Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for September 23, 2014


Future flexible electronics based on carbon nanotubes

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) show promise as a successor to silicon for smaller, faster and cheaper electronic devices. A new method improves their reliability and performance by coating them with PVDF-TrFE, a fluoropolymer that mitigates impurities and defects.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 23, 2014

Facial masculinity not always a telling factor in mate selection

Researchers found no universal preference for high testosterone faces and nuanced effects of culture on mate choice. Across 12 populations, women preferred slightly less masculine faces, suggesting factors beyond infectious disease rates influence attractiveness.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 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.

Research shows alcohol consumption influenced by genes

A study published in Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research found that people's perception of alcohol taste varies due to genetic differences in bitter taste receptors. These differences can influence drinking habits, with some individuals experiencing more bitterness and lower liking for alcoholic beverages.

SourcePenn State·DateSep 23, 2014

Paraffins to cut energy consumption in homes

A new prototype developed by UPV/EHU researchers uses latent heat from paraffin materials to store thermal energy, offering a compact and modular solution for homes. The system can achieve up to 50% less volume and flexible design, making it suitable for spaces with limited availability.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalEnergy·DateSep 23, 2014

New hope for beloved family pets

Researchers at the University of Leicester have developed a novel electronic system for diagnosing canine lymphoma in its early stages and monitoring remission after chemotherapy. The cLBT test detects biomarkers associated with the disease, offering improved diagnostic capabilities for veterinarians and pet owners.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateSep 23, 2014

Being sheepish about climate adaptation

Researchers identified 230 SNPs associated with climate change and found that gene TBC1D12 became advantageous in colder climates, suggesting a link between sunlight and vegetation availability. The study could inform breeding practices for more resilient livestock breeds.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateSep 23, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New research suggests sleep apnea screening before surgery

Patients with untreated sleep apnea are at increased risk of serious cardiovascular complications, but those diagnosed and treated prior to surgery can experience a significant reduction in risk. The study found that respiratory complications were also twice as likely to occur in patients with OSA, compared to those without the condition.

SourceAmerican Society of Anesthesiologists·JournalAnesthesiology·DateSep 23, 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.

Protecting our processors

The NSF/SRC STARSS program aims to reduce the likelihood of unintended behavior in semiconductors. Researchers will focus on strategies and tools for authentication throughout the supply chain and in the field.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateSep 23, 2014

New supplemental awards apply sex and gender lens to NIH-funded research

The National Institutes of Health has awarded $10.1 million in supplemental funding to bolster the research of 82 grantees exploring sex effects in preclinical and clinical studies. This investment encourages researchers to consider sex as a fundamental variable, leading to greater awareness of the need to study both sexes.

SourceNIH/Office of the Director·DateSep 23, 2014

NASA sees Tropical Depression Fung-Wong becoming more frontal

Tropical Depression Fung-Wong is transitioning from a tropical to an extra-tropical storm, gaining frontal characteristics. The depression has strongest thunderstorms stretched out in a cold front-like appearance, according to NASA's Aqua satellite data.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 23, 2014

Termites evolved complex bioreactors 30 million years ago

Termite fungus farmers developed a sophisticated system of cooperation between fungi and gut bacteria to break down complex plant components. The symbiotic community optimized for efficient plant decomposition involves division of labor, with fungi handling carbohydrates and gut microbes contributing enzymes for final digestion.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 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.

