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Science News for June 16, 2014


Diabetes distress vs. depression: Are people with type 2 being misdiagnosed?

Researchers found that interventions for diabetes distress significantly reduced symptoms of depression in people with type 2 diabetes. In contrast, patients with type 1 diabetes who reported high levels of depressive symptoms had a higher mortality risk. These findings suggest that 'diabetes distress' may not be a co-morbid psychiatri...

SourceAmerican Diabetes Association·DateJun 16, 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.

Low dose of targeted drug might improve cancer-killing virus therapy

Researchers found that combining low doses of bortezomib with an oncolytic virus significantly improves the ability to kill cancer cells. The combination treatment suppressed tumor growth by 92% in a glioma model and improved survival rates, offering a novel therapeutic strategy for solid tumors.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJun 16, 2014

Survey finds e-cigarette online market on fire

A recent survey found that 10 new e-cigarette brands enter the market every month, offering over 7,700 flavors. The study also highlighted a shift in marketing strategies, with newer brands focusing on consumer choice rather than health benefits.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalTobacco Control·DateJun 16, 2014

Penn anesthesiologists identify top 5 practices that could be avoided

Researchers pinpointed common perioperative procedures with little clinical evidence, recommending elimination to reduce costs and improve quality of care. The 'Choosing Wisely' campaign supports these findings, encouraging physicians to adopt evidence-based medicine.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 16, 2014

Stem cells in neurodegeneration: challenges and future neurotherapeutic prospects

Inhibition of Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) and subsequent cofilin dephosphorylation can promote neurite outgrowth in PC12 cells, a key step towards treating neurodegenerative disorders. Additionally, mesenchymal stem cell transplantation has shown promise in repairing and protecting damaged brain tissue after traumatic injury.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJun 16, 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.

Improved diagnostic performance of low-dose computed tomography screening

A recent study found that a 5-year low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening protocol can detect lung cancer effectively, with a high proportion of cancers being treated and good long-term survival rates. The results show improved diagnostic performance compared to other studies, including the National Lung Cancer Screening Trial.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateJun 16, 2014

Strokefinder quickly differentiates bleeding strokes from clot-induced strokes

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new technology that uses microwaves to quickly and accurately diagnose stroke patients. The system, called Strokefinder, has been shown to differentiate between bleeding strokes and clot-induced strokes with great certainty in clinical studies.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateJun 16, 2014

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for June 17, 2014

The American College of Physicians recommends assessing a woman's health history for unique events that increase her risk of stroke later in life. For chronic hepatitis C patients, routine screening for liver cancer may not lead to greater survival.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 16, 2014

Soft-drink tax worth its weight in lost kilos

A soft-drink tax has been found to be an effective way to reduce consumption and lead to significant weight losses. The study estimated that middle-income heavy consumers would lose up to 3.64 kg, making it a cost-effective solution for obesity prevention.

SourceMonash University·JournalHealth Economics·DateJun 16, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

LLNL researchers develop high-quality 3-D metal parts using additive manufacturing

Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have developed a new and efficient approach to 3D metal parts using selective laser melting. They used simple simulations and experiments to identify optimal parameters for high-density metal parts, which can be used to certify properties of metal parts built using SLM.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalThe International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology·DateJun 16, 2014

Quantum biology: Algae evolved to switch quantum coherence on and off

A UNSW Australia-led team found a class of cryptophytes where quantum coherence is switched off due to genetic mutations, allowing them to thrive in low-light conditions. This discovery could lead to technological advances in organic solar cells and quantum-based electronic devices.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2014

Lipids help to fight leukemia

A new study by Prof. Gennaro De Libero and his team at the University of Basel identifies a lipid molecule, methyl-lysophosphatidic acid (mLPA), that stimulates specific T cells to kill leukemia cells. This breakthrough discovery offers new avenues for non-invasive cancer immunotherapies.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJun 16, 2014

Caffeine affects boys and girls differently after puberty, study finds

A recent study has found that caffeine consumption by children and adolescents triggers different physiological responses in boys and girls, particularly after puberty. The study revealed significant gender differences in cardiovascular responses to caffeine, including varying effects on heart rate and blood pressure.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 16, 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.

