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Science News for September 9, 2013


Tool created to avert future energy crisis

Researchers have developed a measurement tool to assess market power in deregulated electricity markets, taking into account emerging smart grid phenomena. The tool, called transmission constrained network flow, unifies existing measures and provides a unified view of market power potential under varying operating conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateSep 9, 2013

Autoimmune disease strategy emerges from immune cell discovery

Researchers at UCSF have identified a new way to manipulate the immune system that may keep it from attacking the body's own molecules in autoimmune diseases. The study discovered a distinctive type of immune cell called eTAC, which puts a damper on immune responses and prevents autoimmune diabetes in mice.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalImmunity·DateSep 9, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Testes size correlates with men's involvement in toddler care

A new study by Emory University researchers found that men with smaller testes tend to be more involved in hands-on childcare, while those with larger testes are less involved. The study suggests that the biology of human males reflects a trade-off between investments in mating and parenting effort.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2013

Amino acid with promising anti-diabetic effects

Researchers have demonstrated that the amino acid arginine significantly improves glucose metabolism in both lean and obese mice. The study found that arginine increases the body's production of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), an intestinal hormone that plays a key role in regulating appetite and glucose metabolism.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalEndocrinology·DateSep 9, 2013

Breath tests could be used to diagnose lung cancer

Researchers have developed a cheap and non-invasive breath test to diagnose lung cancer, which has been shown to correctly identify lung cancer patients with high sensitivity. The technique uses an electronic nose to detect volatile organic compounds in exhaled breath samples.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·DateSep 9, 2013

Early-onset Parkinson's disease linked to genetic deletion

A study found a link between early-onset Parkinson's disease and a genetic deletion on chromosome 22, shedding light on molecular changes that lead to the disease. The deletion is associated with abnormal protein accumulations in the brain and may delay diagnosis by up to 10 years.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateSep 9, 2013

Is bigger really better when it comes to size of labor wards?

New research reveals that large labor wards with 3,000 to 3,999 deliveries annually have lower obstetric injury claims and higher approval rates compared to smaller units. The study found that greater availability of in-house obstetricians and auxiliary specialists contributes to better patient outcomes.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateSep 9, 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.

Breakthrough in cryptography could result in more secure computing

Researchers at the University of Bristol have made a significant breakthrough in cryptography, developing a new protocol that enables fast and secure Multi-Party Computation. This allows for complex computations on secret data without revealing inputs, with potential applications in finance, pharmaceuticals, and other industries.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateSep 9, 2013

Detecting heartbeats in rubble

A new FINDER technology uses microwave radar to detect human breathing patterns and heartbeats in rubble. The system is sensitive enough to locate victims buried under 30 feet of debris, revolutionizing search and rescue operations.

SourceUS Department of Homeland Security - Science and Technology·DateSep 9, 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.

New muscular dystrophy treatment shows promise in early study

A preclinical study found that VBP15 decreases inflammation in mice with symptoms similar to those found in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The drug protects and strengthens muscle without the side effects linked to current treatments.

SourceEMBO·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateSep 9, 2013

Rainfall in South Pacific was more variable before 20th century

A new study reconstructs climate in the South Pacific over the past 446 years, revealing more dramatic rainfall variability before the start of the 20th century. The researchers found a roughly 50-year cycle of rainfall in Vanuatu, with significant differences between wet and dry periods.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalGeology·DateSep 9, 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.

Indy 500 race cars showcase green fuels

The Indy 500 has switched to a fuel containing 85% ethanol, which reduces air pollutants and releases mainly carbon dioxide and water vapor. Studies have shown that using fuels composed of more than 85% ethanol reduce sulfur emissions by 80%, carbon monoxide by 40%, particulate matter by 20%, VOCs by 15%, and nitrogen oxides by 10%.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateSep 9, 2013

Young adults reminisce about music from before their time

Researchers found young adults have strong emotional connections to the music popular during their parents' younger years. This phenomenon is linked to the prevalence of music in home environments and childhood experiences.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 9, 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.