New measure provides more data on oxygen levels during sedation

A new study introduces the 'area under the curve of oxygen desaturation', which provides a more comprehensive approach to monitoring blood oxygen levels during procedures. This measure, known as AUC Desat, includes information on the depth, duration, and rate of episodes of oxygen desaturation.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalAnesthesia & Analgesia·DateSep 23, 2014

Medical students who attended community college likelier to serve poor communities

Researchers found that medical students from underrepresented minority backgrounds are more likely to have attended a community college at some point. Additionally, community college students who were accepted to medical school were more likely to commit to working with underserved populations.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateSep 23, 2014

UTSA microbiologists discover regulatory thermometer that controls cholera

Researchers at UTSA's South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases have discovered a regulatory thermometer in Vibrio cholerae bacteria that controls the expression of virulence factors leading to cholera. The discovery could lead to new therapeutic strategies against this deadly disease.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 2014

Brain wave may be used to detect what people have seen, recognize

New research suggests that a specific brain wave, P300, can be used to identify details that a person has seen and recognized from everyday life. A study found that this method could potentially be used in criminal investigations and courtrooms, with promising results.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 23, 2014

Federal food program puts food on the table, but dietary quality could be improved

A new study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that SNAP participants had lower dietary quality scores overall and lower scores for fruits and vegetables, seafood and plant proteins. The researchers highlight the need for interventions to encourage healthier diets among SNAP participants, particularly in subgroups at risk.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateSep 23, 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.

A multi-function protein is key to stopping genomic parasites from 'jumping'

A multi-function protein called Sirt6 plays a crucial role in keeping 'jumping genes' inactive. The protein becomes busier repairing DNA damage with age, allowing the genes to become active and contribute to age-related diseases like cancer. Increasing Sirt6 levels may help protect older cells from aging.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 23, 2014

Life, liberty, and the pursuit of healthcare?

A Tel Aviv University study reveals that the US' private-based healthcare system contributes to wealth-health inequality, with wealthy older Americans experiencing poorer health outcomes than their foreign counterparts. The research supports a move towards state-sponsored healthcare systems.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateSep 23, 2014

'Space bubbles' may have aided enemy in fatal Afghan battle

Researchers suggest that plasma bubbles may have contributed to communications outages during the Battle of Takur Ghar. A new computer model predicts the impact of such bubbles on future military operations, allowing for minimization of their effects.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalSpace Weather·DateSep 23, 2014

Results of the 1st EORTC Cancer Survivorship Summit

The 1st EORTC Cancer Survivorship Summit has reported improved survival rates for patients with cancer, while also highlighting the need to address late adverse treatment effects. The summit addressed various topics including second malignancies, cardiovascular disease, and psycho-social problems following cancer treatment.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·JournalEuropean Journal of Cancer·DateSep 23, 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.

Dying brain cells cue new brain cells to grow in songbird

A study on Gambel's white-crowned sparrows reveals how dying brain cells trigger the growth of new neurons each spring. The researchers hope to apply this knowledge to develop treatments for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and depression.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateSep 23, 2014

'Brain Breaks' increase activity, educational performance in elementary schools

A recent Oregon survey found that the 'Brain Breaks' DVD increases physical activity and improves educational performance among elementary school students. The program, developed by Oregon State University, offers short breaks of physical activity to improve children's mental awareness and educational success.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateSep 23, 2014

Advancing the understanding of an understudied food allergy disorder

Eosinophilic gastritis is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by high levels of eosinophils in the blood and gastrointestinal tract. The study found that it involves allergy-associated-immune mechanisms and has a distinct gene expression pattern, paving the way for improved diagnosis and treatment.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateSep 23, 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.

Southampton scientists grow a new challenger to graphene

Researchers from the University of Southampton's Optoelectronics Research Centre have grown a new material, molybdenum di-sulphide (MoS2), with properties similar to graphene. This development expands the potential applications of MoS2 for nanoelectronic and optoelectronic devices.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNanoscale·DateSep 23, 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.

