Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for May 19, 2015


Stuttering linked to rhythm perception deficiency

Researchers at Michigan State University found that children who stutter have difficulty perceiving a beat in music-like rhythms, which may account for their halting speech patterns. This study has implications for treating stuttering and suggests that improving beat perception in children could lead to improved fluency in speech.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalBrain and Language·DateMay 19, 2015

The life and death of beta cells

In a study published in ETH Zurich, researchers discovered that the microRNA-200 family triggers the death of beta cells, leading to type 2 diabetes. By blocking miR-200 production, scientists can guarantee the survival of these vital cells. This finding has significant implications for the development of new treatments for diabetes.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 19, 2015

New risk factor for pregnancies

A new study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that women born preterm have a significantly higher risk of giving birth to preterm children. Researchers analyzed data from over 7,400 Quebec women born preterm and compared it to women born at term, revealing a 13% difference in preterm delivery rates.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateMay 19, 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.

Study finds high prevalence of metabolic syndrome in US

A study published in JAMA Network found that nearly 35 percent of all U.S. adults and 50 percent of those 60 years or older had metabolic syndrome in 2011-2012. The condition is characterized by a combination of health conditions including obesity, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and poor lipid profiles.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 19, 2015

The dark side of the 'love hormone'; similarities with the effects of alcohol

Researchers found significant similarities between oxytocin and alcohol's behavioral effects, including increased aggression and risk-taking. This study highlights the darker side of oxytocin, which can suppress social inhibitors like fear and anxiety, leading to more impulsive decisions.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews·DateMay 19, 2015

Mechanical ventilation associated with long-term disability

Critically ill patients who have been mechanically ventilated for more than seven days are at greatly increased risk for functional impairment and mortality. FIM score, Charlson score, and age independently predicted mortality and disability at one year after discharge.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 19, 2015

Stress levels linked to risk of liver disease death, study shows

A new study from the University of Edinburgh found that individuals with high psychological distress were more likely to die from liver disease. The research tracked over 165,000 participants for ten years and controlled for various factors such as alcohol consumption and socioeconomic status.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateMay 19, 2015

'Redesigned' antibodies may control HIV: Vanderbilt study

Researchers at Vanderbilt University have redesigned an antibody using a computer program, increasing its potency and ability to neutralize multiple strains of HIV. The study suggests that computer-redesigned antibodies may speed the search for an effective therapy or vaccine against HIV.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 19, 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.

Text messages can help boost teen birth control compliance

Sending periodic text messages to teens can improve birth control adherence. The study found that 87% of patients with personalized daily texts showed up for their first injection, compared to 56% without texts. Text messaging also helped increase adherence to a tight treatment schedule and regularly taking prescription medications.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateMay 19, 2015

Treating infants of mothers with opioid dependence -- rising rates, rising costs

The cost of treating babies with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) has increased dramatically, with costs rising from $1.1 million in the first year to $1.8 million in the third year, a 15-16 fold increase compared to healthy infants. Proactive screening and treatment are recommended to address this growing public health concern.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Addiction Medicine·DateMay 19, 2015

For spider monkeys, social grooming comes with a cost

A study found that physical contact during social grooming increases the risk of gastrointestinal parasites in brown spider monkeys. The researchers analyzed data from 12 individual monkeys and found a strong correlation between grooming interactions and parasite infections, particularly with roundworms Strongyloides and Trichostrongylus.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateMay 19, 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.

In study, skipping meals is linked to abdominal weight gain

A new study by Ohio State University researchers suggests that skipping meals can lead to insulin resistance and increased abdominal fat gain in mice. Mice on restricted diets who fasted for extended periods developed metabolic issues, including inflammation and plumper fat cells, compared to those who ate regularly.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry·DateMay 19, 2015

NASA's triple examination of Typhoon Dolphin

Typhoon Dolphin intensified over the Northwestern Pacific Ocean before weakening into an extra-tropical storm, according to NASA's triple examination. The RapidScat instrument detected a significant increase in winds, while the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) core observatory estimated heavy rainfall near Guam and Rota.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 19, 2015

Nature inspires first artificial molecular pump

Researchers at Northwestern University develop first artificial molecular pump, mirroring the pumping mechanism of life-sustaining proteins in living cells. The tiny machine can force molecules to move against their natural flow, storing energy for potential use in molecular machines and artificial muscles.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 19, 2015

Chameleon proteins make individual cells visible

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new microscopy technique that enables selective visualization of individual cells within complex tissue. Using 'chameleon proteins' like Dendra 2, they can highlight single cells or groups of molecules with one color while keeping other cells visible in another color.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Methods·DateMay 19, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How does the brain respond to hearing loss?

