Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for March 8, 2012


Could a NOSH-aspirin-a-day keep cancer away?

Scientists have developed a new aspirin compound called NOSH-aspirin that curbs the growth of 11 different types of human cancer cells in culture and shrinks human colon cancer tumors by 85% in live animals without adverse effects. The hybrid is more potent and safer than classic aspirin, requiring lower doses to be effective.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters·DateMar 8, 2012

Clot-busting enzyme plays 'peek-a-boo' with blood clots

Researchers at Monash University have discovered how a blood clot-busting enzyme is switched on, revealing a 'peek-a-boo' mechanism that could lead to new treatments for clotting and bleeding disorders. The findings also provide insights into the molecular details of current plasminogen-activating drugs.

SourceMonash University·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 8, 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.

Scientists map new mechanism in brain's barrier tissue

Researchers at University of Copenhagen mapped a previously unknown biological mechanism in the brain's blood-brain barrier, revealing its vital role in maintaining glutamate balance. The discovery has enormous potential for future drug development and could lead to new treatments for neurological diseases.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalGlia·DateMar 8, 2012

Nintendo Wii game controllers help diagnose eye disorder

Researchers developed a low-cost digital head posture measuring device using Nintendo Wiimotes to help diagnose ocular torticollis in children. The system demonstrated high accuracy and reliability in measuring head posture, showing promise as a diagnostic tool for ophthalmic patients.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateMar 8, 2012

Four-winged dinosaur's feathers were black with iridescent sheen

A team of researchers has discovered the color and detailed feather pattern of Microraptor, a four-winged dinosaur that lived 130 million years ago. The findings suggest that feathers were important for display in the early evolution of feathers.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cannabinoid 2 receptors regulate impulsive behavior

Researchers at the Neuroscience Institute of Alicante have discovered that manipulating CB2 receptors can reduce impulsive behavior in mice with high impulsivity levels. The study suggests that future clinical trials could utilize drugs selectively targeting CB2 to modulate impulsivity without psychoactive effects.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateMar 8, 2012

Experiment observes elusive neutrino transformation

An international team of physicists has detected and measured the transformation of one type of neutrino into another, a finding that may help explain the universe's matter-antimatter imbalance. The discovery was made using the Daya Bay Reactor Neutrino Experiment in southern China.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 8, 2012

Do you hear what I hear?

Researchers identified how and where the brain processes frequency-modulated sound signals, which are crucial for understanding language and speech. The study found that these signals begin in the midbrain region of the brain, a surprising discovery that could help with hearing-related disorders.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateMar 8, 2012

Mom's voice may improve the health of premature babies

Researchers discovered that auditory stimulation of maternal sounds can lower incidence of cardiorespiratory events in preterm infants, suggesting a potential non-pharmalogical treatment. The study involved exposing fourteen extremely premature infants to personalized audio recordings of their own mothers' voices and heartbeats, leadin...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine·DateMar 8, 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.

Chronic kidney disease a recipe for kidney failure? Not necessarily

A study published by the American Society of Nephrology found that 10% of patients with chronic kidney disease did not experience progressive kidney dysfunction, and 3% demonstrated improved kidney function. The study suggests that some cases of CKD may be reversible, providing hope for patients with this condition.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 8, 2012

Caregivers of veterans with chronic illnesses often stressed, yet satisfied, MU researcher finds

A University of Missouri researcher found that over one-third of veterans' caregivers report high levels of strain, yet on average, they also report being satisfied with their caregiving responsibilities. Caregivers who received outside help and developed coping strategies were more likely to experience satisfaction.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalResearch in Nursing & Health·DateMar 8, 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.

New discovery shines light on the 3 faces of neutrinos

Researchers reveal a crucial key to understanding neutrino transformations, shedding light on the universe's matter-antimatter asymmetry. The new discovery enables future experiments to explore why our universe is filled mostly with matter.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 8, 2012

Metamaterials may advance with new femtosecond laser technique

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a new method to create three-dimensional patterns of silver dots using a femtosecond laser. This technique advances nanoscale metal lithography and enables the creation of bulk metamaterials with unique optical properties.

SourceHarvard University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 8, 2012

Revisiting LSD as a treatment for alcoholism

A new meta-analysis of LSD trials found that 59% of patients showed improvement in alcohol misuse, with lasting effects for at least six months. LSD interacts with serotonin receptors to stimulate new connections and open the mind, offering a promising treatment approach for alcoholism.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateMar 8, 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.

