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Science News for April 7, 2014


Researchers: Permafrost thawing could accelerate global warming

A new study found that permafrost thawing leads to increased release of methane and carbon dioxide into the atmosphere via plants. The research suggests that this could accelerate global warming trends by up to five times more carbon in the atmosphere.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 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.

Tropical Cyclone Peipah passes Palau, Philippines prepare

Tropical Cyclone Peipah passed Palau on April 5, weakening to a tropical depression with sustained winds near 25 knots. The storm is expected to make landfall in northeastern Mindanao before moving through the central or Visayas region.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 7, 2014

Rebar technique strengthens case for graphene

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new hybrid material by combining carbon nanotubes with graphene, resulting in improved electrical and mechanical properties. The 'rebar graphene' technique enables large, flexible, conductive sheets of graphene to be manipulated more easily, making it a potential replacement for indium ti...

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 7, 2014

Fathers can lower their children's risk of going hungry by staying involved

A Rutgers University study found that nonresident father involvement is positively associated with lower food insecurity in early and middle childhood. Involvement includes time spent with the child, monetary contributions, and 'in kind' support, resulting in a 10-12% reduction in food insecurity.

SourceRutgers University·JournalSocial Service Review·DateApr 7, 2014

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for April 8, 2014

A systematic evidence review found daily low-dose aspirin can prevent preeclampsia complications by 24% and preterm birth by 14%, with no identified harms. A new approach to breast cancer research suggests reevaluating mammography screening and focusing on prevention through lifestyle changes.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 7, 2014

Movies synchronize brains

Researchers at Aalto University have developed a method to observe immediate changes in brain function during movie viewing. The study found similar brain signals in individuals watching the same movie, suggesting that the contents of the film affected certain brain functions in a similar manner.

SourceAalto University·JournalNeuroImage·DateApr 7, 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.

Green tea boosts your brain

Researchers found that green tea extract increases brain connectivity and improves working memory performance. The study suggests potential clinical applications for treating cognitive impairments in neuropsychiatric disorders like dementia.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalPsychopharmacology·DateApr 7, 2014

New ammunition in the fight against type 2 diabetes

A new study by Monash University has shown that gastric banding can lead to remission of diabetes in people who are overweight but not obese. The research, published in The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology, found that weight loss surgery significantly improved the condition in over half of participants.

SourceMonash University·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateApr 7, 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.

Pancreatic cancer 'dream team' tackles baffling, deadly disease

Researchers from the University of California - San Francisco, led by Margaret Tempero, are part of a national 'dream team' working to accelerate treatment and discoveries for pancreatic cancer. The team aims to turn the deadly disease into a treatable one through targeted approaches and collaborative research.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateApr 7, 2014

Liverpool to develop sensors for Fukushima monitoring

Researchers at Liverpool University are developing new sensors to detect and measure nuclear radiation in the environment, aiming to locate radioactive sources with greater accuracy and sensitivity. The goal is to monitor sites, prevent releases, and support safe nuclear facility operation, with a focus on improving monitoring and cont...

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateApr 7, 2014

Gold nanorods attach to, kill bladder cancer cells

Researchers develop a new strategy to kill bladder cancer cells by attaching gold nanorods to EGFR proteins, which are overexpressed on these cells. The application of low-intensity laser heat the nanorods, killing the cancer cells without harming healthy tissue.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateApr 7, 2014

The social circuits that track how we like people and ideas

Studies show that we track people's popularity through brain regions involved in anticipating rewards and emotional evaluation. This is linked to two critical systems: reward learning and social cognition, which scale up with the popularity of an individual.

SourceCognitive Neuroscience Society·DateApr 7, 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.

Running geese give insight into low oxygen tolerance

Researchers tracked bar-headed geese's remarkable tolerance to low oxygen while exercising at top speed in simulated high altitude conditions. The study found that the birds' hearts can supply more oxygen to their muscles, suggesting adaptations for humans could prevent or treat heart attacks and stroke.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 7, 2014

NASA catches Tropical Cyclone Ita near Papua New Guinea

Tropical Cyclone Ita developed near the Solomon Islands and strengthened into a tropical storm on April 5. NASA satellite imagery revealed strong convection and thunderstorms surrounding its center of circulation near Papua New Guinea.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 7, 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.

