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Science News for March 6, 2014


'Seeing' bodies with sound (no sight required)

Congenitally blind individuals can learn to recognize human body shapes through soundscapes, with an average of 70 hours of training required. The brain's visual cortex responds to sound patterns, allowing participants to detect posture and imitate movements.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 6, 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.

Black boys viewed as older, less innocent than whites, research finds

A new study published by the American Psychological Association found that black boys are more likely to be perceived as older and less innocent than their white peers in police encounters. Researchers tested 176 police officers and found that those who dehumanized blacks were more likely to use force against a black child.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateMar 6, 2014

Hubble witnesses an asteroid mysteriously disintegrating

The Hubble Space Telescope has photographed an asteroid, P/2013 R3, breaking apart into as many as ten smaller pieces. The fragments are drifting away from each other at a leisurely 1.5 kilometers per hour, likely due to the Yarkovsky-O'Keefe-Radzievskii-Paddack effect.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 6, 2014

Why soil changes color in air

Research reveals that oxidation reaction between atmospheric iron oxide reduces soil plasticity, sensitivity, and structural yield stress. The transformation is caused by micro-structure remodeling, not inherent mineral changes, and has potential adverse effects on soil stability.

SourceScience China Press·DateMar 6, 2014

UT Arlington study links BPA and breast cancer tumor growth

Researchers at UT Arlington found that exposure to BPA can increase HOTAIR expression in breast tissue and tumor cells, potentially contributing to breast cancer growth. The study's results suggest a link between BPA and tumor genesis in addition to tumor growth.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalThe Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateMar 6, 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.

Nearby star's icy debris suggests 'shepherd' planet

Researchers discovered a compact cloud of poisonous gas formed by ongoing collisions among a swarm of icy bodies, suggesting an unseen planet with Saturn-like mass. The study suggests that the comet swarm could be the remnant of a crash between two Mars-sized icy planets or frozen debris trapped by the gravity of the hypothetical planet.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014

Crystals ripple in response to light

Scientists have observed phonon polaritons in van der Waals crystals, which can be tunable and long-lived, opening the door for innovative applications in nanoscale devices. The discovery uses infrared light to launch waves that travel across the crystal material, creating interference patterns.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014

Crashing comets explain surprise gas clump around young star

The ALMA observations revealed a compact clump of carbon monoxide gas in the debris disc around Beta Pictoris, which is surprising given its short lifetime. The team suggests that cometary collisions are replenishing the carbon monoxide, with one large comet collision every five minutes needed to achieve this amount.

SourceESO·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014

Some people really just don't like music

Researchers identified individuals with specific musical anhedonia, a condition where people can't experience pleasure from music. They found that these individuals show no autonomic responses to music but respond to monetary rewards, suggesting different ways to access the reward system.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 6, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Colored diamonds are a superconductor's best friend

Researchers have successfully used flawed but colorful diamonds as sensitive magnetometers to study high-temperature superconductors. These diamond sensors can measure tiny magnetic fields in exotic materials and even human tissue, offering a new tool to explore the physics of these poorly understood materials.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPhysical Review B·DateMar 6, 2014

Enzyme controls transport of genomic building blocks

Researchers identified an enzyme called TLK1 that regulates the transport of histones to DNA copying hubs, crucial for maintaining normal gene function. The study found that TLK1 boosts the supply of histones at critical time points, ensuring correct chromatin architecture and cellular identity.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 6, 2014

NASA's TRMM satellite images show California soaker moved eastward

The TRMM satellite's data revealed a large low-pressure center in the Pacific Ocean moving towards California, resulting in over four inches of rain and evacuation orders. The storm then affected Arizona, New Mexico, and eventually the Ohio Valley, with precipitation and snow covering large areas of the Eastern US.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 6, 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.

