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Science News for April 28, 2014


UCLA research team selected to present original epilepsy research on Capitol Hill

A UCLA research team has made significant progress in developing a computer-aided diagnostic system to accurately distinguish between epileptic and non-epileptic seizures. By analyzing clinical notes from patients with medication-resistant seizure disorder, the team achieved a diagnosis accuracy of 65% using machine learning methods.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateApr 28, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Nutrition experts chew the fat at ASN satellite symposium

Leading food and nutrition scientists emphasized the importance of understanding dietary fats for optimal health. Research is needed to better understand the role of fats and their impact on health, particularly with changing dietary recommendations over the years.

SourceQuiddity Communications, Inc.·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

Adhesion molecule shows promise for treating colitis

Scientists have found that targeting adhesion molecule CD146 with anti-CD146 antibody AA98 shows promise in reducing inflammation and tumor incidence in mice with colitis. The study suggests that CD146 plays a dual role in promoting inflammation, making it a potential therapeutic target for treating inflammatory bowel disease and preve...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateApr 28, 2014

Oxytocin promotes social behavior in infant rhesus monkeys

Researchers found that oxytocin increased two facial gestures associated with social interactions in infant rhesus monkeys. The hormone promoted more communicative behavior, including lip smacking and standing close to caregivers, in strong imitators, suggesting its potential as a treatment for autism spectrum disorders.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2014

More coral babies staying at home on future reefs

Research suggests that rising ocean temperatures will lead to a decrease in inter-reef connectivity and coral diversity. As reefs retain more of their own coral larvae, they may recover faster from disturbances but also become more vulnerable to climate change.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 28, 2014

A glassy look for manganites

Scientists at Berkeley Lab discovered that the re-ordering of spin in manganites is not ultra-fast, but rather exhibits a glass-like state, with the restoration of crystalline order delayed. This separation of charge-ordering behavior from spin-ordering behavior may lead to new approaches for manipulating spin effects.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

How Brazilian cattle ranching policies can reduce deforestation

A new study finds that supporting sustainable cattle ranching practices in Brazil could significantly reduce deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. By subsidizing productive land use and taxing unsustainable practices, Brazil could halve its deforestation rate and shave off 25% of global emissions.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2014

Two breath compounds could be associated with larynx cancer

A study published in Chromatographia found that certain volatile organic compounds, including ethanol and 2-butanone, are higher in individuals with larynx cancer. These compounds may serve as potential markers for the disease, offering an alternative to traditional biomarkers.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalChromatographia·DateApr 28, 2014

Studies presented at ACOG Annual Meeting reveal new information about weight and pregnancy

Two studies from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine show that patients are often unaware of proper weight gain during pregnancy, highlighting the importance of improved communication. Additionally, research on prenatal testing for morbidly obese women reveals no increased risk of complications or early delivery.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateApr 28, 2014

Newborn Tropical Storm Tapah threatens Saipan and Tinian

Tropical Storm Tapah is moving north through the Northwestern Pacific Ocean, bringing a tropical storm warning for Saipan and Tinian. The storm is expected to strengthen into a typhoon by April 29 and may cause significant weather conditions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 28, 2014

Success really does breed success, unique online experiments find

Researchers found that initial support, such as donations or endorsements, significantly increased the likelihood of subsequent successes. These findings suggest that artificial help can catalyse further achievements, supporting the idea that 'success breeds success.'

SourceUniversity College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

Complications from kidney stone treatments are common and costly

A study of over 93,000 patients found that complications from kidney stone treatments require hospitalization or emergency care for one in seven patients. The procedures were shock wave lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, or percutaneous nephrolithotomy, with costs ranging from $32,000 to $47,000.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalSurgery·DateApr 28, 2014

Studies affirm crabs killing Northeast saltmarshes

Studies by Brown University researchers confirm that crabs are ravaging coastal saltmarshes in New England and Long Island. The team's work reveals herbivory of cordgrass by the Sesarma crab is a major cause of marsh death, with overfishing reducing natural predator populations.

SourceBrown University·JournalEcology Letters·DateApr 28, 2014

Increasing the diversity of marketable raspberries

Raspberries are sought after for their health benefits, with growing demand for novel fruit colors. Researchers found that different colored raspberries have distinct postharvest qualities, including decay incidence and juice leakage rates.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateApr 28, 2014

Wetlands likely to blame for greenhouse gas increases: Study

A new study by University of Guelph researcher Prof. Merritt Turetsky and her team found that wetlands are a significant source of methane emissions, which could contribute to global warming. The study analyzed almost 20,000 field data measurements from across arctic, temperate, and tropical regions and suggests that northern wetlands ...

