Dr. Heidi M. Mansour investigates and designs innovative treatments, including new drugs and advanced delivery mechanisms, to treat unmet medical needs in lung diseases such as COPD, asthma, and cystic fibrosis. Her goal is to see these dry powder inhalers end up on pharmacy shelves, helping patients live better lives.
SourceUniversity of Arizona, College of Pharmacy·JournalExpert Opinion on Drug Delivery·DateFeb 22, 2016
Dracula orchids mimic mushrooms to attract fruit flies, which then spread pollen. The study found the key to mimicry lies in the mushroom-like labellum attached to the plant's reproductive column.
SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalNew Phytologist·DateFeb 22, 2016
Early screening is crucial for detecting autism in toddlers, as it can diagnose symptoms around the second birthday, compared to a fourth birthday without screening. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends universal screening, which has been shown to improve treatment outcomes and reduce disparities in diagnosis.
SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateFeb 22, 2016
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.
The Institute for In Vitro Sciences (IIVS) received a grant from the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) to develop non-animal test methods for fragrance materials. The project aims to characterize respiratory effects using computational approaches and in chemico techniques.
Zebrafish exposed to atrazine during embryonic development exhibited reproductive problems, including swollen abdomens and breeding complications, in their young. The study also found physical deformations, such as decreased head length to body length ratio, and increased progesterone levels in affected parents.
SourcePurdue University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 22, 2016
A new study by the University of Michigan explores how children perceive fairness in discipline practices. Preschool-age children tend to favor giving equal rewards or punishments, while older children and adults prefer a more merit-based approach.
SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateFeb 22, 2016
A recent Brown University-led study has resolved long-standing discrepancies in research on aging by identifying the human chemotherapy drug FUdR as a key factor. The study found that FUdR triggers stress response and DNA repair pathways in C. elegans worms, allowing them to better endure adverse conditions and lengthening their lifespan.
SourceBrown University·JournalMechanisms of Ageing and Development·DateFeb 22, 2016
A 90-million-year-old fossil fish has been identified as a new species, Pentanogmius fritschi, with a tuna-like body and unique 'hook-shaped sail'. The discovery was made by Kenshu Shimada and his team at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas.
SourcePerot Museum of Nature and Science·JournalCretaceous Research·DateFeb 22, 2016
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.
An international task force has updated definitions of sepsis and septic shock to bring clarity to diagnosis and treatment. The new definitions include the quick Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA) to help clinicians diagnose septic patients and start life-saving treatment.
SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 22, 2016
A recent study published in Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that the FDA-approved VENTANA anti-ALK(D5F3)CDx assay is superior to the 5A4 IHC assay for selecting patients with non-small cell lung cancer eligible for ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment.
SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateFeb 22, 2016
A global study of ICU patients found that 10.4% develop Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), a condition with high mortality rates. The study also revealed inconsistent approaches to managing ARDS, including inadequate ventilation strategies and underuse of protective mechanical ventilation.
The 'Children's World' study found that most eight-year-old children (62%) liked going to school, while a minority reported being left out or hit by classmates. Children in some countries had lower life satisfaction, with safety and well-being varying by region.
SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·DateFeb 22, 2016
A University of Tsukuba study found that astaxanthin promotes neurogenesis in the hippocampus and elevates learning and memory capacity. The research discovered specific molecular pathways contributing to improved memory capacity, paving the way for targeted mechanisms in medical food development.
SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalMolecular Nutrition & Food Research·DateFeb 22, 2016
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.
Rice researchers develop an open-source laser sintering platform that can print intricate 3D objects from powdered plastics and biomaterials. The system costs significantly less than commercial counterparts and allows researchers to work with their own specialized materials.
A new study found that losing just 5% of body weight has significant health benefits for obese patients, including reduced risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The study also showed improvements in metabolic function in liver, fat, and muscle tissue.
SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Metabolism·DateFeb 22, 2016
Researchers have identified multiple gene therapy approaches to treat Alzheimer's disease, including boosting neuroprotection, increasing autophagy-related proteins, and regulating lipid metabolism. These strategies aim to address the underlying neuropathological changes associated with the disease.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateFeb 22, 2016
A study of 105 cancer patients found significant sleep disturbances before radiotherapy treatment. These problems were associated with cancer progression, prior treatments like chemotherapy, and anxiety. Researchers warn that addressing these issues is crucial for improving patient quality of life.
SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalEuropean Journal of Oncology Nursing·DateFeb 22, 2016
Systematic reviews identify early-life risk factors, including maternal smoking and high birth weight, that contribute to childhood obesity. Interventions such as prenatal dietary coaching and parenting practices also show promise in reducing the risk of overweight children.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateFeb 22, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A philosopher at Ruhr-University Bochum argues that our brain constructs complex contents immediately upon spotting an object, integrating typical features into a pattern. This process is evident in both individual and social perception, and has evolutionary significance.
SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalSynthese·DateFeb 22, 2016
A Johns Hopkins study found record highs in domestic news coverage of HIV and Google searches for information about HIV and HIV prevention following Charlie Sheen's HIV-positive disclosure on NBC's TODAY Show. The study suggests that the public's response to Sheen's announcement led to an increase in people seeking out public health sa...
SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 22, 2016
Researchers developed a framework to address uncertainty in mathematical models by considering the effects of correlated parameters. This approach improves model predictability and reliability, with applications in fields such as catalysis, combustion, environmental sciences, and biology.
SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 22, 2016
A new study found that adding raltegravir to standard antiretroviral therapy did not reduce HIV DNA levels or improve CD4+ T-cell counts in early HIV infection patients. Researchers from the University of Washington and National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases reported their results after a 96-week study.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBioResearch Open Access·DateFeb 22, 2016
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.
Researchers at Northwestern University developed a new scheme using plasmonics to control infrared plasmons, enabling fast transmission of massive data. By modulating light signals in the near-infrared wavelength region, they can potentially switch signals in optical fibers with high speeds.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 22, 2016
Research found that damage to brain connections can impact aphasia severity, with some patients having more severe symptoms despite similar stroke volumes. Investigators used MRI imaging to map neural connections and identified patterns associated with language difficulties.
SourceIOS Press·JournalRestorative Neurology and Neuroscience·DateFeb 22, 2016
Researchers confirm shelled mammal as armadillo's ancestor, revealing recent ancestral connections that have long fascinated biologists. The study sheds light on the glyptodont's place within the Xenarthra group and its extinction during the Ice Age.
SourceMcMaster University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 22, 2016
Children discharged from hospital infrequently receive home health care (HHC) and facility-based post-acute care (PAC), according to a national study. HHC is most commonly used for neonatal care, while PAC facilities treat non-neonatal respiratory, musculoskeletal, and trauma-related problems.
Bats have a unique ability to carry but remain unaffected by lethal diseases due to their constant immune response. The Australian black flying fox has only three interferons, which is a fraction of the number found in people, yet it can control viral infections that are lethal in humans.
SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 22, 2016
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.
Scientists at Nagoya University have made a breakthrough in synthesizing cyanohydrins, useful molecules that are precursors to carboxylic acids and amino acids. The new method uses a chiral catalyst to produce optically active cyanohydrins with high yield and efficiency.
SourceNagoya University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateFeb 22, 2016
Researchers analysed genetic variation in extinct Glanville fritillary butterfly populations to understand metapopulation dynamics. The study shows that rapid environmental change can lead to species adaptation through natural selection on dispersal.
SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 22, 2016
Physicists found a quantum phase transition associated with the pseudogap phase causes a sharp drop in conducting electrons, leading to superconductivity. The team discovered this point is probably where cuprates support superconductivity at much higher temperatures.