Rate of diabetes in US may be leveling off

The prevalence of diagnosed diabetes in the US population has plateaued for adults between 2008 and 2012, with a slight decrease in incidence. However, certain subgroups continue to experience an increase in diabetes rates, exacerbating existing racial and socioeconomic disparities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 23, 2014

Study helps assess impact of temperature on belowground soil decomposition

A new study finds that soil organic carbon decomposition does not accelerate under climate warming, but its storage remains constant. Ecosystem productivity increases with temperature change, while coarse wood decomposition and plant growth rates rise.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Southwest Research Station·JournalNature Climate Change·DateSep 23, 2014

Airway muscle-on-a-chip mimics asthma

A Harvard team developed a human airway muscle-on-a-chip that accurately mimics the way smooth muscle contracts in the human airway. The chip can be used to test new drugs and measure human responses to asthma triggers, paving the way for patient-specific treatments.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalLab on a Chip·DateSep 23, 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.

Increased knowledge of HPV vaccines does not predict a higher rate of vaccination

A year-long study found that increased knowledge of HPV vaccines did not lead to higher vaccination rates among adolescents. Only about 14% of participants were ultimately vaccinated. The study highlights the importance of targeted interventions and convenient vaccination options in increasing vaccine uptake.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania Annenberg School for Communication·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 23, 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.

A step in the right direction to avoid falls

Researchers at Ohio State University have gained insight into how the body moves when walking by watching people walk naturally on a treadmill. They discovered that tiny variations in pelvis movement and foot placement can predict future steps with high accuracy.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBiology Letters·DateSep 23, 2014

Big changes in the Sargasso Sea

Researchers found that animal communities in Sargassum rafts were significantly less diverse than those observed in the 1970s, with 13 species missing from recent samples. The study suggests that long-term shifts in ocean conditions may be contributing to the decline, but further research is needed to confirm this.

SourceMonterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute·JournalMarine Biology·DateSep 23, 2014

Eating five a day may keep the blues away

Fruit and vegetable consumption consistently associated with high and low mental wellbeing, suggesting potential role as driver of mental health in the general population. High mental wellbeing linked to healthier lifestyle habits, while low mental wellbeing strongly linked to mental illness and physical diseases.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBMJ Open·DateSep 23, 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.

Kessler Foundation researchers find foot drop stimulator beneficial in stroke rehab

A study published by Kessler Foundation researchers found that using a foot drop stimulator during walking can retrain the temporal activation of the tibialis anterior muscle, improving muscle function. The results suggest that this intervention may facilitate recovery from foot drop, a common complication of stroke.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalNeuroRehabilitation An International Interdisciplinary Journal·DateSep 23, 2014

Moving to the 'burbs is bad for business

A Concordia University study found that businesses located furthest from market expansion have higher profits than those chasing customers. Retailers should analyze the market and secure good locations early on to maximize profits.

SourceConcordia University·JournalCanadian Journal of Administrative Sciences / Revue Canadienne des Sciences de l Administration·DateSep 23, 2014

Water-quality trading can reduce river pollution

A new study by Duke University researchers suggests that water-quality trading programs can significantly lower costs of achieving Clean Water Act goals. By allowing polluters to buy, sell or trade credits, these programs can reduce pollution in river basins and estuaries faster and at a lower cost than requiring facilities to meet com...

SourceDuke University·JournalWater Resources Research·DateSep 23, 2014

Could suburban sprawl be good for segregation?

Researchers found that low-density neighborhoods are more likely to stay integrated, while high-density areas become segregated. The study uses a mathematical model to simulate the movement of families between neighborhoods and shows that cities can quickly become segregated once a certain density threshold is reached.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 2014

Researchers identify brain areas activated by itch-relieving drug

Researchers identify butorphanol's target areas in the brain responsible for relieving itch, shedding light on its effectiveness against histamine-mediated and nonhistaminergic types of itch. The study's findings suggest that opioid receptors play a crucial role in modulating itch transmission.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateSep 23, 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.

'Bendy' LEDs

A Korean research team has successfully grown gallium nitride micro-rods on graphene substrates, enabling the creation of bendable light-emitting diodes. The technology has significant implications for next-generation electronics and optoelectronics devices.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Materials·DateSep 23, 2014

Smart meters could cause conflict for housemates, study shows

A study by University of Nottingham researchers found that smart meters displaying individual and communal energy usage can lead to feelings of shame, anger, and guilt among housemates. This may result in increased conflict and negative emotions, particularly when one or more housemates are free-riding on others' energy usage.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateSep 23, 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.

