Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for April 13, 2015


A new tool for understanding ALS: Patients' brain cells

Johns Hopkins researchers have developed a new tool for understanding ALS by transforming skin cells into brain cells affected by the disease. The resulting cell library, now publicly available, will enable scientists to study the disease in greater detail and potentially discover new treatments.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 13, 2015

CNIO experts identify an oncogene regulated by nutrients

Researchers from CNIO have discovered that the MCRS1 protein induces increased mTOR activity in response to excess nutrients, leading to cell growth and proliferation. This correlation was found in human colorectal cancer samples, suggesting a potential link between MCRS1 activity and disease prognosis.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateApr 13, 2015

Passenger-focused air conditioning

The Visio.M project creates a subjectively pleasant climate for passengers in the most energy-efficient manner. The system uses Peltier elements to heat or cool seats directly, reducing waste heat and improving comfort.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateApr 13, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How Rhode Island Hospital used Google Glass to diagnose skin conditions

The study tested Google Glass for real-time dermatological consultations in emergency departments, finding that patients preferred video consultations over phone calls. The device allowed doctors to appreciate the gestalt of skin eruptions and interact with each other remotely, improving diagnosis accuracy.

SourceLifespan·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateApr 13, 2015

Promising developments in tackling resistance to blood cancer drugs

Scientists at the University of Southampton have developed a drug that can reverse resistance to immunotherapy in certain leukaemias and non-Hodgkin lymphomas. The new antibody, BI-1206, works by binding to a molecule called FcγRIIB and enhancing cancer killing, promising improved treatment outcomes for patients with blood cancers.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalCancer Cell·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

NIH still active in Gulf region 5 years after oil spill

Researchers at NIH/NIEHS are studying the health impacts of the 2010 oil spill on Gulf Coast residents, including cleanup workers and local communities. The study found increased physical symptoms and mental health concerns among cleanup workers, highlighting the need for further research and preparedness.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·DateApr 13, 2015

Tradition is more important than education in determining participation European immigrant women's role in the workforce

Research shows that traditional values and religiosity are stronger predictors of female participation in the workforce than education. The study compares attitudes of over 3,000 immigrant women with 40,000 non-emigrant European women, finding a significant positive correlation between cultural norms and work behavior.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateApr 13, 2015

U-M researchers find new gene involved in blood-forming stem cells

A new gene involved in blood-forming stem cells has been discovered by U-M researchers, providing insights into the body's ability to create and maintain a healthy blood supply. The Ash1l gene plays a critical role in regulating hematopoietic stem cell maintenance and self-renewal potential.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 13, 2015

Task Force weighs evidence on diabetes screening; more research news in Annals of Internal Medicine

The USPSTF completed a systematic evidence review to inform an upcoming update of Task Force recommendations on screening asymptomatic adults for type 2 diabetes. Screening was found to help delay progression to diabetes by identifying those who could benefit from treatment, but did not improve mortality rates.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

Bacterial raincoat discovery paves way to better crop protection

Researchers have uncovered how beneficial bacteria form a waterproof coating on plant roots to shield them from microbes that cause disease. This protective film incorporates proteins with shape-changing properties, enabling it to repel water and potentially harmful molecules.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2015

Mars might have liquid water

Researchers discovered calcium perchlorate, which lowers the freezing point, allowing for liquid water close to the Martian surface. The presence of brine suggests that large lakebeds and riverbeds existed on Mars, contradicting previous theories about a dry planet.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2015

Smartphone-based device could provide rapid, low-cost molecular tumor diagnosis

A smartphone-based device developed by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers uses hologram technology to collect detailed microscopic images for digital analysis of cancer cells and tissues. The D3 system can detect cancer proteins with high accuracy, categorizing biopsy samples as high-risk or low-risk in under an hour.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2015

Mechanism outlined by which inadequate vitamin E can cause brain damage

Vitamin E deficiency may lead to neurological damage by interrupting the supply of essential nutrients and robbing the brain of necessary building blocks. The study found that zebrafish fed a vitamin E deficient diet had lower levels of DHA-PC, a critical component of brain cells.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateApr 13, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Mystery of Rett timing explained in MeCP2 binding

Researchers discovered that MeCP2 binds to non-CG methylation patterns in the adult brain, which is unique to maturing and adult nervous systems. This finding explains why Rett syndrome symptoms appear after one to two years of age.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2015