Researchers found that brain areas normally dedicated to hearing can adapt to early-stage hearing loss, affecting cognitive decline and speech perception. The study suggests that this compensatory adaptation may lead to decreased brain resources for processing sound.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 19, 2015

ISU study: Estrangement likely when child does not share mother's values

A new study by Iowa State University researchers found that mothers are more likely to estrange themselves from their adult children due to differences in core values and societal norms. Mothers who were divorced or widowed, with a single child who had violated their expectations, were also more likely to experience estrangement.

SourceIowa State University·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·DateMay 19, 2015

Oregon scientists say preparing foster kids for school lessens impact of moves

A new study by Oregon researchers found that preparing foster children for school can significantly reduce the negative impact of frequent moves on their academic and behavioral performance. By starting children ready for kindergarten, social stability can be maintained, allowing them to keep pace academically within existing education...

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalChild Development·DateMay 19, 2015

Unsavory hits the App Store and Google Play

The game, developed by NERDLab at the University of Miami, aims to educate consumers and encourage them to speak up in favor of paid sick time. It was found that 60% of restaurant workers have had to work while sick, putting public health at risk.

SourceUniversity of Miami·DateMay 19, 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.

'Natural' sounds improve mood and productivity, study finds

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute found that playing natural sounds in offices boosts worker moods and improves cognitive abilities. The study tested three different sound stimuli: typical office noises with a conventional masking signal, an office soundscape with a 'natural' masker, and an office soundscape with no masker.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 19, 2015

Developmental psychology: Sharing doesn't hurt

A new study by LMU's Markus Paulus shows that preschoolers as young as 3 years old can anticipate negative feelings in others and adjust their behavior accordingly. The results suggest that a heightened awareness of the emotional consequences of being left out is a stronger incentive to generosity than making the recipient happy.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalSocial Development·DateMay 19, 2015

Cold-blooded animals find it hard to adjust to global warming

A recent study found that ectothermic animals have limited ability to acclimate to increasing temperatures, making them vulnerable to global warming. The research suggests that these animals will need to rely on behavioral or evolutionary changes to survive as temperatures rise.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateMay 19, 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.

Study identifies barriers to intimate partner violence services

A study by the Crime Victims' Institute found that Texas has a shortage of beds for survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) and that many face barriers to accessing services, including language and financial issues. The survey also highlighted the need for more support services, particularly for underserved populations.

SourceSam Houston State University·DateMay 19, 2015

Scientists print low cost radio frequency antenna with graphene ink

Researchers from the University of Manchester have printed a radio frequency antenna using compressed graphene ink, demonstrating its potential for commercial use in low-cost applications. The antenna is flexible, environmentally friendly, and could be mass-produced at a lower cost than traditional metals.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMay 19, 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.

Suicide trends in school-aged children reveal racial disparity

A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics found higher suicide rates among black children compared to white and Hispanic children. The research highlights an emerging racial disparity in childhood suicide, with possible contributing factors including increased exposure to violence, early puberty, and lower help-seeking behavior.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMay 19, 2015

New techniques for reprogramming stem cells target neurological disease models

Emerging model systems of reprogrammed human neurons will drive discovery of new patient-specific therapies, accelerating research on understanding neuronal activity, brain development, and neurological diseases. The article discusses recent technological advances, current challenges, and future clinical applications.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateMay 19, 2015

Printing 3-D graphene structures for tissue engineering

A Northwestern University team developed a novel graphene-based ink that can print large, robust 3D structures while preserving the material's unique properties. The ink allows for the creation of flexible and strong scaffolds that can support stem cells and promote differentiation into neuron-like cells.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalACS Nano·DateMay 19, 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.

Tunable liquid metal antennas

North Carolina State University researchers develop tunable liquid metal antenna controlled by voltage, allowing for dynamic changes in operating frequency and radiation pattern. This innovation enables miniaturization and adaptation to correct near-field loading problems, making it highly desirable for mobile devices.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMay 19, 2015

COPD is more prevalent in poor and rural areas of the US

A nationwide analysis of COPD prevalence found that living in rural areas and poverty are significant risk factors for the disease. The study, which included over 87,000 participants, also found an association between biomass fuels and COPD in southern communities.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 19, 2015

Bloom preservation

Research by Jamshidi et al. found that combining salicylic acid, malic acid, and urea can extend cut gerbera blooms' vase life from a week to over two weeks. These compounds prevent bacterial contamination and sustain enzyme activity in the stems.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Postharvest Technology and Innovation·DateMay 19, 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.

Bodyguards for precious seeds

A research project by ACIB uses bacteria as bodyguards for seeds like corn, canola, and sugar beet to improve growth, ward off pests, and increase resilience. The method has shown positive results in tests, offering a viable alternative to pesticides for healthier food production.

