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Science News for April 16, 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.

Smokers who use e-cigarettes less likely to quit

A recent study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that smokers who use e-cigarettes are 49% less likely to decrease cigarette use and 59% less likely to quit compared to non-users. The researchers discovered that daily smokers and women were more likely to have tried e-cigarettes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 16, 2015

Rainforest protection akin to speed limit control

A study by University of Bonn researchers finds that effective forest law enforcement has been key to slowing down the destruction of the Brazilian rainforest. The team's analysis shows that regions with frequent controls and high penalties have seen significant declines in deforestation.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 16, 2015

Astronomers reveal supermassive black hole's intense magnetic field

Astronomers have detected an extremely powerful magnetic field close to a supermassive black hole in a distant galaxy, revolutionizing our understanding of these cosmic phenomena. The discovery was made using the Alma telescope and reveals new insights into the structure and formation of black holes.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalScience·DateApr 16, 2015

Dating the moon-forming impact event with meteorites

Scientists have found a record of the ancient Moon-forming giant impact observable in stony meteorites. The team used data analysis and numerical modeling work to infer the Moon formed about 4.47 billion years ago.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalScience·DateApr 16, 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.

A sniff of happiness: Chemicals in sweat may convey positive emotion

A study published in Psychological Science found that people produce chemical compounds, or chemosignals, when they experience happiness that are detectable by others who smell their sweat. This implies that someone who is happy will infuse others with happiness through the scent of their sweat, similar to how smiling can be infectious.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 16, 2015

Study finds that maize roots have evolved to be more nitrogen efficient

Research suggests that selective breeding of maize led to the evolution of root systems more efficient in acquiring nutrients like nitrogen. The study found that newer commercial varieties performed better in every agronomic environment, with characteristics known to increase nitrogen uptake.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Experimental Botany·DateApr 16, 2015

Fighting the next generation of cyberattacks

A team of US computer scientists are working on an analyzer that can hunt down algorithmic attacks, a new form of vulnerability that is nearly impossible to find with today's technology. The software will perform a mathematical simulation of the software to predict what will happen in the event of an attack.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateApr 16, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Victorian baby teeth could help predict future health of children today

Researchers found that Victorian-era babies' nitrogen isotope levels could predict their likelihood of survival and potential health issues later in life. High levels were linked to malnutrition and stress, while low levels indicated breastfeeding and a healthy start.

SourceUniversity of Bradford·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateApr 16, 2015

More analysis from the women's health initiative on hormones, breast cancer

Analysis of two Women's Health Initiative clinical trials reveals a pattern of changing influences on breast cancer incidence over time, with estrogen plus progestin use linked to increased risk and estrogen alone showing reduced risk. The study suggests that ongoing influences after stopping hormone therapy require recalibration of br...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateApr 16, 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.

Model offers more ease, precision for managing invasive Asian carp

The FluEgg model examines complex dependencies between flow, temperature, and egg development to predict the likelihood of Asian carp reproduction in the St. Joseph River. The model highlights the importance of a fine balance between egg development and variable flow conditions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalJournal of Great Lakes Research·DateApr 16, 2015

For men, online generosity is a competition

Researchers found that men donate four times more to an attractive female fundraiser in response to another male's contribution, suggesting a subconscious competitive helping behavior. To improve fundraising success, seed campaigns with larger donations early and make fundraisers smile.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 16, 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.

Fish type, body size can help predict nutrient recycling rates

A new study published in PNAS reveals that the type of fish and its body size can predict nutrient recycling rates in ecosystems. The researchers analyzed data from over 900 fish and invertebrates in a diverse marine community, finding that body mass and taxonomic identity are key factors in predicting these rates.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 2015

The mechanics of life

A team led by Otger Campàs and Jérome Gros aims to measure the map of forces generated by embryonic cells as they build limbs. They plan to use a new technique to study mechanical forces in living tissues and explore their role in cell differentiation.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateApr 16, 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.

Angiogenesis inhibitors undermined by immune cells, says study

Researchers discovered that myeloid cells switch roles and become anti-therapy agents when angiogenesis inhibitors are used, leading to tumor growth and relapse. Targeting the PI3K signaling pathway may offer a way to prevent this phenomenon.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 16, 2015

Thumbnail track pad

Researchers at MIT Media Lab create a miniature wireless track pad using capacitive sensing, allowing users to control devices with their thumbs. The technology has potential applications in various scenarios, including cooking, texting, and subtle communication.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateApr 16, 2015

How ancient species survived or died off in their old Kentucky home

Researchers at University of Cincinnati uncover evidence that bison, deer and other present-day species survived Ice Age climate change, while mammoths and mastodons perished. Fossil analysis reveals radical shifts in environmental temperature and vegetation, forcing animals to adapt or die.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalQuaternary Research·DateApr 16, 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.