Study finds emergency departments may help address opioid overdose, education

A study published in Western Journal of Emergency Medicine found that emergency departments can provide a promising venue for addressing opioid deaths through education on overdose prevention and naloxone rescue kit distribution. The program reached a high-risk population, equipped them with kits, and encouraged witness intervention.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalWestern Journal of Emergency Medicine·DateApr 13, 2015

Graphics in reverse

Researchers at MIT have developed a probabilistic programming language called Picture that can solve computer-vision tasks using short programs. The new system, which is competitive with conventional systems, has been shown to improve error rates on certain tasks, such as human pose estimation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateApr 13, 2015

Burying the climate change problem

A team of Brazilian researchers review the risk assessments for carbon geological storage technology and suggest caution is needed due to uncertainty about leakage from geological deposits. The scientific consensus emphasizes the importance of reducing emissions at source rather than relying on this method.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Global Warming·DateApr 13, 2015
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Your pain reliever may also be diminishing your joy

Researchers found that acetaminophen blunts positive emotions in users, reducing the intensity of both pleasant and disturbing photos. This study provides new insights into the broader consequences of using common pain relievers like Tylenol.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 13, 2015

Some atrial fibrillation patients receive unnecessary blood thinners

A quarter of all atrial fibrillation patients at the lowest risk for stroke receive unnecessary blood thinners from cardiology specialists. Researchers found that males and older patients were more likely to be prescribed oral anticoagulation despite having no risk factors for stroke.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

New strategy can help determine heart attack in patients within 1 hour

Researchers developed a high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T algorithm to rule out and rule-in heart attacks in emergency departments. The study found that the new strategy accelerated management of patients with suspected acute MI by allowing safe rule-out and accurate rule-in in 3 out of 4 patients.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 13, 2015

Mathematics department at Iowa State receives AMS national award

The Iowa State University Department of Mathematics has received the American Mathematical Society's Award for an Exemplary Program or Achievement in a Mathematics Department. The department has made significant improvements in undergraduate teaching, increasing retention rates and expanding its diversity through outreach programs like...

SourceAmerican Mathematical Society·DateApr 13, 2015

Coexisting in a sea of competition

Researchers used novel molecular and analytic tools to study how similar diatom species utilize resources differently, known as niche partitioning, in Narragansett Bay. The study found that two species of chain-forming diatoms coexist but use available nutrients, specifically nitrogen and phosphorus, differently.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2015

On the road to spin-orbitronics

Researchers at Berkeley Lab found a technique to switch magnetic domain wall chirality, paving the way for desired electronic memory and logic functions. This breakthrough could lead to smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient devices through solid-state magnetic memory.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

First Heine H. Hansen Award goes to Pieter E. Postmus

The first Heine H. Hansen Award recipient, Pieter Postmus, has made significant contributions to lung cancer research and education globally. He was recognized for his work in developing research programs in pulmonary circulation, pneumothorax, and thoracic oncology.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateApr 13, 2015

Mental rehearsal helps ER clinicians best prepare for trauma patients

A new study suggests that mental practice helps establish common team goals, set priorities, and maintain situation awareness among trauma resuscitation teams. This improves team behavior, including improved communication, and can improve patient safety and reduce medical errors.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalCanadian Journal of Emergency Medicine·DateApr 13, 2015

Emergency departments improve readiness to care for children

A new study found that nearly 50% of emergency departments have a pediatric coordinator, leading to improved readiness and a 70% national score increase since 2003. The assessment identified areas for improvement, including disaster plans and equipment availability.

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

Molecular signature for outcomes of triple negative breast cancer

A study has identified a molecular signature that drives the growth and survival of triple negative breast cancer cells. The research reveals that high levels of Myc protein and low levels of TXNIP correlate with poor patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2015

Is the length of work careers determined in utero?

A new Finnish study found that low birth weight at birth is associated with a higher risk of disability pension due to mental disorders. This can lead to an early exit from the workforce, resulting in a substantial loss to the economy.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 13, 2015

Pulmonary emphysema: Novel neutrophil elastase isoform discovered

Scientists at Helmholtz Zentrum München have identified a new isoform of neutrophil elastase involved in the pathogenesis of pulmonary emphysema. The cleaved form of the enzyme is particularly aggressive and resistant to inhibitors, leading to increased tissue damage.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

Updated assessment of pediatric readiness of emergency departments

A recent study found that US emergency departments have improved their pediatric readiness, with a median weighted pediatric readiness score of 68.9, up from a previous score of 55. This improvement is attributed to the implementation of a comprehensive assessment by a national coalition.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 13, 2015

New ways to see light and store information

Researchers have designed an organic electronic device with record-breaking ultra-long charge carrier lifetimes, opening up possibilities for new classes of devices such as sensitive photo detectors and flexible memory elements. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient solar cells, low-carbon electricity generation, and reduced e...