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateApr 28, 2014

UEA research shows bacteria combat dangerous gas leaks

New research from UEA shows a single bacterial strain can grow on both methane and propane in natural gas, reducing pollution. This finding could help mitigate the effects of greenhouse gas emissions from natural gas seeps and human activities.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

Ozone levels drop 20 percent with switch from ethanol to gasoline

A Northwestern University study reveals a 20% decrease in ozone levels when fuel prices drive residents to switch from ethanol to gasoline in flexible-fuel vehicles. The study uses big data and consumer surveys to analyze the impact of human behavior on air quality in São Paulo.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

Estimating baby's size gets more precise

Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a new method to estimate newborn size based on birth records, improving accuracy for clinicians and researchers. The updated thresholds may aid in classifying babies as small or large for gestational age.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 28, 2014

Beyond graphene: Controlling properties of 2-D materials

Scientists successfully create 'heterostructures' with novel functionalities, such as tunnelling transistors and solar cells. By controlling the relative orientation between graphene and boron nitride, researchers can reconstruct the crystal structure of graphene and open a band-gap.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 28, 2014

The thin-crusted US Sierra Nevada Mountains: Where did the Earth go?

Researchers used seismograms collected in the Sierra Nevada EarthScope field experiment to image the earth under the range. Their results reveal that the entire eastern Sierra overlies low-velocity upper mantle and lacks dense, quartz-poor lower crust. This suggests that a long strip of dense rock fell away to the west and south, causi...

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeosphere·DateApr 28, 2014

NIH scientists establish monkey model of hantavirus disease

Researchers at NIH's NIAID have developed a monkey model of human hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, allowing them to study the disease's progression and potential treatments. The study found that the virus triggers a life-threatening immune response nearly two weeks after infection, providing a potential target for early diagnosis.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

Australian marine reserves provide safe passageway for endangered species

Researchers tracked over 70 flatback sea turtles using satellite tracking systems to identify a high-value migratory corridor within Australia's newly established marine parks. The study reveals the turtles' transit passage falls mostly within these protected areas, providing crucial insights for conservation planning.

SourceSpringer·JournalMarine Biology·DateApr 28, 2014

Using a foreign language changes moral decisions

Research finds that people using a foreign language take a relatively utilitarian approach to moral dilemmas, making decisions based on assessments of what's best for the common good. This pattern holds even in emotionally difficult outcomes, such as sacrificing one life so others could live.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 28, 2014

Brazilian agricultural policy could cut global greenhouse gas emissions

A new study suggests that encouraging the intensification of Brazil's cattle production or taxing conventional pastures could deliver a substantial cut in global greenhouse gas emissions. By reducing deforestation, Brazil may be able to spare up to 80% of recently deforested land.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Increasing sugar concentration in tomato juice

Researchers found that basal wire coiling, a simple and effective method, increased sugar concentration in tomato fruit juice. The technique results in lower shoot moisture content and reduced competition for photosynthates, leading to higher sugar concentrations.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateApr 28, 2014

R.I. nitrogen cycle differs in bay and sound

Researchers found that anammox, a crucial environmental process, is almost completely absent in Narragansett Bay but present in Rhode Island Sound. This disparity suggests that bay sediments lack the necessary conditions to activate anammox.

SourceBrown University·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

Urbanization, higher temperatures can influence butterfly emergence patterns

Researchers found that urban areas in warmer regions experience delayed butterfly emergence compared to rural areas. The study's findings suggest that butterflies may be more vulnerable to climate change than previously thought, and highlight the importance of understanding species' responses to urbanization and temperature increases.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEcology·DateApr 28, 2014

Research shows strategic thinking strengthens intellectual capacity

Strategic thinking training has been proven beneficial in normal and clinical populations, leading to improved cognitive performance and brain function. The study highlights the potential of this type of training to enhance intellect and prevent cognitive decline.