Michael Douglas Gordon is the 2015 CAN Young Investigator awardee

Dr. Michael Gordon's research focuses on understanding neural circuits that drive taste responses and feeding preferences in fruit flies. His studies have shown that food preference can be viewed as a changing metric based on initial taste, experience, and physiological condition.

SourceCanadian Association for Neuroscience·DateApr 16, 2015

Epilepsy drug may preserve eyesight for people with MS

Researchers found that those taking phenytoin had 30% less damage to the nerve fiber layer and a 34% higher macula volume compared to placebo recipients. Vision recovery was successful, but long-term visual outcomes showed no significant differences between groups.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateApr 16, 2015

New transitional stem cells discovered

Researchers at the University of Missouri have identified a new form of human embryonic stem cell that can help advance research on pre-eclampsia and other reproductive problems. These 'BMP-primed' stem cells are more robust and easily manipulated than traditional stem cells, making them ideal for future studies.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 2015

A scientific look at the art of teacher talk

A new study finds that teachers' conversational art of instruction can measurably influence literacy skills. Measured, positive feedback is shown to improve student performance, while talking around standardized test questions and failing to cultivate class-wide discussions have a negative effect.

SourceBoston College·DateApr 16, 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.

160 people die of rabies every day, says major new study

A global study on canine rabies found that 160 people die daily from the disease, with annual economic losses totaling $8.6 billion. Collaboration between human and animal health sectors is essential to eliminate rabies, with vaccination of dogs being the most cost-effective way to prevent the disease.

SourceGlobal Alliance for Rabies Control·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateApr 16, 2015

Inducing labor at full term not associated with higher C-section rates

A new analysis found no link between induction of labor at full term and rates of C section in uncomplicated pregnancies. Induction was associated with slightly less blood loss and lower risk of meconium staining, but birth weight was lower in induced babies by 136 grams.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateApr 16, 2015

Could maple syrup help cut use of antibiotics?

Researchers found that a concentrated maple syrup extract makes disease-causing bacteria more susceptible to antibiotics, leading to lower antibiotic usage. The extract also reduces biofilm formation of pathogenic bacteria, making it a potentially simple and effective approach for reducing antibiotic resistance.

SourceMcGill University·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateApr 16, 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.

The phthalate DEHP undermines female fertility in mice

Research in mice exposes pregnant females to phthalate DEHP, leading to male-to-female sex ratio imbalance and altered pup reproductive outcomes. Adult ovaries are also disrupted, with decreased follicle growth and steroid hormone production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalReproductive Toxicology·DateApr 16, 2015

New approach to muscle regeneration restores function after traumatic injury without need for donor tissue

Researchers have developed a new method for muscle regeneration using autologous minced tissue grafts, which can restore functional muscle at the site of injury. The approach uses a collagen hydrogel-based expansion method and demonstrates similar functional recovery as donor muscle grafts with reduced tissue requirements.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBioResearch Open Access·DateApr 16, 2015

Breath taking

Scientists have identified two sensory neuron subtypes controlling different respiratory functions in mice, revealing a complex vagus nerve system that may lead to targeted therapies. The study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying breathing control and has implications for treating various conditions.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateApr 16, 2015

How do we hear time within sound?

Researchers discover that neurons in auditory cortex encode temporal patterns using excitatory and inhibitory inputs. This breakthrough could lead to the development of state-of-the-art neural prosthetic devices capable of mimicking brain coding patterns.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateApr 16, 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.

Bacterial 'memory' targets invading viruses

Researchers at Tel Aviv University and the Weizmann Institute of Science have discovered a precise mechanism used by bacteria to defend themselves against invading viruses. The CRISPR-Cas system is adaptive, allowing bacteria to 'memorize' viral DNA and launch targeted attacks in future encounters.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature·DateApr 16, 2015

Detector at the South Pole explores the mysterious neutrinos

Researchers at the South Pole have discovered 35 high-energy neutrinos originating from distant regions of space, offering insights into the universe's most abundant particles. The IceCube detector has analyzed 5,200 interactions between atmospheric neutrinos and ice atoms, confirming quantum fluctuations that change neutrino types.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalPhysical Review D·DateApr 16, 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.

