Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for April 29, 2015


Racial disparities seen in initial access to blood flow for hemodialysis

A study found that Black and Hispanic patients start hemodialysis with an arteriovenous fistula less frequently than White patients, despite having fewer comorbidities. The authors suggest that these disparities may be due to the time it takes for AVFs to mature, which could lead to faster progression of chronic kidney disease.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateApr 29, 2015

An apple a day brings more apples your way

Researchers found that shoppers who ate an apple sample bought 28% more fruits and vegetables than those who didn't. The study suggests that small healthy snacks can prime shoppers to make healthier food choices.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalPsychology and Marketing·DateApr 29, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Young adults born preterm may live with lungs of elderly, study finds

Adult survivors of preterm births may have lung capacity resembling that of the healthy elderly or casual smokers by their early 20s. Premature infants are at increased risk for contracting bronchopulmonary dysplasia, a chronic respiratory condition mainly affecting infants born less than 28 weeks of age.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateApr 29, 2015

Lack of oxygen in the groundwater

A new study by Jena University researchers finds that airport de-icing chemicals can decrease oxygen content in soils and groundwater, leading to dramatic pollution and ecosystem damage. The team suggests using natural self-cleaning capacities of the soil, controlling oxygen levels, or alternative substances for pollutant degradation.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·DateApr 29, 2015

UTHealth researchers use 'knockout humans' to connect genes to disease risk

UTHealth researchers have sequenced exomes of 8,554 individuals to identify naturally occurring mutations that inactivate certain genes. The study found eight new relationships between genes and diseases, including a link between TXNDC5 and Type 1 Diabetes progression.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 29, 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.

The trillion-frame-per-second camera

Scientists have developed a new high-speed camera, STAMP, that can record events at over 1-trillion-frames-per-second, capturing complex physical and biological processes. The camera operates by splitting a single light pulse into multiple colors, allowing for the creation of moving pictures of ultrafast phenomena.

SourceOptica·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 29, 2015

Epilepsy alters organization of brain networks and functional efficiency

A study published in Brain Connectivity reveals that epilepsy disrupts the organization of brain networks and functional efficiency. The researchers found distinct patterns of reorganizational changes in the brains of individuals with epilepsy, including increased or decreased functional connections between brain networks.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBrain Connectivity·DateApr 29, 2015

Geological foundations for smart cities: Comparing early Rome and Naples

Rome was a 'smart city' due to its minimal alteration of natural features and resource management. In contrast, Naples faced more geological hazards and limited resources, constraining its growth. Over time, both cities became unstable due to rapid urban expansion and increased natural disasters

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGSA Today·DateApr 29, 2015

Closing the case on an ancient archeological mystery

Climate change led to the collapse of an ancient civilization on the Tibetan Plateau, researchers found. The shift from millet to wheat and barley agriculture was crucial for survival in the region's high altitudes.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 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.

Breast cancer in young women -- unique goals for treatment and research

Breast cancer in young women is characterized by more aggressive disease and increased risk of treatment-related toxicities. Research priorities focus on risk factors, fertility, pregnancy, quality of life, and metastases to improve patient outcomes.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology·DateApr 29, 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.

Multifractals suggest the existence of an unknown physical mechanism on the sun

Scientists at the Institute of Nuclear Physics in Poland used multifractal analysis to study sunspots and found asymmetrical patterns that may indicate an unknown physical process. The researchers believe these findings could provide new insights into solar activity and potentially discard current trends.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalPhysical Review E·DateApr 29, 2015

Can China sustain annual pollution reductions?

Despite plateauing emissions, China still faces energy challenges to sustain control over its carbon footprint. The country's transition towards renewable energy and service-oriented economy are key factors in achieving emission-cutting goals.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateApr 29, 2015

Transforming all donated blood into a universal type

Researchers successfully boost enzyme activity by 170-fold, rendering antigen-neutral and compatible with all patients regardless of blood type. This breakthrough advances blood transfusions and potentially organ and tissue transplants from mismatched donors.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 29, 2015

Three secrets to healthier eating

A new Cornell study reveals that most healthy eaters make nutritious choices due to visible and easy access, enticing displays, and normalization of healthy options. The CAN approach offers practical strategies for schools, restaurants, and individuals to promote healthier eating behaviors.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalPsychology and Marketing·DateApr 29, 2015

Investment fears: How does the need for closure increase risk?