Most millennial moms who skip college also skip marriage

Research by Johns Hopkins University reveals that most millennial mothers who don't attend college also delay marriage and have children outside of wedlock. According to the study, 74% of non-college graduate mothers had at least one child out of wedlock.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateJun 16, 2014

Automating laboratory-on-a-chip to cut health-care costs

A research team at UC Riverside has created a computer programming language that automates laboratory-on-a-chip technologies, enabling the automation and miniaturization of biochemical reactions. This technology has the potential to reduce healthcare costs by eliminating human error and speeding up analysis.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJun 16, 2014

UMD-led public computational biology web service gains popularity

A UMD-led public computational biology web service, MolecularEvolution.org, has gained popularity by giving back to its users. The Lattice Project, built on the Berkeley Open Infrastructure for Network Computing, offers a service called GARLI, designed to reconstruct and predict genetic relationships between biological samples.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalSystematic Biology·DateJun 16, 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.

Physician anesthesiologists identify 5 tests and procedures to avoid

The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) has identified five tests and procedures commonly performed in anesthesiology that may not be necessary, potentially saving patients time, money, and preventing harm. These recommendations include avoiding baseline laboratory studies, cardiac testing, pulmonary artery catheters, blood tra...

SourceAmerican Society of Anesthesiologists·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 16, 2014

Nanoscale composites improve MRI

Researchers have created composite particles that can be injected into patients and guided by magnetic fields, allowing for improved detection of diseases. The nanoconstructs, made up of thousands of iron oxide particles, can be heated to kill malignant tissues or trigger the release of drugs at specific sites.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJun 16, 2014

University of Tennessee discoveries could help neutralize chemical weapons

Researchers at the University of Tennessee have made significant progress in engineering enzymes that can break down nerve agents, potentially creating a prophylactic drug. The study uses neutron scattering and computational sciences to improve the efficiency of these bioscavengers, which could lead to safer use of chemical weapons.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry·DateJun 16, 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.

Broccoli sprout drink enhances detoxification of air pollutants in clinical trial in China

A clinical trial in China found that consuming broccoli sprout beverage daily increased excretion of benzene and acrolein, two known human carcinogens and lung irritants. The study suggests that sulforaphane from broccoli sprouts may activate a protective signaling molecule to adapt to environmental toxins.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateJun 16, 2014

Alaska neuroscientist receives national mentor award

Dr. Kelly Drew, a University of Alaska Fairbanks neuroscientist, has been awarded the Sidney A. McNairy, Jr. Mentoring Award for her outstanding work in biomedical research and mentorship. She is recognized for successfully mentoring students from under-represented groups, including those from Alaska Native communities.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·DateJun 16, 2014

Anxious children have bigger 'fear centers' in the brain

Researchers found that anxious children had enlarged amygdala volume and increased connectivity with other brain regions, compared to non-anxious children. The study's findings provide new insights into the neurodevelopmental origins of anxiety in humans.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJun 16, 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.

Discovery of Earth's northernmost perennial spring

Researchers found a high-volume perennial spring on Ellesmere Island that flows year-round despite extreme cold temperatures. The spring's unique geochemistry suggests a more active hydrogeological system in polar regions than previously thought, potentially driven by glacial meltwater.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateJun 16, 2014

Journal Maturitas publishes position statement on management of uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids are the most common tumors of the female reproductive tract, causing abnormal bleeding and pelvic pressure symptoms. New medical and surgical uterine-conserving alternatives have become available, allowing flexible management of fibroid-related symptoms. The Journal Maturitas publishes a position statement outlining tr...

SourceElsevier·JournalMaturitas·DateJun 16, 2014

How does a tree know it's time to grow again?