More research urgently needed on caffeine

A comprehensive review of caffeine dependence highlights the prevalence of addiction and suggests an agenda for future research to improve understanding and treatment options. The study emphasizes the need for continued investigation into caffeine's impact on human health, particularly in relation to mental and physical well-being.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Caffeine Research·DateSep 9, 2013

Temperature in the quantum world

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology study a large cloud of atoms and find that disorder spreads with a certain velocity, leading to the loss of quantum properties. As the disorder grows, a temperature emerges in the system, mirroring classical behavior.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 9, 2013

The new allure of electric cars: Blazing-fast speeds

Recent advances have enabled electric vehicles (EVs) to achieve sustained speeds of over 180 miles per hour and establish world speed records above 300 mph. EVs have inherent advantages in efficiency and torque, with energy storage-to-torque being above 90 percent efficient compared to less than 35 percent for internal combustion engines.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateSep 9, 2013

Upgrade to Mars rovers could aid discovery on more distant worlds

A new camera system, TextureCam, allows future Mars rovers to prioritize their scientific objectives and explore more distant worlds. The system uses machine learning algorithms to recognize rocks, sand, and sky in photos, enabling autonomous decision-making and increased autonomy.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 9, 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.

The chemistry behind the character of bourbon, scotch and rye

Researchers found that whiskey samples can contain hundreds of nonvolatile compounds, resulting in complex molecular mingling during aging. The deliberate chemistry experiment revealed a treasure trove of information useful for whiskey-makers and regulators.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateSep 9, 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.

Children referred for chest pain rarely have cardiac disease

A multi-institutional study found that a unique quality improvement methodology can effectively evaluate chest pain in children using minimal resources. The Standardized Clinical Assessment and Management Plans (SCAMPs) algorithm identified cardiac causes of chest pain while reducing testing utilization, with only 1% of patients having...

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 9, 2013

Microbes help beetles defeat plant defenses

Researchers discovered that symbiotic bacteria inside beetles suppress plant defenses against chewing insects, allowing beetles to thrive. The findings suggest a new way plants can be vulnerable to insect attacks.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 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.

More than 100,000 Americans quit smoking due to national media campaign

A national ad campaign by the CDC's Tips From Former Smokers program more than doubled its original quit goal of 500,000 attempts, with over 1.6 million smokers attempting to quit after seeing the ads. The campaign resulted in over 100,000 Americans quitting smoking permanently, saving millions of years of life for the US population.

SourceGolinHarris DC·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 9, 2013

Blacks in U.S. may be at higher risk for health problems from insufficient sleep

A new study from Harvard School of Public Health found that blacks are more likely to sleep less than seven hours a night, increasing their risk of obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and death. Black professionals had the highest prevalence of short sleep, while white professionals had the lowest.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateSep 9, 2013

A tiny channel and a large vessel: A new clue for heart attack

Researchers at The University of Manchester and medical institutes in Italy have identified a gene variant associated with vasospasm, a rare cause of heart attacks. This discovery could lead to the development of new drugs to treat this condition.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalInternational Journal of Cardiology·DateSep 9, 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.

Artificial lung to remove carbon dioxide -- from smokestacks

Scientists have developed a new filtering system to remove carbon dioxide from electric power station smokestacks, inspired by the efficient lungs of birds and the swim bladders of fish. The technology uses an array of tubes with porous membranes, which can capture up to 50% more CO2 than existing methods.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateSep 9, 2013

STING may take the bite out of autoimmune diseases like arthritis, Type 1 diabetes

Researchers discover STING's critical role in treating autoimmune diseases by evoking expression of enzyme IDO, which blocks immune attack on healthy body constituents. Mice with STING deficiency had no response to DNA nanoparticles, highlighting the protein's essential role in recognizing the molecule that senses DNA.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateSep 9, 2013

'Young Chinese people disappointed with German companies'

A study by sociologist Junchen Yan found that young Chinese employees are disappointed with career opportunities in Western companies, citing flat hierarchies and limited promotion. The researcher suggests that companies should improve their communication with employees regarding career objectives and work on increasing their image in ...

SourceUniversity of Münster·DateSep 9, 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.

Butterfly wings inspire new technologies: from fabrics and cosmetics to sensors

Researchers have discovered the unique properties of Morpho butterfly wings that can be used to develop innovative technologies. The study found that the physical structure and surface chemistry of the wings provide surprising properties for applications such as photonic security tags, sensors and self-cleaning surfaces.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2013

Study finds men are more likely to develop physical illness than women

A recent study published in Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that men are at a higher risk of developing physical illnesses compared to women. Having a mental illness increases the risk by 10 times, with women experiencing a physical illness a year earlier than men.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateSep 9, 2013

UCI researchers fabricate new camouflage coating from squid protein

UCI researchers develop a biomimetic infrared camouflage coating using squid protein reflectin, allowing it to mimic the dynamic coloration and reflectance of squid skin. The material can disappear and reappear when visualized with an infrared camera.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 9, 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.

