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Science News for September 4, 2013


Research highlights from ICAAC meeting

Researchers have identified changes in the microbiome that can predict chemotherapy-induced diarrhea and developed new diagnostics, including a breath test for fungal disease. A single dose of an antibiotic candidate has been found to be as effective as a week-long course of vancomycin for certain skin infections.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateSep 4, 2013

Life purpose buffers negative moods triggered by diversity

A study conducted on Chicago trains found that individuals with a sense of purpose in life are less affected by negative moods triggered by diversity. Those who had written about their life aims or had a strong sense of purpose did not experience worsened mood, unlike those without a clear direction.

SourceCornell University·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateSep 4, 2013

LSU psychologist discovers intricacies about lying

A new study by LSU Associate Professor Sean Lane explores the cognitive machinery of lies, revealing that false descriptions are more accessible and durable in our memories due to the effort required to make them up. This finding has implications for police interrogation methods and forensic techniques.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalJournal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition·DateSep 4, 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 produce nanostructures with potential to advance energy devices

Arizona State University researchers develop nanostructures through dealloying process, showing promise for lithium-ion batteries with improved energy storage capacity. The porous nanostructures can also improve electrochemical sensing technology and provide more resilient radiation damage-resistant materials.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 4, 2013

Electronics advance moves closer to a world beyond silicon

Researchers have made a significant breakthrough in metal-insulator-metal, or MIM diodes, which could lead to the development of faster and more efficient electronic devices. The new diodes use a 'sandwich' structure to enable electron tunneling through insulators, potentially enabling precise control over device operation.

SourceOregon State University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 4, 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.

New breakthrough for structural characterization of metal nanoparticles

Scientists at Xiamen University and the University of Jyväskylä have successfully synthesized stable metal nanoclusters containing 44 metal atoms. The unique electronic structure of these clusters enables peaked absorption in a wide region of ultraviolet and visible parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. This breakthrough has significa...

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 4, 2013

Spouses play an important role in planning for retirement, researcher finds

Researchers found that spouses tend to have similar levels of retirement planning, which can lead to more success and less stress when leaving the workforce. Couples can make retirement a more positive experience by preplanning and discussing their expectations with each other.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalClinical Gerontologist·DateSep 4, 2013

Hibernating lemurs hint at the secrets of sleep

Researchers studying hibernating fat-tailed dwarf lemurs found they can go days without deep sleep during winter hibernation. This supports the idea that sleep regulates body temperature and metabolism in humans.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 4, 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.

Heart attack death rates unchanged in spite of faster care at hospitals

A study found that heart attack mortality rates have not declined despite a significant reduction in door-to-balloon time, highlighting the need for further strategies to improve care. The analysis of 100,000 heart attack admissions revealed that faster treatment times did not lead to better patient outcomes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 4, 2013

New laser-based tool could dramatically improve the accuracy of brain tumor surgery

Researchers have developed a new laser-based technology that can distinguish between cancerous and healthy brain tissue in real-time during surgery. This could lead to better outcomes and longer survival rates for patients with glioblastoma multiforme, the most deadly type of brain tumor.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 4, 2013

Look at what I'm saying

A study by University of Utah bioengineers found that visual cues can dominate sound perception, leading to the McGurk effect. The team used brain signal recordings to demonstrate how vision overrides hearing in certain conditions.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 4, 2013

Pain-free microneedle influenza vaccine is effective, long-lasting

Researchers developed a microneedle patch that delivered an effective and long-lasting influenza vaccine, providing 100% protection in mice over one year. The vaccine used virus-like particles coated on needles, reducing refrigeration needs and potential side effects.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalClinical and Vaccine Immunology·DateSep 4, 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.

Canadian group gives guideline recommendations for lung cancer screening

A new set of evidence-based guidelines recommend lung cancer screening for high-risk populations in Ontario using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT). The guidelines suggest annual screening for two years, followed by biennial screenings until a negative result is obtained. The recommended parameters for LDCT include 120 to 140 kVp and...

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateSep 4, 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.

