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Science News for February 28, 2013


Walking in the footsteps of 19th and 20th century naturalists

Biologists Tiffany Knight and Laura Burkle studied a historic dataset from Charles Robertson's 19th-century naturalist work, revealing a weakened plant-pollinator network. The study found that half of the bee species associated with flowers had disappeared, pollinators were active before plants bloomed, and pollination services declined.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2013

Wars on editing Wikipedia articles, uncovered

A study by CSIC researchers reveals two main types of behaviors in collaborative Wikipedia editing: clashes with rapid agreement, and interactions between three groups with varying levels of consensus. Despite initial disagreement, opposing opinions tend to converge over time through the article's content.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 28, 2013

Human trials for Streptococcus A vaccine

Griffith University's Institute for Glycomics has launched a human trial for a Streptococcus A vaccine, targeting a protein on the surface of Strep A bacteria. The year-long trial aims to ensure the vaccine's safety and effectiveness in preventing rheumatic fever, particularly in remote Aboriginal communities with high infection rates.

SourceGriffith University·DateFeb 28, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Wolf in sheep's clothing: Uncovering how deadly bacteria trick the immune system

A recent UCLA study reveals that certain bacteria, including those causing tuberculosis, can pretend to be viruses when infecting humans. This allows them to hijack the immune response and hide out inside cells. The findings may also explain how viral infections like the flu make us more susceptible to bacterial infections like pneumonia.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2013

Mineral diversity clue to early Earth chemistry

A team of scientists analyzed 442 molybdenite samples to find that rhenium concentrations increased significantly over the past three billion years, reflecting increasing oxygen levels in the environment. The findings support previous research on hydrothermal activity and supercontinent formation influencing mineral evolution.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateFeb 28, 2013

UGA researchers identify brain pathway triggering impulsive eating

Researchers at UGA discovered a neural pathway in fly larvae that triggers impulsive eating behavior when exposed to appetizing odors. This finding suggests that humans and flies share similar mechanisms for responding to rewarding cues, which can lead to compulsive eating.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 28, 2013
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.

Atoms with quantum memory

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have discovered an intermediate state between order and disorder in ultra cold Bose-Einstein condensates. This prethermalized state retains quantum memory for a surprisingly long time, characterized by a new length scale that emerges from the initial quantum gas.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 28, 2013

Old records, new bees result in 'Science' paper for MSU ecologist

Researchers discovered that the area has lost many species of bees and flowering plants, but found them surprisingly resilient in the face of warmer temperatures. The study used historical data to examine plant-pollinator interactions and found mismatches between plants and their historic pollinators due to climate change.

SourceMontana State University·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2013

Replacing soybean meal in pig diets

Researchers found that replacing soybean meal with canola, cottonseed, and sunflower products can be viable alternatives for pigs, but they have reduced amino acid digestibility due to higher fiber content.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateFeb 28, 2013
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.

New study could explain why some people get zits and others don't

A recent study by UCLA and Washington University researchers discovered that acne-causing bacteria contain both 'bad' and 'good' strains. The 'good' strain is found in healthy skin but rarely occurs in those with acne, suggesting it may have a natural defense mechanism to protect the skin.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateFeb 28, 2013

Aggressive advertising may make for aggressive men

A new study found that magazine advertisements often perpetuate hyper-masculinity, a toxic form of masculinity characterized by toughness, violence, and objectification. The research suggests that these ads can shape young men's attitudes and behaviors, contributing to social problems like violence and drug use.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalSex Roles·DateFeb 28, 2013
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.

Mutation location is the key to prognosis

Researchers found that mutations in MECP2 gene at specific locations influence disease symptoms and progression. Mice studies revealed a difference in symptoms between mice with mutations at amino acids 270 and 273.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell·DateFeb 28, 2013

Discoveries suggest icy cosmic start for amino acids and DNA ingredients

Researchers have discovered important prebiotic molecules in interstellar space, including a precursor to DNA's adenine component and an intermediate step in alanine formation. The findings suggest that these chemicals could have seeded newly-formed planets with the necessary building blocks for life.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 28, 2013
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Space race under way to create quantum satellite

Researchers are pursuing a quantum satellite concept to establish a secure global quantum communication network by harnessing the signal's travel time in empty space. The team has emphasized precise alignment between the satellite and ground stations to ensure accurate measurement of photons.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics World·DateFeb 28, 2013

How did early primordial cells evolve?

New research reveals how primitive cells could have replicated without crucial structures, shedding light on the earliest forms of cellular life. Genetic changes required for L-form growth identified, including increased fatty acid production and imbalance between surface area and volume.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateFeb 28, 2013

Action video games boost reading skills

Dyslexic children who played action video games for nine sessions showed significant improvements in reading speed and accuracy compared to non-action gamers. The study's findings suggest that visual attention deficits are at the root of dyslexia and that action video games can enhance visual attention, leading to better reading skills.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 28, 2013
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.

