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Science News for April 28, 2015


Victims of bullying fare worse in the long run than maltreated children

Researchers found that victims of bullying fare worse in the long run than maltreated children, with those who experienced both facing increased risk of depression and self-harm. The study suggests a need for more efforts by schools and policymakers to address bullying.

SourceAmerican Academy of Pediatrics·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateApr 28, 2015

Two new creeping water bug species found in Belize and Peru

Scientists have identified two new species of creeping water bugs, Ambrysus cayo and Procryphocricos pilcopata, found in streams in western Belize and southeastern Peru. The discovery highlights the vast unexplored world of aquatic insects, with many still to be discovered before it's too late due to habitat destruction.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalAnnals of the Entomological Society of America·DateApr 28, 2015
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

New study links drinking behaviors with mortality

A new study by University of Colorado Boulder researchers found that social and psychological problems caused by drinking generally trump physically hazardous drinking behaviors when it comes to overall mortality rates. Light drinkers reported surprisingly high percentages of problems, with 48% experiencing some issue with alcohol in t...

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateApr 28, 2015

New IVF device may improve fertility treatment

A new IVF technique uses open microwell setup to screen embryos before implantation, potentially increasing success rates. The method allows researchers to select the most viable embryos on a case-by-case basis, reducing the number of cycles and costs.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiomicrofluidics·DateApr 28, 2015
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Burmese python habitat use patterns may help control efforts

A new USGS study tracked 19 wild-caught Burmese pythons to reveal their home range and habitat use patterns. The research found that pythons share common areas within the park, which may be optimal locations for control efforts, and provides insights into the snakes' movement patterns during wet and dry seasons.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalAnimal Biotelemetry·DateApr 28, 2015

Childhood obesity -- 1 epidemic or 2?

A new study found that childhood obesity has distinct causes depending on the age of the child. In toddlers, weight gain is largely influenced by parental factors, while adolescents experience weight gain across the entire age group, regardless of parentage. The study suggests that public health strategies may need to be tailored accor...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateApr 28, 2015

Chemists strike nano-gold: 4 new atomic structures for gold nanoparticle clusters

Chemists have designed four new atomic arrangements of gold nanoparticle clusters, exhibiting lower potential energy and greater stability than previous configurations. The arrangements could inform the use of these nanoparticles in transporting pharmaceutical drugs and removing pollutants from industrial byproducts.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 28, 2015

Male beetles up their game when they catch a whiff of competition

Researchers found that male flour beetles can detect chemical cues on females indicating sperm competition and adjust their courtship efforts accordingly. When females exhibit the scent of one to three rival males, males increase their reproductive investment.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBehavioral Ecology·DateApr 28, 2015
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Monkey droppings complement field observations, researchers report

Researchers used high-throughput sequencing to analyze fecal DNA of saddleback tamarins, identifying 20 families and genera of invertebrates consumed. This study complements behavioral observations and ecological sampling, providing insight into the monkeys' foraging strategies.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateApr 28, 2015

Weighing -- and imaging -- molecules one at a time

Caltech scientists develop nanodevices that can measure the mass of individual molecules and reveal their three-dimensional spatial distribution, crucial for identifying large protein complexes. This technology enhances protein identification and analysis, improving odds in discovery mode.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 28, 2015

New study shows parrotfish are critical to coral reef island building

A recent study published in Geology has shown that parrotfish play a pivotal role in providing the sands necessary to build and maintain coral reef islands. The research found that parrotfish produced over 85% of the new sand-grade sediment on reefs around island communities in the Maldives.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGeology·DateApr 28, 2015

Crustaceans from the second largest river basin in South America

A team of Brazilian and English zoologists has developed a comprehensive guide to identifying 19 species of planktonic copepods from the 'de la Plata' basin, the second largest river basin in South America. The study provides detailed information on taxonomy, phylogenetic relationships, and identification keys for each sex.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateApr 28, 2015
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

ONR: Helping to train the future canine force

Researchers focus on olfactory and cognitive optimization to improve canines' scent recognition and memory. The goal is to expand their recognition of odors within diverse elements and in what ratios, as well as determine how long they retain scent memory.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateApr 28, 2015

