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Science News for April 8, 2014


Location matters when it comes to deal-making, says new study

A new study using the U.S. Senate Chamber as its laboratory found that co-sponsorship of bills is more likely to come from those sitting near each other, highlighting the importance of location in deal-making. The study's findings also showed that more senior senators rely on personal connections rather than their location for support.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateApr 8, 2014

What songbirds tell us about how we learn

Researchers have identified the basal ganglia as a key brain region involved in vocal learning and variability across species. By studying songbirds, they found that this area is responsible for generating variability to aid in learning and performance.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeuron·DateApr 8, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Are Southern death-row inmates more polite?

A new study published in SAGE Open found that Southern death-row offenders are more likely to apologize for their crimes, with two times the frequency of non-Southerners. However, the degree of remorse shown by Southerners and non-Southerners did not differ.

SourceSAGE·JournalSAGE Open·DateApr 8, 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.

Painkillers linked to heightened irregular heartbeat risk in older adults

A large population study found that current and recent use of painkillers/anti-inflammatories is linked to a heightened risk of atrial fibrillation among older adults. Over half of the study participants developed atrial fibrillation during the monitoring period, with those currently taking NSAIDs facing an 84% greater risk.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateApr 8, 2014

How coughs and sneezes float farther than you think

A new study by MIT researchers reveals that coughs and sneezes create a multiphase turbulent buoyant cloud that extends the range of infectious droplets. Smaller droplets can travel up to 200 times farther than previously estimated, while larger droplets fall out, allowing smaller drops to be resuspended by gas clouds.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·DateApr 8, 2014

Good provider communication improves antidepressant adherence for diabetes patients

A new study finds that adult patients with diabetes who trust their medical provider and feel included in treatment decisions are more likely to take and maintain a newly prescribed antidepressant medication. Shared decision-making is also associated with better adherence later in the course of antidepressant treatment.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 8, 2014

New epidemiology model combines multiple genomic data

A new epidemiology model developed by Brown University researcher Yen-Tsung Huang integrates genomic data from SNPs, gene expression, and methylation to find significant associations with diseases like asthma and brain cancer. The model improves performance and validity across different subjects, paving the way for further applications.

SourceBrown University·JournalBiostatistics·DateApr 8, 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.

Breakthrough therapy allows 4 paraplegic men to voluntarily move their legs

A groundbreaking study has enabled four paraplegic men to regain voluntary movement in their legs through epidural electrical stimulation of the spinal cord. The therapy, which mimics brain signals to initiate movement, demonstrates the potential for functional recovery even years after severe spinal cord injuries.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalBrain·DateApr 8, 2014

Graphic photos on tobacco packs save lives: WHO report

A new WHO report shows that large, graphic health warnings on tobacco packets in China would significantly increase awareness about the harms of smoking, help reduce smoking rates, and ultimately save lives. The report recommends improving current text-only Chinese health warnings by adding images of tobacco-related diseases.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·DateApr 8, 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.

Efficient operation of wastewater treatment plants

Scientists at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf develop sophisticated measuring sensors to improve biological treatment stages. The sensors help determine the dynamic of flow and inform treatment plants on optimal mixing strength.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·DateApr 8, 2014

UNC researchers find genetic trigger for RSV-induced infant hospitalizations

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have identified a specific RSV-encoded non-structural protein (NS2) as the genetic trigger for severe lung infections in infants. The discovery could lead to new diagnostic tools and treatments, reducing hospitalizations caused by RSV infection.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 8, 2014

More insights from tissue samples

A team of researchers has demonstrated the advantages of the HOPE fixation strategy, which preserves tissue structure while allowing modern analysis techniques like proteomics and phospho-proteomics. This breakthrough enables personalized medicine and opens up new opportunities for disease research and therapy.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateApr 8, 2014

Poor neighborhoods create misfortune, ill health

Residents of poorer Chicago neighborhoods face more life-changing negative events and experience a range of serious health issues due to the complex interplay between traumatic events and lack of resources. The study's findings highlight the need for addressing poverty and providing support for vulnerable populations.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 8, 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.