An insight into human evolution from the gorilla genome sequence

The gorilla genome sequence provides a unique perspective on human origins, revealing that 15% of the human genome is closer to the gorilla genome than it is to the chimpanzee. The study also illuminates genetic differences between gorilla species and highlights the importance of conservation efforts for these endangered populations.

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·JournalNature·DateMar 8, 2012

McGill researchers crack degeneration process that leads to Alzheimer's

Researchers at McGill University have discovered a critical process in understanding the degeneration of brain cells sensitive to Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that targeting this process could lead to alternative therapies for treating AD, including drugs that protect neurons from degeneration.

SourceMcGill University·DateMar 8, 2012

The dance of the chaperones

Researchers have identified DnaK as a central player in the chaperone network of E. coli, which helps proteins fold into their complex three-dimensional structures. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms behind protein folding and has implications for understanding diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 8, 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.

Scientists discover 'Achilles' heel' of clot-buster

Researchers have solved the atomic structure of closed plasminogen, a key player in the clot-busting process, revealing an 'Achilles' heel' that proteins bind to when it opens up. This discovery may lead to more effective clot-busting drugs for treating heart attacks and strokes.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 8, 2012

Insects have personality too, research on honey bees indicates

A study by University of Illinois professor Gene Robinson found that honey bees differ in their desire to perform tasks, with certain individuals more likely to seek adventure. The research suggests that these differences may be due to variability in personalities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 2012

Oldest organism with skeleton discovered in Australia

Researchers have found the oldest organism with a skeleton, Coronacollina acula, which lived between 560-550 million years ago. The discovery provides insight into early life on Earth and may help scientists recognize life elsewhere in the universe.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalGeology·DateMar 8, 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.

EPSRC awards 3 ICT program grants to UCL Engineering

The EPSRC has awarded £18 million to three ICT projects at UCL Engineering, focusing on optical communication technologies, wireless technology, and adaptive software engineering. The projects aim to develop new generation of optical fibers, unlock more bandwidth, and improve software development efficiency.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateMar 8, 2012

Scientists detect seismic signals from tornado

Researchers at Indiana University detected unusual seismic signals associated with tornadoes that struck the Midwest last week. The experiment suggests a large atmospheric pressure transient related to thunderstorms may precede tornadoes.

SourceIndiana University·DateMar 8, 2012
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.

Partnerships in the brain

Researchers developed a mathematical model to test whether neurons communicate individually or as groups. The method filters signals to determine if neurons collaborate flexibly within milliseconds. This breakthrough has the potential to reveal dynamic cell assemblies involved in planning and controlling behavior.

SourceRIKEN·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 8, 2012

Cultural 'tightness' holds back female leadership -- but not always, says study

A study found that cultural 'tightness' can prevent the emergence of women leaders in some countries, but also supports equal opportunities for both sexes. Societies with loose cultures, such as New Zealand and Norway, showed a high rate of female leadership, while culturally tight countries like Pakistan had low rates.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalJournal of World Business·DateMar 8, 2012

New pig model may lead to progress in treating debilitating eye disease

A new pig model has been developed to study and potentially treat the debilitating eye disease retinitis pigmentosa. The miniature swine model expresses classic features of the disease and can be used to screen novel therapies for this devastating condition.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateMar 8, 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.

Radiation oncologists are discussing infertility risks with young cancer patients

A study found that over 80% of radiation oncologists discuss fertility risks with patients of childbearing age, but many receive inadequate education. The role of radiation oncologists in communicating fertility preservation options is crucial for improving quality of life and care for young cancer patients.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateMar 8, 2012

Saving power, saving money

A team of researchers at Case Western Reserve University has developed a novel technique called fine-grained power gating, which can eliminate wasted energy in computer processors. This method reduces power consumption by up to 40% and also minimizes heat production, resulting in significant cost savings.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateMar 8, 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.

Nanotube technology leading to new era of fast, lower-cost medical diagnostics

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed nanotube-based sensors that can perform lab tests in minutes, speeding diagnosis and treatment while reducing costs. The technology has almost tripled the speed of prototype nano-biosensors and holds potential for applications in medicine, toxicology, and environmental monitoring.