A new study found that individuals with a high need for closure tend to freeze their investment decisions despite new market information, increasing the risk of their portfolios. Clear guidance can help mitigate this behavior.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateApr 29, 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.

Erosion, landslides and monsoon across the Himalayas

Scientists found that sediment size in Himalayan river is larger during summer monsoon, revealing relationship between landslides and erosion. The study suggests that coarse material may be lost en route to the ocean, raising questions about sediment origins.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 29, 2015

Gene therapy clips out heart failure causing gene mutations

Researchers at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have developed a gene therapy approach that targets and corrects genetic mutations linked to heart failure. The treatment uses molecular scissors to cut out diseased genes and replace them with normal ones, restoring healthy cardiac cell function.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 2015

Calling 911 in rural areas leads to faster heart attack care

Research finds patients who arrived by ambulance took an average of 26 minutes compared to 38 minutes for those driving themselves. Paramedics can activate care more quickly than patients seeking care on their own, highlighting the importance of trusting EMS providers.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateApr 29, 2015

Study advances new tool in the fight against invasive species

Scientists have devised a new method to investigate factors contributing to biological invasions of non-native species. The study successfully distinguished between two-wave and single-wave invasions using genetic data, allowing for better ecological understanding and management strategies.

SourceNational Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS)·JournalHeredity·DateApr 29, 2015

Consumption rises with automated bill payment

A study by Duke University found that residential and commercial customers using automatic bill payments consumed 4-6% and 8% more power, respectively. This increase in demand may offset savings from energy demand-reduction programs. To combat this issue, utilities are exploring strategies to boost price salience.

SourceDuke University·JournalThe Review of Economics and Statistics·DateApr 29, 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.

EORTC in EU blood-based cancer biomarkers consortium

The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) is part of the CANCER-ID consortium, a €22.7 million project exploring blood-based biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and treatment monitoring.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·DateApr 29, 2015

In online movie marketing, less is more

Research shows that digital movie consumers are highly sensitive to price, but surprisingly, promotions don't cannibalize video-on-demand rentals. Instead, they often increase them, as cross-channel discounts benefit both originating and competing channels.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateApr 29, 2015

Why do obese men get bariatric surgery far less than women?

A new study reveals a significant gender gap in bariatric surgery rates among U.S. men and women. Demographic, socioeconomic and cultural factors contribute to the disparity, with men undergoing surgeries at lower rates than women.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques·DateApr 29, 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.

Dust from the Sahara Desert cools the Iberian Peninsula

Researchers from Spain and Portugal analyzed desert aerosols' radiative effect on the Earth's surface, finding that Sahara Desert dust caused cooling in August 2012. The team also discovered that anthropogenic pollution exacerbated this effect, leading to greater radiative cooling in both Évora and Badajoz.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAtmospheric Research·DateApr 29, 2015

Danish discovery may change cancer treatment

Researchers found that humans with genetically long telomeres have an increased risk of dying from cancer, contrary to expectations. The study suggests that targeting the repair process of telomeres could be a promising approach for cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 29, 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.

Traumatic events, financial struggles may threaten women's heart health

Research found that traumatic life events, such as losing a loved one or experiencing a life-threatening illness, increased the risk of heart attack in middle-aged and older women. Additionally, a history of financial struggle was independently associated with a two-fold higher risk for heart attack.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateApr 29, 2015

Illuminating the dark zone

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara discover that WDR5 plays a crucial role in the final step of cell division, promoting the disassembly of midbody microtubules and contributing to abscission. The study reveals that WDR5 localizes to the dark zone of the midbody, a previously considered 'junk' structure.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 29, 2015

Bone marrow cell transplants used to treat fractures, lung injury, and renal obstruction

Researchers used bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells to treat fractures, lung injury, and renal obstruction. The cells promoted fracture healing in rats and attenuated acute lung injury in mice. They also showed therapeutic effects in treating pulmonary and extrapulmonary acute lung injury.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateApr 29, 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.