Researchers at Washington State University are developing a computer model and designs for improved liquid transport systems using capillary forces to move liquids through narrow spaces in space. By studying the effects of viscosity in microgravity, they aim to conserve energy and enable longer space missions.
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.
This review article presents an extended study on the crystal and magnetic structure of multiferroic hexagonal manganite RMnO3, which exhibits ferroelectric and magnetic orders. The research highlights the importance of strong interactions between these orders, leading to unique properties.
SourceInternational Union of Crystallography·JournalActa Crystallographica Section B·DateFeb 22, 2016
Researchers use ancient DNA to confirm that extinct glyptodonts were indeed enormous armadillos. The study reveals that these prehistoric creatures evolved from medium-sized forms to become true megafauna over millions of years.
A team of researchers from the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona tested the mathematical law known as Zipf's Law on a large database of English-language texts in the Project Gutenberg. The study found that 55% of the texts fit perfectly into Zipf's Law, while 40% do when including rare words.
SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 22, 2016
Digital displays showing price promotions increase sales and time spent shopping in hypermarkets. In contrast, displays with unrelated content have no effect, while small convenience-type stores see decreased sales. Larger, browsing-oriented stores reap the most benefits from digital displays.
SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateFeb 22, 2016
The journal has devoted its first special issue to gun violence, with notable findings including household gun ownership increasing risk of gun suicide and statutes restricting DVROs reducing fatal intimate partner violence.
SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalEpidemiologic Reviews·DateFeb 22, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
Researchers found a dramatic increase in brain plaques when key immune cells are lacking in genetically modified mice, leading to new techniques to identify and treat individuals at risk of developing Alzheimer's. The study suggests the immune system plays a crucial role in clearing beta-amyloid from the brain.
SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 22, 2016
Researchers discovered a molecular link between mood disorders and circadian rhythms in a study on familial advanced sleep phase (FASP) and faulty PER3 gene variants. Mice carrying the faulty gene exhibited depression-like symptoms when exposed to short light periods, mirroring human seasonal affective disorder.
SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 22, 2016
A study of nearly 460 ICUs across 50 countries found ARDS to be underrecognition and undertreatment, associated with a high mortality rate. Clinical recognition of ARDS ranged from 51% to 78.5%, with varying hospital mortality rates depending on severity level.
A new study has identified pre-pregnancy heart abnormalities as a potential predictor of recurrent preeclampsia. Women who had early pregnancy-related high blood pressure were found to have abnormal changes in the size and function of their left ventricle, which pumps blood throughout the body.
SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalHYPERTENSION·DateFeb 22, 2016
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.
The American Cancer Society report reveals progress in reducing cancer death rates among African-Americans, but racial disparities persist in breast and colorectal cancers. The study finds that disparities in access to care and screening contribute to these disparities.
The Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen has been awarded 14 ERC grants, with three scientists receiving 6 million euros. Dr. Daniel Razansky is investigating non-invasive brain imaging methods, while Dr. Irmela Jeremias focuses on targeted tumor treatment and Dr. Mathias Heikenwaelder explores immune system interactions in liver disease.
SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·DateFeb 22, 2016
Researchers present evidence that extended-release sialic acid supplement stabilizes muscle strength in patients with GNE myopathy, a rare progressive adult-onset muscle disease. Therapy with Ace-ER tablets led to dose-dependent increases in serum sialic acid levels and maintained muscle strength in upper extremities.
SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Neuromuscular Diseases·DateFeb 22, 2016
A new Penn study reveals that fish induce production of a specific antibody, IgT, in response to pathogen exposure on their gills. The researchers found that IgT coats the microbiota in the gills, helping control the community of friendly microbes.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 22, 2016
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.
The Crop Science Society of America is sending graduate students to Zambia to learn about dry bean research and increase international knowledge of this important crop. The PanAfrican Grain Legume Conference and World Cowpea Conference will focus on pulses, dry beans, peas, and lentils.