Global health funding reaches new high as funding priorities shift

Global health funding reached an all-time high of $31.3 billion in 2013, driven by increased support for maternal and child health. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) continue to receive relatively little development assistance, despite being a major burden in the developing world.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalHealth Affairs·DateApr 8, 2014

Expanding particles to engineer defects

Adding an impurity to a two-dimensional lattice structure can create defects that settle into harmony, restoring order and creating a 'screen' to protect the rest of the material. This finding could lead to new ways of engineering materials with unique properties.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 8, 2014

Language structure ... you're born with it

Researchers found that infants as young as a few months old can distinguish between word-like and non-word-like sounds, indicating a fundamental knowledge of language. This discovery challenges the traditional view that language is shaped by environment and experience.

SourceNortheastern University College of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 8, 2014

Breast cancer cell subpopulation cooperation can spur tumor growth

Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine found that breast cancer cell subpopulation cooperation can lead to increased tumor growth. The study discovered that two distinct subclones within mammary tumors relied on each other to expand, with one producing a protein called Wnt1 that promoted tumor growth.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateApr 8, 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.

Synthetic gene circuits pump up cell signals

Researchers at Rice University have designed a sophisticated synthetic genetic circuit that signals increases in the degradation of proteins by the cell's ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS). The Deg-On circuit produces a green fluorescent signal linked to UPS degradation, allowing researchers to monitor proteasomal activity.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 8, 2014

Rapid, broad countermeasures sought against mystery infections

Scientists at the University of Washington are developing new methods to rapidly identify and treat emerging infectious diseases. The researchers aim to create a flexible arsenal against multiple pathogens, using machine-learning computer modeling and genomic analysis to discover ways to measure disease severity.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateApr 8, 2014

Scalable CVD process for making 2-D molybdenum diselenide

Researchers at Rice University and Nanyang Technological University have developed a scalable CVD process for producing one-atom-thick layers of 2D molybdenum diselenide, a highly sought semiconductor. The new method offers improved electronic properties compared to similar materials like graphene.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 8, 2014

Common diabetes treatment could extend hypoglycemia

Researchers at the University of Adelaide found that a common diabetes treatment, GLP-1 in combination with insulin, can slow down stomach emptying after eating, leading to extended periods of hypoglycemia. This may result in increased health risks for people with type 2 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalDiabetes Care·DateApr 8, 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.

Innovative, coordinated brain care could save billions of health care dollars

The innovative Healthy Aging Brain Center care model improves health outcomes and quality of care for older adults with cognitive impairment by reducing patients' behavioral and psychological symptoms. The model generates an annual net cost savings of up to $2,856 per patient, with potential nationwide cost savings of billions of dollars.

SourceIndiana University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateApr 8, 2014

Unexpected results in cancer drug trial

Researchers at the University of Southampton found that a combination of cetuximab and chemotherapy was not effective in treating advanced bowel cancer that had spread to the liver. The study, published in The Lancet Oncology, suggests that this treatment approach may even accelerate cancer progression in some cases.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateApr 8, 2014

The long reach of Alzheimer's

As the US population ages, Alzheimer's disease is projected to increase from 3 million in 2011 to over 10 million by 2050, affecting broad-based national policies. The annual cost of care for people over 70 is estimated at $157-$215 billion, with costs expected to reach $1.2-$1.6 trillion by 2040.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalHealth Affairs·DateApr 8, 2014

Deep, integrated genomic analysis re-classifies lower-grade brain tumors

Researchers analyzed genomic data from The Cancer Genome Atlas and identified three molecular clusters in lower-grade brain tumors. Tumors with IDH1/IDH2 mutations and co-deletion of chromosome arms 1p and 19q have a median survival of around eight years, while those without these mutations have a median survival of only 18 months.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateApr 8, 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.

Future computers that are 'normally off'

A research team in Japan has developed a spintronics-based technology that could replace volatile memory, enabling extremely energy-efficient devices powered by hand-crank or solar panels. The technology uses non-volatile function of advanced spin-transfer torque magnetoresistive random access memory (STT-MRAM) to create 'normally off'...

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateApr 8, 2014

Google Glass puts the focus on Parkinson's

Researchers at Newcastle University are investigating Google Glass as an assistive aid to help people with Parkinson's retain their independence. The technology is voice-operated and linked to the internet, providing discreet prompts to support key behaviours typical of Parkinson's.