Researchers from Michigan Technological University have discovered a gene, 'Early Bud-Break 1,' that enables trees to start growing again after winter. The EBB1 gene helps awaken plant cells responsible for growth, allowing trees to grow at the right time, avoiding damage from late spring frosts and climate extremes.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 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.

How to prevent disparities in colon cancer screening

Researchers propose mailing fecal immunochemical tests to improve colon cancer screening rates among low-income communities, where disparities are most prevalent. Follow-up diagnostic colonoscopies often face cost barriers, which exacerbate existing health inequities.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 16, 2014

How sperm get into the zona

Researchers have uncovered a key biological interaction that occurs during fertilization, identifying the protein in the zona pellucida that sperm latch onto. The study found that ZP2 is essential for sperm binding, and its absence leads to sterility in female mice.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJun 16, 2014

CWRU engineer to grow replacement tissue for torn rotator cuffs

A Case Western Reserve University engineer has devised a technique to reconstitute collagen into tough fibers and induce adult stem cells to grow into tendons, which could lead to regenerating bulk volume of the tendon. The technology may also be used to repair hernias or urinary incontinence.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateJun 16, 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.

Sleep quality and duration improve cognition in aging populations

A University of Oregon-led study of middle-aged and older individuals found that those sleeping six to nine hours a night scored higher on cognitive tests than those sleeping fewer or more hours. Women reported longer sleep durations and struggled with quality, while men outperformed women in some countries.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateJun 16, 2014

Antarctic species dwindle as icebergs batter shores year-round

Researchers report a significant decline in Antarctic species due to increased iceberg activity, leaving only a single dominant species, Fenstrulina rugula. The study finds that climate change has reduced spatial competition and complexity in shallow waters, allowing nonindigenous species to colonize.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 16, 2014

A faster path to optical circuits

Researchers at EPFL create a novel method to design and optimize photonic crystal nanocavities, which can control the flow of light at the nanometer scale. The approach significantly speeds up the development of optical circuits, with quality factors exceeding one million.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 16, 2014

Chemical strategy hints at better drugs for osteoporosis, diabetes

Researchers at UW–Madison have built a version of a parathyroid hormone that can stay around longer and at higher concentrations. This breakthrough could lead to better drugs for osteoporosis and diabetes by protecting peptide hormones from degrading enzymes.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 16, 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.

Studies in family planning publishes special issue on unmet need

A special issue of Studies in Family Planning examines the reasons behind unmet need for contraception, highlighting factors such as social pressure, insufficient information, and side effects. The articles provide practical strategies to increase contraceptive knowledge and uptake, ultimately improving family planning programs.

SourcePopulation Council·JournalStudies in Family Planning·DateJun 16, 2014

BMC awarded NIH grant to train Ugandans in basic research on TB

Boston Medical Center (BMC) has been awarded a five-year $861,000 grant to train Ugandans in basic research on tuberculosis and emerging infectious diseases. The program will provide rigorous training in basic research approaches and enable Uganda's Makerere University to build capacity for conducting basic sciences research.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateJun 16, 2014

Gene 'switch' reverses cancer in common childhood leukaemia

Researchers discovered that switching off and then reactivating the Pax5 gene can reverse cancer in a common childhood leukemia model. Restoring its function enables normal blood cell development and cures the disease. The findings offer a promising new strategy for treating leukemia with fewer side effects.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalGenes & Development·DateJun 16, 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.

Embryonic stem cells offer new treatment for multiple sclerosis

Human embryonic stem cell therapy has been shown to significantly reduce MS disease severity in animal models, offering a promising new treatment for the debilitating disease. The therapy also provides an unlimited source of high-quality mesenchymal stem cells, which can be propagated indefinitely in lab cultures.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJun 16, 2014

Tugging on the 'malignant' switch

A Harvard-led team identified a possible mechanism by which normal cells turn malignant in mammary epithelial tissues. They discovered that the physical forces and chemical environment in dense breast tissue can drive cells into an invasive, proliferating mode.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 16, 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.