The difference between obsession and delusion

Tel Aviv University researchers used zoological methods to classify symptoms of OCD and schizophrenia in humans. The study found that schizo-OCD patients exhibited both OCD-like behavior and symptoms of schizophrenia, suggesting it's a combination of both disorders.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalCNS Spectrums·DateSep 4, 2013

'Seeing' faces through touch

Researchers found that adapting to a face explored by touch shifts visual face perception, and the effect works both ways. This study challenges traditional views on face processing, suggesting a shared representation between vision and haptics in the brain.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 4, 2013

Antioxidant effect of resveratrol in the treatment of vascular dementia

A study published in Neural Regeneration Research found that resveratrol improved learning and memory ability in rats with vascular dementia. The compound also reduced malonyldialdehyde levels and increased superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione levels, indicating a potential therapeutic effect.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateSep 4, 2013

Study shows that people who undergo cataract surgery to correct visual impairment live longer

Researchers from the American Academy of Ophthalmology found a 40% lower long-term mortality risk among patients who had their vision corrected through cataract surgery. The study, which followed over 350 participants, suggests that correcting cataract-related visual impairment results in improved outcomes beyond just eye health.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateSep 4, 2013

Back of pack health warnings make little impact on teen smokers

Research suggests that pictorial warnings are more effective than text alone but are less visible on the back of packs. The study found that only one in ten teens thought about the warnings when they weren't in sight, and regular smokers were not deterred by the warnings.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalTobacco Control·DateSep 4, 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.

Psychological effects of genetic testing for risk of weight gain

A new study found that genetic testing for weight gain risk does not deter people from weight loss efforts, but rather alleviates emotional stress and stigma associated with weight control. The results suggest that individuals recognize the importance of both genetics and behavior in maintaining a healthy weight.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Genetic Counseling·DateSep 4, 2013

Juniper essential oil characteristics determined

A recent study found that the concentration of essential oil in Rocky Mountain juniper leaves varies from 0.335% to 0.799% and is affected by seasonal changes and tree gender, with male trees generally having higher oil content.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateSep 4, 2013

Bismuth-carrying nanotubes show promise for CT scans

Rice University scientists have developed bismuth-filled nanotubes as a contrast agent for CT scans, producing brighter images than common iodine-based agents. The nanotube capsules are small enough to diffuse into cells and aggregate to produce high-contrast images.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry B·DateSep 4, 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.

Biomaterials for repair of long-segment peripheral nerve defects

Researchers have developed a nanofibrous poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) nerve conduit for the repair of long-segment sciatic nerve defects. The study found that regenerated nerves were macroscopically observed and histologically assessed, with restoration of nerve continuity and formation of myelinated nerve fibers.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateSep 4, 2013

What scientists can see in your pee

Researchers at the University of Alberta have identified over 3,000 chemicals in human urine, expanding the list from just 50-100 previously known compounds. This discovery is expected to revolutionize medical testing, enabling fast, cheap, and painless tests using urine instead of blood or tissue biopsies.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 4, 2013

Yelling doesn't help, may harm adolescents, Pitt-Led study finds

A new study led by Ming-Te Wang found that harsh verbal discipline may exacerbate behavioral problems and depressive symptoms in adolescents. Researchers suggest that parents should communicate with their children on an equal level to prevent these negative effects.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalChild Development·DateSep 4, 2013

Gravity variations much bigger than previously thought

A joint Australian-German research team has created the highest-resolution maps of Earth's gravity field, showing variations up to 40 percent larger than previously assumed. The new maps were calculated at three billion points and will improve civil engineering projects such as building canals, bridges, and tunnels.

SourceCurtin University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 4, 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.

Using harsh verbal discipline with teens found to be harmful

A new longitudinal study found that using harsh verbal discipline with teenagers can lead to detrimental outcomes later, including increased depressive symptoms and conduct problems. The study suggests that parents who use harsh verbal discipline may inadvertently increase their children's behavioral issues.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateSep 4, 2013

Personality interactions between animals may dictate outcomes in the wild

A University of Pittsburgh study reveals that the interaction between two species' personalities is key to predicting ecological outcomes. Researchers observed varying activity levels among jumping spiders and house crickets, finding that combined personality types best predicted survival for crickets and foraging success for spiders.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalBehavioral Ecology·DateSep 4, 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.