For good and ill, immune response to cancer cuts both ways

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that the intensity difference between an immune response that stimulates cancer and one that kills it may be minimal. This discovery challenges long-held assumptions about the role of the immune system in preventing and killing cancers.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2014

Research yields potential target for epithelial ovarian cancer treatment

Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center have identified FAK as a potential target for epithelial ovarian cancer treatment. By inhibiting the activity of FAK, they found that STAT3 activation was reduced, suggesting that targeting this enzyme could also inhibit the action of STAT3 in epithelial ovarian cancer cells.

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·DateApr 7, 2014

Severe obesity on the rise among children in the US

A new study found all classes of obesity in US children have increased over the last 14 years, with more severe forms of obesity rising significantly. The study analyzed data from 26,690 children ages 2-19 and found 17.3% were obese in 2011-2012.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 7, 2014

Studies reveal more clues on how pregnancy protects against breast cancer

Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center have uncovered new insights into the genetic mechanisms that protect against breast cancer during pregnancy. By analyzing the genetic activity of women who had and had not given birth, scientists identified differences in gene expression related to cell differentiation and breast anatomy development.

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·DateApr 7, 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.

Personal touch signature makes mobile devices more secure

A new security system called LatentGesture continuously monitors how a user taps and swipes their mobile device, recognizing differences from the owner's tendencies. The system achieved nearly 98% accuracy on smartphones and 97% accuracy on tablets, making it an effective tool for enhancing mobile device security.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateApr 7, 2014

Southwestern bird and reptile distributions to shift as climate changes

Climate change is forecasted to alter the distribution of southwestern bird and reptile species in the Western United States. The study predicts that nearly half of all reptile species will experience significant distribution losses, including the iconic chuckwalla. In contrast, black-throated sparrows and gray vireos are projected to ...

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·DateApr 7, 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.

Slowdown of global warming fleeting

Researchers at Penn State have redefined the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO), finding that its true signal was likely in a cooling phase in recent decades. This shift may have offset some of the anthropogenic warming, resulting in a temporary slowdown in global warming.

SourcePenn State·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 7, 2014

Tissue testing during breast cancer lumpectomies

The Mayo Clinic uses frozen section analysis during breast cancer lumpectomies, sparing patients the need for repeat surgeries in 96% of cases. This technique significantly lowers the 30-day reoperation rate from 13.2% nationally to 3.6% at Mayo.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalSurgery·DateApr 7, 2014

From athletes to couch potatoes: Humans through 6,000 years of farming

Research suggests that humans became less mobile and physically active after the transition to agriculture in Central Europe around 5300 BC. Male bones show a decline in strength and rigidity, indicating reduced mobility and heavy physical work, while female bones exhibit more inconsistent trends.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·DateApr 7, 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.

Drink milk? Women who do may delay knee osteoarthritis

New research suggests that women who frequently consume fat-free or low-fat milk may reduce the progression of knee osteoarthritis. The study found that joint space width decreased by 0.38mm, 0.29mm, and 0.26mm in women with increasing milk intake.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateApr 7, 2014

Viewpoint offers details of BRAIN Initiative

The BRAIN Initiative aims to map all cell types in the brain, develop methods for large-scale recordings of neuronal activity, and advance computational methods to understand patterned neural activity. The ultimate goal is to shed light on disease processes and suggest new therapeutic approaches.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateApr 7, 2014

Well-known cancer gene NRAS produces 5 variants, study finds

A new study from Ohio State University found that the NRAS gene produces five different variants, rather than just one original form, which may help improve cancer treatment. The discovery of these variants could lead to the development of more effective drugs targeting the NRAS pathway.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2014

New SU2C-Lustgarten Foundation Pancreatic Cancer Convergence Dream Team announced

The SU2C-Lustgarten Foundation Pancreatic Cancer Convergence Dream Team aims to develop new therapies using patients' own immune cells to treat pancreatic cancer. The team, led by experts in various institutions, will focus on understanding the tumor microenvironment and developing therapeutic agents to eliminate barriers to treatment.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 7, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Trees go high-tech: Process turns cellulose into energy storage devices

Researchers at Oregon State University have discovered a way to convert cellulose from trees into nitrogen-doped nanoporous carbon membranes, used in high-power energy storage devices called supercapacitors. This single-step reaction could enable mass production of these devices at lower cost.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 7, 2014
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.