SourceOregon State University·JournalLab on a Chip·DateMar 8, 2012

Risk of death from heart failure is lower in women than in men

A large analysis of studies involving over 40,000 subjects found that women with chronic heart failure have a lower risk of death compared to men. The study also revealed that women are more likely to have preserved ejection fraction and less ventricular remodelling, which may contribute to their better survival rates.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Heart Failure·DateMar 8, 2012

A new method for more accurate assessment of osteoporosis

Researchers at the Academy of Finland have developed a new, laser-based ultrasound technique to accurately assess osteoporosis. This method uses photo-acoustic methods to produce an ultrasound pulse that propagates along the bone, providing a more accurate measurement than current X-ray methods.

SourceAcademy of Finland·DateMar 8, 2012

A TRP that makes our cells feel hyper

A team of researchers has discovered a molecule that prevents cell death when subjected to hyperosmolarity. The TRPM2∆C molecule is activated by binding to CD38 and may lead to new avenues for researching diseases such as HIV, cancer, and diabetes.

SourceNational Institute for Physiological Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateMar 8, 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.

Want to limit aggression? Practice self-control!

A new review article examines the psychological research on self-control and aggression, finding that depleting self-control can increase aggressive behavior, while strengthening it can reduce it. Practicing self-control through techniques like using the non-dominant hand or improving posture can also improve impulse control.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateMar 8, 2012

Aging, overweight people stay happy says new study

A new cross-cultural study found that people reported better mental quality of life as they age, despite a decrease in physical quality of life. The study also found that being overweight or obese did not have a significant impact on mental well-being levels, contradicting the 'jolly fat' hypothesis.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalEuropean Journal of Epidemiology·DateMar 8, 2012

Clock gene helps plants prepare for spring flowering, study shows

A new study reveals that the TOC1 protein plays a crucial role in dampening gene activity in the evening, helping plants stay dormant at night. This discovery contradicts previous understanding of the gene's role and has implications for plant growth and adaptation to environmental changes.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 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.

The petunia points the way to better harvests

Researchers at the University of Zurich have discovered a specialized transport protein required for plant-fungus symbiosis, enabling more efficient nutrient uptake and harvesting. This discovery could lead to improved crop yields and reduced parasite damage in low-nutrient soils.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature·DateMar 8, 2012

7-country study examining the causes of childhood pneumonia outlined

A new study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases examined the causes of pneumonia among children in developing countries. The Pneumonia Etiology Research for Child Health (PERCH) Project enrolled over 6,000 children and aimed to understand the interplay between risk factors and infection by deadly viruses and bacteria.

SourceInternational Vaccine Access Center·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateMar 8, 2012

Maternal obesity may influence brain development of premature infants

A new study by researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center found that maternal obesity may contribute to cognitive impairment in extremely premature babies. The study assessed 921 infants born before 28 weeks of gestation and found associations between maternal obesity, lack of high school education, and pre-term thrombosis with ...

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 8, 2012

Bias in decision-making leads to poor choices and possibly depression

A new study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that our brains use a simplistic strategy to filter out options when faced with complex decisions, leading to poor choices. The researchers also linked this 'pruning' decision-making bias to depressive symptoms, suggesting a possible connection between the two.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 8, 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.

RUB researchers present a new switching principle for magnetic fields

A team of researchers from Germany and the Netherlands has developed a novel material that enables the switching of spin currents at room temperature in a vertical magnetic field. This breakthrough increases storage density distinctly and has potential applications in future hard discs and non-volatile random access memory devices.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 8, 2012

Deeper view of HIV reveals impact of early mutations

A recent study using advanced gene-sequencing technologies tracked viral evolution in HIV-infected patients. The research found that early mutations can evade the host's immune response, making it challenging to control the infection. This understanding may lead to the development of vaccines targeting specific regions of the virus.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMar 8, 2012

Teach your robot well (Georgia Tech shows how)

Researchers at Georgia Tech identified key question types that facilitate human-robot learning, including feature queries, which were preferred by both human volunteers and robot learners. The study aims to improve the teaching of robots by understanding human learning mechanisms and developing more effective active learning strategies.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateMar 8, 2012

Testing treatments in a virtual world

Researchers are developing models of different parts of the human body, which will ultimately build into a complete digital replica of a patient. This digital model will be tested with various treatments to predict their effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·DateMar 8, 2012

New paper examines issues raised by Fukushima reactor accident

Researchers highlight the need for better understanding of how water interacts with damaged fuel and radioactive material release in nuclear accidents. A new paper by Peter C. Burns and colleagues from the University of Notre Dame and others emphasizes the importance of increased research to develop predictive models.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 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.