Sea lamprey genome mapped with help from scientists at OU

Scientists at OU, Japan, Germany, US, Canada, and Great Britain collaborate to sequence the sea lamprey genome, providing insights into vertebrate evolution and character traits. The study reveals two whole-genome duplication rounds in vertebrates, shedding light on the origins of myelin and paired appendages.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 28, 2013

Research unearths new dinosaur species

Researchers found fossil evidence that small crocodiles fed on baby ornithopod dinosaurs, revealing a new dimension to the food chain. The discovery also uncovered a previously unrecognized small ornithopod dinosaur species.

SourceSouth Dakota School of Mines and Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 28, 2013

The birth of a giant planet?

An international team led by Sascha Quanz has studied the disc of gas and dust around young star HD 100546, spotting a candidate protoplanet that could be a giant similar to Jupiter. The discovery provides an unique laboratory for studying the formation process of a new planetary system.

SourceESO·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 28, 2013
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.

After the human genome project: The human microbiome project

The Human Microbiome Project is a major scientific effort to study the microbial communities within humans, with potential insights into diseases and disorders. The study, published in The FASEB Journal, provides a comprehensive reference set of microbiome specimens and lays a foundation for future research.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 28, 2013

Study finds diabetes does not increase risk of total knee surgical complications

A Kaiser Permanente study of over 40,000 patients found no significant increase in surgical complications for those with diabetes. Despite previous findings suggesting a higher risk, researchers discovered better glycemic control among study participants reduced the impact of diabetes on surgery outcomes.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateFeb 28, 2013

Facebook 'Likes' a good indicator of quality hospital care

A recent study published in the American Journal of Medical Quality found that hospital Facebook 'Likes' are positively associated with patient recommendations and lower mortality rates. This suggests that hospitals with higher levels of quality and patient satisfaction tend to attract more 'Likes' on their pages.

SourceSAGE·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Quality·DateFeb 28, 2013
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.

Study led by NUS researchers proves the existence of 3 overstretched DNA structures

Researchers led by NUS Associate Professor Yan Jie identify three new distinct overstretched DNA structures caused by mechanical stretching, resolving a long-standing scientific debate. The discovery has implications for understanding DNA damage repair and gene transcriptions, with potential applications in designing new DNA devices.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2013

Study provides insights into plant evolution

Researchers identified a gene that regulates plant life cycle transition, providing insights into complex diploid body evolution. This discovery could lead to the development of apomixis, a technique for producing high-yielding hybrid crops more easily and cheaply.

SourceMonash University·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2013

Toxic oceans may have delayed spread of complex life

A new model reveals that oxygen-poor toxic conditions in ancient oceans may have delayed the spread of complex life forms. The study shows how bacteria using nitrate in their metabolism controlled the formation of toxic hydrogen-sulphide-rich states.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 28, 2013
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.

Research supports promise of cell therapy for bowel disease

Adult stem cells have been identified that can migrate to the intestine and produce intestinal cells, suggesting their potential to treat inflammatory bowel disease. The cells were found to express high levels of a receptor involved in tissue repair and wound closure.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 28, 2013

Problems with identifying meat? The answer is to check the barcode

A study published in BioMed Central's Investigative Genetics journal found that over 80% of game meat samples in South Africa were mislabeled, with some species being substituted almost entirely. The labelling error has implications for animal safety and cultural/religious practices.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalInvestigative Genetics·DateFeb 28, 2013

Eating junk food while pregnant may make your child a junk food addict

Research published in The FASEB Journal suggests that pregnant mothers who consume junk food alter the development of their unborn child's opioid signaling pathway, leading to decreased sensitivity and increased tolerance for junk food. This can result in children being more likely to develop a lifelong addiction to unhealthy foods.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 28, 2013

ACC/HRS release appropriate use criteria for ICDs and CRT

The ACC/HRS released appropriate use criteria for implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). The document assesses 369 real-life clinical scenarios to support physician decision-making, with 45% deemed appropriate for ICD implantation. The criteria help inform clinical judgment while ack...

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 28, 2013
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.

'Rain Man'-like brains mapped at UCSF

Scientists have created a detailed map of the global connections within the brains of individuals with agenesis of the corpus callosum, a genetic cause of autism. The study reveals abnormal brain connectivity patterns and network topology, potentially leading to new imaging biomarkers for diagnosis and management.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNeuroImage·DateFeb 28, 2013

Brown unveils novel wireless brain sensor

Researchers created a novel low-power device that enables the recording of complex neural signals in freely moving subjects for over 16 months. The device, which transmits data wirelessly, has the potential to revolutionize brain-computer interfaces and help people with severe paralysis control devices with their thoughts.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·DateFeb 28, 2013

MIMR researchers find a protein link to STI susceptibility

A Monash Institute of Medical Research team has identified a protein called Interferon epsilon (IFNe) that protects females against infections, including STIs. The discovery could lead to new therapeutic opportunities and boost protective immunity.

