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Science News for July 9, 2015


Diet and exercise does not prevent gestational diabetes in obese women

A large-scale trial found that an intensive diet and exercise regime does not prevent gestational diabetes in obese pregnant women. However, the intervention led to reductions in pregnancy weight gain, lower glycaemic load, and higher activity levels, which were associated with healthier outcomes for mothers and children.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateJul 9, 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.

Human activities, shifts in local species reshaping coastal biodiversity

A study of 50 years of marine biodiversity data found that human activities like pollution and sedimentation led to diminishing biodiversity in developed areas. However, protected or restored sites showed increases in species diversity, particularly among lower-level food-web organisms.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 9, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

'Conjunction junction' for brain's navigation function

The study identifies the retrosplenial cortex as a critical brain region for navigating complex environments, combining mapping interior and exterior spaces. The findings support computational modeling research and clinical observations of Alzheimer's disease, with potential applications in robotics and early disease detection.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 9, 2015

A tunable, highly sensitive graphene-based molecule sensor

Scientists at EPFL and ICFO have developed a reconfigurable, highly sensitive graphene-based molecule sensor that can detect nanometric compounds. The device exploits the unique electronic and optical properties of graphene to focus light on precise spots, enabling detection of tiny molecules.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2015

Scientists don't turn a blind eye to bias

A team of biologists reviewed nearly 900,000 experiments and found non-blind trials averaged a 27% stronger result than blind trials. The study suggests less than one in four experiments used blind data recording.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 9, 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.

Jumping robots blend the best of both worlds

Researchers designed a more efficient jumping robot using 3D printing techniques and combining hard and soft materials. The robot's unique design, inspired by nature, allows for improved durability and control.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2015

Study reveals alarming effects of climate change on bumble bees

Researchers have found that climate change is causing widespread declines of pollinators across continents, affecting critical roles played by bumble bees as wild pollinators. The study reveals that bumble bee species are being compressed into their northernmost ranges, leading to alarming effects on ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2015

Smart stuff: IQ of Northwest power grid raised, energy saved

A five-year regional smart grid pilot project in the Pacific Northwest improved energy efficiency and reduced power costs by up to $235,000 annually. The project also demonstrated the effectiveness of transactive control technology in improving reliability and reducing peak demand.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateJul 9, 2015

Super graphene helps boost chemotherapy treatment

Researchers found that a silver coating on catheters breaks down chemotherapy drugs, reducing treatment effectiveness. In contrast, graphene was shown not to react with the drugs, making it a promising alternative for medical equipment coatings.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·Journal2D Materials·DateJul 9, 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.

Researchers identify cause of heart damage in sepsis patients

Researchers at the University of Liverpool discovered that nuclear proteins called histones induce damage to heart muscle cells in sepsis. Histone levels in blood can predict which patients are at risk of developing deadly heart complications. The study also identified a novel targeted treatment using specific antibodies.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateJul 9, 2015

Graphene gets competition

Researchers have developed black arsenic phosphorus as an alternative to graphene for electronic devices. The new material exhibits an extremely small band gap and can be precisely controlled by adjusting the arsenic concentration, making it suitable for sensors and other applications.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 9, 2015

Volcanic eruptions slow down climate change -- temporarily

A team of international researchers found that volcanic aerosols have acted as a natural umbrella to slow down global temperature increase from greenhouse gases. The cooling effect due to volcanic eruptions was clearly underestimated by climate models, and it is only temporary as the rise of Earth's temperature will speed up again.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 9, 2015

Astronomers find a massive black hole that outgrew its galaxy

Astronomers have found a super-sized black hole in the early universe that grew faster than its host galaxy, challenging previous observations. The massive black hole, measuring 7 billion solar masses, is located in galaxy CID-947 and has a mass similar to that of a typical galaxy.

SourceYale University·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2015
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.

Researcher detects traces of HIV in the city

A sociologist has revealed significant traces of HIV in Montreal's urban landscape, including public spaces like Park of Hope and the Chapel of Hope. These urban vestiges reflect the history and presence of the gay community and the fight against AIDS.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·DateJul 9, 2015

Deceptive flowers

Scientists found that flowers with both scent and nectar attract more pollinators, increasing outcrossing rates. Nectar has a larger impact on female moths laying eggs than floral scent.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·DateJul 9, 2015

Study determines why organizations fight data breaches differently

A new study from the University of Texas at Dallas finds that organizations should invest in three key resources to protect their information: security technologies, qualified personnel, and security awareness. The researchers surveyed 241 organizations and identified coercive and normative pressures as drivers of investment in securit...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalInformation & Management·DateJul 9, 2015

Uric acid may lessen women's disability after stroke

A new study found that 42% of women treated with uric acid therapy had little to no disability after 90 days compared to 29% of those treated with a placebo. Uric acid also helped reduce dead tissue resulting from lack of blood supply.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJul 9, 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.