Nanotubes with 2 walls have singular qualities

Rice University researchers discovered that double-walled carbon nanotubes can be tuned for specific electronic properties by controlling their configuration and distance between walls. The study found that combining metallic with semiconducting nanotubes could lead to the creation of nanotube transistors.

SourceRice University·JournalNanotechnology·DateApr 16, 2015

The Lancet Neurology: Autism Series media alert

Recent breakthroughs in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) research focus on precision medicine approaches, leveraging genetic technologies to identify risk genes and develop personalized therapies. Neuroimaging studies are also helping understand brain structure and function across the lifespan.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateApr 16, 2015

Dr. Donald Coffey honored with 2015 AACR Margaret Foti Award

Dr. Coffey will receive the award for his pioneering work on prostate cancer, nuclear matrix, and mentoring of young researchers. He is also recognized for his outstanding leadership skills and advocacy for sustained funding for cancer research.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 16, 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.

Osteoporosis diagnosis contributes to hearing loss risk

A study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that people with osteoporosis are at a 1.76-fold higher risk of developing sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Researchers analyzed medical records of over 10,600 individuals with osteoporosis and found that they were more likely to be diag...

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 16, 2015

Major advance in artificial photosynthesis poses win/win for the environment

Berkeley Lab researchers develop a system that captures carbon dioxide and converts it into biodegradable plastics, pharmaceutical drugs, and liquid fuels using solar energy. The technology mimics natural photosynthesis, offering a win/win situation for the environment by producing chemicals in a renewable way.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 16, 2015

Important study of how climate affects biodiversity

Researchers from Uppsala University analyzed the whole genome of 40 bird species to estimate their abundance at various points in time. The study found that many species exhibit cyclical swings in numbers, often coinciding with ice ages, but human influence may push declines beyond a tipping point to extinction.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 16, 2015

An electronic micropump to deliver treatments deep within the brain

A team of researchers has created an organic electronic micropump that enables localised inhibition of epileptic seizure in brain tissue in vitro. The device attracts small positively charged molecules, projecting them toward the target area using electrical current.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 16, 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.

UCI MIND redesignated as Alzheimer's Disease Research Center

UCI MIND has been redesignated as an Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, allowing it to continue its impactful clinical and basic research programs. The center involves over 100 investigators studying the cellular, molecular, and clinical risk factors of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateApr 16, 2015

A novel mechanism involved in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

Researchers at Neuromed Institute discovered a molecular mechanism causing ADHD symptoms, linked to PI3K gamma enzyme dysregulation and hyperactivation of Locus Ceruleus brain area. This finding offers a new understanding of the disease, paving the way for innovative therapeutic approaches.

SourceIstituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed I.R.C.C.S.·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateApr 16, 2015

Study: Breastfeeding may prevent postpartum smoking relapse

A new study published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research found that breastfeeding for at least 90 days can significantly reduce smoking in the months following childbirth. The study, which followed 168 pregnant smokers, discovered that breastfeeding was the only significant predictor of change in smoking behaviors among these women.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateApr 16, 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.

More individuals discussing end-of-life wishes with loved ones

New research from the University of Missouri shows a significant increase in end-of-life discussions among individuals. The study found that advance care planning is not strongly linked to socioeconomic status or education level, but rather household income plays a role in designating a healthcare proxy.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAmerican Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine®·DateApr 16, 2015

Subsidies key in improving sanitation, new study finds

A new study released in Science found that subsidies are essential for increasing the use of hygienic latrines in developing countries. The community-motivation model alone was ineffective, but combining it with subsidies expanded latrine coverage substantially, particularly among poor households.

SourceInnovations for Poverty Action·JournalScience·DateApr 16, 2015

Zinc deficiency linked to activation of Hedgehog signaling pathway

Research at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute suggests a link between zinc deficiency and activation of the Hedgehog signaling pathway in many diseases. Zinc inhibits the autoprocessing reaction, leading to enhanced production of the Hedgehog ligand and uncontrolled cell growth.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 16, 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.

