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Science News for March 7, 2012


NASA sees second biggest flare of the solar cycle

NASA's models predict two CMEs will impact Earth and Mars, causing severe geomagnetic storms and aurora at low latitudes. The flares, part of the sun's normal 11-year solar cycle, were triggered by an active region named AR 1429.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 7, 2012

Study shows mean screens prime the brain for aggression

A new study by Iowa State University researchers found that watching mean screens can activate aggressive scripts in the brain, leading to increased aggression. The study showed that both physical and relational aggression on screen can prime the brain for aggressive behavior, which has significant implications for today's societal norms.

SourceIowa State University·JournalAggressive Behavior·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

Elusive Higgs boson in sight?

Researchers at Michigan State University's DZero team have detected a distinct Higgs-like signature that cannot be easily explained without the presence of something new. If confirmed, this finding would be a major milestone for the world physics community and validate the Standard Model.

SourceMichigan State University·DateMar 7, 2012

Crystal structure of archael chromatin clarified in new study

Researchers have elucidated the crystal structure of Alba2-DNA complex in archaea, revealing a hollow pipe-like structure that compacts DNA. This discovery provides valuable clues into the evolution of chromatin structure and its connection to diseases.

SourceRIKEN·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 7, 2012

Commonly used dementia drugs can help more patients with Alzheimer's

A new study suggests that extending treatment to moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease patients with the commonly used dementia drug donepezil can help treat more patients worldwide. The trial found that continued treatment resulted in improved cognitive and functional abilities, with benefits noticeable to patients for at least a year.

SourceKing's College London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 7, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Wilmot researchers create new way to study liver cancer

Wilmot researchers develop first genetically engineered mouse model for Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma (IHCC), a type of bile duct cancer. The model incorporates common mutations in humans and enables testing of potential treatments, accelerating the discovery process.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalCancer Research·DateMar 7, 2012

NIST measurements may help optimize organic solar cells

Researchers at NIST and NRL developed a better understanding of how to optimize organic solar cell performance by varying layer thickness. The ideal layer thickness of 2 nanometers results in the best current generation, but further engineering challenges remain to be addressed.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 7, 2012
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Antimatter zapped!

Researchers at CERN have successfully manipulated antihydrogen atoms using microwaves, providing the world's first glimpse of an 'anti-atomic fingerprint.' This achievement demonstrates the feasibility of applying microwave spectroscopy to study antimatter atoms.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalNature·DateMar 7, 2012

Shift to green energy sources could mean crunch in supply of scarce metals

A large-scale shift to green energy sources could lead to a significant increase in demand for rare earth elements, used in wind turbines and electric vehicles. To mitigate this, researchers suggest materials substitution, improved efficiency, and increased reuse, recycling, and use of scrap.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 7, 2012

Market exchange rules responsible for wealth concentration

Two Brazilian physicists used statistical mechanics methods to study free market models, finding that wealth distribution follows a power law and concentrates among a few agents. New regulations, such as taxes giving poorer agents a higher probability of wealth gain, may help prevent wealth concentration and decrease inequalities.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateMar 7, 2012

New drug target improves memory in mouse model of Alzheimer's disease

Researchers validated protease cathepsin B as a target to improve memory deficits and reduce amyloid plaque pathology in an animal model representative of most AD patients. Deleting the CatB gene improved memory deficits while reducing amyloid plaque, mimicking that found in AD.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

That caffeine in your drink -- is it really 'natural?'

A team of scientists has created a new method to determine whether caffeine in beverages is naturally occurring or synthetic. Using stable-isotope analysis, the technique identifies differences in carbon isotopes found in plant-based and lab-made caffeine. This breakthrough enables faster categorization of caffeine sources.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateMar 7, 2012

UBC-TRIUMF researchers help provide first glimpse of 'anti-atomic fingerprint'

Researchers at UBC-TRIUMF have successfully manipulated anti-hydrogen atoms using microwaves, providing the world's first glimpse of an 'anti-atomic fingerprint.' This achievement marks a significant milestone in the study of antimatter and brings scientists closer to understanding its intrinsic properties.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

Wash your mouth out with silver

Scientists discovered that silver nanoparticles effectively kill hard-to-treat yeast infections, including oral thrush and dental stomatitis. The nanoparticles' stability in liquid medium makes them a potential strategy for developing alternative treatments.