Bigger bang for your buck: Restoring fish habitat by removing barriers

Researchers developed a powerful new model to help decision makers choose cost-effective barrier removal projects, doubling habitat accessible to migratory fish. The study found that coordinated efforts across the entire basin are nine times more cost-effective than local or county-level efforts.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2015

UM study: Oil and gas development transforms landscapes

A recent UM study found that oil and gas development has transformed vast areas of North America's rangelands and croplands, leading to vegetation loss and fragmentation of wildlife habitats. The research estimates that over half a million acres of land are lost annually, equivalent to 120.2 million bushels of wheat.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2015

Research prompts rethink of enzyme evolution

Scientists at University of Otago challenge traditional understanding of enzyme evolution, finding evidence of rapid evolution and ancient catalysts. The research has implications for designing proteins with biomedical applications.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateApr 28, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New study raises the bar in the cough and cold category

A new study published in the International Journal of Clinical Pharmacy found that diphenhydramine, an active ingredient in Dr. Cocoa's Nighttime formula, significantly inhibits cough reflex sensitivity in adults with acute pathological cough, commonly known as a cold.

SourceRobin Leedy & Associates, Inc.·JournalInternational Journal of Clinical Pharmacy·DateApr 28, 2015

Children with ADHD at risk for binge eating, study shows

A new study from Johns Hopkins Medicine finds that children with ADHD are significantly more likely to develop an eating disorder akin to binge eating. The research suggests a common biological mechanism linking the two disorders, highlighting the need for developing new treatment strategies.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalInternational Journal of Eating Disorders·DateApr 28, 2015

Water could have been abundant in the first billion years

Theoretical work suggests water vapor could have existed in pockets of space a billion years after the Big Bang, with temperatures around 80 degrees Fahrenheit allowing for its formation. The team found equilibrium levels similar to those seen in our local universe.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 28, 2015
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.

Joslin research finds gastric band and weight management therapies offer similar benefits

A clinical trial by Joslin Diabetes Center found that adjustable gastric band surgery and intensive group-based medical diabetes and weight management program achieved similar improvements in controlling blood sugar levels after one year. Participants experienced significant weight loss and better quality of life with both approaches.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 28, 2015

Scientists uncover surprising new details of potential Alzheimer's treatment

Researchers found that simultaneous inhibition of multiple Class 1 HDACs led to improved memory restoration and synaptic growth in animal models of Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests a promising new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of this devastating neurodegenerative disorder.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateApr 28, 2015

Small high school reform boosts districtwide outcomes

A study by New York University researchers found that small high school reform leads to improved graduation rates and test scores in both new and existing larger schools. The reform resulted in a 13 percentage point increase in graduation rates among students in small high schools compared to those in continuously operating schools.

SourceNew York University·JournalEducational Researcher·DateApr 28, 2015
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Mathematics reveals how fluid flow affects bacteria

Researchers used mathematical equations to study how flowing fluid hinders bacterial movement in search of food. The findings suggest that slender bacteria get trapped in high shear regions, affecting their ability to find food but potentially aiding surface colonization.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·DateApr 28, 2015

Study shows diversity of habitat needed around spotted owl reserves

A recent study found that over 50% of National Forest land in the northern Sierra Nevada is designated to promote mature, closed-canopy forest, while many bird species prefer undergrowth and habitat outside reserves. The study suggests a need to balance old-growth forest management with diverse forest habitats for all species.

SourcePoint Blue Conservation Science·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 28, 2015

Researchers find evidence of groundwater in Antarctica's Dry Valleys

Researchers have discovered a salty aquifer beneath the McMurdo Dry Valleys in Antarctica, which could provide insights into ancient climate change and the potential for microbial life. The discovery was made using a novel sensor system that penetrated below the surface of large areas of terrain.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 28, 2015

Age at surgery and valve type in PVR key determinants of re-intervention in congenital heart disease

A retrospective review of 633 patients found that younger age, small body weight, and certain valve types significantly increased the risk of re-intervention. Patients under 18 years old had a five times greater risk than adults, with younger children being more likely to require surgical or cardiac catheterization re-interventions.