New NIH/DOE grant for life science studies at NSLS-II

The new grant will operate three powerful experimental stations at NSLS-II, allowing researchers to study protein structures and biological processes in detail. The facilities will also enable the development of new technologies for addressing challenging biological questions.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·DateSep 23, 2014

EORTC presentations at ESMO 2014 Congress

The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) will showcase its latest cancer research findings at the ESMO 2014 Congress. The conference will feature various sessions, including a joint symposium on clinical trials and posters focused on immunotherapy and gastrointestinal tumors.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·DateSep 23, 2014

Infant cooing, babbling linked to hearing ability, MU researcher finds

Researchers found that infants with profound hearing loss who received cochlear implants reached vocalization levels of their hearing peers. This suggests that hearing is a critical aspect of motivation for making early sounds, and that auditory feedback plays a dynamic role in infant behavior.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateSep 23, 2014

Beating stress outdoors? Nature group walks may improve mental health

A large-scale study has found that group nature walks are linked with lower depression, less perceived stress, and enhanced mental health. Regular participants in the Walking for Health program experienced a mood boost after outdoor group walks, especially those who had recently experienced stressful life events.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalEcopsychology·DateSep 23, 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.

Stop taking patients in cardiac arrest to hospital, says expert

A leading expert suggests that taking patients in cardiac arrest to hospital may be actively harmful and recommends empowering ambulance staff with skills to optimise CPR at the scene. This approach could save lives and reduce unnecessary transports, but experts acknowledge the complexity of applying guidelines in different regions.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateSep 23, 2014

Does the belief in guardian angels make people more cautious?

A recent study published in SAGE Open found that individuals who believe in guardian angels tend to be less likely to take risks compared to non-believers. The researchers surveyed 198 participants and discovered that the majority of those who believe in guardian angels are more cautious when making decisions, with a higher risk percep...

SourceSAGE·JournalSAGE Open·DateSep 23, 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.

Note to young men: Fat doesn't pay

Researchers analyzed data from Sweden, UK, and US, finding obese teen boys earn up to 18% less than peers. The study attributes the penalty to lower cognitive and non-cognitive skills linked to obesity, bullying, and discrimination. Targeting early-life obesity could reduce socio-economic inequalities.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalDemography·DateSep 23, 2014

Study finds gallbladder surgery can wait

Researchers found that patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy during normal working hours were more likely to receive minimally invasive procedures. The study also revealed no significant differences in complication rates or length of stay between day and night surgeries.

SourceLA BioMed·DateSep 23, 2014

The mechanics of tissue growth

Carnegie Mellon researchers found that mechanical processes, not just chemical signaling, are essential for cell communication during tissue growth. The study used a microfluidic control system to analyze cellular mechanics and revealed that disabling these connections impairs cell communication.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 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.

Search for better biofuels microbes leads to the human gut

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that human gut microbes can digest fiber and ferment it into nutrients for human cells. The microbes appear to have enzymes that break down complex plant fiber components more efficiently than cow rumen microbes, which could aid in biofuels production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 2014

Antifreeze proteins in Antarctic fish prevent both freezing and melting

Researchers discovered that antifreeze protein-bound ice crystals resist melting even when temperatures warm, leading to potential adverse physiological consequences for the fish. The study also found ice superheating in nature, a phenomenon where internal ice crystals fail to melt at their normal melting point.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 2014

Lack of sleep increases risk of failure in school

A Swedish study found that adolescents with sleep disturbance or short sleep duration are less likely to succeed academically. The research suggests that sleep may play a crucial role for adolescents' performance at school, with around 30% of participants reporting regular sleep problems.

SourceUppsala University·JournalSleep Medicine·DateSep 23, 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.