Measuring progress in nanotech design

A Drexel-led team of researchers has developed a new method to measure the band offset in nanoscale devices using laser-induced current spectroscopy. This breakthrough enables the design of more efficient and effective nanoscale components, such as solar cells, LEDs, and high-speed electronics.

SourceDrexel University·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 4, 2013

UNC partners with NIH to explore genomic testing for newborns

Researchers at UNC will sequence the genome of 400 infants to determine useful clinical data from genomic tests. The study aims to build a model for informed choices about newborn testing, including educational tools and parental consent protocols.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·DateSep 4, 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.

Children with behavioral problems more at risk of inflammation

A study found that children with behavioral problems at age 8 had higher CRP and IL-6 levels in their blood at age 10, indicating an early warning sign for potential health issues later in life. This link highlights the importance of monitoring both mental and physical health in children with behavioral problems.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateSep 4, 2013

Researchers discover a new pathway in blood vessel inflammation and disease

Case Western Reserve researchers identified Kruppel-like factor (KLF) 15 as a master regulator of vascular health, blocking blood vessel inflammation that can lead to heart attacks and strokes. The discovery offers hope for targeted anti-inflammatory therapies for vascular disease.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 4, 2013

Best of ESC Congress 2013

The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress 2013 presented several significant studies on cardiovascular disease treatment, including new anticoagulants, heart attack therapies, and preventive measures. The event also highlighted the need for better healthcare access and policy changes to combat CVD in Europe.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateSep 4, 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.

Accelerated radiotherapy more efficient than current practice

Researchers recommend accelerated radiotherapy as standard treatment for un-resected non-small cell lung cancer patients not receiving concurrent chemo-radiotherapy, citing its efficiency over current practice. However, cost-effectiveness of different modified schemes remains uncertain and requires further research.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateSep 4, 2013

NIH grants Brown University $11 million for brain research

The new center aims to better explain the brain and generate ideas for addressing disorders like autism. Brown University will establish a COBRE Center for Central Nervous System Function to study key questions in neuroscience of attention and related behaviors.

SourceBrown University·DateSep 4, 2013

NCI renews support for major thyroid-cancer research effort at Ohio State

The National Cancer Institute has renewed a five-year, $11.3 million grant to support research on thyroid cancer at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center. The study focuses on four integrated projects to better understand genetic pathways and signaling in epithelial thyroid cancer.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·DateSep 4, 2013

A new form of aspirin to overcome 'aspirin resistance'

Scientists have developed a new form of aspirin that could extend its benefits to people who don't respond to the drug, addressing 'aspirin resistance'. The new aspirin form is linked to a carrier protein that delivers aspirin directly to damaged blood vessels, releasing it and stopping clot-formation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 4, 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.

New study informs blueberry flavor selection

A recent study from the University of Florida found that volatile compounds in blueberries have a higher correlation to consumer acceptance than traditional measures. This discovery could help breeders select for cultivars with more desirable flavors.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateSep 4, 2013

Sharing the risks/costs of biomass crops

A University of Illinois study proposes a contract framework to outline expectations for sustainability practices in biomass crops. The framework aims to designate who will assume the risks and costs associated with these new perennial energy crops, promoting a more stable and sustainable supply.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalUCLA Journal of Environmental Law and Policy·DateSep 4, 2013

A Danish experiment suggests unexpected magic by cosmic rays in cloud formation

A Danish experiment, SKY2, shows that cosmic rays enhance cloud condensation nuclei formation, contradicting conventional chemical theory. The study suggests a new chemistry process supplying extra molecules to keep clusters growing, boosting the theory of cosmic rays' direct involvement in weather and climate.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalPhysics Letters A·DateSep 4, 2013

A new view of brain tumors

Researchers have developed a new imaging technology, SRS microscopy, that allows surgeons to distinguish between brain tissue and tumors at a microscopic level. This technique can guide surgeons in the operating room and potentially improve surgical outcomes for patients with glioblastoma multiforme.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 4, 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.

