestion is a useful thing for some bacteria

Researchers found that partial degradation of a DNA replication protein is necessary for the survival of Caulobacter crescentus. The energy-dependent protease ClpXP generates specific-sized fragments required for normal growth and DNA repair, challenging previous assumptions about protein digestion in bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 31, 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.