SourceWiley·JournalLetters in Applied Microbiology·DateMar 7, 2012

Chimpanzees have policemen, too

Researchers found that chimpanzees intervene in conflicts to preserve group peace, exhibiting prosocial behavior based on community concern. This policing activity was rare and limited to high-ranking individuals, who were more willing to intervene if several quarrelers were involved.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 7, 2012

Teaching fat cells to burn calories

Scientists at UCSF have identified a protein called PRDM16 that can convert ordinary white fat cells into brown fat cells, which burn calories. This discovery makes PRDM16 a possible target for future obesity treatments.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

Past pregnancies linked to reduced MS risk in women

Research found that women who had two or more pregnancies had a significantly reduced risk of developing MS symptoms, while men showed no association between children and MS risk. This study suggests a possible link between delayed motherhood and increased MS cases in women.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMar 7, 2012

Researchers capture first-ever images of atoms moving in a molecule

Researchers have recorded real-time images of two atoms vibrating in a molecule using a new ultrafast camera. The technique, called laser-induced electron diffraction (LIED), allows for the capture of rapid molecular motion and could lead to controlling chemical reactions on an atomic scale.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

Sperm can count

Researchers discovered that sperm only react to changes in calcium concentration, not the concentration itself, allowing them to maneuver even in high calcium environments. This calculation enables sperm to follow chemical gradients and navigate towards eggs.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMar 7, 2012

NASA jet stream study will light up the night sky

Scientists will launch five sounding rockets to study the high-altitude jet stream winds and their connection to electrical current patterns. The experiment aims to gain a better understanding of these fast winds and help model electromagnetic regions of space that can damage satellites and disrupt communications systems.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 7, 2012

Diabetes drug halts atherosclerosis progression in HIV-infected patients

Researchers found that metformin treatment prevented growth of calcium deposits in coronary arteries and reduced insulin resistance in HIV-infected patients with metabolic syndrome. Lifestyle modification did not significantly impact calcification, but improved cardiovascular risk factors.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAIDS·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

Belief that flu jab really works boosts uptake among health-care workers

Healthcare professionals are more likely to get vaccinated if they believe the flu jab really works, according to a descriptive meta-analysis of 85,000 healthcare workers. Convenient access and willingness to prevent spread also play significant roles in increasing vaccination rates.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateMar 7, 2012

New treatment shows promise for kids with life-threatening bone disorder

Researchers report improved symptoms in patients with hypophosphatasia after one year of treatment with a new compound, including increased bone strength, better breathing, and improved motor development. The study found significant progress in motor skills, such as walking, sitting, and crawling, in most patients.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 7, 2012
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

The trustworthy cloud

Fraunhofer researchers have developed the Cloud Control Center to provide global monitoring of cloud services and assess their security. The control center provides administrators with a customizable dashboard to track key figures and establish meaningful status reports about the entire cloud system.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateMar 7, 2012

The right type of words

A new study identifies the QWERTY effect, where words typed with more letters on the right are associated with more positive emotions. The research challenges the traditional view that word meanings are independent of their forms.

SourceSpringer·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateMar 7, 2012

You are what you eat

A study published in PLOS ONE found that individuals who consumed more fruit and vegetables experienced increased skin redness and yellowness, which were associated with improved health and attractiveness. The researchers monitored participants over six weeks and discovered a correlation between diet and skin color changes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 7, 2012

BUSM student-published study focuses on khat chewing in Yemeni culture

A new study by BUSM researchers found that most medical students in Yemen believe khat chewing is harmful to health, but they won't advise patients to quit. The study highlights conflicting attitudes towards khat use among Yemeni medical students, with cultural factors possibly influencing their views.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalSubstance Abuse·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

Artificial wetlands can provide benefits over the long haul

A 15-year study found that artificial wetlands can take up more carbon from the atmosphere than natural ones, but may release methane. Both types of wetlands removed large amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus from river water. The study suggests long-term ecological research is useful for determining human intervention's success.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateMar 7, 2012

Rare medical phenomenon of systemic tumor disappearance following local radiation treatment reported in a patient with metastatic melanoma

Researchers report a rare phenomenon where localized radiation therapy leads to disappearance of metastatic tumors, suggesting an immune system-activating effect. The combination of ipilimumab and radiation may offer a promising approach for treating advanced melanoma.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 7, 2012

New species of deep-sea catshark described from the Galapagos

A new species of deep-sea catshark has been described from the Galapagos Islands, characterized by its chocolate-brown coloration and pale, irregularly distributed spots. The species is found at depths of 1,400-1,900 feet and is believed to be susceptible to overfishing due to its restricted range.