Study: Simian foamy viruses readily occur between humans and macaques in urban Bangladesh

Researchers have identified multiple strains of simian foamy virus (SFV) in people living alongside macaques in urban areas, highlighting the need for long-term surveillance. The study's findings suggest that SFV can be transmitted through bites and may lead to viral recombination, posing a risk of pathogenic strain emergence.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalEmerging Microbes & Infections·DateSep 4, 2013

Ability to delay gratification may be linked to social trust, new CU-Boulder study finds

A new study by CU-Boulder researchers suggests that people's ability to delay gratification may be influenced by their perception of others' trustworthiness. The findings have implications for understanding why certain populations struggle with self-control, and could inform strategies for improving social trust in children and adults.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateSep 4, 2013

Infrared NASA image sees Extra-Tropical Toraji over Japan

Extra-Tropical Storm Toraji brought heavy rainfall to Japan's big island, with coldest cloud top temperatures and strongest thunderstorms detected by NASA's AIRS instrument. The storm has increased in forward speed and is now being carried by a fast-moving frontal boundary across Japan.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 4, 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.

Biologists uncover details of how we squelch defective neurons

Biologists at the University of California, San Diego have identified a quality check system for neurons that uses two proteins to detect and mark defective cells. The discovery could lead to remedies or drugs for human disorders such as horizontal gaze palsy with progressive scoliosis.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeuron·DateSep 4, 2013

ESMO bestows its highest accolades to eminent oncologists

Cora Sternberg receives the ESMO Award for her pioneering research on genitourinary cancers, while Franco Cavalli is awarded the ESMO Lifetime Achievement Award for his long-standing contribution to lymphoma research. Roger Stupp wins the Hamilton Fairley Award for his relentless research on malignant gliomas and other cancers.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateSep 4, 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.

Your finger's pulse holds the key to your heart's health

A new technique developed by University of Iowa physiologist Gary Pierce uses the finger's pulse to measure aortic stiffness, a common risk factor for heart disease. The method, which is non-invasive and easily obtainable during routine exams, can provide useful diagnostic information for middle-aged and older patients.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·DateSep 4, 2013

Pacific flights create most amount of ozone

A new study reveals that Pacific flights create the most amount of ozone, with the highest sensitivity in an area east of the Solomon Islands. Flights leaving and entering Australia and New Zealand result in the largest ozone production, with some flights producing up to 25,300 kg of ozone.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateSep 4, 2013

Almost 20 percent of grain in China lost or wasted from field to fork

A comprehensive review of food waste in China reveals that approximately 19% of grain produced goes to waste, with related losses of water and farmland productivity. This translates to an estimated 177 billion cubic yards of wasted water and 64 million acres of unused cropland.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateSep 4, 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.

DNA changes during pregnancy persist into childhood

Researchers found that DNA methylation changes occurring early in life may have lasting impacts on a child's health. The study also showed that maternal factors like BMI prior to pregnancy can lead to molecular changes on an epigenetic level, persisting into childhood.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 4, 2013

Exercise may reduce the risk of epilepsy later in life for men

Research suggests that vigorous exercise as a young adult can lower the risk of developing epilepsy later in life. Men with high cardiovascular fitness were 36% and 79% less likely to develop epilepsy than those with medium and low fitness levels, respectively.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateSep 4, 2013

New method for early detection of colon cancer

A new method uses a combination of techniques to detect genetic variations that initiate colon cancer. The technique achieved high sensitivity and was able to detect APC variations in 41 out of 80 samples, including previously unknown variations.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateSep 4, 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 low-temperature chemical reaction explained

Researchers at MIT have elucidated a 37th type of chemical reaction, crucial for understanding climate-affecting aerosols and human physiology. The reaction involves the decomposition of complex organic molecules and has significant implications for combustion reactions in engines.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 4, 2013

Help-seeking patterns of young adults focus of new study

A new research study aims to identify key points for engaging young people in mental health treatment. The study will explore the factors that contribute to episodes of crisis care for young adults, with a focus on improving treatment engagement.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateSep 4, 2013

More than one-third of populations worldwide may have low levels of vitamin D, study shows

A systematic review reveals that over one-third of the world's population may have low levels of vitamin D. Vitamin D values were higher in North America compared to Europe and the Middle-East. The review highlights the need for further research and public health measures to improve vitamin D status, particularly in high-risk groups su...