Warmer temperatures push malaria to higher elevations

Researchers have found that warmer temperatures push malaria to higher elevations in highland regions of Ethiopia and Colombia, with significant consequences for densely populated areas. Climate change is expected to result in a substantial increase in malaria cases globally unless disease monitoring and control efforts are strengthened.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014

Study identifies gene important to breast development and breast cancer

A study at Tufts University has identified the gene TAZ as a critical regulator of breast cell development and cancer. The research team found that TAZ helps to control whether breast cells behave like basal or luminal cells, which is important in understanding and treating certain types of aggressive breast cancer.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 6, 2014

Warmer temperatures push malaria to higher elevations

Researchers found a clear signal of climate change's impact on malaria, with cases shifting to higher elevations in warmer years and back down in cooler years. Climate warming is expected to increase malaria cases in tropical highland areas, particularly in Africa and South America.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014

Obese adolescents not getting enough sleep?

A study found that low sleep duration in obese adolescents significantly increases their risk of cardiometabolic diseases. Researchers used physical activity monitors to measure typical patterns of physical activity and sleep, and found a strong association between sleep duration and cardiometabolic risk score.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateMar 6, 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.

$4 million grant to improve asthma care for So Cal Latino youth

Researchers at San Diego State University will develop tailored asthma management strategies and community programs to improve control and minimize complications among Latino children. The project aims to address disparities in asthma care, informing a more culturally appropriate approach to treatment.

SourceSan Diego State University·DateMar 6, 2014

New center for space environmemt management announced in Australia

The Australian National University-led Cooperative Research Centre for Space Environment Management will track space debris, improve predictions of space debris orbits, and predict potential collisions in space. The center aims to reduce the rate of debris proliferation and remove debris using ground-based lasers.

SourceAustralian National University·DateMar 6, 2014

Robotic prosthesis turns drummer into a 3-armed cyborg

A robotic prosthesis has been developed for an amputee drummer, allowing him to play with unprecedented control and creativity. The device features two drumsticks, one controlled by the musician's arms and the other using electromyography sensors that respond to muscle signals.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateMar 6, 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.

MIT team proposes storing extra rocket fuel in space for future missions

The MIT team proposes using contingency propellant from past missions to fuel future spacecraft, reducing the need for additional fuel storage. By utilizing a 'steady-state' approach and stockpiling fuel at depots in space, lunar missions can carry heavier payloads with less fuel.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalActa Astronautica·DateMar 6, 2014

Returning vets face 'warring identities' distress

A recent study explores the mental state of returning veterans, finding that many struggle with identity conflict and feel 'alien' among family and friends. The research highlights the need for broader dialogue around veteran experiences beyond diagnosable illnesses like PTSD.

SourceBrown University·JournalSociety and Mental Health·DateMar 6, 2014

Transplanted human umbilical cord blood cells improved heart function in rat model of MI

Researchers found that human umbilical cord blood cells transplanted into rats with simulated myocardial infarction improved left ventricular heart function and preserved myocardial fiber structure. The study showed long-term benefits for the treated rats, suggesting a potential therapy for MIs.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateMar 6, 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.

Alzheimer's research team employs stem cells to understand disease processes and study new treatment

A team of researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital has generated stem cells from skin biopsies of living family members with a genetic predisposition to early-onset Alzheimer's. The study found that the APPV7171 mutation alters amyloid-beta protein generation, Tau protein expression, and phosphorylation, providing new insights into ...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateMar 6, 2014

Sudden cardiac death: Genetic disease ARVC more common than hitherto assumed

A recent study reveals that the genetic disease ARVC is more widespread than initially assumed, with all known affected families sharing a common genetic origin. The mutation was first identified in Canada and has since been found in European countries including Germany, Denmark, and the USA, indicating a shared European heritage.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMar 6, 2014

Astronomers witness mysterious, never-before-seen disintegration of asteroid

Astronomers have witnessed the first-ever breakup of an asteroid into as many as 10 smaller pieces using NASA's Hubble Space Telescope. The discovery suggests that sunlight may be responsible for this type of disintegration, which is a subtle effect known as YORP torque.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 6, 2014

Listening to whispers at the water cooler

A Tel Aviv University study reveals that pay secrecy weakens employees' perception of a pay increase following performance improvement. High-performing workers are more sensitive to the lack of link between performance and pay, leading to decreased job satisfaction and increased turnover.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateMar 6, 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.

