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Science News for June 2, 2015


New study: Gut bacteria cooperate when life gets tough

Researchers discovered how gut bacteria respond to changes in their environment by cooperating with each other, stabilizing the community and adapting to new situations. This cooperative behavior helps the bacterial community survive and function despite fluctuations in oxygen levels and nutrient availability.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJun 2, 2015

Maternal use of antidepressants found to pose little risk to newborn

A large cohort study found a modest increase in risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) associated with maternal antidepressant use late in pregnancy. The absolute risk was small, and no significant association was found with non-SSRI antidepressants.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA·DateJun 2, 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.

Study shows helping pregnant moms with depression doesn't help kids

A long-term study in Pakistan found that prenatal treatment for depression had no effect on children's emotional and behavioral development. In contrast, maternal depression was linked to worse child outcomes, emphasizing the need for integrated maternal and child health programs.

SourceDuke University·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateJun 2, 2015

Researchers discover two new groups of viruses

Scientists at the University of Bonn discovered two new groups of viruses, Jonchet and Ferak, which are believed to have originated from insect viruses. The researchers found that these viruses are phylogenetically independent and do not multiply above 32 degrees Celsius, making human infection unlikely.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 2, 2015

Scientists discover a protein that silences the biological clock

Researchers found that PASD1, a protein associated with cancer cells, suppresses the circadian clock. The discovery offers new insights into the molecular mechanisms of the biological clock and its potential role in driving cancer growth. Understanding how PASD1 regulates the clock could lead to developing new therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJun 2, 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.

High-temperature superconductivity in atomically thin films

Researchers at Tohoku University have successfully fabricated an atomically thin, high-temperature superconductor film with a Tc of up to 60 K, exceeding that of bulk FeSe. This finding enables the control and tuning of Tc, opening up new avenues for investigating mechanism and developing next-gen nano-scale superconducting devices.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 2, 2015

Improving the delivery of chemotherapy with graphene

Researchers found that graphene prevents damage to chemotherapy drugs and reduces potential for catheters breaking, potentially improving treatment efficacy. Graphene's biocompatibility and low toxicity make it a promising alternative coating material.

SourceIOP Publishing·Journal2D Materials·DateJun 2, 2015

UW researchers scaling up fusion hopes with DOE grant

University of Washington researchers are scaling up their 'Sheared Flow Stabilized Z-Pinch' device in hopes of achieving a sustainable fusion reaction. With a $5.3 million grant, they aim to create a proof-of-principle experiment that demonstrates the concept's scalability.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateJun 2, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Trees are source for high-capacity, soft and elastic batteries

Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology have developed a method to create an elastic, foam-like battery material from nanocellulose broken down from tree fibres. This material can withstand shock and stress, enabling the storage of significantly more power in less space than conventional batteries.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 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.

Autism struck by surprise

A new study reveals that social and sensory overstimulation is the primary driver of autistic behaviors, contradicting decades-old views of autism as a mental retardation. The research proposes that autistic brains are hyper-functional, requiring predictable and structured environments to function optimally.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateJun 2, 2015

Interpersonal conflict is the strongest predictor of community crime and misconduct

A new study found that interpersonal conflicts, such as domestic violence and landlord disputes, are stronger predictors of community crime than public disorder. The research analyzed census data and 911 dispatches, revealing a link between private conflict and increased social disorder, crime, and physical violence.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Research in Crime and Delinquency·DateJun 2, 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.

Pinholes be gone!

Scientists at OIST eliminated problematic pinholes in perovskite solar cells, significantly improving their lifetime and reducing thickness. The breakthrough enables more efficient energy conversion, with improved durability and potential cost-effectiveness.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 2, 2015

Why HIV's cloak has a long tail

Virologists discovered that a small section of the envelope protein, located on its 'tail', is required for it to be sorted into viral particles. This finding could help researchers design more effective vaccines and target HIV with antiviral drugs.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 2, 2015

The invisible key to methane hydrates

Researchers discovered that nanobubbles persist in liquid, influencing the formation and dissociation of natural gas hydrates. The findings provide insight into the mechanism of hydrate decomposition and could lead to more efficient and safe extraction of methane hydrates.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateJun 2, 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.