Extinct species skull shape, ancestors help predict prehistoric diet

Researchers used modern carnivore models to infer prehistoric diets, finding a strong signal driven by ancestry and skull size. They successfully distinguished between hypercarnivores and generalists using biomechanical attributes, shedding light on extinct species like Thinocyon velox and Oodectes herpestoides.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 29, 2015

The key to reducing pain in surgery may already be in your hand

Research from Cornell University finds that texting during minor surgery under local anesthesia can significantly reduce pain demand, with stranger interactions more effective than companion conversations. Patients who texted with strangers received up to six times less narcotic pain relief compared to those without phone access.

SourceCornell University·JournalPain Medicine·DateApr 29, 2015

Most people eager to know the secrets of their genetics

A survey of nearly 7000 people found that 98% want to be informed if researchers stumble upon disease indicators in their genetic data. Genomic data has a perceived value, but clinically actionable data is the main interest. Healthcare professionals are concerned about sharing incidental findings and ancestry info.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalEuropean Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 29, 2015

New fossil rattles Moby Dick's family tree

A new species of extinct pigmy sperm whale has been discovered in Panama, providing fresh evidence on the evolution of these whales and their distinctive spermaceti organ. The finding fills a key geographic gap in the group's ancient distribution and offers insights into the complex history of sound emission and echolocation.

SourceNatural History Museum of Los Angeles County·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 29, 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.

New Big Data era pushes training need for bioinformatics in life sciences

A high demand for bioinformatics training is driven by the increasing use of big data in life sciences. The Global Organisation for Bioinformatics Learning, Education & Training (GOBLET) aims to develop a global community-centred training portal with comprehensive resources and courses.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateApr 29, 2015

Making robots more human

Researchers create ultra-sensitive wearable sensors that can detect subtle eye movements and facial expressions, allowing robots to understand human emotions. These advancements could lead to more intuitive interactions between humans and robots, improving their usability and user experience.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 29, 2015

New study shows how babies' lives were saved by 3-D printing

Researchers report promising results from using custom-designed airway splints to treat severe tracheobronchomalacia in three babies. The bioresorable splints successfully restored breathing and saved the lives of Kaiba, Garrett, and Ian, who were previously at risk of dying due to the condition.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 29, 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.

Study finds ancient clam beaches not so natural

Archaeologists discovered ancient clam gardens in the Pacific Northwest, revealing a sophisticated marine management system. The findings challenge the notion of First Nations living in wild environments, instead showing they were farmers who cultivated productive clam habitats.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalAmerican Antiquity·DateApr 29, 2015

Cytokine may play a major role in multiple sclerosis

A study confirms that GM-CSF drives inflammation and neuronal damage in MS, explaining why INF-Beta is effective at reducing MS attacks. The cytokine is also identified as a potential target for new therapies.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateApr 29, 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.

DNA suggests all early Eskimos migrated from Alaska's North Slope

A recent DNA study reveals that all early Eskimos migrated from Alaska's North Slope, providing the first genetic link between Iñupiat populations and their ancestral homeland. The research also suggests two major migrations to the east from the North Slope at different times in history.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateApr 29, 2015

Soldier beetle went a-courtin'

A study by Denson McLain found that larger male soldier beetles exhibit a size-related preference for large females, resulting in stronger assortative mating. This preference increases their likelihood of encountering and mating with more fecund females.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateApr 29, 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.

Medical education: Guiding professional identity to prevent burnout

A special issue in Academic Medicine explores 'professional identity formation' and its implications for preventing burnout. The issue offers insights into guiding students through the process, which is not always intuitive, and highlights the importance of reflective writing in developing a strong professional identity.

SourceBrown University·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateApr 29, 2015

Measuring customer value? Don't overlook product returns

A new study found that considering product returns as a means of allocating resources can lead to significant increases in profits for firms. By targeting marketing efforts towards customers with positive attitudes toward returns, companies can reduce costs and maximize value from these interactions.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateApr 29, 2015

Novel approach blocks amyloid production in Alzheimer's mouse model

A novel approach has been identified to block amyloid production in an Alzheimer's mouse model, promising a potential early therapeutic intervention. The study found that the most promising compound, P8, can be administered to individuals at high risk of developing the disease and may have few side effects.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 29, 2015

Drug that can prevent the onset of diabetes is rarely used

A recent UCLA study found that only 3.7% of US adults with pre-diabetes were prescribed metformin, despite its proven effectiveness. The study highlights the underuse of metformin for diabetes prevention, which could be attributed to lack of knowledge and reluctance by patients and doctors.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 29, 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.