Researchers develop basic computing elements for bacteria

Researchers at MIT have created sensors, memory switches, and circuits that can be encoded in the common human gut bacterium Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron. These basic computing elements will allow the bacteria to sense, memorize, and respond to signals in the gut.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Systems·DateJul 9, 2015

Tunneling out of the surface

A research team has discovered a new chemical reaction pathway on titanium dioxide that allows hydrogen atoms to tunnel away from the surface. This breakthrough could lead to efficient hydrogen storage technology, addressing the challenge of storing and transporting hydrogen for renewable energy applications.

SourceTohoku University·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 9, 2015

Human color vision gives people the ability to see nanoscale differences

Researchers discovered human eyes can distinguish between thin films of different thickness by observing color differences, achieving precision beyond normal human vision. This ability rivals techniques like ellipsometry, which measure minute thicknesses, and could be used as a quick check by experienced technicians.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJul 9, 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.

Assessing quality of flowing waters with DNA analyses

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have developed a method to quickly and reliably identify organisms in flowing waters using DNA barcodes. This approach sheds light on the quality of habitats and can be used to assess water quality, even when species abundance is uncertain.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 9, 2015

Scientists study atmosphere of Venus through transit images

Scientists measured the absorption of different wavelengths of light in Venus' atmosphere, revealing clues about its composition and temperature. This research will help improve studies of exoplanets and future missions to Venus.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 9, 2015

Everyday access to nature improves quality of life in older adults

A recent study by University of Minnesota researchers highlights the importance of everyday contact with nature for healthy aging in seniors. Green and blue spaces are found to promote feelings of renewal, restoration, and spiritual connectedness, as well as provide opportunities for multi-generational social interactions.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalHealth & Place·DateJul 9, 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.

Cells help viruses during cell entry

Researchers found that adenoviruses use ceramide lipids to trigger an infection by creating small pores in the cell membrane. The virus then multiplies in the nucleus and infects other cells. This discovery could lead to new anti-viral agents for gene therapy and vaccination.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJul 9, 2015

DNA protection, inch by inch

Researchers at EMBL Grenoble have found a way to identify and silence 'jumping genes' that can alter the genetic code, using tiny RNA molecules called piRNA. These piRNAs guide proteins to destroy the genes, preventing uncontrolled changes in DNA.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 9, 2015

New technique for precise light-activated chemotherapy drugs

Researchers developed a method to optically control microtubule inhibitor drugs with high spatial precision, allowing for targeted treatment of cancer cells. The technique uses blue light to switch on and off the drugs, eliminating systemic side effects and improving therapeutic efficacy.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateJul 9, 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.

New research: Coffee not associated with lifestyle diseases

A new study published in the International Journal of Epidemiology reveals that coffee neither increases nor decreases the risk of obesity and diabetes. Genetic analysis of 93,000 Danes suggests that drinking coffee is not associated with these lifestyle diseases.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateJul 9, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

MIT scientists hack one of the most common bacteria in human intestines

Researchers at MIT successfully engineered Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron to express genes on demand, allowing for precise control over its functions in the mouse gut microbiome. This breakthrough has significant implications for tackling health-related problems and may lead to the development of new therapeutic applications.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Systems·DateJul 9, 2015

Many overweight teenagers do not recognize they are too heavy

A Cancer Research UK study found that almost three-quarters of overweight or obese 13-15-year-olds are in the normal-weight range. The study showed that only around 40% of these teens thought they were too heavy, while seven per cent believed they were too light.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateJul 9, 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.

Climate change: Compressing the bumblebee range

A new study reveals that climate change is compressing the geographic ranges of North American and European bumblebees, leading to significant population declines. The research highlights the importance of conserving these vital crop pollinators globally to prevent their extinction.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2015

A graphene-based sensor that is tunable and highly sensitive

Researchers developed a graphene-based sensor that can detect nanometer-sized molecules and reveal their structure. By harnessing the unique optical and electronic properties of graphene, scientists improved upon infrared absorption spectroscopy to create a highly sensitive molecule sensor.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 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.