SourceAmerican Association for Thoracic Surgery·DateApr 28, 2015

The fearsome foursome: Technologies enable ambitious MMS mission

The Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission successfully launched a unique formation of four identical spacecraft to study magnetic reconnection, driving space weather events that disrupt Earth's orbit. The Goddard-developed Navigator GPS receiver enabled precise navigation and tracking in weak signal areas.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 28, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Grant funds innovative news follows to Washington state tragedies

A WSU study will place microphones in popular gathering spots of traumatized Washington State communities to determine effective journalism that respects community members. The project aims to provide a platform for community voices and handle the emotional trauma faced by journalists covering disasters.

SourceWashington State University·DateApr 28, 2015

Lack of safety at school and poverty linked to childhood obesity

Researchers at the University of Montreal found a complex link between feelings of being unsafe, poverty, and childhood obesity. Youth who experienced chronic poverty were more likely to be overweight despite higher levels of physical activity, suggesting a key role for feeling unsafe in perpetuating obesity.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateApr 28, 2015

Electron chirp: Cyclotron radiation from single electrons measured directly for first time

Researchers have successfully detected cyclotron radiation from single electrons, a phenomenon predicted in 1904, and developed a new method to measure the energy of electrons. This technique has the potential to determine the mass of neutrinos, which are essential for understanding the universe's large-scale structure.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 28, 2015
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Ancient connection between the Americas enhanced extreme biodiversity

A new study reveals that species migrations between North and South America began around 20 million years ago, contradicting a long-held assumption that the Isthmus of Panama formed 3 million years ago. This finding has significant implications for understanding how biodiversity in the Americas developed.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2015

Build or burn? Competition for wood on the rise

Researchers investigated wood supply and demand in Bavaria by 2035, finding that using wood as a building material first reduces ecological benefits. Wood scarcity could lead to increased imports and substitute products, affecting jobs and carbon balance.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateApr 28, 2015

As circumcision wounds heal, HIV-positive men may spread virus to female partners

A new study has identified a temporary, but potentially troublesome unintended consequence of male circumcision: an increased risk of infecting female sexual partners while the wound heals. The study found that nearly 30% of HIV-positive men were shedding the virus two weeks after surgery, compared to less than 10% before circumcision.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 28, 2015

Whitening the Arctic Ocean: May restore sea ice, but not climate

Scientists propose whitening Arctic Ocean to restore sea ice, but research shows it would not effectively cool the climate or prevent methane release. The study found that ocean whitening could lead to wetter and milder winter conditions in some regions.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateApr 28, 2015
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Early separation of cow and calf has long-term effects on social behavior

A study found that early separation of cow and calf has long-term effects on social behavior, stress responses, and motivation in dairy cows. Animals raised with maternal contact showed improved heart rate regulation and higher activity during isolation.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalApplied Animal Behaviour Science·DateApr 28, 2015

A glitch in the recycling

A recent study by Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research has made a significant breakthrough in understanding the molecular mechanisms behind Parkinson's disease. The researchers discovered that disruption of a developmental mechanism, Lmx1b, leads to the death of dopamine-producing neurons, resulting in the symptoms of PD.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 28, 2015

Keeping food visible throughout the house is linked to obesity

A study by Ohio State University found that people with low self-esteem related to their weight are more likely to have visible food in their homes, eat unhealthy foods, and experience depression. The home environment may contribute to obesity, but it's not a clear cause-and-effect relationship.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateApr 28, 2015
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Researchers develop new computer-based vision screening test for young children

A new computerized vision-screening test, the Jaeb Visual Acuity Screener (JVAS), has been developed to identify children with subnormal visual acuity. The test uses a set testing algorithm to minimize subjective tester bias and provides simple pass/fail results for four age groups.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus·DateApr 28, 2015

Windows that act like an LCD Screen

A novel liquid crystal technology allows displays to flip between transparent and opaque states, increasing visibility while reducing the need for power. The new design remedies previous problems with scattering and absorption, providing a faster response time and improved energy efficiency.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateApr 28, 2015