SourceAustrian Research Centre of Industrial Biotechnology (ACIB)·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateMay 19, 2015

The size of domestic animals has increased over time

The study reveals that domestic animal size changed significantly over the centuries, with a minimum during the Early Middle Ages and a significant increase since the Late Middle Ages, especially for sheep.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateMay 19, 2015

Nerve cells use each other as maps

Researchers found that nerve cells act as barriers or guides to position themselves correctly, creating a map for other cells to follow. This study uncovers an exciting new mechanism for how nerve cells position themselves in the first place, with important implications for understanding neurodevelopmental disorders.

SourceUmea University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 19, 2015

Ancient snakes -- a new hiss-tory

Researchers from Yale University have reconstructed the ancestral snake's body plan, revealing a nocturnal, stealth-hunting predator with complete ankles and toes. The study sheds light on the origin of snakes, which originated around 128.5 million years ago during the Early Cretaceous period.

SourceYale University·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateMay 19, 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.

What makes cancer cells spread? New device offers clues

Researchers developed a new micro-device that separates and analyzes highly mobile cancer cells, which are believed to be the more aggressive cells responsible for metastasis. The study aims to gain an understanding of what makes some cancer cells able to spread to other areas of the body.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 19, 2015

HIV reservoirs remain obstacles to cure

HIV reservoirs are persistent cells that harbor the virus, making it difficult to achieve a cure; current therapeutic strategies focus on eliminating or controlling the virus without daily ART.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature Immunology·DateMay 19, 2015

St. Jude scientist named Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigator

J. Paul Taylor has been selected as a Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) investigator, recognizing his expertise in cell and molecular biology, neurological diseases, and genetics. The HHMI initiative will provide Taylor with salary, benefits, and a research budget to accelerate his work on groundbreaking scientific contributions.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·DateMay 19, 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.

Oral steroids for acute sciatica produce limited improvement in function and pain

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that short-course oral steroids resulted in only modest improvement in function and no significant reduction in pain for patients with acute sciatica. The research suggests that oral steroid treatment may not be an effective option for this common condition.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJAMA·DateMay 19, 2015

Adults harbor lots of risky autoreactive immune cells, Stanford study finds

A new Stanford University School of Medicine study found that vast numbers of self-reactive immune cells remain in circulation well into adulthood, challenging the long-held belief that they are weeded out early in life. This suggests that adults may be more susceptible to autoimmune disease than previously thought.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalImmunity·DateMay 19, 2015

Fresh milk, off the grid

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a method to preserve milk using short pulsed electric fields, which can kill bacteria and extend shelf life. The technology is energy-efficient and does not require constant electricity supply, making it suitable for use in developing countries.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalTECHNOLOGY·DateMay 19, 2015

Atmospheric release of BPA may reach nearby waterways

Researchers from the University of Missouri and USGS found that atmospheric releases of Bisphenol-A (BPA) can elevate its levels in nearby surface waters, threatening aquatic species and humans. BPA concentrations were up to ten times higher near known atmospheric release sites, indicating a potential novel route of exposure.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateMay 19, 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.

Oral steroids for herniated disk do not improve pain

A study published in JAMA found that oral steroids did not significantly improve pain in patients with acute radiculopathy due to a herniated lumbar disk. However, the treatment showed small improvements in function, suggesting potential benefits for some patients.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 19, 2015

Drought-induced tree mortality accelerating in forests

Researchers found that tall trees with low hydraulic conductance are most likely to die from future drought stress, posing a significant threat to earth's carbon storage. This study predicts widespread forest mortality under climate warming, highlighting the need for forest management interventions.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 19, 2015

Researchers determine best anesthesia option for infants

A study published by the American Society of Anesthesiologists found that spinal anesthesia is safer than general anesthesia for infants undergoing hernia surgery. The research revealed that regional anesthesia reduces the risk of complications such as apnea, breathing difficulties, and developmental issues in young children.

SourceAmerican Society of Anesthesiologists·JournalAnesthesiology·DateMay 19, 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.

Scientists figure out how vitamin E keeps muscles healthy

Researchers found that vitamin E helps muscles heal by repairing damaged plasma membranes, which are essential for maintaining cell function. Without it, cells can't properly recover from injury, leading to conditions like muscular dystrophy and diabetes-related muscle weakness.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 19, 2015

Key component in protein that causes cystic fibrosis identified

Cystic fibrosis is caused by mutations in the CFTR protein, leading to an imbalance of salt in the body. Researchers have identified two amino acids that serve as a 'gate' regulating chloride ion flow into and out of cells.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 19, 2015

UK population is becoming overweight and obese at younger ages

A study of over 56,000 people born in Britain from 1946 to 2001 found that most of the rise in BMI has been due to increases at the upper end of the distribution, with childhood obesity more prevalent among younger generations. The age at which adults enter the overweight range decreased over time.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMay 19, 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.