Beans, peas, lentils can significantly reduce 'bad cholesterol' and risk of heart disease

A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that eating just 1 serving of legumes daily can significantly reduce LDL cholesterol by 5%. This reduction may lead to a 5% lower risk of major vascular events. The authors suggest that increasing pulse intake is a reasonable and beneficial dietary change.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 7, 2014

Organic solar cells more efficient with molecules face-to-face

Researchers at NC State University found that organic solar cell efficiency improves when donor and acceptor molecules are aligned face-on, rather than edge-on. This alignment enables favorable charge transfer interactions, reducing recombination and increasing power generation.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 7, 2014

Exploring the genetics of 'I'll do it tomorrow'

Research published in Psychological Science found that procrastination and impulsivity are genetically linked, with a complete genetic overlap between the two traits. This suggests that procrastination may be an evolutionary byproduct of impulsivity, manifesting itself more in modern times.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 7, 2014

Scientists identify part of brain linked to gambling addiction

Research published in PNAS identifies the insula as a key brain region disrupted in individuals with gambling addiction. The study reveals that problems gamblers are more susceptible to cognitive distortions, such as the gambler's fallacy, due to insula hyperactivity.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 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.

Energizing sick mitochondria with vitamin B3

Researchers at the University of Helsinki found that vitamin B3 form, nicotinamide riboside, can delay the signs of mitochondrial myopathy in animal models. The treatment increased mitochondrial mass and function, curing structural abnormalities and providing a potential therapeutic approach for adult-onset mitochondrial muscle diseases.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateApr 7, 2014

Antibiotic resistance enzyme caught in the act

Scientists have discovered the atomic-scale mechanism of action for NpmA, an enzyme that imparts chemical changes to bacterial ribosomes, making them resistant to aminoglycoside antibiotics. This finding poses a significant threat to public health, but also reveals potential targets for developing new drugs.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2014

Next-generation glaucoma therapeutics hold considerable promise

Researchers explore new approaches to managing intraocular fluid buildup in the trabecular meshwork, a key structure controlling eye pressure. The development of next-generation glaucoma therapies aims to improve treatment options for those at risk of glaucoma.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics·DateApr 7, 2014

Research to analyze price controls on medication

Researchers from Universidad Carlos III de Madrid find that price controls can increase efficiency and lower prices for generic medicines. The study suggests alternative instruments to direct regulation, promoting competition and transparency.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·DateApr 7, 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.

Parental obesity and autism risk in the child

A recent study found that paternal obesity may be a greater risk factor for autism spectrum disorder in children than maternal obesity. The research analyzed data from over 90,000 Norwegian children and found a doubled risk of developing autism if the father was obese compared to a normal-weight father.

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 7, 2014

Feelings of failure, not violent content, foster aggression in video gamers

A new study reveals that feelings of failure and frustration during video game play are the primary causes of aggression, not violent content. The research found that players' experiences of mastering a game's controls and degree of difficulty led to frustration and hostility.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateApr 7, 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.

Access to primary care appointments varies by insurance status

Researchers found that individuals with private insurance were more likely to secure a new-patient appointment with a primary care physician compared to those with Medicaid or no insurance. The study suggests that the primary care system may struggle to handle increased demand from ACA coverage expansions, highlighting the need for pol...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 7, 2014

Cognitive impairment common among community and nursing-home resident elderly

A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that cognitive impairment affects seniors in both nursing homes and the community, with patients lacking advance directives receiving aggressive care. Advance care planning is essential to ensure desired treatments are followed.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateApr 7, 2014

Educational interventions at Early Head Start led to decline in pediatric emergency visits

Researchers found that integrating URI education into Early Head Start programs led to a decline in pediatric emergency visits and adverse care practices among predominantly Latino families. The intervention showed promise in addressing health literacy gaps, with significant reductions in over-the-counter medication misuse.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 7, 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.