SourceCenter for BrainHealth·JournalFrontiers in Systems Neuroscience·DateApr 28, 2014

One cell type may quash tumor vaccines

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University found that a single cell type, T-helper cells, is actively suppressed in several experimental cancer vaccines. This discovery paves the way for methods to break suppression and improve cancer vaccine effectiveness.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalEuropean Journal of Immunology·DateApr 28, 2014

'Let it go,' but not in the boardroom

Researchers found that individuals cooperated more with computer counterparts expressing positive emotions after cooperation and negative emotions after exploitation. This study highlights the importance of managing facial expressions in business interactions to achieve cooperation.

SourceUSC Marshall School of Business·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

Viral 'parasites' may play a key role in the maintenance of cell pluripotency

Researchers have discovered that retrotransposons, or viral elements incorporated into the human genome, are essential for maintaining the ability of stem cells to differentiate into many different types of body cells. The study found that degrading these transcripts causes iPS cells to lose their pluripotency and differentiate.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 28, 2014

Catastrophic thoughts about the future linked to suicidal patients

A new study reveals that people who attempt suicide have distorted thoughts about their self-worth, comparisons with others, and the future. Researchers found that targeting these thoughts can help reduce hopelessness and suicidal ideation in clinical interventions.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalCognitive Therapy and Research·DateApr 28, 2014

Scientific Style and Format, 8th edition, now available

The 8th edition of Scientific Style and Format, a definitive resource on scientific editorial style and publishing practices, is now available online. The new edition features updated coverage of technologies, plagiarism, and copyright law, as well as changes in stylistic recommendations.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·DateApr 28, 2014

Optimizing sweet potato production

A study by researchers from Mississippi State and Louisiana State Universities reveals that early planting and delaying harvest can increase yield and economic benefits for sweetpotato producers. The results showed that marketable yield of the sweetpotato cultivars was consistently greater in early plantings than late plantings.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateApr 28, 2014

Immunology touted as next big thing for popular science

Immunology is the study of the human immune system, which seeks out and destroys dangerous bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It also explores how its activity connects with other body systems, influencing metabolism, hormone levels, and overall well-being.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Reviews Immunology·DateApr 28, 2014
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

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.

Patients report high satisfaction with pain treatment

A large-scale study found that patient satisfaction with postoperative pain treatment is linked to perceptions of improvement and the patient-caregiver relationship. Patients who feel involved in their care experience higher levels of satisfaction.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalPain·DateApr 28, 2014

Multilayer, microscale solar cells enable ultrahigh efficiency power generation

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed multilayer, microscale solar cells that can operate across the entire solar spectrum at exceptionally high efficiency. The technology enables quadruple-junction four-terminal solar cells with individually measured efficiencies of 43.9 percent.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 28, 2014

Research shows smartphone sensors leave trackable fingerprints

Research by University of Illinois engineers reveals that smartphone sensors can be used to identify individual devices, raising concerns about user tracking and security. The study found that imperfections in the manufacturing process create unique fingerprints on each sensor, which can be used to track a device's activities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateApr 28, 2014

Oxytocin promotes social behavior in infant rhesus monkeys

Oxytocin increases facial gestures associated with social interactions in infant rhesus monkeys, promoting communication and social interest. The hormone also lowers cortisol levels, indicating a possible role in diminishing anxiety.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

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.

Imaging gives clearer picture of cancer drugs' chances of success

Advances in biological imaging enable scientists to identify the most promising new drugs and rule out those unlikely to work, potentially improving the success rate of cancer medicines. Researchers are using this approach to streamline the drug discovery process, reducing costs and side effects.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Reviews Cancer·DateApr 28, 2014

A water test for the world

A team of McMaster researchers has developed a simple pill that can test water safety using a dissolving breath strip technology. The new method reduces the need for expensive lab equipment and shipping water to the lab, making it potentially life-saving for people in remote areas.