Scientific symposium today on green chemistry and the environment

Scientists present innovative approaches to reduce hazardous substances in production processes, using renewable materials and minimizing waste. The symposium features topics such as banana-peel powder removal of toxic metals from water and sustainable nanoparticle production.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateSep 9, 2013

Accidental nanoparticle discovery could hail revolution in manufacturing

Scientists at Queen Mary University of London discovered a novel nanoparticle with magnetic properties, revealing potential applications in battery technology and cancer therapies. The sea urchin-shaped nanoparticles consist of iron-filled nanotubes with unique properties that can be manipulated for various uses.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalCarbon·DateSep 9, 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.

Futile treatment in critical care common, costs can be substantial

A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that critically ill patients often receive futile treatment, with estimated costs of $2.6 million over three months. The most common reason for perceiving treatment as futile was the significant burden it placed on the patient's quality of life.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 9, 2013

Effects of climate change on West Nile virus

A study projects how climate change affects West Nile virus-carrying mosquitoes across the southern US, with changes varying by region. Warmer temperatures and drier conditions may lead to longer mosquito seasons but smaller summer populations.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2013

Household routines may help reduce BMI in minority children

A study published by JAMA Pediatrics found that improving household routines associated with obesity can increase sleep duration and reduce TV viewing among low-income, minority children. The intervention also resulted in a decrease in body mass index (BMI) over six months.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 9, 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.

Chemists find new way to put the brakes on cancer

Researchers at NYU and USC have developed a synthetic molecule that targets the interaction between two proteins, preventing tumor growth. The approach presents a new frontier in cancer research, offering potential for the treatment of various human diseases.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2013

Study uncovers value of mammogram screening for younger women

A new analysis reveals that regular mammograms before age 50 significantly reduce breast cancer deaths in younger women. The study analyzed data from invasive breast cancers diagnosed between 1990 and 1999, finding that only 13% of cases occurred in women aged 70 or older.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateSep 9, 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.

Cell transplants may be a novel treatment for schizophrenia

Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio suggest that cell transplants could be a promising treatment for schizophrenia. By transplanting interneurons into the brain, they were able to restore normal function in rats with impaired dopamine systems, which are involved in cognition, movement, and emotions.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateSep 9, 2013

Cancer researchers discover root cause of multiple myeloma relapse

Multiple myeloma patients experience persistent disease recurrence due to intrinsic resistance in immature progenitor cells. Researchers identify a cancer cell maturation hierarchy and propose targeting both progenitor cells and plasma cells to develop new treatments.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalCancer Cell·DateSep 9, 2013

Ants turn unwelcome lodgers into a useful standing army

Researchers found that permanent parasites that are normally a social burden protect their hosts against greater evils. The guest ants rise to defend their hosts against mobile raiders, greatly decreasing the probability of a raid. This co-evolutionary process maintains lesser evils when it helps prevent greater harm.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 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.

NSF awards $25 million to establish Center for Brains, Minds and Machines

The Center for Brains, Minds and Machines aims to foster collaboration across disciplines to understand intelligence and develop intelligent machines. The center will focus on four main research themes: integrating intelligence, circuits for intelligence, developing intelligence in children, and social intelligence.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateSep 9, 2013

Insulin secretion disrupted by increased fatty acids

Researchers found that increased fatty acid levels suppress incretin-associated insulin release, highlighting the importance of β cell connectivity. Maintaining β cell connectivity may be a useful strategy for restoring glucose balance in type 2 diabetes.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 9, 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.

Programmable glue made of DNA directs tiny gel bricks to self-assemble

Researchers at Harvard University developed a programmable DNA glue that directs tiny gel bricks to self-assemble into complex structures. The method could help solve tissue engineering challenges by creating injectable components that self-assemble into biocompatible scaffolds.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 9, 2013

New 10 second sourcing technology set to transform archaeology

Researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed a new method for sourcing obsidian artefacts that takes only 10 seconds, dozens of times faster than current methods. The handheld instrument uses portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) and enables archaeologists to identify origins in the field.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateSep 9, 2013

Dingo wrongly blamed for extinctions

A University of Adelaide study finds that Aboriginal populations and climate change were more likely responsible for the extinction of Tasmanian tigers and devils on the mainland. The research used complex models to recreate the dynamic interaction between dingoes, climate, and human populations.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalEcology·DateSep 9, 2013

Moving genes have scientists seeing spots

Researchers watched genes move together in response to environmental changes, a discovery that could improve understanding of gene expression and its impact on nature. The technique allows scientists to monitor a gene in whole, living organisms, opening up new avenues for research.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalGenes & Development·DateSep 9, 2013

A swarm on every desktop: Robotics experts learn from public

Rice University's Multi-Robot Systems Laboratory researchers gather data from online game SwarmControl.net to develop new control algorithms for robotic swarms. They demonstrate complex behaviors with simple commands, showcasing potential for massive populations of robots to perform coordinated tasks.