Discovery of hair-cell roots suggests the brain modulates sound sensitivity

The discovery of a previously unknown root extension in hair cells suggests the brain regulates sound sensitivity and head position. This finding challenges current understanding of how hair cells work, with the striated organelle connecting the rootlets to the cell membrane enabling feedback from the cell to the detectors.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 8, 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.

NRL designs robot for shipboard firefighting

The NRL has developed a humanoid robot called the Shipboard Autonomous Firefighting Robot (SAFFiR) to fight fires on ships. The robot features enhanced multi-modal sensor technology, allowing it to navigate through narrow passages and interact with humans.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·DateMar 8, 2012

Proposed nuclear clock may keep time with the universe

A proposed new time-keeping system based on a neutron's orbit around an atomic nucleus could achieve unprecedented accuracy. This approach would allow scientists to test fundamental physical theories at higher precision and explore diverse applications.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 8, 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.

Installing gun cabinets in homes improves safe firearm storage

A randomized trial with 255 households showed a significant reduction in unlocked guns (35% to 35%) and ammunition (84% to 35%) after installing $80 locking metal gun cabinets. The study concluded that installing gun cabinets improves safe household firearm storage and could reduce gun-related injuries and deaths.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMar 8, 2012

'Chum cam' underwater video survey shows that reef sharks thrive in marine reserves

A team of scientists from the Institute for Ocean Conservation Science used video cameras to count Caribbean reef sharks inside and outside marine reserves on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. The results show that the sharks were more abundant in the reserves, with a higher relative abundance compared to areas where fishing is allowed.

SourceThe Institute for Ocean Conservation Science·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 8, 2012

Gravitational lens reveals details of distant, ancient galaxy

Astronomers have obtained a unique close-up look at the brightest gravitationally magnified galaxy yet discovered using NASA's Hubble Space Telescope. The image revealed regions of star formation glowing like bright points of light, which are much brighter than any star-formation region in our own galaxy.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·DateMar 8, 2012
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.

Mapping the Japanese tsunami to prepare for future events

Georgia Tech associate professor Hermann Fritz and his team are studying the impact of the 2011 Tohoku tsunami on the Sanriku coast using terrestrial laser scanners and eyewitness video. They have mapped the tsunami's height and flood zone, which could produce flooding forecasts to influence evacuation plans and building designs.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 8, 2012

Sexual reproduction can increase genetic variation but reduce species diversity

A recent study led by Carlos J. Melian found that speeding up evolution through sexual reproduction may actually decrease species diversity. The researchers developed new models to connect the mode of reproduction to biodiversity and found that high genetic variation and evolutionary rates have little effect on general biodiversity.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 8, 2012

Effects of flooding on Cairo, Ill.

A study found that allowing the levee to break would have created more damage than constant water pressure. The city of Cairo occupied a small land area, and floodwaters rising to 61.72 feet posed significant threats to downstream levees.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Soil and Water Conservation·DateMar 8, 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.

Share and share alike

Researchers studied viral campaigns and found that increased product involvement and social network consideration significantly predicted sharing intentions. People filter information, but personal involvement in the item being shared also contributes to higher likelihood of sharing.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Electronic Marketing and Retailing·DateMar 8, 2012

Ultrafast sonograms shed new light on rapid phase transitions

Researchers have developed an ultrafast method to track structural changes in solid materials during phase transitions. This technique sheds new light on vanadium dioxide's fast transformation between transparent and reflective phases. The study provides valuable insights into designing high-speed optical switches using this material.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 8, 2012

Magnetic moon

A team of researchers from Harvard and MIT suggests that massive asteroid collision is responsible for the Moon's magnetic anomalies. The anomaly is found around the rim of a 2,400-kilometer-diameter crater known as South Pole-Aitken.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 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.

Minority administrators, school personnel key to engaging immigrant parents

Researchers at Rice University found that minority principals and administrative personnel play a key role in implementing policies to engage immigrant parents. Cultural brokers with connections to parents' racial or ethnic origin group also have a positive impact on school policies and practices.