Trapping light: A long lifetime in a very small place

Physicists at the University of Rochester have created a silicon nanocavity that allows light to be trapped for nanoseconds. The innovative design approach mimics evolutionary biology and achieves a 10-fold improvement on previous performances.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 16, 2014

When genes play games

A team of computer theorists and evolutionary biologists identified an algorithm to describe the strategy used by genes during sexual recombination, addressing a long-standing paradox in evolution. The multiplicative weight update algorithm helps explain how natural selection and diversity interact.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2014

Does the moon affect our sleep?

Despite popular beliefs, a recent Max Planck Institute study of 1,265 volunteers found no correlation between human sleep and lunar phases. The researchers discovered conflicting results may be due to publication bias, which can lead to omitted negative findings.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 16, 2014

First Canadian Bell palsy guideline

The first Canadian guideline for managing and treating Bell palsy has been published, emphasizing the use of corticosteroids to reduce involuntary facial spasms. The guideline also recommends a combined approach with antivirals for patients with severe paralysis, while cautioning against unnecessary antiviral treatment alone.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 16, 2014

Many bodies prompt stem cells to change

Researchers use mathematical tool to analyze gene networks and determine transition pathways between steady states, providing insight into how stem cells differentiate. The study builds on previous theories, incorporating the role of protein binding to DNA in gene expression.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 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.

Many overestimate exercise intensity: York University study

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that many Canadians overrate their exercise intensity, failing to meet recommended guidelines. The study recruited 129 sedentary adults who underestimated moderate and vigorous effort, even with common descriptors.

SourceYork University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 16, 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.

Getting rid of old mitochondria

Researchers discovered that damaged mitochondria in retinal ganglion cells are transferred to adjacent astrocytes, which then degrade them. This process, dubbed transmitophagy, has significant implications for understanding and treating neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2014

Hunt for extraterrestrial life gets massive methane boost

Researchers have created a new spectrum for 'hot' methane that can be used to detect the molecule at temperatures above Earth's, potentially identifying signs of extraterrestrial life. The model has been tested and verified by reproducing the way in which methane absorbs light on failed stars.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2014

E-cigs heavily marketed on Twitter, study finds

Researchers analyzed over 70,000 tweets about e-cigarettes and found nearly 90% were commercial ads promoting e-cig products. The study highlights the risks of social media platforms like Twitter in advertising e-cigarettes to youth, which may lead to increased use and smoking cessation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalTobacco Control·DateJun 16, 2014

Redesigning the well-child checkup

Researchers developed a new design for preventive health care from birth to age 3 in low-income communities, focusing on family-centered, effective, and efficient care. The study suggests two working groups improved well-child visits by providing longer visit times, trained health educators, and online resources.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 16, 2014

Stress early in life can increase the risk of overweight in adulthood

A new registry study from Aarhus University found that severe stress during pregnancy can lead to increased risk of overweight and obesity in adulthood. The study, based on data from 119,908 young men, suggests that mothers who experienced bereavement had a significant impact on their sons' BMI, with those who lost their husbands havin...

SourceAarhus University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 16, 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.

Study shows chikungunya mutation places several countries at risk of epidemic

Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch have identified a new mutation in the chikungunya virus that could lead to more efficient transmission and infection. The mutation, which emerged in the Indian Ocean Basin, has the potential to spread to temperate regions where the Asian tiger mosquito thrives.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 16, 2014

Solar photons drive water off the moon

A Georgia Tech study finds that ultraviolet photons emitted by the sun cause H2O molecules to desorb or break apart on the lunar surface. The presence of useful amounts of water on the sunward side is unlikely due to high probability of removal through UV light absorption.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateJun 16, 2014

Signaling pathway may explain the body clock's link to mental illness

A novel viral method reveals that cells from human skin biopsies show altered cAMP–CREB signaling, predicting melatonin response to light and linked to bipolar disease. This study suggests a common signaling pathway may explain the body clock's link to mental illness in bipolar patients.