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateSep 4, 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.

Only known hibernating primate has unique sleep patterns

Researchers found that dwarf lemurs experience REM sleep at high temperatures, while ground squirrels do not, suggesting a link between temperature and metabolism. The study confirms that hibernation is not a state of dormancy but rather a unique form of sleep.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 4, 2013

Youthful stem cells from bone can heal the heart, Temple scientists report

Researchers found that cortical bone-derived stem cells (CBSCs) triggered the growth of new blood vessels and matured into heart muscle cells, improving survival and heart function in mice. The study challenges the general assumption that cardiac stem cells are the most capable of repairing damaged heart tissue.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalCirculation Research·DateSep 4, 2013

First study to investigate the human genome in multiple sclerosis

Researchers aim to understand factors that make immune cells target the spinal cord and brain, leading to multiple sclerosis (MS). The study will determine the function of specific T cells, how they are generated, and how they can be regulated in model systems of MS and humans.

SourceBenaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason·DateSep 4, 2013

Young adults on the autism spectrum face tough prospects for jobs and independent living

Two studies found that young adults on the autism spectrum have worse employment outcomes, including lower pay rates, and are less likely to live independently after high school. Despite this, half of young adults with ASDs did become employed, suggesting potential for improvement with effective preparation and support.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateSep 4, 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.

Alzheimer's missing link found

Researchers at Yale University have identified a protein that serves as the missing link in the chain of events leading to Alzheimer's disease. Blocking this protein with an existing drug has been shown to restore memory and synaptic density in mouse models of the disease. The findings offer strong hope for developing new treatments.

SourceYale University·JournalNeuron·DateSep 4, 2013

Chlamydia and gonorrhoea infections linked to pregnancy complications

Researchers found that women infected with chlamydia or gonorrhoea before pregnancy had a heightened risk of stillbirth and premature birth. Despite controlling for other factors, the study suggests that these infections may be an important predictor of adverse obstetric outcomes.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalSexually Transmitted Infections·DateSep 4, 2013

Megabladder mouse model may help predict severity of pediatric kidney damage

Researchers tracked changes in gene expression to predict kidney damage severity in children with urinary tract obstruction. The study identified specific genes associated with the degree of obstruction, which could help identify children at risk of chronic kidney disease and permanent organ damage.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 4, 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.

TB and Parkinson's disease linked by unique protein

Researchers have discovered that the protein Parkin plays a key role in fighting tuberculosis, triggering the destruction of bacteria by immune cells. This finding suggests that strategies already being explored to combat Parkinson's disease may also be effective against tuberculosis.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateSep 4, 2013

Relationship of kidney function estimates to risk improves by measuring cystatin C in the blood

The use of blood levels of cystatin C strengthens the association between kidney function and risks of death and end-stage renal disease. Cystatin C allows for better staging and risk classification of chronic kidney disease, potentially leading to targeted management and improved patient outcomes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 4, 2013

PET predicts outcomes for patients with cervical spinal cord compression

Researchers used PET scans to identify hypermetabolism in the spine, indicating a potentially reversible phase of degenerative cervical myelopathy. Patients with this marker showed significant improvement after decompressive surgery, while those without exhibited no change.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateSep 4, 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.

New groundbreaking research may expose new aspects of the universe

Researchers have developed a new method to clean theories and models of particle physics from uncertainties, making it easier to assess their validity. The approach could lead to the discovery of new physics, which may explain long-standing problems such as dark matter and gravity.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 4, 2013

Chemotherapy helps elderly patients with small cell lung cancer

A recent retrospective study found that chemotherapy improves median survival among elderly patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) by more than 6 months. The study analyzed data from 10,428 patients aged 65 and older who received chemotherapy between 1992 and 2001.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateSep 4, 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.

Bizarre alignment of planetary nebulae

A team of astronomers found that butterfly-shaped planetary nebulae are mysteriously aligned in the sky, with their long axes aligned along the plane of our galaxy. This surprising result hints at a more mysterious factor influencing the formation of these objects, possibly due to strong magnetic fields as the bulge formed.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 4, 2013