Cat got your tongue? New research says 'no'

Domestic cats have a unique perception of bitterness in food due to variations in their repertoire of bitter receptors, which differs from that of other mammals. The study found that cat taste receptors were less sensitive to certain bitter compounds compared to human receptors, explaining why cats can be picky eaters.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Neuroscience·DateJun 2, 2015

Douglas study on cerebral astrocytes in depression and suicide

A new study by Naguib Mechawar's team found that networks of astrocytes are altered specifically in areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. The research also discovered unique properties of astrocytes in subcortical brain regions, which may contribute to depression and suicide.

SourceDouglas Mental Health University Institute·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJun 2, 2015

'Climate-change skeptics are more ambivalent than we thought'

A new survey method reveals that Norwegians' thoughts on climate change are more complex than previously suggested, with balanced views on nature and human activities. The study found that older respondents focus on physical consequences, while younger ones emphasize future concerns.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJun 2, 2015

Coupled human and natural systems explain change on the Mongolian Plateau

A cross-disciplinary study applies CHANS to examine dynamics of livestock rearing on the Mongolian Plateau between 1980 and 2010. The research highlights unique opportunities for applying CHANS due to contrasting socioeconomic and political systems in Mongolia and Inner Mongolia.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateJun 2, 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.

Brain's reaction to certain words could replace passwords

Researchers at Binghamton University used brain signals to identify individuals with 94% accuracy, suggesting a new type of biometric security. Brainprints are cancellable and cannot be stolen, offering an alternative to traditional methods.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalNeurocomputing·DateJun 2, 2015

Researchers simulate behavior of 'active matter'

Brown University researchers use numerical models to study the dynamics of active colloids, finding that fluid flows play a crucial role in shaping emergent macro-scale patterns. At high concentrations, particles segregate into lanes and form swirling vortices before jamming into crystals.

SourceBrown University·DateJun 2, 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.

An inexpensive rival to graphene aerogels

Researchers created a cheap alternative to graphene aerogels for electromagnetic absorption, with properties similar to graphene aerogels. The new material has low loss and wide effective bandwidth, making it suitable for various applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 2, 2015

When the color we see isn't the color we remember

A Johns Hopkins University-led team discovered that people's brains tend to store colors as one of just a few basic hues, rather than specific shades. This bias affects memory accuracy, making it difficult for individuals to recall the exact color of an object.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateJun 2, 2015

Black athletes stereotyped negatively in media compared to white athletes

A new study by Cynthia Frisby reveals racial stereotyping in the way media portrays athletes, with more stories about black athletes focusing on criminal actions and domestic violence. The research found that more than 66% of crime stories involved black athletes, while only 22% involved white athletes.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateJun 2, 2015

How the tuberculosis bacterium tricks the immune system

The tuberculosis bacterium co-opts mechanisms of the immune system to its own advantage by releasing small bits of DNA into macrophages. This triggers an immune response that helps the bacteria rather than fights it. Researchers have discovered a way to manipulate this process, potentially paving the way for new treatments

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJun 2, 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.

Toothbrush contamination in communal bathrooms

A study found that at least 60% of toothbrushes were contaminated with fecal coliforms, even after decontamination methods. The researchers advise better hygiene practices for students who share bathrooms to prevent the transmission of potentially pathogenic organisms.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 2, 2015

Privacy notices online probably don't match your expectations

A study found that online privacy policies often don't meet consumers' expectations, with many assuming protections that were never there. Despite this, 61% of surveyed websites comply with their own policies, yet users rate them as non-compliant.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateJun 2, 2015

QLEDs meet wearable devices

Researchers from IBS and Seoul National University created ultra-thin wearable QLEDs with resolutions approaching 2,500 pixels per inch. The technology enables the display of high-definition full-color displays on human skin.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 2015

CT angiography links arterial plaque with diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol

A new study published in Radiology found that non-calcified arterial plaque is associated with diabetes, high systolic blood pressure, and elevated 'bad' cholesterol levels. CT angiography can quantify plaque burden and assess progression or regression of coronary artery disease in low-to-moderate risk individuals.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 2, 2015

Genome-editing proteins seek and find with a slide and a hop

Researchers observed genome-editing proteins using a combination of sliding and hopping to navigate the vast genome. The discovery provides insight into how these proteins can be engineered for improved efficiency and reduced off-target binding, potentially leading to more effective gene therapies.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 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.