SourceNewcastle University·DateApr 8, 2014

Identifying risk factors for corporate financial fraud

Researchers create statistical portraits of firms and top executives involved in fraud to identify antecedent conditions and risk factors. The project aims to provide policymakers and stakeholders with a rich database for analyzing public companies and executive involvement in severe financial crime.

SourceWashington State University·DateApr 8, 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.

New method confirms humans and Neandertals interbred

A new genome analysis method has confirmed that humans and Neandertals interbred in Eurasia, providing a definitive answer to the long-standing debate about the origin of modern humans. The study's findings suggest that Neandertal admixture occurred after modern humans migrated out of Africa.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateApr 8, 2014

Searching high and low for dark matter

Researchers have made significant advancements in sensitivity and believe a dark matter particle interacts with ordinary matter rarely, according to conference discussions. The hunt for dark matter continues, with the LHC yet to find evidence of supersymmetry, but potential discovery could reveal dominant form of universe-seeding matter.

SourceThe Kavli Foundation·DateApr 8, 2014

Western University study unlocking secrets of breast tissue

A Western University study has discovered a unique population of microbes in the female breast associated with cancer risk. The research found that certain types of bacteria, including Proteobacteria, were present in and beside tumors.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateApr 8, 2014

Webb telescope's heart complete, final instrument installed

The James Webb Space Telescope's Integrated Science Instrument Module (ISIM) is now complete with the installation of its four science instruments, including NIRSpec. This instrument will help scientists unlock the history of our universe by analyzing light from distant objects and revealing their chemical composition, mass, distance, ...

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 8, 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.

Domain walls in nanowires cleverly set in motion

Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have achieved a breakthrough in inducing synchronous motion of domain walls in ferromagnetic nanowires using pulsed magnetic fields. This allows for controlled displacement of domain walls, essential for permanent data storage.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 8, 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.

National survey links teen binge drinking and alcohol-brand references in pop music

A national survey of 2,500 teens and young adults found that those who liked and identified music with alcohol-brand references were more likely to binge drink and have problems related to alcohol. The study suggests that policy interventions targeting these references in popular music could help reduce teen drinking.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateApr 8, 2014

Kitchens are a source of multi-drug resistant bacteria

A study found that cutting boards and gloves used in handling raw poultry can transmit ESBL-producing E. coli bacteria, highlighting the importance of hand hygiene. Researchers collected samples from hospital and private kitchens, finding higher contamination rates on hospital cutting boards and gloves.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateApr 8, 2014

The double whammy of multiple sex partners and drinking in HIV/STI prevention

A recent study found that individuals with multiple sex partners and heavy drinkers are less likely to enroll in HIV-prevention counseling. The researchers suggest that interventions targeting both STI prevention and alcohol use could be effective in reducing risk factors for HIV infection.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania Annenberg School for Communication·JournalPsychology Health & Medicine·DateApr 8, 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.

Chronic smoking can diminish postural stability

A study found that chronic cigarette smoking impairs postural stability in individuals with alcohol use disorders, even during sobriety. Non-smoking AD individuals improved on a measure of postural stability over eight months, while smoking AD individuals showed no significant improvement.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateApr 8, 2014

NASA's Aqua satellite reveals Tropical Cyclone Ita strengthening

Tropical Cyclone Ita is strengthening due to increased wind speeds and cold cloud top temperatures detected by NASA's Aqua satellite. The storm's center is consolidating, surrounded by strong thunderstorms, and is expected to move towards Queensland, Australia over the next three days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 8, 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.

Expert guidance highlights practices to reduce prevalence of catheter-associated UTIs

The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America publishes expert guidelines to prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) in acute care hospitals. The strategies include protocols for proper catheter insertion and management, education among healthcare professionals, and surveillance programs to record progress.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateApr 8, 2014

Kinesin-5 structure opens cancer drug targets

Researchers at UC Davis have identified the atomic structure of kinesin-5, a protein essential for mitosis in virtually all eukaryotic cells. The newly discovered structure reveals unique pockets that could be exploited as targets for new anti-cancer drugs.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateApr 8, 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.