Nanotubes help healing hearts keep the beat

Researchers at Rice University created patches infused with conductive single-walled carbon nanotubes to overcome limitations in current patches, which hinder the transfer of electrical signals between cardiomyocytes. The patches can serve as full-thickness repairs without inducing abnormal cardiac rhythms.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 23, 2014

Researchers reveal new rock formation in Colorado

A new rock formation, Tava sandstone, has been discovered in the Colorado Rockies, featuring an unusual relationship with older rocks. The formation is believed to have resulted from large earthquakes or other catastrophic events, and its age dates back to ~750 million years ago during the Cryogenian Period.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalLithosphere·DateSep 23, 2014

Patients accept false-positives to achieve diagnostic sensitivity

A study found that patients and healthcare professionals are willing to accept high rates of false-positives in cancer screening tests in exchange for increased diagnostic sensitivity. This means they are more likely to undergo unnecessary testing, such as radiologic or invasive follow-up tests, than accurate but inconclusive results.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateSep 23, 2014

First drink to first drunk

A study found that early age of first drink and quick progression to intoxication are associated with high school student alcohol use and binge drinking. The research suggests that teenagers who start drinking at an early age tend to drink more heavily and engage in binge drinking.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateSep 23, 2014

New anti-cancer peptide vaccines and inhibitors developed by Ohio State Researchers

Two new peptide vaccines and two peptide inhibitors targeting HER-3 and IGF-1R receptors have been developed by Ohio State Researchers. The studies show that combining these agents can boost effectiveness and prevent drug resistance, leading to improved response rates and durable remissions for various types of cancer.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalOncoImmunology·DateSep 23, 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.

Case Western Reserve University on track to become No. 1 synchrotron lab in world

The Case Center for Synchrotron Biosciences will assemble cutting-edge Nnew beamlines at Brookhaven National Laboratory, delivering ultra powerful x-rays to visualize nano-scale structures of molecules and proteins. The new facility will enable scientists to pinpoint disease-causing vulnerabilities and target therapeutic interventions.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateSep 23, 2014

NIH funds next phase of Tissue Chip for Drug Screening program

The National Institutes of Health will award $17 million to support the development of human tissue chip technology, which could revolutionize predicting drug failure or success. Integrating chips mimicking human organ functions into a full body system will enable real-time measurement of drug effects and improve biomedical research.

SourceNIH/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)·DateSep 23, 2014

Microplastic pollution discovered in St. Lawrence River sediments

Researchers found microplastics in nearly every sediment sample from the St. Lawrence River, with concentrations rivaling those in the world's most contaminated ocean sediments. The discovery raises concerns about the potential impact of microplastics on freshwater ecosystems.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·DateSep 23, 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.

Researchers develop new DNA sequencing method to diagnose tuberculosis

Researchers have developed a new DNA sequencing method that can detect and characterize the bacteria causing tuberculosis in a matter of days, without the need for time-consuming laboratory culture. The technique, known as metagenomics, uses high-throughput sequencing technologies to analyze DNA extracted from sputum samples.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateSep 23, 2014

Gene mutation discovered in blood disorder

A gene mutation in ACD has been linked to aplastic anemia by disrupting telomere function and protecting cells from DNA damage. Researchers hope this discovery will lead to new treatments for the disease.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalBlood·DateSep 23, 2014

New analysis of human genetic history reveals female dominance

A new study using high-resolution Y chromosome sequencing has found that female populations have been larger throughout human history and remain so in most populations. The research suggests that processes like polygyny and women's tendency to move with their husbands contribute to females making a greater genetic contribution.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalInvestigative Genetics·DateSep 23, 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.

Immune system is key ally in cyberwar against cancer

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new two-step strategy for weakening cancer by harnessing the power of the immune system. The study found that alternating cycles of radiation or chemotherapy with immune-boosting treatments can alter the balance between cancer and the immune system, ultimately bringing the cancer to a wea...

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 2014