Plasma plumes help shield Earth from damaging solar storms

Scientists at MIT and NASA have identified a process in the Earth's magnetosphere that reinforces its shielding effect, keeping incoming solar energy at bay. A plume of low-energy plasma particles slows magnetic reconnection, blunting the sun's effects on Earth.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 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.

Hudds researchers call for major 'de-escalation' survey within the NHS

A lack of evidence on effective de-escalation techniques has been identified by researchers, who are now calling for a randomized controlled trial to establish best methods. The NHS reports a rise in reported assaults, highlighting the need for research to identify the most successful approaches.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalJournal of Intellectual Disabilities and Offending Behaviour·DateMar 6, 2014

Large-scale study shows power of pre-K

The study found significant positive outcomes for children enrolled in the state's universal pre-k program, with average scores above the national norm on key measures of language, literacy, and math. The results were most pronounced in key language and literacy skills, which are important precursors for later reading ability.

SourceFrank Porter Graham Child Development Institute·DateMar 6, 2014

Extraordinary momentum and spin discovered in evanescent light waves

A team of researchers at RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science discovered that evanescent electromagnetic waves carry momentum and spin components orthogonal to the direction of wave propagation. These findings offer a unique opportunity to investigate fundamental physical features, previously hidden in usual propagating light.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 6, 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.

Birds display lateralization bias when selecting flight paths

A study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that birds exhibit individual lateralization biases when choosing flight paths, enabling flocks to split and avoid crowding. This allows them to navigate complex environments, such as dense bush and forests, with remarkable speed and accuracy.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 6, 2014

ALMA sees icy wreckage in nearby solar system

Astronomers using ALMA telescope discover compact region of carbon monoxide gas swirling around young star Beta Pictoris, suggesting total destruction of comet every five minutes. The detection implies a massive swarm of icy bodies, possibly two Mars-size planets colliding within the past million years.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014

Fertilizer in small doses yields higher returns for less money

Researchers found that smallholder farmers' investment in microdosing led to improved productivity, with a 30-35% increase in adoption rates after training. Microdosing uses fertilizer more efficiently and has unlocked the power of chemical fertilizers in low-rainfall areas.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateMar 6, 2014

Inherited Alzheimer's damage greater decades before symptoms appear

Researchers have found that rapid neuronal damage occurs 10-20 years before symptoms of inherited Alzheimer's disease appear, providing a crucial window for intervention. A clinical trial is underway to test the safety and efficacy of experimental drugs in this population.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 6, 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.

Waiting for a donor heart: Motion prolongs survival

A new study found that patients with advanced cardiac insufficiency who remain active and have low levels of depression can significantly increase their chances of surviving the waiting period for a donor heart. The researchers recommend psychological counseling to help patients stay physically active and reduce symptoms of depression.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalHealth Psychology·DateMar 6, 2014

Birds of all feathers and global flu diversity

A global inventory of flu strains in birds has identified over 116 avian flu strains in wild birds, twice the number found in domestic birds. The study also reveals patterns of flu diversity in different bird hosts, with some strains specific to certain species.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 6, 2014

Genetic techniques have role in future of dental care

Researchers at the University of Adelaide are investigating epigenetics as a tool for understanding oral health. They aim to develop personalized treatments by analyzing an individual's epigenetic profile and environment.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalAustralian Dental Journal·DateMar 6, 2014

Complications following surgery predict costly readmissions

A study found that patients with post-surgical complications are at high risk of readmission, with rates exceeding 70%. The research suggests that a simple online tool can help identify patients at risk and inform care decisions.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMar 6, 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.

ANU astronomers to help clean up space junk

A new Cooperative Research Centre will use lasers to track and remove space debris in low orbits around the Earth. The initiative aims to reduce collision risks for satellites, space stations, and spacecraft.

SourceAustralian National University·DateMar 6, 2014

Infants using known verbs to learn new nouns

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that infants can use known verbs to learn new nouns by paying attention to how words are used in sentences. This suggests that word learning occurs naturally and can be facilitated by everyday conversations.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCognition·DateMar 6, 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.

Strategies on the Internet to discredit generic drugs

A four-year study of over 3,000 opinions on Spanish web pages found that communication strategies aimed at creating risk perceptions about generic drugs may influence their low usage. Generic drugs have the same composition, quality, and safety as brand-name counterparts, yet their market share in Spain is lower than in Europe.