SourceMcMaster University·DateApr 28, 2014

Stanford scientists create circuit board modeled on the human brain

Researchers developed a new circuit board, Neurogrid, capable of simulating 1 million neurons and billions of synaptic connections using 16 custom-designed chips. The device is more efficient than other brain mimics on the power it takes to run a tablet computer.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the IEEE·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

Prehistoric caribou hunting structure discovered beneath Lake Huron

A 9,000-year-old caribou hunting drive lane has been found beneath Lake Huron, revealing distinct seasonal approaches used by Late Paleoindian/Early Archaic caribou hunters. The complex structure, known as Drop 45 Drive Lane, features stone lanes and blinds that suggest a larger cooperating group of individuals was involved in the hunt.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2014

Flexible battery, no lithium required

Rice University researchers have created a thin-film battery that combines the best qualities of high-energy batteries and supercapacitors, retaining over 76% of its energy capacity after 10,000 charge/discharge cycles. The flexible device has potential for wearable electronics.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

Terrorism works, but only when governments allow it to

A new study by Jakana Thomas found that terrorism can work in civil wars, but only if governments allow it to, and that responding with violence prolongs the conflict. The study suggests that negotiating with rebel groups or finding peaceful settlements can lead to a better chance of resolving the conflict.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateApr 28, 2014

Scientists identify antibodies against deadly emerging disease

Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute identified natural human antibodies against MERS, a severe respiratory disease with a mortality rate of over 40 percent. These 'neutralizing' antibodies prevented the virus from attaching to host cells, offering a possible development of antibody-based immunotherapy.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

Researchers identify potential new strategy to treat ovarian cancer

Scientists have identified a potential new strategy to treat ovarian cancer by targeting multiple growth factors. By blocking several avenues that tumour cells use to escape eradication, researchers hope to develop new anticancer drugs that target ovarian tumour growth.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 28, 2014

Study: Tart cherry juice increases sleep time in adults with insomnia

A study found that drinking Montmorency tart cherry juice twice a day for two weeks increased sleep time by nearly 90 minutes among older adults with insomnia. The researchers also discovered that the natural polyphenolic compounds in tart cherries, such as proanthocyanidins and tryptophan, play a role in improving sleep efficiency.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·DateApr 28, 2014

Surveys indicate decline in children's exposure to violence

Rates of violent crime in the US have decreased since the 1990s, with significant declines in assaults involving weapons or injuries, bullying, and sexual victimization. Researchers attribute these declines to factors such as increased use of psychiatric medication and electronic technology.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

Smart home programming: Easy as 'if this, then that'

Researchers develop intuitive smart home programming solution, trigger-action paradigm, allowing non-programmers to automate tasks and control devices. The study found that 78% of activities could be expressed as a single trigger and action, making it accessible to everyone.

SourceBrown University·DateApr 28, 2014

Abuse jeopardizes new mothers' mental health

A Simon Fraser University study has linked intimate partner abuse to postpartum mental health problems in new mothers. The research found that 61% of women experienced mental health symptoms and that different types of abuse were associated with varying levels of postpartum mental health issues.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalBMC Pregnancy and Childbirth·DateApr 28, 2014

Variable gene expression in zebrafish

Researchers have identified various transcription mechanisms in zebrafish during embryonic development, which may help understand the formation of abnormalities or cancer. The study reveals that different starting points are used for transcription before and after activation of the embryonic genome.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

UCLA scientists hunt down origin of Huntington's disease in the brain

Researchers used a genetic approach to find that cortical neurons play a key role in initiating the disease, while shutting down mutant huntingtin in both sets of cells corrected symptoms. The study suggests new targets for therapeutic drugs to slow the devastating disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 28, 2014

Determining biocontainers' carbon footprint

A new study evaluates the environmental impact of biocontainers in commercial greenhouse production, finding minor differences in global warming potential compared to traditional plastic containers. The researchers suggest that using more efficient lighting sources could have a greater impact on overall sustainability.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateApr 28, 2014

Technological advancements extend survival of transplanted hearts across species

Researchers demonstrate that transplanting hearts from genetically engineered pigs in combination with target-specific immunosuppression prolongs graft survival in baboons, paving the way for human transplantation. The study shows promise for overcoming immunologic roadblocks and eliminating the shortage of donor organs.

SourceAmerican Association for Thoracic Surgery·DateApr 28, 2014

Wildfire outbreak in far eastern Russia

A total of 103 wildfires are currently burning across Russia, with the majority located in the Far East and Siberia. The fires have already destroyed over 800 hectares of land and have raised concerns about the environmental impact.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

How to create nanowires only 3 atoms wide with an electron beam

Vanderbilt University PhD student Junhao Lin develops a method to craft metallic wires three atoms wide, opening doors for flexible and transparent electronic circuits. This breakthrough technique enables the creation of ultra-thin wiring for monolayer materials, paving the way for novel applications in electronics and beyond.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 28, 2014