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateApr 13, 2015

More salt doesn't mean better performance for endurance athletes

A study by Saint Louis University researchers found that salt pill consumption neither improved nor worsened performance in endurance athletes. High-dose sodium supplementation did not impact thermoregulation or related measures such as sweat rate, perceived exertion, and cardiovascular drift.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalJournal of Sports Science and Medicine·DateApr 13, 2015

Gold by special delivery intensifies cancer-killing radiation

Researchers have developed a method to increase radiation's effectiveness in killing cancer cells by using gold nanoparticles tethered to acid-seeking compounds. The approach, published in PNAS, shows promising results and may improve radiation treatment for cancer patients.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2015
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 research cash for dementia and stroke still way too low

A study published in BMJ Open found that the UK's research funding for dementia and stroke is still too low, with cancer receiving nearly two-thirds of the £856 million allocated. The social care costs of dementia outweigh those of other conditions, highlighting the need for increased investment in these areas.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateApr 13, 2015

Logging means ants, worms and other invertebrates lose rainforest dominance

New research reveals that logging can cause significant declines in invertebrate diversity, but ecosystems can adapt to these changes by shifting responsibilities among species. In contrast, vertebrates are less diverse and more vulnerable to new challenges, making them a risky substitute for invertebrates.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2015

Fragment of continental crust found under south east Iceland

Researchers from the University of Liverpool found that south east Iceland is actually composed of a fragment of continental crust, extending offshore to the east. This discovery has significant implications for our understanding of mantle plumes and plate tectonics, with potential impacts on natural resources in the region.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2015

Penn Medicine pain management study reveals patient confusion about opioid addiction

A new Penn Medicine study found that patients seen in emergency departments have misperceptions about opioid dependence and want more information about their pain management options. Patients desire better communication from physicians about their pain management options, along with discussion of the risks of opioid dependence.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

Spinal surgery: Right on target

Researchers developed LevelCheck software to assist surgeons in identifying the correct vertebra during spine surgery. The software achieves 100% accuracy in just 26 seconds, helping prevent wrong-level surgeries and improving patient safety.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalSpine·DateApr 13, 2015

How a bacterial cell recognizes its own DNA

Researchers discovered how bacteria differentiate between self and foreign DNA using the CRISPR system, which involves identifying rapidly replicating DNA and utilizing DNA repair processes to create immune memory.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2015

NYU study identifies teens at risk for hashish use

A new NYU study examines prevalence and correlates of hashish use among US high school seniors, finding that males are more likely to use the potent form. The study also found that frequency of marijuana use increases risk for recent hashish use, with students who feel 'hooked' on marijuana nearly doubling their odds

SourceNew York University·JournalThe American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

Babies exposed to narcotic pain relievers more likely to experience withdrawal

A Vanderbilt University study finds that pregnant women prescribed opioids are more likely to give birth to babies with drug withdrawal syndrome. The study highlights the dangers of overprescription and the need for state and federal policy makers to address the opioid epidemic's impact on mothers and infants.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 13, 2015

Children with type 1 diabetes at fivefold risk of hospitalization

A study analyzing Welsh data reveals that children with type 1 diabetes are at a significantly higher risk of hospital admission compared to their non-diabetic peers. The research found that younger children and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are most at risk, highlighting the need for improved support and care.

SourceCardiff University·JournalBMJ Open·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

Solution-grown nanowires make the best lasers

Researchers have developed a method to grow organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite nanowires into elongated crystals that make extremely promising lasers. The tiny lasers are nearly 100% efficient and can create many colors of light, making them suitable for mini optoelectronics, computers, and sensors.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 13, 2015

MPSA to honor 14 research projects at the 73rd Annual Conference in Chicago

The Midwest Political Science Association (MPSA) will recognize and reward outstanding research projects presented at its annual conference. This year, fourteen papers have been selected for prestigious awards across various categories, including the AJPS Best Article Award and the Kellogg/Notre Dame Award.