Tropical peatland carbon losses from oil palm plantations may be underestimated

A new study by the University of Minnesota and Union of Concerned Scientists found that tropical peatland carbon losses from oil palm plantations may be significantly higher than previously estimated, with actual rates nearly twice as high as official estimates. This suggests improved strategies for measuring greenhouse gas emissions i...

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 9, 2015

Money spent on community-based HIV prevention translates into treatment savings

A new study by St. Michael's Hospital found that community-based HIV prevention programs in Ontario avert over 16,000 infections and save approximately $6.5 billion in treatment costs. The study also showed that these programs are cost-effective, providing valuable insights for health planners and policy decision-makers.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalAIDS and Behavior·DateJul 9, 2015

U-M, partners predict severe harmful algal bloom for Lake Erie

Researchers predict a severe harmful algal bloom in western Lake Erie, with expected severity index of 8.7, posing risks to swimmers, boaters, and drinking water supply. The bloom will develop from west to east and peak in September, with local weather conditions influencing its impact.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateJul 9, 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.

'Jumping genes' may drive esophageal cancer

Studies of oesophageal tumour samples reveal that L1 elements can alter cell growth and division, potentially leading to cancer. Mobile genetic sequences are found to occur around 100 times in each tumour sample, with some occurring up to 700 times.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalBMC Genomics·DateJul 9, 2015

Climate change impacts on bumblebees converge across continents

A new study reveals that climate change is forcing North American and European bumblebee species to shrink their geographic ranges, with losses of up to 300 kilometers. The findings suggest that these pollinators may experience more rapid decline than other species due to warming temperatures.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2015

Cultural and economic factors affect European antidepressant use

A new study by researchers from King's College London found that antidepressants were prescribed more often and used more regularly in countries with higher levels of healthcare spending. Attitudes towards mental illness, such as viewing people with a mental illness as 'dangerous', were also associated with higher use of antidepressants.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateJul 9, 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.

Study finds violent video games provide quick stress relief, but at a price

A recent study found that playing violent video games can temporarily reduce stress and improve mood. However, the same gamers who enjoyed violent games also became more aggressive in their perceptions of others. The researchers recommend seeking out nonviolent games for emotional release.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateJul 9, 2015

Testosterone therapy fails to treat ejaculatory dysfunction

A new study found that testosterone replacement therapy did not improve sexual function in men with ejaculatory disorders and low testosterone levels. Despite a small increase in testosterone levels, the treatment did not show significant benefits in ejaculate volume or orgasmic function.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJul 9, 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.

Spinal cord injuries increasing, especially among older individuals

A Vanderbilt University Medical Center study analyzed data from 63,109 patients with acute traumatic spinal cord injury and found a significant increase in incidence rates among men aged 65-74. Most patients regain some function after an injury, but many require lifelong healthcare services.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateJul 9, 2015

Towards an HIV vaccine

Researchers characterize immune proteins that recognize and eliminate virus, providing insight into developing a potent Nab response against different HIV subtypes. Studies examine the efficacy of Nabs in blocking direct cell-to-cell transmission of HIV, highlighting the importance of controlling virus replication via this pathway.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 9, 2015

Blood pressure levels and prevalence among US children and adolescents declined in past decade

A recent study published in the American Journal of Hypertension revealed a decline in blood pressure levels among US children and adolescents over the past decade. The study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 1999-2012, finding that mean blood pressure levels, as well as the prevalence of elev...

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalAmerican Journal of Hypertension·DateJul 9, 2015

Pandas spend less energy to afford bamboo diet

A new study reveals that giant pandas have evolved underactive thyroid glands and other energy-saving traits to afford a bamboo diet, with daily energy expenditure 38% of average for terrestrial mammals. This allows them to thrive on low-nutrient plants despite not having stomachs designed for such food.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 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.

A precocious black hole

A team of researchers discovered a massive black hole with nearly 7 billion solar masses in an otherwise normal, distant galaxy called CID-947. The finding contradicts previous theories on the co-evolution of galaxies and their central black holes.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2015

Prion protein protects against epilepsy

Scientists confirm neuroprotective function of PrPC against epilepsy using four animal models, revealing its crucial role in preventing seizures. The study's precision and collaboration between international institutes make it a significant reference point in the field.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 2015

Early HIV treatment improves survival in some patients with newly diagnosed TB

A study found that starting anti-HIV treatment within two weeks of TB diagnosis improved survival rates among patients with very low CD4 T-cell counts. However, delaying treatment until after TB is completed may be beneficial for patients with stronger immune systems.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 9, 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.