SourceWiley·JournalEuropean Journal of Neuroscience·DateJun 16, 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.

Researchers create better methods to detect E. coli

A team of researchers from Kansas State University has created a new molecular assay to detect and quantify major genes specific for E. coli O157 in cattle feces. This test can be used in diagnostic or research laboratories to accurately detect E. coli and help with quality control in cattle facilities.

SourceKansas State University·DateJun 16, 2014

Flagship US Arctic research facility welcomes EU scientists

The University of Alaska Fairbanks' Institute of Arctic Biology is welcoming European Union scientists to conduct research at the Toolik Field Station and Barrow Environmental Observatory. The scientists will study various topics, including climate change, biodiversity, and carbon cycling in Arctic environments.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·DateJun 16, 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.

Majority of older breast cancer patients use hormone treatment

A recent study found that most elderly women with non-metastatic breast cancer comply with hormone therapy recommendations. However, non-white women were more likely to discontinue treatment, highlighting a need for targeted interventions.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 16, 2014

Pathological gambling runs in families

A study by University of Iowa researchers found that pathological gambling runs in families, with first-degree relatives eight times more likely to develop the problem. The study also identified connections between pathological gambling and other psychiatric disorders, such as social anxiety disorder and PTSD.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateJun 16, 2014

Your genes affect your betting behavior

Researchers found that genetic variants in dopamine-regulating genes influence strategic thinking, with three genes linked to belief learning and two genes linked to trial-and-error reinforcement learning. The study's findings have implications for understanding diseases like schizophrenia and social interaction disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 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.

Sensor in eye could track pressure changes, monitor for glaucoma

Researchers at the University of Washington have designed a low-power sensor to track eye pressure changes and monitor for glaucoma. The sensor would be embedded with an artificial lens during cataract surgery and transmit data wirelessly, allowing for real-time tracking and potentially preventing vision loss.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Micromechanics and Microengineering·DateJun 16, 2014

Discovery of a bud-break gene could lead to trees adapted for a changing climate

Scientists have identified a master regulator in poplar trees that controls the timing of bud break, which could lead to breeding plants better adapted for warmer climates. The discovery enables the engineering of adaptability into trees, potentially improving their ability to cope with changing environmental conditions.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 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.

Lower isn't necessarily better for people with high blood pressure

Research suggests that a systolic blood pressure range of 120-139 is optimal for reducing stroke, heart attack, and heart failure risk. The study found no additional benefit in lowering blood pressure below 120 for patients with hypertension.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 16, 2014

Regenerating our kidneys

Researchers at Tel Aviv University and Stanford University discovered the multi-layered nature of kidney growth using a rainbow mouse model. The WNT signal was found to be responsible for renal cellular growth, allowing for potential therapeutic applications in human kidney regeneration.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 16, 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.

How our brains store recent memories, cell by single cell

Recent memories are stored in a distributed manner throughout the hippocampus, with small fractions of cells responding to individual words. The study provides new insights into how the brain represents memory and may lead to better treatments for neurological conditions like Alzheimer's and epilepsy.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2014

Computation leads to better understanding of influenza virus replication

University of Chicago scientists have developed new multiscale simulations that reveal the proton permeation mechanism in influenza A, a crucial step in viral replication. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more effective and targeted treatments against the flu.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2014

Researchers use virus to reveal nanopore physics

Scientists from Brown University used a specific type of virus to study the interaction between polymer strands like DNA and tiny holes, known as nanopores. The findings may lead to breakthroughs in DNA sequencing and pathogen detection.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 16, 2014

Study: Commuting times stay constant even as distances change

A new study by MIT researchers shows that commuting times are generally independent of distance traveled, as long as commuters have access to various transportation options. This is demonstrated through the use of mobile phone data across five locations on four continents.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 16, 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.