Improved sanitation may reduce sexual violence in South African townships

A Yale University study found that increasing public toilet availability can decrease the risk of sexual violence by nearly 30%. The study, published in PLOS ONE, also estimates a significant reduction in social costs to society. Implementing more toilets could save $40 million annually in South African townships.

SourceYale University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 29, 2015

Locally sourced drugs can be effective for treating multidrug-resistant TB

Researchers found no significant difference between treatment outcomes of patients using locally sourced and internationally quality-assured antibiotics. The study suggests that locally procured drugs can be a sustainable strategy, encouraging local pharmaceutical industries to adhere to quality standards.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 29, 2015

Urine profiles provide clues to how obesity causes disease

A study by Imperial College London identifies chemical markers in urine associated with body mass, providing insights into how obesity causes disease. The findings suggest that obesity has a 'metabolic signature' detectable in urine samples, pointing to processes that could be targeted to mitigate its effects.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 29, 2015

Rare sperm whale fossils discovered in Panama

The discovery of rare pygmy sperm whale fossils in Panama has provided new insights into the evolution of these whales. The fossils indicate that the spermaceti organ, which plays a key role in sound generation and echolocation, was reduced in size throughout their evolution.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 29, 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.

Two NASA views of newborn Tropical Cyclone Quang

Tropical Cyclone Quang formed quickly after organizing from a low-pressure area in the Southern Indian Ocean. NASA's Aqua satellite data revealed strong thunderstorms and high cloud top temperatures indicative of potential heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 29, 2015

Inspired by humans, a robot takes a walk in the grass

Researchers at Oregon State University successfully field-tested a two-legged robot that can move, balance, and withstand mild blows while taking a walk in the grass. The 'ATRIAS' robot is three times more energy-efficient than other human-sized bipedal robots, heralding the running robots of the future.

SourceOregon State University·DateApr 29, 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.

Quenching the thirst for clean, safe water

A new foam water filter has been developed by Michigan State University researchers, which significantly reduces dangerous pathogens in drinking water. The filter combines existing treatment principles and features a unique biological layer that enables it to become more efficient over time.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateApr 29, 2015

A study analyzes the distance children are willing to walk to school

A new study by University of Granada researchers analyzed the distance English schoolchildren are willing to walk to school, finding it increases with age. The results show that children living closer to their school are more likely to walk, highlighting the importance of environmental factors in shaping walking habits.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalHealth & Place·DateApr 29, 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.

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.

UM researcher: Forest canopies buffer against climate change

Recent research by Solomon Dobrowski, a University of Montana professor, finds that forest canopies play a crucial role in buffering juvenile trees from drought and heat. The study suggests that climatic buffering from forest canopies is important to consider when projecting the likelihood of regeneration in future forests.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateApr 29, 2015

Is quality or cost more essential? The international cellphone market

A new study in the Journal of International Marketing reveals significant cross-national differences in consumer satisfaction with mobile services. In less-developed markets like Barbados, affordability is key, while in more developed countries like Singapore, quality is essential even at a higher cost.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of International Marketing·DateApr 29, 2015

Pharmaceutical industry regulation undermines NICE drugs appraisal work

The pharmaceutical industry's regulatory system is criticized for lacking accountability and being evidence-based, resulting in high NHS costs and inefficient use of technology appraisal work. The Cancer Drugs Fund is also singled out for criticism due to its inequitable allocation of funds and discrimination against other diseases.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateApr 29, 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.

Study links quitting smoking with deterioration in diabetes control

Researchers found that quitting smoking is associated with a temporary deterioration in blood glucose control, which can last up to three years. The study suggests that smokers with type 2 diabetes should expect to take extra care to keep their blood glucose levels well-controlled after quitting smoking.

SourceCoventry University·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateApr 29, 2015

Artificial photosynthesis could help make fuels, plastics and medicine

Scientists develop a novel artificial photosynthetic system that converts light and carbon dioxide into building blocks for plastics, pharmaceuticals and fuels without electricity. The system harnesses solar energy and bacteria to produce chemical precursors for everyday products.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 29, 2015

Brain tumor patients should be screened for depression

A new study supports the screening and treatment of depression in brain tumor patients, who are at high risk of depressive symptoms that can impact care outcomes. The authors recommend using reliable screening tools and refer patients with positive results for detailed psychiatric assessment.