Research finds no correlation between regulatory T cells and survival in glioblastoma

A study by Dartmouth-Hitchcock's Camilo Fadul and colleagues found no correlation between regulatory T cells (Tregs) and patient survival in glioblastoma. The researchers used a novel epigenetic quantitative analysis methodology to quantify lymphocyte populations, including Tregs, in tumor tissue and peripheral blood.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalNeuro-Oncology·DateApr 16, 2015

New method helps establish South-Asian perceptions of dementia

A new tool has been developed to improve dementia care for south Asian people, addressing cultural barriers to diagnosis. The adapted BEMI-C tool takes into account sensitivities that can act as barriers to effective diagnosis and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalAging & Mental Health·DateApr 16, 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.

Mapping language in the brain

Researchers created a detailed brain map of language impairments in aphasia following stroke, identifying four dimensions or factors: semantic recognition, speech recognition, speech production, and semantic errors. The study found that specific brain areas, such as the left Sylvian fissure and white matter bottleneck, are associated w...

SourceDrexel University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 16, 2015

Sugar-sweetened beverages suppress the body's stress response

A new study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that consuming sugar-sweetened beverages can suppress cortisol and stress responses in the brain. This may contribute to habit-forming sugar overconsumption during times of psychological or emotional stress.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 16, 2015

Giant galaxies die from the inside out

Astronomers observed 22 massive elliptical galaxies using the VLT and Hubble Space Telescope, revealing that star formation in their centers stopped around three billion years ago. The newly discovered inside-out nature of this shutdown may be due to a galaxy's central supermassive black hole or lack of fresh gas.

SourceESO·JournalScience·DateApr 16, 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.

Patient's own fat cells transplanted to treat osteoarthritis may be effective

Researchers have successfully used autologous fat cell transplants to improve symptoms of osteoarthritis in patients. The treatment showed significant improvements in pain management and joint mobility, with most patients experiencing a minimum of 50% score improvement after 12 months.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateApr 16, 2015

Keep moving, studies advise cancer survivors

Studies published in Journal of Cancer Survivorship found that walking three hours a week can improve hormone functioning and vitality in prostate cancer survivors. Regular physical activity also reduces symptoms of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in colorectal cancer survivors, improving quality of life.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Cancer Survivorship·DateApr 16, 2015

Increasing evidence points to inflammation as source of nervous system manifestations of Lyme disease

A new study published in the American Journal of Pathology shows that inflammation plays a causal role in Lyme disease's neurologic changes, and anti-inflammatory drugs like dexamethasone may prevent these effects. Researchers found that dexamethasone prevented many neuropathologic effects, while meloxicam was generally ineffective.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateApr 16, 2015
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.

Poll: Mass. police chiefs favor discretion in issuing concealed gun permits

A survey of Massachusetts police chiefs found that 90% favor keeping discretion in issuing concealed carry permits, citing the need for local knowledge to ensure public safety. Police chiefs reported rare discretionary denials, often due to violent behavior or mental health issues.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Public Health Policy·DateApr 16, 2015

Cancer-related PTS linked to very limited cognitive impairment among newly diagnosed breast cancer patients

A new study found that cancer-related post-traumatic stress is associated with very limited cognitive impairment before treatment among newly diagnosed breast cancer patients. The study, published in the JNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute, analyzed data from 166 breast cancer patients and 60 matched controls.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 16, 2015

Study reveals possible new avenues for breast cancer therapy

Researchers analyzed over 12,000 proteins in triple-negative breast cancer cells, identifying subtypes and correlations with drug response. The findings suggest that treatments targeting cell spread may be effective against resistant tumors.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 16, 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.

Scientists discover protein that boosts immunity to viruses and cancer

Researchers have discovered a protein called LEM that promotes the proliferation of cytotoxic T cells, which kill cancer cells and cells infected with viruses. The discovery could lead to new gene therapies designed to boost infection-fighting cells and provide a robust treatment for patients.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience·DateApr 16, 2015

Western lifestyle may limit the diversity of bacteria in the gut

Researchers found that Papua New Guineans have microbiomes with greater bacterial diversity and lower inter-individual variation compared to US residents. The study proposes a model based on ecological theory that explains the decline of microbiota diversity in urban-industrialized societies.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 16, 2015

A new online resource on the Asian longhorned beetle

The article provides a thorough review of the Asian longhorned beetle's biology, life stages, distribution, ecology, and methods of detecting and controlling it. The new online resource will be particularly helpful for forest managers and policymakers, offering a summary of the scientific backing for cooperative eradication programs.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Integrated Pest Management·DateApr 16, 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.