UA College of Pharmacy researchers link liver disease and drug metabolism

Researchers at the University of Arizona College of Pharmacy have discovered a link between nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and drug metabolism. NASH, an increasingly common but often undiagnosed liver disease, can cause toxic levels of certain medications to be retained in the body.

SourceUniversity of Arizona, College of Pharmacy·JournalDiabetes·DateJul 9, 2015

Researchers identify gene responsible for some cases of male infertility

New research reveals mutations in the X chromosome gene TEX11 are linked to 1% of azoospermia cases, a condition where men produce no sperm. The study found that reintroducing the gene restores fertility in mice, highlighting the protein's role in sperm formation and chromosomal arrangements.

SourceWiley·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateJul 9, 2015

A jump for soft-bodied robots

A team of Harvard scientists has developed a durable, soft-bodied jumping robot by seamlessly integrating rigid and soft body parts. The robot's unique design uses a gradient material strategy to reduce stress concentrations, making it extremely durable and safe for human operation.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2015

Nutrition researchers develop the healthy beverage index

A new scoring method, the Healthy Beverage Index (HBI), evaluates overall beverage intake quality and its association with cardiometabolic risk factors. Higher HBI scores are linked to more favorable lipid profiles, decreased hypertension risk, and improved C-reactive protein levels.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateJul 9, 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.

Depletion and enrichment of chlorine in perovskites observed

Researchers have found that chlorine is depleted from the surface of perovskite absorber layers during processing, while its concentration near the interface with a titanium dioxide layer is higher. This distribution could help mitigate recombination and provide a template for growing the film.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJul 9, 2015

Bacteria use DNA replication to time key decision

Researchers discovered that bacteria time their sporulation decision with their cell-division cycle, using the location of genes on the circular chromosome. This timing allows for accurate determination of whether to reproduce or form spores.

SourceRice University·JournalCell·DateJul 9, 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.

New program using CT technology helping doctors better detect lung cancer

A comprehensive lung cancer screening program utilizing CT scan technology at Intermountain Medical Center has been developed to detect lung cancer more accurately. The program, based on the National Lung Screening Trial, showed patients with CT scans had a 15-20% lower risk of dying compared to those with standard chest X-rays.

SourceIntermountain Medical Center·DateJul 9, 2015

ECG scans predict kidney disease patients' risk of dying from heart disease

Certain ECG measures can identify individuals with chronic kidney disease at high risk of dying from heart disease. A panel of 5 common ECG parameters was found to enhance prediction of cardiovascular death in this population, suggesting potential novel interventions to prevent cardiovascular complications.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 9, 2015

NASA's Aqua satellite observes Supertyphoon Nangka

Supertyphoon Nangka was observed by NASA's Aqua satellite on July 9, providing visible and infrared images of the storm. The storm had powerful thunderstorms with a 9.2 km-wide eye and temperatures as low as -63°C, capable of generating heavy rain.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 9, 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.

A new atlas of the brain opens up alternative means for studying brain disorders

A new study combines neuroscience, image processing, and network theory to create a brain atlas that follows a common functional and structural pattern. The atlas shows the modular skeleton shared by structure and function, revealing the heavy dependence between structural connectivity and functional connectivity networks.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 2015

NASA's Swift reveals a black hole bull's-eye

Astronomers using NASA's Swift satellite have discovered concentric X-ray rings centered on a black hole, which form due to the 'echo' effect of light traveling through dust layers. The findings provide insights into the normally invisible interstellar dust and allow for better understanding of the black hole's behavior.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 9, 2015

Study finds vitamin A directs immune cells to the intestines

A team of researchers found that retinoic acid, a metabolite of vitamin A, is necessary for innate immune cells to find their proper place in the intestine. The study reveals the specific role vitamin A plays in the immune system and its influence on cell migration.

SourcePurdue University·JournalImmunity·DateJul 9, 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.

Researchers propose better way to invest in the SDGs

Gathering data on specific questions is the most effective way to support SDGs, says Keith Shepherd and colleagues. They propose five key principles: replacing targets with measures of return on investment and modeling intervention decisions.

SourceWorld Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2015

Roman concrete mimicked resistant rock in strained region of Italy

A new study reveals that the Campi Flegrei caldera's caprock resembles ancient Roman concrete, with intertwining fibrous minerals contributing to its high strength. The findings help explain how the caldera has endured significant deformation without erupting.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2015

Buzz the alarm: Climate change puts squeeze on bumblebees

A comprehensive study found that global warming is shrinking the habitat range of bumblebees, leading to a continental-scale decline. The research suggests that climate change is not the only threat, but rather a key factor in the rapid losses of terrain from the south and lagging expansion in the warming north.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2015

Researchers identify new spectrum disorder called ALPIM syndrome

A new spectrum disorder called ALPIM syndrome has been identified by researchers, which links anxiety to physical disorders. The study found a high correlation between panic disorder and four domains of physical illness, including joint laxity, fibromyalgia, and immune disorders.