Intelligent bacteria for detecting disease

Researchers transformed bacteria into 'secret agents' that detect abnormal glucose levels in diabetic patients' urine. The bacteria are programmed using genetic transistors, allowing them to amplify and store molecular signals for months.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 2, 2015

Infant brains develop years faster than we thought

Scientists discovered that infant brain development occurs years faster than previously thought, with face perception abilities emerging as early as four months. The study used electroencephalography to track brain activity in response to facial images, revealing a unique right-hemisphere processing of faces.

SourceeLife·DateJun 2, 2015

Move over Arabidopsis, there's a new model plant in town

Researchers at the University of Missouri have discovered a type of grass, Setaria viridis, that can fix nitrogen using bacteria, making it a potential model for studying this process in crops like corn and rice. This discovery could lead to more efficient use of fertilizer and promote sustainable agriculture.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateJun 2, 2015

National Psoriasis Foundation awards $600,000 in Discovery Grants

The National Psoriasis Foundation has awarded eight researchers $75,000 each to study the causes of psoriasis and develop new treatments. The grants will support research into various aspects of psoriasis, including genetic mutations, skin stem cells, and inflammatory proteins.

SourceNational Psoriasis Foundation·DateJun 2, 2015

It takes a village: Why do consumers participate in wind energy programs?

A study found that consumers in a wind power program valued community membership over direct personal benefits, driven by a sense of shared risk and responsibility. Participants felt connected to others who lived environmentally conscious lives, influencing their actions and behaviors.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateJun 2, 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.

Amount of time New Yorkers spend sitting around far exceeds healthy levels

A new study by NYU Langone Medical Center and the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene found that New Yorkers spend an average of over 7 hours a day sitting, greatly exceeding the recommended healthy levels. College-educated individuals, higher-income residents, and those aged 65 or older spent the most time sedentary.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalPreventing Chronic Disease·DateJun 2, 2015

Reflection in medical education can lead to less burn-out

Stritch School of Medicine's reflection-based curriculum aims to promote student self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and social justice. Students engage in regular reflections on their experiences through the Patient Centered Medicine Course and co-curricular programs.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalNarrative Inquiry in Bioethics·DateJun 2, 2015

Great Barrier Reef marine reserves combat coral disease

Researchers found that no-take marine reserves on the Great Barrier Reef significantly reduced coral disease levels, four times lower inside reserves compared to outside. The study highlights the benefits of marine reserves for enhancing coral health and managing fishing-related damage.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalEcology·DateJun 2, 2015

Measuring the mass of molecules on the nano-scale

Researchers developed coupled microcantilevers that can measure mass on the order of nanograms in a liquid environment with only a 1 percent margin of error. This enables weighing individual molecules, ideal for biological processes such as DNA hybridization and protein characterization.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 2, 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.

Eyes sealed shut: Seamless closure of surgical incisions

A new technique developed by Prof. Abraham Katzir uses a fiber-optic laser to seamlessly bond corneal tissue without causing damage or leaving stitches, offering a major breakthrough in corneal transplant procedures. The system has shown promising results in clinical trials, with wounds treated successfully and minimal scar tissue.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateJun 2, 2015

Hyperbaric hope for fibromyalgia sufferers

A clinical trial involving women diagnosed with fibromyalgia showed significant improvements in symptoms after undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Brain scans revealed changes in brain activity that may be responsible for the syndrome's chronic pain sensation.

SourceRice University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 2, 2015

Researchers from the University Bonn stimulate larynx muscles with light

A new study published in Nature Communications shows that light can be used to stimulate larynx muscles in mice, a potential breakthrough for treating laryngeal paralysis. The researchers used Channelrhodopsins, exotic molecules that open ion channels when illuminated, to create static and dynamic contractions.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 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.

Creators of marshmallow test to receive 1st Golden Goose Award of 2015

Researchers Dr. Walter Mischel, Philip Peake, and Yuichi Shoda have been awarded the first Golden Goose Award for their work on the marshmallow test, which found correlations between self-control and life outcomes. Their research has led to advances in teaching self-control and improving lives.

SourceAssociation of American Universities·DateJun 2, 2015

For a good gut feeling

Researchers found that type II interferon signals cause the release of CXCL10, an attractant for cells promoting inflammation. This study provides a new impetus for treating colitis with antibodies or direct administration of type III interferons.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalMolecular and Cellular Biology·DateJun 2, 2015

Astronomers discover a young solar system around a nearby star

Researchers have discovered a young planetary system with a ring-like disk of debris surrounding a Sun-like star, sharing similarities with the formation of our own early solar system. The disk is roughly the same size as our solar system's Kuiper Belt and may contain dust and icy particles.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJun 2, 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.