SourceRice University·DateSep 9, 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.

Wireless network detects falls by the elderly

University of Utah engineers developed a wireless sensor network that can detect falls without wearing devices. The system uses radio-frequency sensors to track a person's location and distinguish between falls and benign activities.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateSep 9, 2013

All set for The EMBO Meeting 2013

The EMBO Meeting 2013 conference will feature keynote lectures by prominent scientists, including Kai Simons, Hans Clevers, Sir Michael Stratton, Peter Hegemann, and Georg Nagel. The scientific programme will include sessions on stem cells, cancer genomics, optogenetics, and the search for life beyond Earth.

SourceEMBO·DateSep 9, 2013

JCI early table of contents for Sept. 9, 2013

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital identify fibroblast growth factor 18 (FGF18) as a predictive marker for poor overall survival in ovarian cancer patients. Overexpression of the gene encoding FGF18 was associated with enhanced tumor blood vessel formation and expression of cancer-promoting cytokines.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 9, 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.

New report finds no evidence that safety-net patients receive substandard primary care

A new study by George Washington University researchers finds no evidence that primary care physicians deliver less care to low-income and vulnerable patients. Despite critics' claims of substandard care, the study analyzed data from over 31,000 visits and found comparable care for all patients regardless of insurance status.

SourceGeorge Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 9, 2013

Toward making people invisible to mosquitoes

Researchers have identified compounds found on human skin that impede mosquitoes' ability to detect their victims, providing a promising new approach to preventing mosquito bites. These substances, including lactic acid and 1-methylpiperzine, are already used in various medicines and products.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateSep 9, 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.

MRI spectroscopy is highly sensitive for lipid-soluble metabolites from UC-MSCs

Researchers developed a method to extract and analyze lipid-soluble metabolites from human mesenchymal stem cells using MRI spectroscopy. The technique provides valuable insights into the metabolic characteristics of MSCs, which is essential for optimizing detection efficiency while minimizing cell usage.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateSep 9, 2013

Undervaccination appears associated with increased risk of whooping cough

A study by Jason M. Glanz and colleagues found that undervaccination with the DTaP vaccine increases the risk of pertussis in children aged 3-36 months. The research involved 72 cases of pertussis and 288 controls, showing that undervaccinated children were 18.56 times more likely to contract the disease than their vaccinated peers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 9, 2013

Rim Fire update Sept. 9, 2013

The Rim Fire has burned over 385 square miles, 80% containment achieved, but low humidity threatens growth. Spot fires remain a concern, with firefighters patrolling to mop up and monitor lines.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 9, 2013

New kind of ultraviolet LED could lead to portable, low-cost devices

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new kind of ultraviolet LED that emits light at specific wavelengths, making it suitable for commercial applications such as chemical detection, disinfection, and UV curing. The device runs on lower voltages than existing methods, making it more compact and potentially cost-effective.

SourceOhio State University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 9, 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.

Role of autophagic and lysosomal pathways in ischemic brain injury

The study highlights the importance of autophagic and lysosomal activity in ischemic neurons, providing nutrition and energy for their survival. Upregulating cell autophagy or inhibiting autophagy may help eliminate abnormal components in cells after ischemic brain injury.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateSep 9, 2013

The new face of Medicaid: Incoming enrollees may be younger; more white men, smokers, drinkers

A new University of Michigan study reveals that incoming Medicaid enrollees may be younger, whiter, and healthier than current beneficiaries. These individuals are more likely to be smokers and heavy drinkers. Overall, the expansion could bring in a new, healthier group with different demographic characteristics.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 9, 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.

Severe asthma patients less responsive to treatment

People with severe asthma are less likely to respond to corticosteroid treatment, even when taking high doses. Researchers found that 55% of adults with severe asthma showed greater airway obstruction despite regular oral corticosteroids. The study aims to develop personalized medicine for individual patients with asthma.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·DateSep 9, 2013

Hypertensive smoking women have an exceptionally high risk of a fatal brain bleeding

A Finnish population-based study found that hypertensive smoking women have an exceptionally high risk of a fatal brain bleeding, with a rate 20 times higher than never-smoking men. The study identified new risk factors for Subarachnoid Haemorrhage (SAH), including previous myocardial infarction and elevated cholesterol levels in men.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 9, 2013

Scientists discover how to map cell-signaling molecules to their targets

A team of University of Montreal and McGill researchers has developed a new method to link signaling molecules to target regulators of cell division. This method could provide valuable insights into the processes underlying cell division and potentially reveal new targets for cancer treatment.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 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.

