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Science News for June 18, 2015


Stress in low-income families can affect children's learning

A study from the University of Rochester found that stress in low-income families can affect children's learning. Children with family instability or harsh caregivers had elevated or low cortisol levels, leading to lower cognitive ability at age 4.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalChild Development·DateJun 18, 2015

DNA from illegal ivory points to poaching hotspots in Africa

Researchers used genetic tools to trace illegal ivory back to its source, identifying two primary poaching hotspots in Africa since 2006. The study found that most savanna and forest elephant tusks originated from Tanzania, Mozambique, Gabon, and the Central African Republic.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 18, 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.

Diet that mimics fasting appears to slow aging

A new study by USC's Valter Longo suggests that a periodic diet mimicking fasting can cut visceral belly fat, boost neural regeneration and improve learning and memory in old mice. In humans, the pilot study found evidence of reduced risk factors for aging, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer with no major adverse side effects.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 18, 2015

Better switchgrass, better biofuel

Researchers are using alternative breeding methods to increase switchgrass's biomass yield, ethanol production, and reduce lignin content. The study utilizes the Smith-Hazel Selection Index to select for multiple traits simultaneously, aiming to speed up the breeding process and achieve more ideal switchgrass by 2025.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateJun 18, 2015

Origins of the Hawaiian hoary bat revealed by GVSU professor and research team

A study published in PLOS ONE found that the Hawaiian hoary bat migrated to Hawaii from the Pacific coast of North America in two separate waves over 9,000 years apart. This genetic history suggests that the current legal protection may be inadequate or misdirected, highlighting the need for updated conservation efforts.

SourceGrand Valley State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 18, 2015

Snake fungal disease parallels white-nose syndrome in bats

Researchers find striking similarities between snake fungal disease and white-nose syndrome in bats, both persisting across habitats and infecting multiple species. The snake fungus, Ophidiomyces ophiodiicola, is highly virulent and can spread through pet trade and animal release.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalFungal Ecology·DateJun 18, 2015

Three-year-olds help victims of injustice

Researchers found that three- and five-year-old children are just as likely to respond to the needs of another individual as they are to their own. This suggests a core component of a sense of justice based on empathy, which is central to human prosociality and punishment.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 18, 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.

Global search for next antibiotic

The Community for Open Antimicrobial Drug Discovery aims to screen over 50,000 chemical compounds in the next 18 months to combat superbug-resistant bacteria, with the goal of preventing millions of deaths by 2050.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·DateJun 18, 2015

Tubal ligation may improve the prognosis of endometrial cancer later in life

A study published in JNCI found that women with tubal ligation who develop aggressive endometrial cancer types have lower mortality rates. The researchers suggest that TL reduces cancer cell passage through the fallopian tubes, lowering disease stage and mortality.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJun 18, 2015

Researchers bring to life proteins' motion

A recent study has provided a more complete picture of how proteins move, laying the foundation for understanding molecular causes of human disease and developing potent drug treatments.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalStructure·DateJun 18, 2015

Study suggests active volcanism on Venus

Scientists have discovered transient spikes in temperature at several spots on Venus' surface, indicating active flows of lava. The hotspots are clustered in a large rift zone called Ganiki Chasma, suggesting ongoing volcanic activity.

SourceBrown University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 18, 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.

Unknown midge mystery solved

Researchers uncover hidden diversity in minute midges through DNA analysis and type material examination. Two new species were discovered and one misidentified species was corrected, shedding light on the fascinating world of non-biting midges.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateJun 18, 2015

Scientists film shock waves in diamond

Researchers have used ultra-short pulses of X-rays to create a film of shock waves in diamonds, providing new insights into the structure of these hard materials. The study reveals that intense shock waves can compress diamond by almost ten percent, opening up new perspectives on its dynamic behavior under high pressure.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 18, 2015

How do toddlers use tablets?

A team of University of Iowa researchers analyzed over 200 YouTube videos to understand toddler tablet use. They found that by age two, most children can moderate their ability to use a tablet, while younger toddlers require more guidance.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·DateJun 18, 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.