A new mouse model for the study of neurofibromatosis

Researchers at IDIBELL have created new mouse models for studying neurofibromatosis type 1, a rare genetic disorder. The models, which reproduce human tumor characteristics, enable the prediction of tumor development and treatment decisions.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateApr 16, 2015

Flourishing faster: How to make trees grow bigger and quicker

Researchers at the University of Manchester have identified two genes that can drive cell division in tree stems, allowing them to grow larger and more quickly. This discovery could lead to generating trees that produce more biomass for biofuels, chemicals, and materials while minimizing CO2 release.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 16, 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.

The connection between mouth bacteria and inflammation in heart disease

The study found a significant association between periodontitis and cardiovascular disease, particularly among men and younger individuals. Researchers suggest that alternative therapies, such as cholesterol-lowering medication, may prevent both oral infections and cardiovascular inflammation.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Endocrinology and Metabolism·DateApr 16, 2015

Encountering a wall corrects 'GPS' in mouse brains, Stanford study finds

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine found that grid cells in mice accumulate errors while navigating familiar spaces, which are corrected by border cells upon encountering a wall. This discovery supports the theory that these cells use sensory and motion data to construct internal maps.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateApr 16, 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.

Survey shows half of older adults in US now taking aspirin

A national survey found that over half of US older adults are now taking a daily dose of aspirin for primary prevention, with 81% having no prior heart attack or stroke. The reasons cited for its use include heart attack and stroke prevention, as well as cancer prevention.

SourceOregon State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 16, 2015

Cardiorespiratory fitness reduces disease risk among smokers

Researchers found that highly fit smokers had a 48% lower risk of metabolic syndrome compared to those in low fitness categories. Additionally, moderate fitness levels were associated with reduced risks for elevated fasting blood glucose and abnormal HDL cholesterol levels.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 16, 2015

Engineer improves rechargeable batteries with MoS2 nano 'sandwich'

Researchers have developed a new type of battery electrode made from molybdenum disulfide sheets wrapped in silicon carbonitride, showing improved stability and high lithium capacity. The discovery could lead to more efficient rechargeable batteries for smartphones and other devices.

SourceKansas State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 16, 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.

New genomics tool could help predict tumor aggressiveness, treatment outcomes

A new scoring method called MATH measures genetic variability among cancer cells within tumors from patients with head and neck cancer. High MATH scores correspond to tumors with many differences among gene mutations present in different cancer cells, correlating with lower patient survival.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 16, 2015

Obesity associated with prostate cancer risk in African-American men

Research found a significant association between obesity and increased prostate cancer risk in African American men, with the risk growing nearly four times as body-mass index (BMI) increased. Obesity was also linked to a higher risk of aggressive disease and prostate cancer death among this population.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateApr 16, 2015

With biosimilar drug development on the rise, researchers explore efficacy

Researchers explored the efficacy of biosimilar monoclonal antibody CT-P13 in treating rheumatic diseases, including its similarities and differences with the reference drug infliximab. The study found that CT-P13 is almost identical to infliximab and has similar immunogenicity, but more real-world data are needed on switchability.

SourceFuture Science Group·JournalImmunotherapy·DateApr 16, 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.

Socioeconomic factors affect odds of death after a lung cancer operation

A recent study by the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that socioeconomic factors such as income level, education, and hospital type significantly impact lung cancer patients' odds of death within 30 days after surgery. Patients from lower-income households were 25% more likely to die than those in higher-income areas.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateApr 16, 2015

Novel plasma diagnostics method

Researchers have created a novel plasma diagnostics method by studying the pressure change at the inner walls of energy-saving light bulbs. The technique measures the force exerted on a solid surface by plasma, providing insights into processes that conventional probes can't detect.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateApr 16, 2015

Family history increases the risk of cardiac arrest in patients on dialysis

A study of 647,457 patients on chronic dialysis found that genetically related family members have a 70% increased risk of cardiac arrest compared to unrelated patients. This increased risk is attributed to inherited genetic factors, which may contribute to the high mortality rate among dialysis patients.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 16, 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.

After prostate cancer, start walking

A new Northwestern Medicine study found that walking at an easy pace for three hours a week improves prostate cancer survivors' fatigue, depression, and body weight issues. Non-vigorous walking also showed benefits in these areas, with brisk walking potentially leading to similar improvements.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Cancer Survivorship·DateApr 16, 2015

Diversity is key to stability, grassland study finds

A University of Minnesota study found that reducing biodiversity in grasslands leads to reduced ecosystem stability, while other factors have no impact. The research emphasizes the importance of preserving biodiversity to maintain ecosystem health and services.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience·DateApr 16, 2015