SourceCalifornia Academy of Sciences·JournalZootaxa·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

1 more 'player' on the pitch thanks to a new training method

A new training program has been developed to improve the physical fitness of elite football players, resulting in increased oxygen intake, improved jumping ability, and faster sprints. The study, published in the Journal of Sports Medicine, shows a 8.6% increase in oxygen intake after just 8 weeks of intense training.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Sports Medicine·DateMar 7, 2012

2 for 1: Simultaneous size and electrochemical measurement of nanomaterials

Researchers at NIST have created a method to directly correlate particle size, shape, and agglomeration with redox chemical properties of nanoparticles. This allows for the observation of structural changes in nanoparticles during important chemical reactions.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateMar 7, 2012

NEJM study shows combination treatments benefit melanoma patient

A study published in NEJM describes a rare case of the abscopal effect in a melanoma patient, where combining targeted radiation therapy with immunotherapy led to a strong immune response and favorable clinical outcome. The patient's pre-existing immunity to NY-ESO-1 antigen played a crucial role in the enhanced tumor regression.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 7, 2012

New research will shed light on racial gap in dementia

A new study led by Michigan State University sociologist Zhenmei Zhang investigates the racial gap in dementia, revealing that blacks are four times more likely to experience mild cognitive impairment than whites. The research aims to identify windows of opportunity for intervention and reduce disparities.

SourceMichigan State University·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

Commonly used herbicides seen as threat to endangered butterflies

A recent study found that three commonly used herbicides can dramatically reduce butterfly populations. Researchers tested triclopyr, sethoxydim and imazapyr on butterfly larvae and found a significant drop in adult numbers. The findings have implications for conservation efforts to protect endangered species like the Lange's metalmark.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateMar 7, 2012

Garafolo tests spacecraft seal to verify computer models

Researchers used computer prediction models to test a new docking seal, verifying its performance and improving upon costly experimental evaluations. The study showed significant correlations between experimental values and computer-modeled results, with some discrepancies attributed to extrapolation errors.

SourceOhio Supercomputer Center·DateMar 7, 2012

Chimpanzees have policemen, too

In a study published in PLOS ONE, researchers observed chimpanzee groups and found that high-ranking individuals intervene in conflicts to ensure group stability. This behavior is driven by a community concern interest, with more parties to a conflict resulting in greater policing.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

US Army suicides rose 80 percent between 2004 and 2008

US Army suicides surged by 80% between 2004 and 2008, with 39% of cases linked to post-Iraq events. Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety disorders, and substance misuse increased significantly during this period.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalInjury Prevention·DateMar 7, 2012

Self-centered kids? Blame their immature brains

A new study suggests that egocentric behavior in children is linked to an immature prefrontal cortex, rather than a lack of understanding of fairness. Researchers found age-related increases in strategic decision-making between ages 6-13 years, with improved impulse control and brain activity in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateMar 7, 2012

Tevatron experiments report latest results in search for Higgs boson

Physicists from CDF and DZero collaborations found excesses in data that might be interpreted as coming from a Higgs boson, consistent with LHC results. The new result has a probability of being due to a statistical fluctuation at 2.2 sigma, excluding masses above 147 GeV.

SourceDOE/Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory·DateMar 7, 2012

Switch to daylight saving time leads to cyberloafing at the office

Researchers found that employees spend more time surfing the web for personal pursuits after switching to daylight saving time, resulting in potential productivity losses. The study suggests that lost sleep causes employees to exhibit poorer self-control, leading to increased cyberloafing.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

NIST/CU 'star comb' joins quest for Earth-like planets

The NIST/CU laser frequency comb has been used to calibrate measurements of starlight from stars other than the Sun, achieving precision comparable to established techniques. This technique may help detect Earth-like planets, which are hard to detect with conventional technology.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalOptics Express·DateMar 7, 2012

Any UK law on cycle helmets should apply only to kids

Researchers argue that UK law on cycle helmets should apply only to kids due to equivocal evidence of adult protection. The authors suggest a paternalistic approach and instead recommend public health information to empower adults to make their own decisions about helmet-wearing.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Medical Ethics·DateMar 7, 2012

MIT student inventor Miles C. Barr receives Lemelson-MIT student prize

Miles C. Barr has developed a lightweight and bendable solar technology that can be integrated into various surfaces, including wallpaper, window shades, and clothing. The technology aims to increase adoption of solar power in the US and developing countries, providing inexpensive power generation.