New tool on horizon for surgeons treating cancer patients

A new mass spectrometry-based technology enables rapid analysis of tissue samples, offering a faster and more accurate alternative to traditional methods. The automated droplet-based surface sampling probe reduces testing time for cancer diagnosis from 20-30 minutes to just 4-5 minutes.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateJun 18, 2015

Tiago Falk receives award from Canadian Medical and Biological Engineering Society

Professor Tiago H. Falk has received the Canadian Medical and Biological Engineering Society Early Career Achievement Award for his innovative research projects in biomedical engineering and multimedia communications. His work includes assistive devices for people with disabilities and low-cost methods for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateJun 18, 2015

Increased anxiety associated with sitting down

A systematic review found that sedentary behavior is associated with an increased risk of anxiety in adults and children. The link may be due to disturbances in sleep patterns, social withdrawal theory, and poor metabolic health. Further research is needed to confirm the causal relationship between sedentary behavior and anxiety.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJun 18, 2015

Climate change won't reduce winter deaths

A study published in Environmental Research Letters suggests that climate change will not significantly reduce winter deaths. The research found that cities with warmer winters have similar amounts of winter deaths as those with colder winters, likely due to the prevalence of flu and respiratory diseases rather than cold-related causes.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 18, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UCLA chemists devise technology that could transform solar energy storage

Researchers at UCLA have created a novel system that can store solar energy for several weeks, unlike current systems which only hold energy for a few microseconds. The breakthrough design is inspired by photosynthesis and uses polymer donors and nano-scale fullerene acceptors to separate charges.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalScience·DateJun 18, 2015

WSU scientists turn white fat into obesity-fighting beige fat

WSU scientists demonstrate that resveratrol converts excess white fat into beige fat, reducing weight gain by 40%. Polyphenols found in fruit enhance fat oxidation, preventing obesity and metabolic dysfunction. Increasing fruit consumption can boost total polyphenolic intake.

SourceWashington State University·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateJun 18, 2015

Researchers discover deep sea sharks are buoyant

Researchers found that six-gill and prickly deep-sea sharks are positively buoyant, requiring less energy to swim upward than downward. This adaptation may provide them with a 'stealth' advantage during hunting or aid in nightly migrations to shallower areas.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 18, 2015

The simplistic beauty of a free radical

Korean scientists have successfully created a new class of radical compounds by reacting nitric oxide with N-heterocyclic carbenes. The resulting nitric oxide compounds show potential for targeted NO delivery, which could lead to new therapeutic applications in various human diseases.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 18, 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.

NASA's Hubble sees the 'teenage years' of quasars

Astronomers use Hubble Space Telescope to uncover the early formative years of quasars, finding that galaxy collisions and mergers drive their peak activity. The observations reveal the transitional phase in the merger-driven black hole scenario, providing new insights into the universe's brightest objects.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 18, 2015

Simultaneous live imaging of a specific gene's transcription and dynamics

Researchers developed a novel live-imaging system to study gene transcription and nuclear position, enabling simultaneous measurements of these processes. The technique shows high specificity and has potential applications in studying higher-order gene regulation and cell-to-cell heterogeneity.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJun 18, 2015

Scientists find evidence of key ingredient during dawn of life

Researchers from UNC School of Medicine provide direct experimental evidence for the rapid synthesis of two classes of proteins necessary to create life on Earth. They found that a single ancient gene probably used its two opposite strands of DNA to code for different catalysts that both activated amino acids.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 18, 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.

Musicians don't just hear in tune, they also see in tune

Researchers found that musicians' brains can incorporate abstract music notation to enhance their visual perception of congruent musical notes. Non-musicians showed no significant difference in visual preference regardless of the melody played.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 18, 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.

Detroit researchers help identify gene mutation that can trigger lymphoblastic leukemia

A decade-long investigation by Wayne State University and Children's Hospital of Michigan researchers identified a key gene mutation that can trigger acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The mutation affects ETV6, a gene that regulates growth rates in bone marrow, leading to an increased risk of blood cancer.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 18, 2015

Future Science Group relaunches Oncology Central

The newly redesigned Oncology Central is now live, featuring a dedicated Pipelines and Trials section, webinars, and exclusive multimedia content. The platform offers easy navigation and access to peer-reviewed journal articles, regular cancer news updates, and exciting features.