Well-informed patients key to accepting gene-based drug dosing

A new study published in Pediatrics finds that patients' degree of acceptance of genetic testing and gene-based drug dosing depends on their knowledge of these concepts. The researchers surveyed over 1,500 participants and found that those with higher knowledge levels were more open to the idea.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 28, 2014

Fluorescent-based tool reveals how medical nanoparticles biodegrade in real time

Researchers developed a method to measure nanoparticle degradation in real time using Förster resonance energy transfer, enabling undistorted measurements without separating particles from their environment. This can inform the design of safer and more effective nanoparticles for various medical applications.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

The scent of a man

An international team of pain researchers found that male experimenters' scent, caused by pheromones secreted from armpits, can produce a stress response in mice and rats, making them less sensitive to pain. This discovery may contribute to the reliability of rodent research studies.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Methods·DateApr 28, 2014

Cyberspace scholarship nets higher grades, better thinking for class Facebook group

A Baylor University study found that students who participated in a Facebook group for a large introductory sociology class scored higher on quizzes, wrote stronger papers, and did better on exams. The group helped create a sense of community and belonging among students, transforming them from anonymous spectators into active learners.

SourceBaylor University·JournalTeaching Sociology·DateApr 28, 2014

A system detects global trends in social networks 2 months in advance

A team of researchers has developed a system that can predict global social trends, including consumer reactions and social movements, by analyzing data from a small group of Twitter users. The method, which uses the friendship paradox property on Twitter, was tested using just 50,000 accounts and achieved impressive results.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

Whitefly confused by cacophony of smells

Biologists at Newcastle University use 'confusion effect' to temporarily disorient whiteflies, reducing their ability to feed on tomato plants. The study suggests a potential new method for sustainable pest control, using harmless plant volatiles to give plants time to defend themselves.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAgronomy for Sustainable Development·DateApr 28, 2014

Satellite movie shows US tornado outbreak from space

NASA's GOES-East satellite captured visible and infrared data on a storm system that spawned tornadoes affecting seven central and southern U.S. states. The animation shows the development and movement of the storm system, revealing powerful storms and high-altitude cloud tops.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 28, 2014

Urgent care centers must be made ready for kids: New AAP guidelines

The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued updated policy statements recommending improved research and education on the treatment of children in urgent care centers. The guidelines emphasize the need for timely evaluation, stabilization, and transfer of children with emergencies, as well as consistent oversight and quality monitoring.

SourceChildren's Mercy Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 28, 2014

AGA showcases its commitment to improving the pipeline of minority researchers

The American Gastroenterological Association has awarded fellowships to 10 minority college students to further their research careers in digestive disease and nutrition. The 2014 AGA Investing in the Future Student Research Fellowship Award recipients will conduct eight to 10 weeks of research related to digestive diseases or nutrition.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·DateApr 28, 2014

First disease-specific human embryonic stem cell line by nuclear transfer

Researchers at NYSCF and Columbia University Medical Center have successfully created the first disease-specific human embryonic stem cell line using somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). The achievement marks a major step towards developing personalized cell therapies for life-threatening diseases like type 1 diabetes. By reprogrammin...

SourceNew York Stem Cell Foundation·JournalNature·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

Impact of pelargonic acid for weed control in yellow squash

A new study found that pelargonic acid is an effective natural herbicide for controlling weeds in yellow squash, with minimal crop injury. The 10-lb/acre PA treatment produced the highest squash yields and fruit number compared to other application rates.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateApr 28, 2014
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.

Ames Lab researchers see rare-earth-like magnetic properties in iron

Scientists at Ames Laboratory have observed magnetic properties typically associated with rare-earth elements in iron, when positioned between two nitrogen atoms. This discovery opens the possibility of using iron to provide both magnetism and permanence in high-strength permanent magnets.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 28, 2014

Unemployment common after breast cancer treatment

A new study from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that nearly one-third of working women who had breast cancer were unemployed four years later. Women who received chemotherapy were most affected, with a significant increase in unemployment over time.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCancer·DateApr 28, 2014

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for April 29, 2014

The updated 2014-2016 HHS Viral Hepatitis Action Plan aims to tackle rising incidences of liver disease and cancer caused by untreated chronic viral hepatitis. The plan builds on previous goals but expands evaluation metrics, calling for further commitments to decrease morbidity and mortality.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 28, 2014