Phase II trial of efatutazone shows challenge of matching treatment to population

A phase II trial of efatutazone with erlotinib failed to improve efficacy in patients with refractory non-small cell lung cancer, but researchers hope to refine future treatments by identifying the right biomarker for individual patients. The study found that fluid retention was a key factor contributing to the lack of success.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateApr 8, 2014

JCI online ahead of print table of contents for April 8, 2014

Researchers used multiphoton microscopy to visualize podocyte calcium dynamics in response to glomerular injury, finding a robust calcium wave that spread throughout cells. Additionally, a mutation in the steroidogenic factor 1 (SF-1) gene was identified as causing asplenia and disorder of sexual development in a pediatric patient.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 8, 2014

Experimental drug shows promise for treatment-resistant leukemias

A new experimental compound called TTT-3002 has been identified as a potent inhibitor of genetic mutations in cancer cells that cause some forms of treatment-resistant leukemia. In mouse models, the drug eliminated leukemia cells within 10 days and showed activity against FLT3-mutated cells.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalBlood·DateApr 8, 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.

Hybrid technology could make Star Trek-style tricorder a reality

Researchers at the University of Southampton are creating a hybrid technology that uses electronic components as chemical sensors on printed circuit boards to provide instant diagnosis. This device could replace traditional diagnostic methods, which are lengthy and costly, allowing for continuous monitoring of disease progression.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·DateApr 8, 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.

Winners of competition to reimagine the chemistry set announced

The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation and Society for Science & the Public announced winners of the Science, Play and Research Kit (SPARK) Competition. A microfluidics 'lab on a chip' prototype developed by Manu Prakash and George Korir took first prize, while Robijanto Soetedjo's toy set that explores electrical signals won second pri...

SourceTartaglia Communications·DateApr 8, 2014

Tracking sugar movement in plants

A new study published in PNAS found that plant sugars move rapidly down the stem to trigger bud growth, supporting the idea that sugar is the key signaling molecule. The research has implications for agriculture and bioenergy crop production.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 8, 2014

The surprising truth about obsessive-compulsive thinking

A global study by Concordia University researchers found that 94 percent of people experience unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, and/or impulses. This commonality challenges traditional OCD diagnoses and treatment strategies, suggesting that cognitive and behavioral interventions may be more effective across cultures.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders·DateApr 8, 2014

'RoboClam' hits new depths as robotic digger

A robotic digger, RoboClam, has been created to mimic the unique mechanisms employed by the Atlantic razor clam. The robot can transform soil into a liquid and achieve deep digging with high efficiency, making it suitable for applications such as anchoring underwater robots and subsea cable installation.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateApr 8, 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.

Processing new information during sleep compromises memory

Research reveals that introducing new information during sleep weakens memory accuracy, making it harder to distinguish between familiar and novel odors. The study highlights the brain's repair mechanisms during sleep, which can impact memory strength and accuracy.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateApr 8, 2014

Intranasal ketamine confers rapid antidepressant effect in depression

A study published in Biological Psychiatry found that intranasal ketamine conferred an unusually rapid antidepressant effect within 24 hours and was well-tolerated in patients with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder. The results show promise for a new treatment class, targeting the NMDA glutamate receptor.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateApr 8, 2014

Spinal stimulation helps 4 patients with paraplegia regain voluntary movement

A novel therapy using electrical stimulation of the spinal cord has helped four patients with paraplegia regain voluntary movement, including flexion of toes, ankles, and knees. Researchers believe this approach may change the prognosis for people with paralysis even years after injury.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Biomedical Imaging & Bioengineering·JournalBrain·DateApr 8, 2014

Scientists reveal potential link between brain development and breast cancer gene

Researchers at the Salk Institute discovered that BRCA1 plays a crucial role in creating healthy brains in mice, potentially explaining why some women with breast cancer experience brain seizures. The study found that eliminating BRCA1 led to significant neural damage and abnormalities in brain development.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 8, 2014

Sea otters can get the flu, too

A USGS and CDC study found that Northern sea otters off Washington state's coast were infected with the pandemic 2009 H1N1 flu virus. The presence of antibodies in 70% of the sea otters suggests they were previously exposed to influenza, highlighting their susceptibility to the virus.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateApr 8, 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.