SourceFuture Science Group·JournalImmunotherapy·DateJun 18, 2015

Biomedical breakthrough: Carbon nanoparticles you can make at home

The new approach generates carbon nanoparticles in a few hours using store-bought molasses and only a handful of ingredients. The nanoparticles are coated with polymers that fine-tune their optical properties and release drugs at body temperature, making them ideal for targeted therapy.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalSmall·DateJun 18, 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.

Researchers find a potential target for the treatment of type 2 diabetes

Researchers have discovered a potential target for the treatment of type 2 diabetes by inhibiting the S6K1 protein, which increases insulin sensitivity in mice. In animal models, S6K1 deficient mice displayed improved insulin response and reduced risk of developing diabetes.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 18, 2015

MRSA contamination found in supermarket sausages and minced pork

Researchers detected MRSA bacteria in UK supermarket sausages and minced pork through a survey of frozen meat products. The bacteria were identified as LA-MRSA CC398, associated with pigs and poultry, and pose a potential route of transmission from farms to the wider population.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalEurosurveillance·DateJun 18, 2015

Brain receptor found to significantly affect cocaine addiction

Researchers at the University at Buffalo have discovered a previously unknown neural pathway that can regulate changes made in the brain due to cocaine use. By manipulating Activin receptors, they found that it is possible to increase or decrease cocaine-taking and relapse behavior in animal models.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJun 18, 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.

Opening the doors to Iran's nuclear program

Iran's national uranium enrichment plant could be sold to other countries to keep the nuclear program peaceful. Multinationalizing the program ahead of 2025 could set a standard reducing nuclear proliferation risks worldwide.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 18, 2015

TSRI study points to unexplored realm of protein biology, drug targets

Researchers at TSRI devised a set of chemical methods to study protein interactions with lipids, identifying thousands of lipid-protein interactions and discovering small molecules that selectively block these interactions. The findings suggest a wider range of proteins can be targeted with small-molecule ligands than previously thought.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell·DateJun 18, 2015

International team discovers new genetic immunodeficiency

Researchers have identified a previously unknown genetic immunodeficiency linked to DOCK2 mutations, which deactivates the immune system and leaves affected children open to aggressive and potentially fatal infections. The condition can be detectable by newborn screening and is curable with a hematopoietic stem cell transplant.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 18, 2015

New sleep genes found

Scientists at Thomas Jefferson University have identified two new genes, taranis and Cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (Cdk1), as crucial for regulating normal sleep patterns in flies. The researchers found that these genes interact with other proteins to create a molecular machine that suppresses wakefulness and promotes sleep.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 18, 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.

Titan's atmosphere even more Earth-like than previously thought

Researchers found that Titan's atmosphere loses hydrocarbons and nitriles due to a polar wind powered by sunlight and the Saturnian magnetic field. This phenomenon has been observed on Earth in polar regions, suggesting Titan may have a similarly widespread 'polar wind' beyond its poles.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 18, 2015

Not like riding a bike: New motor memories need stabilizing

A recent study published in PLOS Computational Biology suggests that new motor skills memories formed during a single practice session are intrinsically unstable, contrary to previous theories. This finding has implications for our understanding of how motor skills memories are stabilized over time.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 18, 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.

Protein 'comet tails' propel cell recycling process

Researchers discovered that actin polymerization powered by the Arp2/3 complex is essential for forming and moving autophagosomes. The formation of 'actin comet tails' propels these compartments toward lysosomes for final processing, enabling cells to recycle misfolded proteins and damaged organelles.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 18, 2015

Changing faces: We can look more trustworthy, but not more competent, NYU research finds

Researchers at New York University found that facial cues conveying trustworthiness are malleable, while those conveying competence and ability are less so. They conducted four experiments to test this theory, finding that subjects perceived happier faces as more trustworthy and angrier faces as more untrustworthy.