C. difficile rates highest in Northeast region, spring season

Rates of C. difficile infection were highest in the Northeast region and during the spring season over the last decade, according to a study published in the American Journal of Infection Control. The study found that adults and older adults followed overall trends, with pediatric CDI being highest in winter.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateApr 28, 2015

Water companies license 2 UW-Milwaukee sensor technologies

Researchers developed real-time sensors that can detect trace amounts of heavy metals and bacteria in private well water. The technology has been licensed to six companies, including three Wisconsin-based firms, for use in water equipment and treatment processes.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin - Milwaukee·DateApr 28, 2015
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Diverse sea creatures evolved to reach same swimming solution

A new study reveals that diverse sea creatures have evolved to swim with elongated fins using the same mechanical motion, maximizing speed and ensuring survival. The researchers found a consistent ratio of 20, known as the optimal specific wavelength (OSW), which is a key finding in understanding convergent evolution.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 28, 2015

Elderly crickets are set in their ways, study finds

A new study published in Behavioural Ecology found that elderly crickets' behavior becomes more entrenched with age, making them less responsive to changing environmental conditions. This suggests that older individuals may struggle to adapt to changes in climate, habitat, or diet, potentially affecting their survival prospects.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBehavioral Ecology·DateApr 28, 2015

Switching on one-shot learning in the brain

Scientists have discovered that uncertainty in causal relationships is the main factor in determining one-shot learning. The ventrolateral prefrontal cortex evaluates such uncertainty and activates one-shot learning when needed. This finding could lead to new approaches for helping people learn more efficiently.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 28, 2015

Strong evidence for coronal heating theory presented at 2015 TESS meeting

Researchers present strong evidence for the coronal heating theory, suggesting that tiny explosive bursts of heat called nanoflares are responsible for heating the sun's atmosphere. The new findings come from NASA's EUNIS sounding rocket mission and NuSTAR X-ray observations, providing insight into the solar corona.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 28, 2015

Beijing Olympics study links pollution to lower birth weight

Research during the Beijing Olympics found a correlation between reduced air pollution and higher birth weights among pregnant women. The study suggests that pollution may interfere with fetal growth, particularly in late pregnancy.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateApr 28, 2015
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

New blueberry species found in the Colombian forests

Researchers have identified five new species of blueberry relatives in Colombia, showcasing the country's rich biodiversity. The newly discovered species exhibit unique morphological characteristics and are found primarily in the Western Cordillera and Chocó biogeographic region.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalPhytoKeys·DateApr 28, 2015

Tracking exploding lithium-ion batteries in real-time

A UCL-led team used high-energy synchrotron X-rays and thermal imaging to track lithium-ion battery damage in real-time. The study found that internal structural damage can spread to neighboring batteries, causing severe failure.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 28, 2015

Megacity metabolism: Is your city consuming a balanced diet?

A comprehensive survey of resources used and removed in the world's largest metropolitan areas reveals that megacities consume significantly more energy and produce more solid waste than other regions. Despite having a relatively small percentage of the global population, megacities generate a substantial proportion of global GDP.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2015

The victimization quandary: To help victims we have to stop blaming them

A study by Rutgers University-Newark researchers found that emotional disclosure reduces victim blaming, with witnesses who express disturbing thoughts and feelings blaming victims less than those who suppress their emotions. The research suggests people can best help victims by addressing their own emotional needs.

SourceRutgers University-Newark·JournalEmotion·DateApr 28, 2015

Age at autism diagnosis differs between boys, girls

A study found girls with ASD were diagnosed at a mean age of 4 years compared to 3.8 years for boys, while girls with Asperger's syndrome were diagnosed at 7.6 years versus 7.1 years for boys. Girls struggled more with social cognition and had less severe mannerisms.

SourceAmerican Academy of Pediatrics·DateApr 28, 2015
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.