SourceMonash Institute of Medical Research·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2013
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.

NASA's Van Allen Probes discover a surprise circling Earth

The Van Allen Probes have discovered a surprise third radiation belt extending out into space, offering scientists new insights into the region. The discovery provides a unique opportunity for researchers to study the dynamics of the belts and shed light on the complex interactions between solar energy and magnetic waves.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 28, 2013

Zeroing in on heart disease

Scientists identify genes involved in cholesterol metabolism and cardiovascular disease risk by selectively decreasing gene expression using RNA interference. The study provides a new approach for understanding the mechanisms of cardiovascular disease and improving its prediction and diagnosis.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 28, 2013

Closer personal relationships could help teens overcome learning disabilities

A Tel Aviv University study found that teenagers with learning disabilities often have less secure attachments to their mothers and teachers, leading to increased depression, anxiety, and isolation. Strengthening these relationships can improve socioemotional experiences and reduce behavioral problems.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·DateFeb 28, 2013

Loss of wild insects hurts crops around the world

A recent study found that managed honey bees are less successful at pollinating crops than wild insects, highlighting the negative consequences of losing wild insect populations. The research emphasizes the need for integrated management practices to promote long-term agricultural production and enhance global crop yields.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2013
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

'Crazy-busy' Canadians under pressure on the job

A new study from the University of Toronto found that Canadian workers who report high levels of job pressure often experience problems navigating work and family roles, as well as symptoms of physical and mental health issues. Having control over one's work schedule and job autonomy are associated with lower levels of job pressure.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalSocial Science Research·DateFeb 28, 2013

Double-jointed adolescents at risk for joint pain

A prospective study found that adolescents with joint hypermobility are approximately twice as likely to develop musculoskeletal pain at these joints. The study suggests a possible genetic basis for joint hypermobility, and further investigation is warranted to determine the long-term effects of joint hypermobility on osteoarthritis risk.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateFeb 28, 2013

Round or 'shaped,' implants yield good results in breast reconstruction

A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery finds that round and shaped silicone implants have similar patient-reported outcomes in breast reconstruction, with few significant differences in quality of life. The researchers evaluated 65 women receiving round implants and 63 receiving shaped implants, finding average scores ...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateFeb 28, 2013
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.

Nearly 1 in 4 women newly diagnosed with breast cancer

A study of over 1,100 women found that nearly a quarter developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms within two to three months after breast cancer diagnosis. Younger women and those from Asian and black backgrounds were at higher risk.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 28, 2013

Improving climate protection in the agricultural sector

A study developed a new model to improve climate balance in agriculture by identifying key factors contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and energy inefficiencies. Organic farming strategies, such as planting legumes and using soil less intensively, show promise for reducing emissions and improving yields.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateFeb 28, 2013

DNA's twisted communication

A team of scientists at EMBL has discovered how the genome is controlled by a series of multiple, interdependent regulatory elements. These elements are clustered together and control specific genes like Fgf8, which is crucial for limb growth and brain development.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 28, 2013

Kessler researchers link left-sided brain injury with greater risk for hospital-acquired infections

A study published in Archives of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation found that patients with left-sided brain injuries are more susceptible to hospital-acquired infections. The research suggests that optimizing the balance between left and right brain activity may improve infection resistance and lead to novel interventions.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalArchives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation·DateFeb 28, 2013
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Pour, shake and stir

A diagnostic 'cocktail' containing a single drop of blood, a dribble of water, and a dose of DNA powder with gold particles can mean rapid diagnosis and treatment of the world's leading diseases. The technology uses nanoparticles to target and illuminate cancer cells and tumours.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateFeb 28, 2013

Pixels guide the way for the visually impaired

Researchers developed a pixelated vision system to enhance retinal implants, allowing patients to detect motion, large objects, and improve orientation. The system uses mathematical algorithms to pick out salient locations in images and provides directional cues for navigation tasks.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·DateFeb 28, 2013

Metal ions regulate terpenoid metabolism in insects

Researchers discovered that metal ions cobalt, manganese, and magnesium control the production of different terpenoids in insect larvae, one for defense and another for juvenile hormones. This study highlights the importance of metal ions in regulating metabolic pathways and challenges the traditional view of enzyme specificity.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2013

Saharan and Asian dust, biological particles end global journey in California

A study by UCSD and NOAA finds that aerosols from the Sahara desert help spur precipitation in California, highlighting the impact of global weather patterns on regional water supplies. The research uses advanced instruments to track the journey of aerosols across continents and demonstrates their role in seeding storm clouds.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2013
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.