SourceNew York University·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateJun 18, 2015

State stroke legislation increases US primary stroke centers

Research found that individual state stroke legislation plays a crucial role in certifying primary stroke centers and increasing the availability of prompt stroke care. State action, including implementing policies for emergency medical services, has led to a significant increase in certified hospitals nationwide.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 18, 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.

How flu viruses use transportation networks in the US

Researchers analyzed U.S. flu cases from 2003-2013 and found correlations between genetic distance of flu subtypes and geographic distance using transportation data. The study suggests that mobility patterns, rather than geographic proximity, play a key role in predicting the spread of influenza epidemics.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJun 18, 2015

Researchers design placenta-on-a-chip to better understand pregnancy

A new placenta-on-a-chip technology was developed by NIH researchers to better understand the inner workings of the human placenta and its role in pregnancy. The device models nutrient transfer from mother to fetus and may help address questions difficult to answer with current placenta model systems.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·DateJun 18, 2015

Cosmetic lip surgery may ease facial paralysis, small study suggests

A cosmetic surgery procedure that enhances lip appearance could also ease facial paralysis symptoms, according to a small study. Researchers found significant improvements in patients with facial paralysis and muscular dystrophy after receiving hyaluronic acid injections.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA Facial Plastic Surgery·DateJun 18, 2015

Cataract culprits

University of Delaware researchers have identified two genes linked to cataract formation. Deficiency in these genes leads to lens clouding and cataract development without aging or radiation exposure required. The study could contribute to interventions that delay or prevent cataract formation.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalHuman Genetics·DateJun 18, 2015

UPitt researchers find link between neighborhood quality and cellular aging

A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found a significant link between living in neighborhoods with high crime and vandalism and biological aging processes. Telomere length, a key indicator of cellular health, was found to be shorter in individuals from disadvantaged areas, similar to a 12-year chronological age difference.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 18, 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: Abdominal blood clots may indicate undiagnosed cancer

Researchers found that abdominal blood clots are associated with an increased risk of developing undiagnosed cancer, particularly liver and pancreatic cancer. Patients with these clots had poorer survival outcomes compared to those without the clots.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood·DateJun 18, 2015

Penn research simplifies recycling of rare-earth magnets

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a new method to recycle rare-earth magnets, simplifying the process and increasing efficiency. The technique uses standard laboratory equipment and can separate neodymium and dysprosium from used electronics in just minutes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateJun 18, 2015

Risk of major sea level rise in Northern Europe

New calculations by researchers from the Niels Bohr Institute show a significant risk of major sea level rise in Northern Europe, with potential increases of up to 1.5 meters in Scandinavia, England, and northern Germany. The study highlights regional differences in gravity and land uplift affecting sea levels.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalClimate Research·DateJun 18, 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.

Scientists identify progenitor cells for blood and immune system

Researchers at UCSF have identified a family of daughter cells, called MPPs, which arise from stem cells in bone marrow to generate the entire blood system. The discovery raises the possibility of manipulating these cells to overcome imbalances and deficiencies in the blood system due to aging or cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJun 18, 2015

Staying cool: Saharan silver ants

Researchers discovered that Saharan silver ants use a coat of uniquely shaped hairs to control electromagnetic waves over an extremely broad range, enabling passive radiative cooling. The hair coating enhances optical reflection and radiative heat dissipation, keeping the ants' body temperature below their critical thermal maximum.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience·DateJun 18, 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.

NIAID-funded HIV vaccine research generates key antibodies in animal models

Researchers have made significant progress toward developing an HIV vaccine by stimulating animals to produce broadly neutralizing antibodies. The studies, funded by NIAID, demonstrate techniques for producing antibodies that can stop HIV from infecting human cells or evolve into such antibodies.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalCell·DateJun 18, 2015

Kennewick Man: Solving a scientific controversy

A new study based on Kennewick Man's genome sequence shows that he is more closely related to modern Native Americans than to any other population worldwide. This contradicts earlier cranial morphology analyses that suggested a European or Asian ancestry, sparking controversy and legal battles over the skeleton's repatriation.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature·DateJun 18, 2015

What can 3-year-olds teach us about justice? Plenty

Researchers found that young children prefer to return lost items to their rightful owners and prevent a third party from taking what doesn't belong to them. This suggests that a concern for others is a core component of a sense of justice, likely central to human cooperation.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 18, 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.