DFG to fund 13 new Collaborative Research Centres

The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft has approved 13 new Collaborative Research Centres, focusing on topics such as emotional dynamics, inflammation, and manufacturing processes. These centres will receive approximately $113 million in funding over a four-year period, starting in July 2015.

SourceDeutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft·DateJun 2, 2015

Childhood trauma gets under the skin

A new study found that childhood trauma can lead to heightened inflammation across three blood biomarkers in adults. This increased inflammation may contribute to various health problems, including type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The research suggests that different types of trauma have varying effects on inflammation levels.

SourceKing's College London·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJun 2, 2015

Saving money and the environment with 3-D printing

A Northwestern University team has confirmed a new way to help the airline industry save dollars while also saving the environment. By manufacturing aircraft's metal parts with 3-D printing, airlines could save a significant amount of fuel, materials, and other resources.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateJun 2, 2015

Chemists weigh intact virus mixture with mass spectrometer

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University successfully separated and weighed a mixture of intact virus particles using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization MS. This technique, called heavy ion mass spectrometry, allows for the analysis of viruses that are too large to be detected by standard instruments.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateJun 2, 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.

Weight-loss surgery puts spark back into relationships

Bariatric surgery not only benefits patients' health but also strengthens their relationships with partners, according to a new study. Couples reported improved intimacy, better conflict resolution, and enhanced sexual relationships after one partner underwent weight loss surgery.

SourceSpringer·JournalObesity Surgery·DateJun 2, 2015

Is our first line of defense sleeping on the job?

Research found that 90% of bacteria on human skin are either dead or inactive, with different areas harboring varying proportions of metabolically active, inactive, and dead microbes. Activity levels decreased with age, suggesting a possible relationship between the microbiome and immune system function.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 2, 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.

Scary TV's impact on kids is overstated, say psychologists

A recent study by University of Sussex researchers suggests that the impact of scary TV on children's internalizing emotions is smaller than previously thought. Overall, children show very little sign of increased anxiety or fear, but some may be more affected due to individual differences in anxiety levels.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalHuman Communication Research·DateJun 2, 2015

Mass. General team develops transplantable bioengineered forelimb in an animal model

A team of Massachusetts General Hospital investigators has developed a bioartificial replacement limb suitable for transplantation using an experimental approach previously used to build bioartificial organs. The researchers successfully engineered rat forelimbs with functioning vascular and muscle tissue, and provided evidence that th...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalBiomaterials·DateJun 2, 2015

Satellite imagery shows a weaker Hurricane Andres

Hurricane Andres has weakened significantly due to unfavorable sea surface temperatures, with maximum sustained winds decreasing to near 105 mph. The storm is expected to become a tropical storm tonight or Wednesday, followed by a turn toward the north and a decrease in forward speed.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 2, 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.

Does Agion silver technology work as an antimicrobial?

Researchers found that Agion silver zeolite technology significantly reduced bacterial populations on door handles, particularly gram-negative bacteria. The study suggests that the technology may be more effective than previously thought, but further research is needed to address concerns about standardization and potential side effects.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 2, 2015

How Microprocessor precisely initiates miRNA production

Researchers have discovered how Microprocessor, a complex of DROSHA and DGCR8, precisely determines cleavage sites on miRNA-containing primary transcripts. This process allows faithful initiation of microRNA biogenesis.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalCell·DateJun 2, 2015

How a box jellyfish catches fish

The Irukandji box jellyfish uses its nematocyst clusters like experienced fishermen use their lures. The tiny but deadly jellyfish actively targets and catches complex fish that are often larger than itself, displaying a surprising complex prey capture strategy.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 2, 2015

UF study shows benefits of multi-tasking on exercise

Researchers found that older adults' cycling speed improved while completing cognitive tasks without sacrificing cognitive performance. The study suggests combining physical activity with mental tasks may encourage more vigorous exercise.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 2, 2015

No improvement in cognition with post-menopausal hormones

A recent study found that post-menopausal hormone therapy did not improve cognitive function, but may have benefits for certain mood symptoms. The trial included 693 recently postmenopausal women and followed them for four years, with some women experiencing improvements in mood symptoms.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 2, 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.