Polygamy increases risk of heart disease by more than 4-fold

A prospective multicentre observational study examined the relationship between polygamy and cardiovascular health. Men with multiple wives had a higher risk of coronary artery disease, left main disease, and multivessel disease, with risks increasing by up to 4-fold.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateApr 28, 2015

UT research uncovers lakes, signs of life under Antarctica's dry valleys

A team of scientists from UT Knoxville has discovered extensive salty groundwater networks in Antarctica using SkyTEM technology. This finding supports the presence of subsurface microbial ecosystems and provides insights into glacial dynamics and ancient climate change.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 28, 2015

When mediated by superconductivity, light pushes matter million times more

By using a superconducting island to mediate interaction, researchers increased radiation pressure coupling by a millionfold, enabling observation of quantum phenomena in larger structures. This breakthrough paves the way for studying mechanical oscillations at the level of a single photon.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 28, 2015
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Pneumonectomy or lobectomy?

A study of over 8000 patients found that surgeons with higher volumes are less likely to perform high-risk pneumonectomies, leading to better long-term survival. The researchers suggest that surgeon experience is an important factor in determining surgical outcomes for non-small cell lung cancer patients.

SourceAmerican Association for Thoracic Surgery·DateApr 28, 2015

New material for creating artificial blood vessels

Researchers at TU Wien and MedUni Vienna have developed artificial blood vessels that are biocompatible and can be broken down by the body. The new material has excellent mechanical properties and allows for the growth of natural tissue, making it a promising solution for bypass operations.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalActa Biomaterialia·DateApr 28, 2015
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Improving the effect of HIV drugs by the use of a vaccine

A vaccine targeting the viral protein Tat shows promise in boosting an HIV-infected patient's immune system, increasing CD4+ T cell count and reducing latent virus DNA load. The results suggest a new treatment scenario to investigate intensified antiretroviral therapy with a vaccine.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalRetrovirology·DateApr 28, 2015

Engineering a better future for the Mississippi Delta

The Mississippi Delta is facing an uncertain future due to the combined effects of sea-level rise and land subsidence. The study uses precise GPS data and tide gauge records to measure subsidence rates, revealing that parts of the delta may not be viable in the long term.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateApr 28, 2015

Embracing the 5G era

Recent research on 5G has systematically overviewed latest progress on network architecture and promising techniques, including NOMA, MIMO, and cognitive radio. The study highlights potential key areas of research to overcome the spectrum crisis in global wireless communications.

SourceScience China Press·DateApr 28, 2015

New method provides direct SI traceability for sound pressure

Scientists at NPL have developed a new optical method for directly measuring sound pressure, providing direct traceability to fundamental SI base units. This method can be used to calibrate any acoustic device without assumptions regarding geometry and sound field characteristics.

SourceNational Physical Laboratory·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 28, 2015
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Human hunting weapons may not have caused the demise of the Neanderthals

A new study published in the Journal of Human Evolution suggests that technological innovations in hunting weapons may not have been a driving force behind the colonization of Europe by anatomically modern humans. The researchers found that stone tools used by humans around 40,000 years ago appeared in Europe earlier than previously th...

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateApr 28, 2015

Cal-BRAIN selects 16 California research projects for seed grants

The Cal-BRAIN program awards $1.92 million in seed grants to 16 interdisciplinary teams at 10 UC campuses and other institutions to advance neurotechnology research. The projects focus on measuring brain activity through various strategies, aiming to improve treatments for brain disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateApr 28, 2015

Genetic markers for fetal overgrowth syndrome discovered

Genetic markers have been identified for large offspring syndrome (LOS) in cattle, a condition that can cause physical abnormalities and fatalities in newborn calves. This discovery may lead to safer assisted reproduction procedures by allowing breeders to avoid genetically predisposed embryos.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2015

Two-week international diet swap shows potential effects of food on colon cancer risk

A two-week international diet swap study found that changing from a Westernized to an African high-fiber, low-fat diet reduced biomarkers of cancer risk in both African-American and rural South African volunteers. Increasing fiber intake and reducing animal fat and proteins may help lower colon cancer risk.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 28, 2015
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Studies in cell transplantation show beneficial effects for variety of serious conditions

Researchers have made significant progress in cell transplantation therapy, demonstrating improved outcomes for patients with complete spinal cord injury and potential treatments for Parkinson's disease. Studies also show that human pluripotent stem cells hold promise for treating the disease.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateApr 28, 2015