UC geographers develop a system to track the dynamics of drought

Researchers tracked drought dynamics in the US using a new Event-based Spatial-Temporal Data Model (ESTDM), which analyzed four years of European Space Agency's soil moisture and ocean salinity data. The study aims to predict future drought events by identifying patterns of spreading drought.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateApr 8, 2014

DNA modifications measured in blood signal related changes in the brain

A study published by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that DNA modifications in the blood of stressed mice correlate with changes in brain tissue, providing a valid comparison between the two. The research linked epigenetic changes to altered gene function, shedding light on the relationship between stress and psychiatric diseases.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateApr 8, 2014

NASA satellite sees Tropical Depression Peipah approaching Philippines

Tropical Depression Peipah is intensifying as it approaches the central Philippines, with forecasters predicting landfall by April 11. The NASA Aqua satellite's infrared data shows high cloud-top temperatures indicating potential for heavy rainfall, with estimated amounts ranging from 5 to 15 mm per hour.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 8, 2014

Scientists disagree on responsible research

Researchers analyzed over 250 scientific journal articles on the role of research in society, finding that scientists agree on being responsible but not on what it means. The lack of clarity hinders fruitful discussions about responsible science and specific actions to take.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalJournal of Responsible Innovation·DateApr 8, 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.

Rice U. study: Creativity and innovation need to talk more

A new study by Rice University finds that businesses and academia are not sufficiently integrating creativity and innovation, which requires skillful leadership to maximize benefits. The study proposes 60 research questions and 11 themes for future studies to improve understanding of workplace creativity and innovation.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Management·DateApr 8, 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.

Study: Black carbon is ancient by the time it reaches seafloor

A recent study by Rice University and colleagues analyzed the environmental fate of black carbon in deep ocean sediments. They found that more than half of black carbon never reaches the bottom, but instead stays dissolved in seawater or gets trapped in particles before sinking to the seafloor.

SourceRice University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 8, 2014

New methodology to find out about yeast changes during wine fermentation

Researchers developed a new methodology to study yeast changes during wine fermentation, which can predict yeast behavior and improve wine quality. The study found that simulating yeast metabolism and understanding chemical composition of grape must are crucial for developing a forecasting model.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalInternational Journal of Food Microbiology·DateApr 8, 2014

Thinking about a majority-minority shift leads to more conservative views

A study published in Psychological Science found that increased diversity leads to a wider partisan divide among White Americans, with more support for conservative policies. The research suggests that this shift is driven by a perceived threat to their social status, rather than the actual changes in demographics.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 8, 2014

Montreal researchers explain how our immune system kills abnormal blood cells

Researchers at the Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal have discovered how the immune system kills abnormal blood cells. The study found that EAT-2 and SAP molecules work together to activate natural killer cells, which play a crucial role in protecting against viruses and cancer cells.

SourceInstitut de recherches cliniques de Montreal·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 8, 2014

A new twist makes for better steel, researchers find

Researchers at Brown University have discovered a method to fortify steel by twisting it, allowing for improved strength while maintaining ductility. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new steel alloys for high-strength applications such as axles on high-speed trains.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 8, 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.

Graphene nanoribbons as electronic switches

Researchers have discovered conditions under which graphene nanoribbons can function as electronic switches. The study reveals that the transport gap, a critical factor for switch functionality, is inversely proportional to the ribbon's width and independent of crystallographic orientation.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateApr 8, 2014

Glucosamine promotes longevity by mimicking a low-carb diet

A recent study found that glucosamine supplementation extended the lifespan of nematode worms by 5% and ageing mice by almost 10%, promoting glucose metabolism and protection against diabetes. This effect is comparable to a low-carb diet, suggesting a potential health benefit for humans.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 8, 2014

Researchers measure smartphone malware infection rates

A study by University of Helsinki researchers found that smartphone malware infection rates are significantly higher than previously estimated at around 0.25%. The team collected anonymized data from over 50,000 devices during a seven-month period and developed a technique to identify devices infected with previously unknown malware.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·DateApr 8, 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.