SourceRice University·JournalSocial Science Quarterly·DateMar 8, 2012

Vaccination may be key for true elimination of HIV-1

Scientists discovered an effective way to eliminate a persistent form of HIV-1 through vaccination strategy. The research found that heightened immune response prior to virus reactivation facilitates the elimination of latent viral reservoir, paving the way for true eradication.

SourceCell Press·JournalImmunity·DateMar 8, 2012

Healthy aging begins in the womb

Scientists investigate stress hormones during pregnancy and their impact on brain aging and disease risk. Exposure to stress hormones, such as glucocorticoids, has been linked to increased stress sensitivity and early aging.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·DateMar 8, 2012

Sport fields: Catalysts for physical activity in the neighborhood?

A University of Alberta study found that individuals who live near areas with more traffic-related incidents are more likely to engage in sufficient levels of physical activity. The research also highlights the importance of increasing awareness about available facilities to encourage physical activity.

SourceUniversity of Alberta - Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMar 8, 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.

MIT research: Sometimes the quickest path is not a straight line

A team of MIT engineers has created a mathematical procedure that can optimize path planning for automated underwater vehicles (AUVs) even in regions with complex shorelines and strong shifting currents. The system can provide paths optimized for the shortest travel time, minimum energy use, or maximum data collection.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMar 8, 2012

Drug helps purge hidden HIV virus, study shows

A recent study has successfully flushed latent HIV infection from hiding using a drug used to treat certain types of lymphoma. The results show that targeting the biological mechanism that keeps the HIV virus hidden can be effective in providing a cure.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·DateMar 8, 2012

Sobered up using LSD

A study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that a single dose of LSD improved outcomes for 59% of patients compared to 38% of those receiving other treatments. Patients who received LSD showed greater self-acceptance, openness and motivation to address their alcohol problem.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateMar 8, 2012

A test of the senses in the search for a shoal mate

Research from the University of Bristol and Radboud University Nijmegen found that young French grunts are attracted to coral reef noises and muddy soft-sediment smells, but only visual cues of familiar fish guide them to their shoal mates. This hierarchical approach allows the fish to navigate safely in complex habitats.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalEcology·DateMar 8, 2012
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.

Drosophila conference highlights diverse research and its applications

Researchers presented at the Drosophila conference explored metabolic disorders, aging and monarch butterfly migration using the fruit fly as a model organism. Studies found connections between fly and human disease, revealing new insights into diabetes, aging and the mechanisms behind monarch migration.

SourceGenetics Society of America·DateMar 8, 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.

Insect DNA offers tiny clues about animals' changing habitats

A new study has shed light on how species and their natural enemies have chased each other across continents for millions of years. The research used population genetics to analyze the DNA of small insects and their wasp enemies, finding that some plant-eating insects have outrun their predators for hundreds of thousands of years

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 8, 2012

First findings released from Swaziland HIV incidence measurement survey announced at CROI 2012

The Swaziland HIV Incidence Measurement Survey found that HIV prevalence has stabilized over the past five years, with current prevalence peaking at 54% for women ages 30-34 and 48% for men ages 35-39. The survey also indicates declines in HIV prevalence among young adults, which may suggest a reduction in new HIV infections.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·DateMar 8, 2012

Benefits of single atoms acting as catalysts in hydrogen-related reactions

Researchers at Tufts University discovered that single atoms of palladium can catalyze industrially important chemical reactions, including the hydrogenation of acetylene. The findings offer significant economic and environmental benefits by reducing costs and waste associated with traditional catalysts.

SourceTufts University·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 2012

Engineer Robert J. Wood to receive NSF's Alan T. Waterman Award

Robert J. Wood, an Associate Professor at Harvard University, has won the prestigious Alan T. Waterman Award for his innovative research in biologically inspired robotics and microfabrication. The award recognizes his work on developing robotic flying insects and a new fabrication technique inspired by children's pop-up books.

SourceHarvard University·DateMar 8, 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.

Older men's hidden health concerns

A large cross-sectional survey of 2325 Canadian men aged 55-97 years old found that mobility impairments, memory loss, and medication side effects were top health concerns. However, only a minority reported receiving adequate counseling on these issues, highlighting important gaps in healthcare.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·DateMar 8, 2012