Gene mapping reveals soy's dynamic, differing roles in breast cancer

Researchers mapped human genes triggered by soy phytonutrients, revealing a complex role in breast cancer prevention and promotion. Soy flour stimulates tumor-suppressing genes, while purified isoflavones stimulate oncogenes, promoting tumor growth.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalMolecular Nutrition & Food Research·DateApr 28, 2015

Not much size difference between male and female Australopithecines

Researchers challenge previous convention that males were much larger than females in the early hominid species Australopithecus afarensis. The study uses Lucy and Kadanuumuu as templates to determine size variation and finds moderate levels of sexual dimorphism within human-like species

SourcePenn State·JournalPeerJ·DateApr 28, 2015
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Heat makes electrons' spin in magnetic superconductors

Researchers from Finland and Europe have discovered a method to convert heat into spin current in magnetic superconductors, enabling faster data writing processes. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize memory technology, making it more efficient and faster.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 28, 2015

NASA sees weekend Texas severe storms in 3-D

Severe thunderstorms swept through central Texas on April 26, 2015, generating heavy rainfall and large hail. The GPM Core Observatory satellite captured a 3D view of the storms, revealing some reaching altitudes above 7.7 miles.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 28, 2015

Rubber from dandelions

Researchers at TUM and IME identified a protein complex on rubber particles responsible for the formation of polyisoprene, the main component of rubber. The study found two key proteins necessary for natural rubber biosynthesis in dandelion plants. This discovery brings biotechnological manufacturing of rubber closer.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Plants·DateApr 28, 2015
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Study: A minority of women seek health care after military sexual assault

A study of over 1,300 women service members and veterans found that fewer than a third sought post-assault health care, despite growing awareness and efforts to deter sexual crimes. Researchers identified embarrassment, confidentiality concerns, and adverse career impacts as key factors preventing servicewomen from seeking care.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalMedical Care·DateApr 28, 2015

Framing time in days instead of years could spur action toward goals

Researchers found that measuring time in days instead of years can make future events feel closer and prompt people to start planning earlier. Participants planned to save four times sooner when considering time in days compared to years, even after accounting for age, income, and education.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 28, 2015

Loyola study provides evidence that premature girls thrive more than premature boys

A new study from Loyola University Medical Center found that female infants tend to do better than males when born prematurely, achieving independent oral feeding at 36 weeks and four days on average. Researchers also discovered that being born before 29 weeks of pregnancy negatively influences the ability to eat independently.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalJournal of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine·DateApr 28, 2015
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Women show persistent memory impairment after concussion

A recent study found that women are at a higher risk of persistent memory impairment after a concussion, with brain scans revealing reduced activation in working memory circuits. The study's findings suggest that female gender may be a risk factor for working memory impairment after mild traumatic brain injury.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateApr 28, 2015

New technique for exploring structural dynamics of nanoworld

Researchers developed a hybrid approach combining core-loss spectroscopy and ultrafast four-dimensional electron microscopy to visualize structural dynamics of atomic-scale materials. The technique revealed tiny electronic changes in individual atoms within a material on ultrafast time scales.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalStructural Dynamics·DateApr 28, 2015

Majority of people unable to pay their medical bills skip medical care

Difficulty paying medical bills is a significant predictor of foregone medical and prescription drug care. The study examines how unaffordable medical expenses can lead to cyclical relationships between health, employment status, and financial resources.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalPopulation Health Management·DateApr 28, 2015
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Childhood bullying causes worse long-term mental health problems than maltreatment

A new study published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that children who experienced bullying had worse long-term mental health problems than those who were maltreated by adults. The research, led by Professor Dieter Wolke, analyzed data from over 5,000 participants and found that being both bullied and maltreated increased the risk of o...

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateApr 28, 2015
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Silicon: An important element in rice production

Research highlights silicon's importance in rice production, enhancing resistance to pests, pathogens, and abiotic stresses. Recycling of rice straw is crucial for maintaining silicon availability, particularly in regions with low soil weathering.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalPlant and Soil·DateApr 28, 2015