SourceUNED National Distance Education University·JournalQualitative Social Work·DateMar 6, 2014

Common mutation is culprit in acute leukemia relapse

Researchers found that a common mutation activates the Akt pathway, rendering cells resistant to chemotherapy and increasing growth. Inhibition of this pathway restored leukemic cell responses to front-line therapy.

SourceHarvard University·JournalCancer Cell·DateMar 6, 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.

Researchers identify a critical link between obesity and diabetes

A study identifies a key role for RBP4 in insulin resistance and inflammation of fat tissue, leading to an increased risk of diabetes. Researchers found that elevated RBP4 levels activate immune cells, triggering chronic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 6, 2014

Warmer temperatures fuel spread of malaria into higher elevations

New research by HHMI scientists shows that as temperatures rise in tropical regions, malaria can spread to populations at higher elevations previously unaffected. Without increased control measures, climate change will increase the burden of malaria, particularly in densely populated areas at higher elevations.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Researchers calculate how river networks move across a landscape

Researchers at MIT and ETH Zurich develop technique to measure river network change, finding some rivers shifting due to imbalance in drainage divides. The study suggests that regions like the southeastern US are experiencing river network movement due to tectonic activity.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 2014

How seeing the same GP helps your health

Research reveals patients who see the same doctor over time are more likely to raise a range of health problems and issues during consultations. This is because the doctor has better knowledge of their medical history and can address more topics within available time frames.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateMar 6, 2014

Researchers map European climate change

A new study predicts that most of Europe will experience higher warming than the global average if surface temperatures rise to 2 °C above pre-industrial levels. This could lead to increased evaporation and drought in regions like Spain, Portugal, and France, as well as more frequent extreme precipitation events and flood risks.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 6, 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.

Offshore dispersant data and decisions

Scientists have identified issues with standard toxicity testing data used to inform dispersant decisions, highlighting the need for more accurate and comparable data. The current practices do not adequately replicate field conditions, such as sea state and weather, or consider exposure durations and concentrations.

SourceSociety of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateMar 6, 2014

Physician bias does not affect hypertension treatment for minority patients, says CU

A University of Colorado Boulder study has found that physicians' unconscious biases do not affect high blood pressure treatment for their minority patients. Despite earlier research showing a link between biases and lower patient ratings, the new study found no similar effect on treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMar 6, 2014

Discovery sheds new light on marijuana's anxiety relief effects

Researchers identify cannabinoid receptors in the central nucleus of the amygdala, a key emotional hub involved in regulating anxiety and stress responses. The discovery may help explain why marijuana users take the drug to reduce anxiety.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateMar 6, 2014

NASA's THEMIS discovers new process that protects Earth from space weather

A new study reveals that a pool of dense particles in the magnetosphere can extend out to meet and block incoming solar material, adding an extra layer of protection for spacecraft. This process helps curb magnetic reconnection, allowing energy and solar material to cross the boundary into the magnetosphere.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalScience·DateMar 6, 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.

Preschoolers can outsmart college students at figuring out gizmos

Preschoolers outperformed college students in figuring out cause-and-effect relationships using an unconventional game, thanks to their flexible thinking and ability to consider unlikely possibilities. The study suggests that young children's exploratory learning skills can be leveraged to improve machine learning.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCognition·DateMar 6, 2014

Energy drinks linked to teen health risks

A new report finds energy drink consumption among teenagers may be linked with poor mental health and substance use, with nearly two thirds reporting use in the past year. Younger high school students were more likely to consume energy drinks than older ones, highlighting a trend of concern.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateMar 6, 2014

Contacts better than permanent lenses for babies after cataract surgery

A recent NIH study found that contact lenses are safer and just as effective as permanent lenses for infants under seven months old after cataract surgery. The study showed more post-surgical complications and repeat surgeries in the IOL group compared to the contact lens group.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateMar 6, 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.

Access to social workers could keep veterans out of criminal justice system, MU researchers find

University of Missouri researchers have found that access to social workers can address veteran's needs and prevent entry into the criminal justice system. Social workers play a key role in treating veterans with multifaceted treatment plans tailored to their individual needs, reducing substance abuse and mental health issues.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Forensic Social Work·DateMar 6, 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.