SourceFuture Science Group·JournalCNS Oncology·DateApr 29, 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.

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 phone with the ultimate macro feature

Researchers developed a smartphone attachment that can image and size single DNA molecules 50,000 times thinner than a human hair. The device is intended for use in remote laboratory settings to diagnose various types of cancers and nervous system disorders.

SourceOptica·DateApr 29, 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.

Chromosome-folding theory shows promise

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new theory on chromosome folding, which is crucial for understanding gene regulation and other biological processes. The theory predicts the folding mechanisms and resulting structures of chromosomes using statistical tools and energy landscapes.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 2015

University of Louisville researchers detail role of silica and lung cancer

Researchers at the University of Louisville have detailed a crucial connection between silica exposure and rapid lung cancer progression, highlighting the role of inflammatory mediator LTB4 and its receptor BLT1. The study's findings suggest that novel treatment strategies for both silicosis and associated lung cancers may be possible.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 2015

Toxic combination of air pollution and poverty lowers child IQ

A recent study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that children born to mothers experiencing economic hardship and exposed to high levels of PAH during pregnancy scored significantly lower on IQ tests at age 5. The researchers followed 276 mother-child pairs from pregnancy through early childhood, observing ...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNeurotoxicology and Teratology·DateApr 29, 2015

Drug-resistant bacteria common for nursing home residents with dementia

A new study found that one in five nursing home residents with advanced dementia harbor strains of drug-resistant bacteria, with over 10% resistant to four or more antibiotic classes. Researchers detected genetically related bacteria in 82% of the 22 nursing homes studied.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateApr 29, 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.

Even an hour of TV a day ups risk of childhood obesity

Children who watch TV for just an hour a day are more likely to be overweight or obese, according to a new study. The research suggests that even small amounts of TV viewing can lead to unhealthy weight gain and recommends daily limits on screen time.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalObesity·DateApr 29, 2015

Researchers closer to being able to change blood types

Scientists at the University of British Columbia have created an enzyme that can alter the sugar structures in Type A and B blood, making it more compatible with Type O blood. The breakthrough could lead to a solution for blood transfusion shortages, as the universal donor Type O blood can be given to patients of all blood types.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 29, 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.

Gene variants show potential in predicting rheumatoid arthritis disease outcomes

A new study has discovered specific genetic variants associated with higher risks of increased disease severity in rheumatoid arthritis. Certain amino acid positions in the HLA-DRB1 gene were found to be strong predictors of radiological damage, enabling early identification and potential treatment optimization.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateApr 29, 2015

Scientist receives March of Dimes Developmental Biology Prize

Rudolf Jaenisch received the March of Dimes Developmental Biology Prize for establishing the basis of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. His research holds great promise in regenerative medicine, potentially treating human diseases such as sickle-cell anemia and Parkinson's disease.

SourceMarch of Dimes Foundation·DateApr 29, 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.

Giving to charity: Feeling love means doing more for distant strangers

A new study in the Journal of Marketing Research reveals that love alone can inspire people to give to those with whom they have no connection. The study found that only emotional love, not closely related emotions like compassion, increased the desire to donate to distant charities. This finding has serious implications for marketers ...

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateApr 29, 2015

Challenging work tasks may have an upside for the brain

A new study by the American Academy of Neurology suggests that professionals with jobs requiring strategic thinking, conflict resolution, and managerial tasks may experience better brain protection against memory and thinking decline. Participants with higher levels of these tasks showed slower cognitive decline rates over eight years.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 29, 2015

Low health literacy linked to heart failure deaths after hospitalization

Research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that patients with low health literacy are 34% more likely to die after hospitalization for acute heart failure. Healthcare providers should be aware of their patients' health literacy skills to provide clear medical instructions and improve patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateApr 29, 2015

No quick fixes for developing world's solid waste management crisis

A study published in Waste Management highlights the need for a multi-dimensional approach to managing solid waste in developing countries. The research emphasizes the importance of considering environmental, socio-cultural, legal, institutional, and economic linkages in implementing effective waste management systems.

SourceElsevier·JournalWaste Management·DateApr 29, 2015