Scientists call for legal trade in rhino horn

Leading environmental scientists propose a highly regulated legal trade in rhino horn to conserve Africa's remaining rhinos. The plan, published in the journal Science, could meet global demand for horn by humanely shaving horns of live rhinos or animals dying of natural causes.

SourceJulian Cribb & Associates·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2013

Cell movement explained by molecular recycling

Researchers at the University of Manchester identified the method by which cells regulate integrin recycling, allowing precise control over cell movement. Syndecan-4 plays a critical role in regulating this process, responding to subtle changes in the cell's surroundings.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 28, 2013
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.

Study shows need for improved empathic communication between hospice teams and caregivers

A study by University of Kentucky researcher Elaine Wittenberg-Lyles found that hospice team members often respond to caregiver empathic opportunities with perfunctory responses, rather than addressing emotional needs. This highlights the need for better communication about psychosocial issues and emotional losses for caregivers.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalPatient Education and Counseling·DateFeb 28, 2013

LSU researchers find new information about 'Snowball Earth' period

Researchers found evidence of a unique post-glacial world, revealing life's remarkable ability to restore balance after a global glaciation. The study estimates the Marinoan Oxygen-17 Depletion event lasted 0-1 million years, suggesting an ultra-high carbon dioxide atmosphere following the Snowball Earth glaciation.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2013
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.

Fighting GM crop vandalism with a government-protected research site

A Swiss government-protected field site will provide a secure environment for GM crop researchers, enabling them to conduct experiments without security measures. This model could help European countries evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of GM crops in an objective manner.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·DateFeb 28, 2013

Third radiation belt discovered with UNH-led instrument suite

The Radiation Belt Storm Probes mission, led by the University of New Hampshire, has discovered a transient third radiation belt formed in the wake of a powerful solar event. The new belt was detected using the Relativistic Electron-Proton Telescope and is located at an inner edge of the outer electron belt.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2013

New method for researching understudied malaria-spreading mosquitoes

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute have developed a new method to compare proteins of An. albimanus and An. gambiae midguts, shedding light on the complex molecular workings of An. albimanus, a significant but understudied spreader of human malaria.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateFeb 28, 2013

Where the wild things go… when there's nowhere else

A Princeton University study reveals that endangered species, such as Sumatran orangutans and Javan leopards, are increasingly taking up residence in swamp forests in Africa and Asia. These areas often lack food sources and fresh water, yet provide a crucial habitat for these animals.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalFolia Primatologica·DateFeb 28, 2013
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.

Twin CU-Boulder instruments reveal a third radiation belt can wrap around Earth

Scientists have discovered a third Van Allen radiation belt that forms and dissipates in a matter of weeks, challenging our understanding of the environment around Earth. The discovery was made possible by twin NASA space probes carrying CU-Boulder instruments, which captured data on the belt's formation and behavior.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2013

Clogged heart arteries can foreshadow stroke

Researchers found that blockages in coronary arteries, as measured by non-invasive CT scans, were significantly higher in patients who experienced a stroke. CAC levels above 400 Hounsfield units increased the risk of stroke three times in those under 65 and at low cardiovascular risk.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 28, 2013

UCLA study could explain why some people get zits and others don't

Researchers discovered two strains of acne bacteria associated with pimples and one strain linked to healthy skin. Increasing the body's friendly strain through a cream or lotion may help calm spotty complexions.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateFeb 28, 2013
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.

Winner of Physics Journalism Prize announced

The inaugural Physics Journalism Prize has been awarded to Anil Ananthaswamy for his article Hip Hip Array, which explores the Square Kilometre Array project. The prize is sponsored by IOP Publishing and the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), and includes a £10,000 award and an expenses-paid trip to Japan.

SourceIOP Publishing·DateFeb 28, 2013

Progesterone may be why pregnant women are more vulnerable to certain infections

Research published in Journal of Leukocyte Biology reveals that progesterone receptor regulates helper T cells required for developing antibodies. This regulation affects immunity against diseases like malaria and herpes simplex virus, and sheds light on autoimmune disease remission during pregnancy.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateFeb 28, 2013

Exploring the inner world of carnivorous plants

Carnivorous plants have evolved cup-shaped leaves to catch prey, allowing them to thrive in nutrient-poor environments. The study aims to uncover the rules of growth and evolution behind these complex forms, combining observations, 3D imaging, and genetic analysis.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·DateFeb 28, 2013
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.

Modified bacteria turn waste into fat for fuel

Researchers at Rice University have developed a process to produce fatty acids from plant biomass using genetically modified E. coli bacteria. The new method has shown significant improvements in yield and efficiency, with the potential to produce millions of tons of fuel per year.

SourceRice University·DateFeb 28, 2013