Microendoscope could eliminate unneeded biopsies

Researchers found that the low-cost, portable device could spare unnecessary biopsies for about 90% of patients with benign lesions. The study involved 147 U.S. and Chinese patients undergoing examination for potentially malignant squamous cell tumors.

SourceRice University·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateJun 2, 2015

Hidden costs: Emotion responses to command and control

Researchers found that creating conflict with target population can backfire, while positively framed policies support choice and lead to positive responses. The study highlights the need for policymakers to empathize with their audience and work with them rather than against them.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·DateJun 2, 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.

Schiff receives NIH Pioneer Award

Dr. Steven Schiff aims to reduce infant mortality from neonatal sepsis by identifying infection causes and developing predictive models for optimal antimicrobial treatment. His research seeks to apply engineering control principles to prevent infections, with potential applications worldwide.

SourcePenn State·DateJun 2, 2015

Greenhouse gas-caused warming felt in just months

A study by Carnegie's Xiaochun Zhang and Ken Caldeira found that the carbon dioxide-caused warming exceeds the amount of heat released by a lump of coal in just 34 days. Continuous power plant burning also triggers similar effects, with CO2 accumulation surpassing combustion emissions within three months.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 2, 2015

Study explores how past Native-American settlement modified Western New York forests

A new study by University at Buffalo geographers found that Native American villages in Chautauqua County, NY, favored the growth of fire-tolerant tree species like hickory, chestnut, and oak. These trees produce edible nuts and are more likely to survive fires, suggesting that human activity altered the forest landscape.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalEcological Monographs·DateJun 2, 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.

Teens turn to Internet to cope with health challenges

A national survey found that 84% of teens turn to the internet for health information, but 88% do not share their concerns with friends or social media. This study highlights the importance of accurate and accessible digital health resources for teenagers, who use online tools to make behavior changes and take care of themselves.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateJun 2, 2015

Placental malaria research funded by March of Dimes

The March of Dimes Foundation has funded a Portuguese laboratory to study factors that act in the placenta to protect the fetus from malaria. The research focuses on trophoblast cells, which are crucial for maternal-fetal exchanges of nutrients and gases.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·DateJun 2, 2015

Researchers pinpoint epicenter of brain's predictive ability

Researchers have identified the epicenter of the brain's predictive ability in limbic tissue, which also plays a key role in emotions. This discovery challenges traditional theories on emotion and suggests that the brain is wired to ask questions about past experiences rather than react to external stimuli.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalNature Reviews Neuroscience·DateJun 2, 2015

Pocket change: When does corporate gratitude backfire

A new study in the Journal of Marketing found that companies may inadvertently devalue customer relationships with small monetary gifts. The authors suggest firms consider directing such gifts to charity to avoid the 'trivialization effect',

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJun 2, 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.

Schools failing to address biased student discipline

A Michigan State University scholar argues that school districts are complicit in the oppression of students of color by ignoring the issue of biased student discipline. Researchers faced roadblocks and resistance from district administrators who viewed their efforts as a threat.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalTeachers College Record The Voice of Scholarship in Education·DateJun 2, 2015

Single 30-day hospital readmission metric fails to reflect changing risk factors

A new study suggests that the standard 30-day hospital readmission metric fails to accurately reflect changing risk factors. Researchers found that early readmissions (0-7 days post discharge) were associated with acute illness markers, while late readmissions (8-30 days post discharge) were more closely tied to chronic illness burden.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 2, 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.

New heterogeneous wavelength tunable laser diode for high-frequency efficiency

The researchers developed a novel ultra-compact heterogeneous wavelength tunable laser diode using silicon photonics and quantum-dot technology, achieving a wide-range tuning operation of around 1250 nm wavelength with an ultra-small device footprint. The obtained frequency tuning-range of 8.8 THz is a world record for QD and silicon p...

SourceTohoku University·JournalApplied Physics Express·DateJun 2, 2015

Endurance athletes should be tested while exercising for potentially fatal heart condition

Current practice of testing athletes at rest may miss signs of right ventricular dysfunction that can lead to sudden death. A new study shows that exercise echocardiography can detect changes in the right ventricle's functioning during physical activity, providing a potential diagnostic tool for cardiologists managing athletes.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateJun 2, 2015