Kawasaki disease and pregnant women

Researchers at UC San Diego have found that the health risks to pregnant women with a history of Kawasaki disease (KD) are low with proper management and care. The study, published in British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, also notes that the long-term risk for adults with KD is not known.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBritish Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology·DateMar 6, 2014

New therapies targeting cancer, Alzheimer's goal of UH physicist

Margaret Cheung, a UH physicist, has been awarded the American Physical Society fellowship for her work on biophysics and its applications to cancer and Alzheimer's research. Her research focuses on understanding protein behavior in cells to develop novel therapeutic strategies.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMar 6, 2014

Vitamin D increases breast cancer patient survival

Breast cancer patients with high vitamin D levels are twice as likely to survive the disease. Vitamin D receptors prevent tumor growth and expansion, leading to better survival rates in patients with high serum levels.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAnticancer Research·DateMar 6, 2014

Are you smarter than a 5-year-old? Preschoolers can do algebra

A recent study published in Developmental Science found that preschoolers (4-6 years old) can do basic algebra naturally, leveraging their Approximate Number System. The study used magic cups filled with objects to test children's ability to solve for a hidden variable.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalDevelopmental Science·DateMar 6, 2014

PNAS announces 6 2013 Cozzarelli Prize recipients

The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) has selected six papers for the 2013 Cozzarelli Prize, honoring originality and excellence in scientific disciplines. The award recipients include studies on planetary formation, task-related 'cortical' bursting, and honey bee pathogen replication.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 6, 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.

Misplaced protein causes heart failure

A new study published in Circulation reveals how changes in the organized cell membrane network of heart muscle leads to heart failure. Colchicine, a drug used for gout treatment, protects normal heart function by reducing microtubule density, while taxol accelerates damage during heart failure.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalCirculation·DateMar 6, 2014

LSUHSC mental health care model reduced symptoms in those most affected by BP oil spill

A novel approach integrating psychiatrists, psychologists, and telemedicine into primary care clinics significantly reduced psychiatric and general medical symptoms. The model has been shown to improve treatment outcomes and increase access to care for rural communities with limited mental health resources.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalPsychiatric Services·DateMar 6, 2014

Eating red and processed meat -- what do scientists say?

A recent perspective paper cautions about uncertainties in scientific evidence linking red and processed meat to increased cancer risk. The review discusses differences between animal studies and human data, suggesting that other foods may protect the gut from potential adverse effects of meat.

SourceElsevier·JournalMeat Science·DateMar 6, 2014

Computational tool offers new insight into key biological processes

Researchers developed an algorithm to identify functional modules and relationships between metabolites, reactions, and enzymes in biochemical pathways. The tool enables life scientists to target their research efforts on critical groups most likely to improve our ability to understand and control important biological processes.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Cybernetics·DateMar 6, 2014

Up-converted radio

A new approach converts weak microwave signals into visible light for clean detection and reduces noise by a thousand times. This all-optical detection method is the first to achieve this at room temperature.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalNature·DateMar 6, 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.

E-cigarettes: Gateway to nicotine addiction for US teens, says UCSF study

A new UC San Francisco study found that e-cigarettes are likely to be gateway devices for nicotine addiction among youth, opening up a new market for tobacco. The study of nearly 40,000 US teens discovered that e-cigarette use among middle and high school students doubled between 2011 and 2012.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 6, 2014

Early detection helps manage a chronic graft-vs.-host disease complication

Researchers found that a simple questionnaire predicting lung involvement improves patient outcomes in chronic graft-vs.-host disease. A score of 3 indicates shortness of breath at rest or requiring oxygen, associated with higher mortality. Early detection enables timely treatment to reduce symptoms and improve survival.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalBiology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation·DateMar 6, 2014

Collecting digital user data without invading privacy

A team of computer scientists from Saarland University has developed a software system called Privada, which enables website owners to collect user data while protecting individual privacy. The system uses multi-party computation and perturbation to ensure that only trends in the aggregated statistic are preserved.

SourceSaarland University·DateMar 6, 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.