When patients wish for a miracle, tool helps medical staff say 'amen'

The AMEN protocol provides a script to help doctors and nurses talk to dying patients and families about their hopes for a miracle. This approach aims to respect patients' beliefs and values while maintaining trust and open communication, even when discussing futile treatments.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Oncology Practice·DateJun 16, 2014

Super bananas -- world first human trial

The world's first human trial of pro-vitamin A-enriched bananas will start soon, with the goal of improving the health status of millions of Ugandans. The project, led by Professor James Dale, aims to increase the level of pro-vitamin A in bananas to 20 micrograms per gram dry weight.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateJun 16, 2014

WSU researchers develop fuel cells for increased airplane efficiency

Researchers at Washington State University have developed the first fuel cell capable of directly converting fuels like jet fuel and gasoline to electricity. This innovation offers a significantly more energy-efficient way to generate electric power for planes or cars.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEnergy Technology·DateJun 16, 2014

Sedentary behavior increases the risk of certain cancers

A meta-analysis of 43 studies found that sedentary behavior increases the risk of colon, endometrial, and lung cancers. The risk increases with sitting time, even among physically active individuals, suggesting a detrimental impact on cancer prevention.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJun 16, 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.

Genetic influence on pulmonary function: Six further genes identified

A team of researchers has identified six new gene loci associated with forced vital capacity, a volume parameter of lung function. The study suggests involvement of these genes in lung development and certain pulmonary diseases.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 16, 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.

Migratory birds help spread plant species across hemispheres

A new study found that migratory birds are responsible for spreading plant species across the Americas, with seeds trapped in their feathers offering clues to plant distribution between hemispheres. The research provides critical insight into the ecology and evolution of plants represented across both continents.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalPeerJ·DateJun 16, 2014

New advance allows gels to wiggle through water

Researchers designed a way for gels to swim in water using a hand-held laser that shrinks and swells polymer gels. This advance may allow hydrogels to explore surface waters to combat toxic elements or travel within the human body.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Applied Polymer Science·DateJun 16, 2014

Outreach doubles colon cancer screening in low-income communities

A new study by Northwestern University found that community-based outreach programs can significantly increase colorectal cancer screening rates among low-income and minority populations. By using a combination of automated reminders, mailed letters, phone calls, and personal outreach, the program was able to nearly double screening ra...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 16, 2014

Diabetes Association sets new A1C target for children with type 1 diabetes

The American Diabetes Association lowers its target recommendation for blood glucose levels in children with type 1 diabetes to lower than 7.5 percent, reflecting research showing prolonged hyperglycemia can lead to early development of serious complications such as cardiovascular disease and kidney disease.

SourceAmerican Diabetes Association·DateJun 16, 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.

Animal trapping records reveal strong wolf effect across North America

Scientists analyzed coyote and red fox fur trapping records to show the 'wolf effect' favoring red foxes in wolf presence and coyotes elsewhere. The balance between species shifts dramatically with wolf abundance, providing insights for Australian wildlife management.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateJun 16, 2014

Nota Lepidopterologica goes advanced open access with Pensoft Publishers

The Societas Europaea Lepidopterologica has joined forces with Pensoft Publishers to bring the journal Nota Lepidopterologica on the way to open access and innovation. The new format brings benefits such as shorter waiting times for publication, and all published papers will be accessible online.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNota Lepidopterologica·DateJun 16, 2014

Common blood pressure medication may pose risk to older adults

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that older adults prescribed thiazide diuretics are at a greater risk for developing metabolic-related adverse events. The study, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, suggests that these risks are common and warrant closer monitoring.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJun 16, 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.

UK Superfund Research Center receives $12.2 million federal grant

The University of Kentucky's Superfund Research Center has received a significant grant to investigate the health impacts of toxic chemicals on humans and the environment. The research center aims to develop new methods for detecting hazardous chemicals and cleaning up contaminated sites.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·DateJun 16, 2014