Grant to study promotion of breastfeeding in Kenya

A team of researchers in Kenya and Brown University will test a community-based breastfeeding support initiative with a $450,000 grant. The three-year pilot aims to improve nutrition and health status among 1,000 mother-child pairs in rural Igembe North.

SourceBrown University·DateApr 7, 2014

Seeing double: New study explains evolution of duplicate genes

A new study explains how DNA methylation protects duplicate genes, allowing them to evolve into new cellular functions. The research found that young duplicate genes are heavily methylated, shielding them from natural selection.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2014

Doctor's specialty predicts feeding tube use

A new study by Brown University researchers found that hospital attending physicians' specialties are linked to the likelihood of patients receiving gastric feeding tubes, which is not recommended for frail, terminal patients. The study analyzed tens of thousands of cases over a decade and found that patients cared for by primary care ...

SourceBrown University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateApr 7, 2014
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.

Scientists uncover startlingly new functional details of common anti-diabetic drugs

Scientists at Scripps Research Institute have discovered a new binding site on peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARG) that could lead to improved insulin-sensitizing drugs. This alternative site may provide clues to the adverse effects of existing anti-diabetic medications, such as bone loss and congestive heart failure.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 7, 2014

New research suggests connection between white matter and cognitive health

A study published in Neurobiology of Aging has found a connection between the integrity of white matter connections in the brain and cognitive health in adults with Down syndrome. The research team identified biomarkers connected to dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, which could potentially lead to earlier intervention and retard...

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateApr 7, 2014

Antipsychotic drug use among ADHD-diagnosed foster care youth is increasing

A study reveals that nearly one-third of ADHD-diagnosed foster care youth aged 2-17 received atypical antipsychotics, highlighting a critical trend in pediatric psychiatry. The most common medications given were risperidone, aripiprazole, and quetiapine.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology·DateApr 7, 2014

State Medicaid expansions did not erode perceived access to care

A recent study examined the impact of state Medicaid expansions on perceived access to care and emergency department use among enrollees. The results showed no evidence that expanding Medicaid coverage eroded access to care or increased ED use, contrary to previous concerns.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 7, 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.

New light shed on key bacterial immune system

Bacteria have been found to possess a surprisingly flexible immune system that can recognize and neutralize viruses and other foreign DNA invaders. This adaptive immunity, termed CRISPR-Cas, allows bacteria to store genetic memories of past infections and respond quickly to future exposures.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2014

Ancient shrimp-like animals had 'modern' hearts and blood vessels

Researchers discovered an ancestor of modern crustaceans with a sophisticated cardiovascular system, including a heart and blood vessels. The finding sheds light on the evolution of body organization in the animal kingdom and suggests that even ancient creatures had internal systems similar to those found in their modern descendants.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 7, 2014

Faster eye responses in Chinese people not down to culture

Research reveals that Chinese ethnicity is a stronger factor than culture in determining eye movement patterns, contrary to previous reports. The study found that similar numbers of British Chinese and mainland Chinese participants made high numbers of express saccades.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 7, 2014

Characteristics of patients in states expanding or not expanding Medicaid

Uninsured low-income adults in non-expansion states have delayed healthcare, emergency department visits, and multiple health conditions. Those in expansion states also experience poor health, but to a lesser extent. The study highlights the benefits of Medicaid expansion for those in need.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 7, 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.

Hi-tech innovation gauges science learning in preschoolers

The iPad application is used to streamline behavior mapping, a research technique that records children's interactions in natural settings to assess their science skills and interests. The app allows for flexible data collection and upload, ensuring the safety of participant data.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateApr 7, 2014

Longer catch-and-release time leaves largemouth bass nests more vulnerable to predators

A study found that catch-and-release angling creates a window of opportunity for brood predators to consume young largemouth bass. After being caught and released, the male takes an average of 30 minutes to return to its nest, allowing predators to quickly exploit the vulnerability.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Biology of Fishes·DateApr 7, 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.