SourceSUNY Downstate Health Science University·DateJul 9, 2015

Why not build houses the environmentally friendly way?

A comprehensive review of studies on green buildings found that occupants experience better indoor air quality, reduced exposure to allergens and pollutants, and improved physical and mental health. Green buildings also improve productivity, reduce absenteeism, and enhance patient care in hospitals.

SourceSpringer·JournalCurrent Environmental Health Reports·DateJul 9, 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.

3-D-printed robot is hard at heart, soft on the outside

Researchers at the University of California - San Diego have created a 3D-printed robot with a soft exterior and rigid core, enabling over 30 untethered jumps. The robot's design combines nature-inspired materials to achieve improved agility and robustness for safe human interaction.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2015

Hopping towards a better soft robot

Harvard engineers create a 3D-printed, soft robot that combines autonomy and speed with adaptability and resilience. The robot's design allows for the integration of rigid electronic components with its soft body, increasing robustness and reducing stress points.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2015

Kid swagger: How children react to winning and losing

Children as young as two years old exhibit 'kid swagger' after winning or losing, indicating they understand pride and other complex emotions at a young age. Parents can use this knowledge to teach their children emotional regulation skills.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateJul 9, 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.

Where does water go when it doesn't flow?

A new study by University of Utah researchers shows that two-thirds of the remaining water after rainfall is released by plants, while more than a quarter lands on leaves and evaporates. The study also found that only 38% of water entering groundwater interacts with soil before reaching streams and groundwater.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2015

Researcher finds men strip for self-esteem boost

A CU Denver researcher discovered that male exotic dancers continue stripping due to enhanced self-concept and positive feelings of self-worth, contradicting common assumptions.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Denver·JournalDeviant Behavior·DateJul 9, 2015

Doctors to get better access to digital data

A new open-source software will put digitized biomedical data at the fingertips of healthcare professionals, enabling quicker second opinions and diagnoses. The software compresses images up to 100 times without losing detail or resolution.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateJul 9, 2015

Managing mining of the deep seabed

The International Seabed Authority is poised to set the groundwork for future deep-sea environmental protection and mining regulations. Researchers recommend establishing networks of Marine Protected Areas to balance economic interests with conservation benefits, potentially benefiting both mining and biodiversity interests.

SourceCenter for Ocean Solutions·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 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.

Modeling a nervous pathway involved in touch-induced behavior

Researchers Ache and Dürr develop a computational model of a descending mechanosensory pathway involved in active tactile sensing, capturing key properties of diverse neurons. The model is validated against real neuron coding properties and provides a common framework for modeling diverse neuron types.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJul 9, 2015

Study finds link between inherited DNA sequences and heart disease

A recent study by the University of Leicester has discovered a potential link between recessively inherited DNA sequences and heart disease. The research found that individuals with Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) had higher levels of genome-wide homozygosity, which is associated with an increased risk of CAD. The study's findings sugges...

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 9, 2015

Diabetes complications linked to rising risk of dementia

A nationwide study found that people with diabetes and high rates of complications are more likely to develop dementia as they age. Better blood sugar control is crucial for preventing the onset of dementia.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJul 9, 2015

Where iron and water mix

A new study reveals that chemical-laden plumes from hydrothermal vents can be traced across the Pacific for over 4,000 kilometers and impact global ocean chemistry. The iron transported by these plumes has the potential to serve as a key life-sustaining micro-nutrient in the surface oceans of Antarctica.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 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.

Neuroscientists establish brain-to-brain networks in primates, rodents

Researchers at Duke University have successfully established brain-to-brain networks in primates and rodents, allowing them to work together to complete simple tasks. The brain networks, or Brainets, enable animals to exchange sensory and motor information in real-time, controlling movement and even predicting weather patterns.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 2015

New recommendations addresses the diagnosis and management of testosterone deficiency

The International Society for Sexual Medicine recommends a clinical and biochemical syndrome definition for testosterone deficiency, characterized by low testosterone levels and symptoms. The new guidelines provide evidence-based guidance on testing, lifestyle modifications, and treatment options for men with testosterone deficiency.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Journal of Sexual Medicine·DateJul 9, 2015