SourceMidwest Political Science Association·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

X-ray ptychography, fluorescence microscopy combo sheds new light on trace elements

Scientists have developed a new approach combining ptychographic X-ray imaging and fluorescence microscopy to study the role of trace elements in biological functions. This technique demonstrates unparalleled sensitivity for measuring trace element distribution in thicker specimens at cryogenic temperatures.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

VTT printed a morphine test on paper

VTT created a morphine test printed on paper using antibodies, which enables rapid analysis of morphine presence in samples. The technology has potential applications in workplaces and traffic control.

SourceVTT Technical Research Centre of Finland·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateApr 13, 2015

Personalized computer feedback can mitigate problem gambling behaviors

A new study from the University of Missouri found that personalized computer feedback can significantly mitigate problem gambling behaviors in college-aged adults. Participants who received individualized feedback from a computer showed a significant decline in problem gambling behavior compared to those who received standard informati...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateApr 13, 2015

Balanced behavior with IRBIT

Researchers at RIKEN Brain Science Institute identified IRBIT as a key player in regulating dopamine levels in the brain. The absence of IRBIT leads to hyperactivity and abnormal social behavior in mice, highlighting its role in maintaining balance.

SourceRIKEN·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2015

Why we have chins

University of Iowa researchers found that human chins are an evolutionary adaptation, emerging as faces became smaller. The study suggests that mechanical forces like chewing did not create the chin, but rather a geometric change in face shape led to its development.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalJournal of Anatomy·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

Researchers identify drug target for ATRA, the first precision cancer therapy

A research team has identified a drug target for ATRA, a treatment for acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), by targeting the Pin1 enzyme. The discovery offers a promising new way to fight aggressive or drug-resistant cancers by degrading cancer stem cells and blocking multiple cancer-driving pathways.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 13, 2015

Warming seas pose habitat risk for fishy favorites

Research predicts that warming seas will constrain fish habitats, leading to reduced abundance of commercial species. The study used a model combining fisheries datasets and climate projections to predict future distributions of UK favourite fish.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 13, 2015

Meteorites key to the story of Earth's layers: ANU media release

A new analysis of meteorite composition helps scientists work out when the Earth formed its layers, confirming the first crust had formed around 4.5 billion years ago. The team measured hafnium and lutetium in zircon crystals from a rare meteorite, which originated early in the solar system.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2015

Unique UIC center will study alcohol's effect on genes

The University of Illinois College of Medicine will create a Center for Alcohol Research in Epigenetics (CARE) to investigate the impact of long-term alcohol exposure on genes. Researchers will explore how epigenetic changes influence gene expression and behavior, aiming to develop new pharmacotherapies for alcoholism.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

Scientists uncover gene 'architects' responsible for body's blueprint

Researchers have discovered two protein 'architects', MOZ and BMI1, which play opposing roles in guiding embryonic development. These proteins regulate Hox gene expression, ensuring the correct formation of body segments and tissues. The study sheds new light on how environmental factors can impact early embryo development.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2015

Engineers elucidate why skin is resistant to tearing

A team of researchers identified four mechanisms in collagen that work together to reduce stress concentrations at the tip of a tear. These mechanisms - rotation, straightening, stretching, and sliding - can be replicated in synthetic materials to improve strength and resistance to tearing.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2015

NASA catches Tropical Cyclone Solo dissipating

Tropical Cyclone Solo weakened under strong vertical wind shear, passing by New Caledonia on April 11 before being downgraded to a remnant low-pressure area. NASA's Aqua satellite captured an image of the remnants on April 13, revealing an elongated system with dissipated clouds.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

Researchers define role of Tmem231 in maintaining ciliary function

Researchers discovered that a protein called Tmem231 plays a crucial role in regulating ciliary membrane composition and function. This study sheds light on the mechanisms underlying Meckel syndrome and other human diseases characterized by defects in cilia.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateApr 13, 2015

Heart cells regenerated in mice

Scientists at the Weizmann Institute of Science have successfully regenerated heart cells in adult mice using a previously unknown signaling pathway. By activating ERBB2, a protein that plays a role in heart development, researchers were able to induce cardiac cell renewal and regeneration without excessive growth or scarring.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateApr 13, 2015

New light for old master paintings

A new technique based on Optical Coherence Tomography allows conservators to analyze the hidden layers in priceless paintings without removing physical samples. This enables detailed information on the chemical composition of paint and coatings applied over time.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateApr 13, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Improving work conditions increases parents' time with their children

A workplace intervention increased employed parents' daily time with their children by an average of 39 minutes per day, found a study published in Pediatrics. The Support-Transform-Achieve-Results (STAR) program improved family life by increasing employees' control over schedules and supervisor support for personal and family lives.