Health benefits of 'green exercise' for kids shown in new study

Children who engage in 'green exercise' while cycling experience lower post-activity blood pressure compared to those without visual stimulus. The study suggests that nature scenes promote positive health effects, potentially encouraging public health practitioners to prescribe outdoor exercise.

SourceCoventry University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateApr 7, 2014

Genes increase the stress of social disadvantage for some children

A study found that genes amplify stress from harsh environments for some children, while supportive environments help mitigate this effect. The research used telomere length as a biomarker of stress and showed that genetic pathways play a role in the stress response.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 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.

Solution to platelet 'puzzle' uncovers blood disorder link

Melbourne researchers solved a puzzle on how an essential hormone stimulates platelet production. They found that bone marrow cells can become overstimulated and produce too many platelets, leading to blood diseases such as essential thrombocythemia.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2014

Caffeine against Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have found that caffeine can positively affect tau deposits in Alzheimer's disease, improving spatial memory and reducing pathogenic processes in genetically altered mice. The study suggests a new class of drugs may be developed for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease using an A2A antagonist.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateApr 7, 2014

Chikungunya poised to invade the Americas

Research warns of a potential catastrophic epidemic in the Americas due to chikungunya's high transmission rates. The FIFA World Cup is expected to bring more people together, increasing the risk of disease spread.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalJournal of Virology·DateApr 7, 2014
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.

Experts unveil recommendations for 'best practice' when caring for kids on dialysis

The updated guidelines emphasize a multidisciplinary approach to care, targeting growth, neurocognitive development, quality of life, and risk for complications. Children's Mercy Hospital has led the Chronic Kidney Disease in Children study, identifying factors that lead to kidney disease progression in children.

SourceChildren's Mercy Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateApr 7, 2014

A middle road for Medicaid expansion?

A team from the University of Michigan examines state-by-state navigation of the politics of health reform in a new JAMA article. The analysis shows signs of an emerging middle way toward reducing the ranks of the uninsured, with 11 states expanding Medicaid and going with federal or partnership exchanges, including six led by Republic...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA·DateApr 7, 2014

Experience helps restaurant managers stick with local foods

A study found that restaurant chefs and food purchasing managers prefer buying local foods with quick response times, accurate labeling, and training staff on local food handling. This was revealed in a Penn State research project investigating management's attitudes toward purchasing locally grown foods.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·DateApr 7, 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.

Switching off anxiety with light

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have created a novel method for controlling serotonin receptors using light, which could lead to more effective treatments for anxiety disorders. By utilizing optogenetic tools, the scientists were able to modulate mouse emotional behavior and reduce anxiety-like behaviors.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNeuron·DateApr 7, 2014

Parental obesity and autism risk in the child

A new study from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health found a doubled risk of developing autism and Asperger's syndrome if a father is obese compared to a normal-weight father. The researchers also found that maternal obesity had little association with the development of autism in children.

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 7, 2014

Scientists find missing piece of air particle equation hiding in the walls

A study by UC Davis researchers found that laboratory chamber walls can suppress the formation of secondary organic aerosol in the atmosphere. This effect has contributed to underpredictions of SOA concentrations in regional air quality models, which impacts air quality and climate.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 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.

The tiniest greenhouse gas emitters

A new study from IIASA and the University of Vienna suggests that soil microbes can break down organic matter more efficiently, emitting fewer carbon dioxide emissions. This finding has significant implications for understanding climate feedbacks and the role of soil in the global carbon cycle.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalEcology Letters·DateApr 7, 2014

Targeting sperm protection in mosquitoes could help combat malaria

Researchers have discovered a way of reducing the fertility of malaria-carrying mosquitoes by targeting an enzyme called HPX15. This could provide a new tactic to combat the disease, potentially leading to a reduction in the number of malaria-carrying mosquitoes in circulation.

SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2014