Lefties are all right with kangaroos

Wild kangaroos show a consistent preference for using their left hands for actions like grooming and picking leaves. The finding expands our understanding of handedness in animals and may offer insights into neuropsychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia and autism.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 18, 2015

The majority rules when baboons vote with their feet

A new study found that individual baboons can contribute to a troop's collective movement and that decision-making is largely a shared process. The majority rule suggests that the subgroup with the most initiators determines the direction of movement, reducing conflict in complex societies.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalScience·DateJun 18, 2015

Kennewick Man closely related to Native Americans, geneticists say

A new study on Kennewick Man's DNA reveals a close genetic link to Native American populations, particularly the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation in Washington. The findings challenge a previous study that suggested a connection to indigenous Japanese or Polynesian peoples.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature·DateJun 18, 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.

A better way to build bones

Researchers at NYU Polytechnic School of Engineering and NYU School of Medicine are exploring a new method to amplify the body's signaling system for recruiting bone-forming stem cells to injured areas. They plan to focus on a single recruitment factor, CXCL12, which they hypothesize plays key roles in promoting osteogenesis.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·DateJun 18, 2015

New model to study HIV latency in brain cells

Scientists have established a model for latent HIV infection of brain cells and identified various compounds that can affect latency. The study aims to develop new therapeutic approaches to silence the virus in brain cells, which could improve clinical care for HIV-1 patients.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalAIDS·DateJun 18, 2015

Scientists make new estimates of the deep carbon cycle

Researchers estimate that subduction returns almost no carbon to the mantle, with 'exchange between reservoirs in balance.' New analysis sheds light on Earth's climate over geologic time scales and implications for life.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 18, 2015

X-ray imaging reveals secrets in battery materials

Researchers used X-ray imaging and data analysis to study the mechanical properties of a cathode material called LNMO spinel. The study found that defects within the material move around when charged, causing changes in strain fields. This unique behavior may be used to design new battery materials with improved performance.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateJun 18, 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.

Sequencing Ebola's secrets

A global team has sequenced over 200 Ebola virus genomes to capture the fullest picture yet of how the virus is transmitted and changes over time. The study reveals that cross-border transmission played a smaller role in the outbreak than previously thought, and that the virus has begun to weed out mutations that do not benefit it.

SourceHarvard University·JournalCell·DateJun 18, 2015

More than just picky eating

Children and teens with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) face complex challenges and long-term complications if left untreated. ARFID is not just about picky eating, but a restrictive eating pattern associated with significant physiological and/or psychosocial distress.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJun 18, 2015

Female managers do not reduce the gender wage gap, study finds

A recent study at UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business found no evidence that having a female manager reduces the gender wage gap. In fact, low-performing women who switched to working for a high-performing female supervisor fared worse financially than their male colleagues making a comparable switch.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalAmerican Journal of Sociology·DateJun 18, 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.

Safeguarding against chlamydia

A new vaccine has been developed that generates double protection against chlamydia by teaching the immune system to recognize and remember the bacteria as a threat. The vaccine uses charge-switching synthetic adjuvant nanoparticles to bind to the bacteria, targeting mucosal surfaces and inducing an immune response.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience·DateJun 18, 2015

Racehorses at risk from misuse of cobalt, new study finds

A new study by the University of Surrey warns that excessive cobalt levels can cause severe side effects in horses, including long-term damage to vital organs. The researchers urge trainers to be aware of the dangers of cobalt misuse, as there is no evidence to suggest it enhances athletic performance.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalThe Veterinary Journal·DateJun 18, 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.