September/October 2013 Annals of Family Medicine Tip Sheet

A study found that one-third of Walgreens vaccinations are administered during off-clinic hours, particularly among younger, healthy adults. This shift in vaccination access could measurably increase immunization rates in the US. Additionally, a new study suggests that eligible Medicaid beneficiaries under the Patient Protection and Af...

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 9, 2013

Bomb-detecting lasers could improve security checkpoints

Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a bomb-detecting laser that can identify micro traces of explosive chemicals on clothing and luggage. The low-energy laser uses two pulses to detect chemical frequencies, providing excellent sensitivity and robust performance on virtually all surfaces.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 9, 2013

Therapy slows onset and progression of Lou Gehrig's disease, study finds

A new therapy has shown promising results in slowing the onset and progression of Lou Gehrig's disease, increasing survival rates by up to 39% in animal models. The treatment targets the SOD1 gene, which is mutated in some cases of familial ALS, and was administered via non-invasive delivery.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateSep 9, 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.

New funding for artificial-intelligence research

The Center for Brains, Minds and Machines (CBMM) will focus on understanding human intelligence from multiple perspectives. The center aims to develop a computational understanding of intelligence through research in vision, language, motor skills, neurobiology, electrical engineering, and more.

SourceHarvard University·DateSep 9, 2013

Harnessing the petabyte at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

A team of researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is exploring a novel two-stage approach to harnessing petabyte data, combining cloud computing with precise computational systems. They aim to develop algorithms and methods for extracting knowledge from massive amounts of data.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateSep 9, 2013

Closing in on risk factors for cerebral palsy and infant death

A recent study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that birth defects and poor fetal growth are the most common risk factors for cerebral palsy and infant death. The research suggests that these risk factors, rather than asphyxial birth events, may contribute to the development of cerebral palsy and infant mortality.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateSep 9, 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.

Severity of sleep apnea predicts aggressiveness of melanoma

A study found that sleep apnea severity can independently predict melanoma aggressiveness, with more severe cases showing faster tumor growth and deeper invasion. Researchers hope this link may lead to new therapeutic possibilities for people with both conditions.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·DateSep 9, 2013

Capturing brain activity with sculpted light

Scientists have developed a high-speed imaging technique with single-neuron resolution that can record the activity of 70% of nerve cells in a worm's head. This breakthrough allows for detailed maps of how neurons are wired up in the brain and information on how networks interact in real time.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Methods·DateSep 9, 2013

Commercial baby foods don't meet infants' weaning needs

A study found UK commercial baby foods lack essential nutrients, being predominantly sweet and similar in energy content to breast milk. They are often introduced too early, conflicting with government recommendations for exclusive breastfeeding until six months.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateSep 9, 2013

Study finds antisocial texting by teens linked to bad behavior

Researchers at University of Texas at Dallas discovered a correlation between frequent discussions of antisocial behaviors and engagement in such behaviors among adolescents. The study found that even brief exchanges about rule-breaking, illicit substance use, or physical aggression can predict deviant behavior.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalJournal of Abnormal Child Psychology·DateSep 9, 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.

eButton health monitor gets a facelift

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a new computational tool for the eButton health monitor, which can now extract food from images and estimate portion sizes with an average error of only 3.69%. The device uses a geometric-shape library to remove background images and measure volume by projecting and fitting sel...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalMeasurement Science and Technology·DateSep 9, 2013

Study identifies fibroblast growth factor 18 as an ovarian cancer biomarker

Researchers have identified fibroblast growth factor 18 (FGF18) as a predictive marker for poor overall survival in ovarian cancer patients. The study found that overexpression of the FGF18 gene is associated with enhanced tumor blood vessel formation and expression of cancer-promoting cytokines.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 9, 2013

Synthetic speech system puts a dampener on noisy announcements

Researchers developed a mathematical program to analyze spoken words and enhance sounds that help listeners understand speech in loud situations. The manipulated speech was found to be easier to understand than natural speech, with improvements equivalent to lowering noise by five decibels.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateSep 9, 2013

Scientific symposium today on healthful antioxidants in plant-based foods

The American Chemical Society is hosting a symposium on the health benefits of polyphenols in plant-based foods, including dark chocolate, coffee, and nuts. Researchers will present their findings on the antioxidant properties of polyphenols and their potential role in reducing cardiovascular disease and certain forms of cancer.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateSep 9, 2013