A study of over 600,000 adults found that macrolide antibiotics were associated with a similar 30-day risk of ventricular arrhythmia as nonmacrolide antibiotics, and slightly lower risk of all-cause mortality. The findings are reassuring for healthcare providers who prescribe these antibiotics to patients at low risk of adverse events.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 22, 2016
Children with ADHD often exhibit hyperactive behavior when trying to solve problems. New FSU research shows that movement can positively impact working memory and cognitive function in these children. The study's findings suggest that fidgeting may be a helpful strategy for improving attention, impulse control, and school success.
SourceFlorida State University·JournalJournal of Attention Disorders·DateFeb 22, 2016
EPFL researchers have developed a low-cost, portable microfluidic diagnostic device that can detect various diseases with high accuracy. The device operates on battery power, uses inexpensive microscopes, and requires no pre-treatment of blood samples.
SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 22, 2016
A study by University of Granada researchers found that maternal DHA supplementation enhances fetal iron metabolism, improving iron reserves and preventing anemia-related complications. The research involved 110 healthy pregnant women who received either a balanced diet or a balanced diet with omega-3 supplements.
SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalJournal of Functional Foods·DateFeb 22, 2016
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 at UEA have discovered a mechanism to target the defensive barrier of superbugs, bringing bacteria down without developing resistance. This breakthrough paves the way for a new generation of drugs that could revolutionize the treatment of antibiotic-resistant infections.
SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature·DateFeb 22, 2016
Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine have discovered a crucial HIV RNA modification called m6A that influences viral replication. Silencing the enzyme adding or removing m6A from RNA can increase or decrease HIV replication, offering new avenues for developing effective anti-HIV therapies.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 22, 2016
A new study reveals that certain fungi associated with tree roots can alter the fate of tropical forests, boosting plant diversity or giving one tree species a distinct advantage. The research found that these fungi, particularly ectomycorrhizas, make nitrogen unavailable to competing species, allowing dominant trees to thrive.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEcology Letters·DateFeb 22, 2016
A recent study by University of Warwick researcher Mirko Draca found that higher-priced items are more likely to be stolen. The analysis of monthly data over a 10-year period reveals a strong relationship between price and crime, with a 10% increase in prices associated with a 3.5% increase in crime.
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.
Scientists at Université de Genève found a novel regulatory mechanism in the HigBA toxin-antitoxin system that can selectively kill bacteria when they suffer from DNA damage. This discovery could lead to new treatments for bacterial infections by forcing bacteria to turn their weapons against themselves.
SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 22, 2016
A national look at PET scan use for lung and esophageal cancer survivors found widespread variation between hospitals, with some using scans eight times more often than others. The study suggests that this approach doesn't improve survival rates and is being inappropriately used at many hospitals.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 22, 2016
A new microscope enables the visualization of cancer cells in 3D, revealing that these cells form small protrusions called blebs in a more realistic tumor environment. This discovery is a first step toward understanding 3D biology in tumor microenvironments and may help explain skin cancer cell invasiveness and drug resistance.
A new study combines two methods for estimating future sea-level rise, yielding a more robust risk range of 50-130 centimeters by 2100. The research provides critical information for coastal planners, who can use the tool to assess adaptation strategies and design flood insurance schemes.
SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 22, 2016
A comprehensive field study reveals rapid microbial response to warming in tundra ecosystems, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions and nutrient cycling processes.
SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 22, 2016
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.
Researchers at MDI Biological Laboratory have discovered two drugs that could reverse peripheral nerve damage caused by chemotherapy, with applications also for diabetes and traumatic injuries. The drugs reduce MMP-13 activity, preventing degeneration of axons and restoring touch response in zebrafish.
Researchers used the powerful x-ray pulses from SACLA to investigate excited-state induced transient lattice dynamics in phase-change materials. They observed non-thermal local structural rearrangements within a few picoseconds, followed by warming of the lattice and a 2 pm change in lattice spacing after 20 ps.
SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 22, 2016