NASA provides many views of Tropical Depression Bill

Tropical Depression Bill moved north-northeast through the southern U.S., affecting eastern Texas and Oklahoma. NASA satellites provided infrared, visible, and rainfall estimates for the storm's progression, while NWS forecasts heavy rain accumulations of 4-12 inches across several states.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 18, 2015

Specific roles of adult neural stem cells may be determined before birth

A study published in Cell suggests that adult neural stem cells are pre-programmed to make specific neurons before birth, contradicting the long-held assumption of their potential for neural repair. The researchers found that the precise type of neuron each stem cell can develop into is determined by its location on the ventricle wall.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell·DateJun 18, 2015

Research with thieving puppets demonstrates toddlers' caring sides

Research with thieving puppets shows that three- and five-year-old children will return stolen cookies to victims, prioritizing the victim's welfare over punishing the thief. This early sense of justice highlights toddlers' ability to act out of concern for others.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 18, 2015

Baboons decide where to go together

A team of researchers used GPS technology to track the movements of wild olive baboons, finding that certain individuals act as initiators and pull followers in a particular direction. The study suggests that shared, democratic decision-making is widespread even among species with highly stratified social hierarchies.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 18, 2015

Tiger-spray DNA shown as valuable conservation tool

Researchers have demonstrated a new technique to non-invasively survey tigers using their scent sprays, which can be detected more frequently than traditional scat. This method shows promise for genetic monitoring of tiger populations and could increase the power of conservation surveys.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalConservation Genetics Resources·DateJun 18, 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.

Water screening: International hunt for unknown molecules

A global strategy for preventative water sample analysis has been developed, utilizing a comprehensive database of 8,000 substances. This allows laboratories to identify previously unknown molecules faster through non-target screening technology, enabling quicker response to potential waterborne risks.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateJun 18, 2015

Baboon study reveals surprises, breaks ground in tracking behavior

A new study from the University of California, Davis, uses GPS tracking to show that animals living in complex societies make decisions democratically. The study breaks ground in how animal behavior data is collected, revealing patterns similar to those found in more simple societal structures.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·DateJun 18, 2015

Wastewater injection rate strongest trigger for induced quakes

A new study finds that wastewater injection rate is the strongest trigger for induced quakes, with high-rate wells nearly twice as likely to cause earthquakes. The research analyzed public data on operational wells across the US and discovered a strong correlation between injection rate and induced seismicity.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 18, 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.

Jet contrails affect surface temperatures

Researchers found that jet contrails depress daytime-highs and nighttime-lows, mimicking the effect of ordinary clouds, with a 5-6 degree Fahrenheit reduction in daily temperature range in regions like the South and Midwest.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Climatology·DateJun 18, 2015

Faster, not stronger: How a protein regulates gene expression

Researchers at EPFL have discovered how a major effector protein regulates gene expression by speeding up its search for chromatin binding sites. By increasing its binding rate and forming dimers to maximize interaction with chromatin, HP1α enhances gene regulation efficiency.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 18, 2015

Best practices highlighted to prevent infections during healthcare laundry process

A new review published in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology highlights best practices to prevent infections during healthcare laundry, including adherence to Standard Precautions and proper storage of laundered textiles. The study found that current industrial laundry processes are sufficient to interrupt patient-to-patient tra...

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateJun 18, 2015

Sequential immunizations could be the key to HIV vaccine

Researchers suggest that a sequence of tailored immunizations could guide the immune response to develop special antibodies that can neutralize HIV. The approach targets the virus's binding site, which remains unchanged despite mutations.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateJun 18, 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.

Oklahoma earthquakes linked to oil and gas drilling

Scientists found that Oklahoma's rising number of earthquakes coincided with increased disposal of salty wastewater into the Arbuckle formation. The primary source of quake-triggering wastewater is brackish water generated from oil and gas extraction, not hydraulic fracturing flowback water.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 18, 2015

Molecular cause of heart condition identified by Stanford researchers

Researchers have identified the molecular basis for a heart condition called dilated cardiomyopathy and found a potential treatment that partially restores function to diseased cells. The study used induced pluripotent stem cells to model the disease, revealing how a key signaling pathway develops in healthy vs. diseased cells.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJun 18, 2015

New security technology for the 'Internet of Things'

A new security technology has been developed by IT researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum to protect the 'Internet of Things' from cyber threats. The technology uses a combination of digital encryption and analogue communication technologies, making it fast, energy-efficient and secure.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateJun 18, 2015