SourcePenn State·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 13, 2015

The placebome: Where genetics and the placebo effect meet

The study of genomics effects on placebos introduces the concept of 'the placebome,' identifying a network of genes that significantly influence medicine and clinical trial design. Genetic variations in neurotransmitter pathways modify placebo effects, suggesting placebos play a larger role in healthcare than previously recognized.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalTrends in Molecular Medicine·DateApr 13, 2015

Tango dancing benefits Parkinson's patients

A new study by McGill University researchers found that a 12-week tango course improved balance and functional mobility in 40 Parkinson's patients, while also showing modest benefits in cognitive functions. The dance style's social interaction and physical activity may have therapeutic value for PD patients.

SourceMcGill University·JournalComplementary Therapies in Medicine·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

Pitt cancer virology team reveals new pathway that controls how cells make proteins

Researchers discovered a previously invisible biological process that may be implicated in the rapid growth of some cancers. The new study reveals that a well-known cancer protein called mTOR can hand off its work to another protein, CDK1, when cells are dividing.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2015

Report says schools still shortchanging gifted kids

A Nation Empowered: Evidence Trumps Excuses aims to empower parents, educators, and policymakers with tools to implement acceleration strategies. The report presents evidence-based research on the benefits of acceleration for gifted students, dispelling myths and misconceptions about its dangers.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·DateApr 13, 2015

Kids with type 1 diabetes almost 5 times as likely to be admitted to hospital

Research published in BMJ Open found that children with type 1 diabetes are almost five times more likely to be hospitalized compared to their peers. The study, which analyzed data from over 1577 Welsh children, also revealed that pre-schoolers and those from disadvantaged backgrounds are most at risk of hospital admission.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateApr 13, 2015

The cost and quality of cancer care in Health Affairs' April issue

Countries with higher cancer spending have consistently lower cancer mortality rates, with a 17% decrease in amenable mortality. Increased spending on breast cancer treatment also leads to improved survival rates without significant cost increases, but more research is needed to contain costs.

SourceHealth Affairs·JournalHealth Affairs·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

One type of airway cell can regenerate another lung cell type

Researchers found that lung tissue can repair itself by using mature lung cells to regenerate new ones. Type 1 cells can transform into Type 2 cells to produce surfactant and help with gas exchange. This discovery has implications for treating conditions like COPD.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2015

Dark Energy Survey creates detailed guide to spotting dark matter

The Dark Energy Survey has released a series of detailed maps of dark matter, created with the world's most powerful digital camera. The analysis will help scientists understand dark matter's role in galaxy formation and probe the nature of mysterious dark energy.

SourceDOE/Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateApr 13, 2015

Melanoma's 'safe haven' targeted for shut-down

Scientists have identified a 'safe haven' effect in melanoma cells that shields them from targeted treatments. Adding a second experimental drug targeting a protein called FAK has shown promising results in slowing down tumor growth and improving cell death rates.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalCancer Cell·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

Wasp identification made easy

A new open-access article provides cutting-edge resources for identifying parasitoid wasps in Africa and Madagascar, with over 306 described species and 54 genera available for research. The resource aims to facilitate future work on the taxonomy of these wasps and their importance in ecosystems.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateApr 13, 2015

Scientists create invisible objects without metamaterial cloaking

Researchers at ITMO University and Australian National University created an invisible cylindrical object in the microwave range without metamaterial coatings. The method is based on Fano resonances, where waves scattered via resonant and non-resonant mechanisms have opposite phases and are mutually destroyed.

SourceITMO University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 13, 2015

Ebola analysis finds virus hasn't become deadlier, yet

Despite significant genetic mutations, Ebola's functional level has remained the same over the past four decades. This suggests that vaccines and treatments developed during current outbreaks may be effective against future outbreaks.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalVirology·DateApr 13, 2015
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.

Network 'hubs' in the brain attract information, much like airport system

Research by University of Michigan Medical School found that brain 'hubs' consistently attract information flow, shedding light on how the brain processes and transfers critical information. This discovery may help better understand principles of information processing in the brain.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateApr 13, 2015

Violent methane storms on Titan may solve dune direction mystery

A new study by University of Washington astronomer Benjamin Charnay and co-authors proposes that violent methane storms high in Titan's dense atmosphere could be the answer to the moon's eastward-sloping sand dunes. The storms produce strong gusts much faster than Titan's usual winds, dominating sand transport and realigning the dunes.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 13, 2015
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.