SourceLemelson-MIT Program·DateMar 7, 2012

Study shows how high-fat diets increase colon cancer risk

Researchers at Temple University found that high-fat diets alter metabolic pathways in healthy colon tissue, leading to increased colon cancer risk. Epigenetic marks on genes involved in breaking down carbohydrates and lipids were retrained in normal tissue from patients with colon cancer.

SourceTemple University·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

New transplant method may allow kidney recipients to live life free of anti-rejection medication

A new study suggests that organ transplant recipients may no longer need anti-rejection medication thanks to the power of stem cells. Researchers are conducting a clinical trial using donor stem cell infusions to 'trick' the recipient's immune system, gradually eliminating or reducing the need for immunosuppressive drugs.

SourceNorthwestern Memorial HealthCare·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 7, 2012

Playful learning inside a square

The HOPSCOTCH learning system combines interactive gameplay with movement to make learning enjoyable for children of all ages. Initial tests at an elementary school showed enthusiasm from participants, particularly hyperactive kids, and Martina Lucht's vision is to integrate physical education with instruction in language skills.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateMar 7, 2012

What have we got in common with a gorilla?

The study compares the genomes of humans, chimpanzees, gorillas, and orang-utans, shedding light on human origins and genetic differences. Genetic changes important in evolution were found to be accelerated in genes related to sensory perception, hearing, and brain development.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature·DateMar 7, 2012

Bright is the new black: New York roofs go cool

A study found that white rooftops, like those being installed in New York City, can reduce peak temperatures by 43 degrees Fahrenheit compared to traditional black roofs. The low-cost, DIY-friendly option also improves urban albedo and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 7, 2012
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

NASA sees Tropical Storm Irina heading back toward African mainland

Tropical Storm Irina is showing signs of weakening due to the presence of dry air and cool sea surface temperatures. The storm's cloud top temperatures indicate a significant reduction in strength compared to its previous state, with the southern quadrant experiencing colder temperatures.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 7, 2012

Federal grant enables HIV testing, treatment in the Augusta area

The $3.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will provide medication and treatment to uninsured patients in the Augusta area, while also expanding rapid testing and education efforts. With this funding, nearly 1,300 HIV-positive patients can receive life-long treatment with a single pill daily.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateMar 7, 2012

Wake Forest Baptist research sheds light on cancer of the appendix

Researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center have identified distinct genetic patterns between cancer of the appendix and colon cancer. The study found that gene expression profiles differ significantly between the two types of cancer, suggesting a need for fresh approaches to treatment.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

Experimental drug reduces cortisol levels, improves symptoms in Cushing's disease

Pasireotide significantly reduced urinary cortisol levels and improved symptoms of Cushing's disease, cutting secretion by 50% and returning some patients' levels to normal. The drug, which blocks ACTH secretion by binding to somatostatin receptors on the pituitary tumor, showed promise in treating this rare endocrine disorder.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 7, 2012

What does chronic stress in adolescence mean at the molecular level?

Researchers found that chronic stress in adolescence leads to a loss of glutamate receptor expression and function, resulting in impaired memory and recognition. Disrupting the enzymes responsible for this loss may prevent cognitive impairment induced by repeated stress exposure.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNeuron·DateMar 7, 2012

Strong scientific evidence that eating berries benefits the brain

A new article from the American Chemical Society suggests that berry fruits contain high levels of antioxidants, which can protect cells from damage. The study also found that eating berries changes the way neurons communicate, potentially preventing inflammation in the brain and improving motor control and cognition.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateMar 7, 2012

The first spectroscopic measurement of an anti-atom

Scientists have probed the internal structure of antihydrogen atoms using microwave radiation, providing insight into their behavior. The results show that specific frequencies cause the spins to flip, ejecting the atoms from the trap and confirming a key aspect of antihydrogen's properties.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

How repeated stress impairs memory

Research reveals that repeated stress affects memory by reducing glutamate receptors in the prefrontal cortex, impairing high-level cognitive processes. The study provides critical insight into how chronic stress influences mental illnesses and offers potential targets for prevention and treatment.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateMar 7, 2012

New studies determine which social class more likely to behave unethically

Research reveals that higher social class is associated with increased unethical behavior, including cheating, lying, and breaking the law. The study suggests that relative privilege and security among upper-class individuals lead to a prioritization of their own interests over others.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 7, 2012

Resetting the future of MRAM

Scientists create magnetic valve using spintronics to stabilize data storage in MRAM. The spin-valve concept enables controlled lifetime of stored information, increasing overall life expectancy.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 7, 2012

Stumped by a problem? This technique unsticks you

Tony McCaffrey's generic parts technique (GPT) helps people think beyond common uses of objects, leading to 67% more problem-solving successes. By breaking down objects into parts and asking two questions, individuals can find alternative uses and innovate.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

A foot in the door to genetic information

Scientists at German Cancer Research Center have discovered that histone proteins actively open access to genetic information by detaching short DNA segments. This mechanism allows genes to be read and may be disrupted in cancer cells.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMar 7, 2012

New research helps to identify ancient droughts in China

Researchers used a microbial lipid proxy to identify ancient droughts and alkaline soils on the Tibetan Plateau, associated with significant uplift nine million years ago. The study suggests that abrupt uplifts can cause enhanced aridity in central Asia.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateMar 7, 2012

Fiercer competition for quicker innovations

A study by KIT's Institute for Technology Assessment and Systems Analysis reveals that fiercer technical competition in Japan drives innovative mobile services. European operators are recommended to adopt similar measures, such as unlicensed radio spectrum usage and new licensing schemes, to regain competitiveness.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalTelecommunications Policy·DateMar 7, 2012

Robotic refueling mission begins with space station robotics

The NASA Robotic Refueling Mission (RRM) successfully demonstrated robotic satellite-servicing technology on the International Space Station, marking a significant milestone in space technology advancement. The mission used the Canadian Dextre robot and RRM tools to perform tasks such as gas fittings removal and satellite refueling.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

Study targets key molecule to reverse kidney damage in mice

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have identified a key molecular player that can reverse kidney damage in mouse models of diabetes and other kidney injuries. The targeted experimental drug has shown to suppress inflammation, cell death, and fibrosis formation, allowing normal tissue to regenerate.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 7, 2012

Mechanism for Burgess Shale-type preservation

Researchers have discovered a global pattern in geochemical analysis that sheds light on the unusual preservation process of soft-bodied fossils found in the Burgess Shale. The team found that rapid burial in mud layers with low oxygen levels and the presence of calcium carbonate cement played a crucial role in conserving organic remains.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

Deafening affects vocal nerve cells within hours

Researchers found that deafening causes rapid changes to motor areas in songbirds' brains, predicting which birds will have worse songs. This study may provide insights into how hearing loss affects the human brain's vocalization control.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateMar 7, 2012

Functional oxide thin films create new field of oxide electronics

Researchers developed functional oxide thin films for efficient electronics, creating a new field of oxide electronics. This innovation enables high-power devices and smart sensors by overcoming the limitations of silicon-based electronics.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 7, 2012

Ants can learn vibrational and magnetic landmarks

Desert ants were trained with magnetic and vibrational landmarks relative to their nest, showing that the behavior was learned. The ants had no innate preference for these cues, suggesting they are adaptable navigators.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 7, 2012

Oceans acidifying faster today than in past 300 million years

Scientists have found evidence that ocean acidification is happening faster today than in the last 300 million years, with potential consequences for coral reefs and other marine life. The oceans are acting like a sponge to draw down excess carbon dioxide, but at an alarming rate, putting these ecosystems at risk.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateMar 7, 2012
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.

Biodegradable transistors -- made from us

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have created protein-based transistors using organic materials found in the human body, offering a biodegradable alternative to traditional silicon-based technology. The transistors are self-assembling and can be tailored for unique properties such as conductivity, memory storage, and fluorescence.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 7, 2012