New colonial marine organisms discovered in Madeira

Researchers have discovered two new species of bryozoans in Madeira, as well as a previously unknown species from Brazil. The study utilized modern techniques and electron microscopy to analyze rock samples collected at a depth of 11 meters, revealing six documented species and one endemic to Brazil.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalZootaxa·DateMay 19, 2015

New form of interleukin-2 could be fine-tuned to fight disease

Scientists developed modified IL-2 molecules that can boost or block immune responses depending on the therapeutic application. These new forms of IL-2 have shown promising results in laboratory studies, including prolonged survival in a mouse model of graft-versus-host disease.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalImmunity·DateMay 19, 2015

Body's 'serial killers' captured on film destroying cancer cells

Researchers from the University of Cambridge captured the process of cytotoxic T cells destroying cancer cells using state-of-the-art imaging techniques. The study reveals the remarkable precision and efficiency with which these cells patrol our bodies, identifying and eliminating virally infected and cancerous cells.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalImmunity·DateMay 19, 2015

What did the first snakes look like?

Researchers have reconstructed the ancestral snake, revealing it had tiny hindlimbs and targeted soft-bodied prey. The study suggests snakes originated on land, rather than in water, during the middle Early Cretaceous period.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateMay 19, 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.

Credit cards a valuable option for farmers' markets

A study by Washington State University found that farmers' market customers prefer having local vendors and high-quality produce over electronic payment options. The survey showed that running out of cash limits purchases, but offering alternative payment methods can benefit both vendors and customers.

SourceWashington State University·JournalInternational Food and Agribusiness Management Review·DateMay 19, 2015

Thinking alike changes the conversation

Researchers found that people who share views align more closely in their speech patterns, even unconsciously. Those who compromise in conflict situations also show greater linguistic alignment with the speaker.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalLanguage Variation and Change·DateMay 19, 2015

Seashell strength inspires stress tests

Researchers at Rice University and Indian Institute of Science model seashells' ability to withstand pressure, discovering evolutionary optimization allows fractures to appear only where they're least likely to hurt the animal inside. The team found complex shapes make shells nearly twice as good at bearing loads than nacre alone.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 19, 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.

More people are dying in hospices in England

A new study by King's College London found nearly double the proportion of people dying in hospices since 1993, with most deaths from cancer. The gap between those living in affluent and deprived areas is increasing, with hospice deaths becoming more age-related.

SourceKing's College London·JournalPalliative Medicine·DateMay 19, 2015

Diverse soil communities can help offset impacts of global warming

A new study shows that diverse soil communities can limit the effects of climate change by regulating microbial activity and controlling carbon emissions. Small animals like insects and worms play a crucial role in this process, feeding on microbes that can trigger increased carbon emissions.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 19, 2015

Genes may influence leadership in the workplace, research finds

A study by Kansas State University researchers found that genes can influence leadership in the workplace, with both positive and negative effects. People with a certain allele of the dopamine transporter gene were more likely to engage in mild rule-breaking behavior, which is positively associated with leadership. However, those with ...

SourceKansas State University·JournalThe Leadership Quarterly·DateMay 19, 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.

Horizontal gene transfer in E. coli

E. coli O104:H4 acquired genes through horizontal gene transfer, increasing virulence and antibiotic resistance. The bacterium's genome comprises prophage elements involved in Shiga toxin production.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Bioinformatics Research and Applications·DateMay 19, 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.

Livers donated after cardiac death are safe to use in liver cancer patients

Patients with liver cancer can be cured with a liver transplant using organs from donors who died of cardiac death, according to the largest study of its kind. The study found no difference in liver cancer recurrence between livers donated after cardiac death and those obtained from brain-dead donors.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateMay 19, 2015

Smoking a significant predictor of lung cancer recurrence in survivors

A study found that 38% of lung cancer survivors developed recurrent or new cancer during a 8.3-year surveillance period. Key risk factors for recurrence included smoking status, prior cancers, and asbestos exposure, highlighting the need for close monitoring and quitting smoking to reduce cancer recurrence.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 19, 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.

Most European men descend from a handful of Bronze Age forefathers

Researchers discovered that almost two-thirds (64%) modern European men belong to just three young paternal lineages. The study used DNA sequences from the Y chromosomes of 334 men from 17 populations and found a widespread, recent male-specific population expansion during the Bronze Age.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 19, 2015

Connecting science with society -- EU boost for polar science

The EU has funded a new initiative to enhance collaboration in polar research, bringing together 22 institutions to develop an integrated European polar research programme. The programme aims to create a suite of research proposals directly relevant to European society and its economy.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·DateMay 19, 2015

Research aims to improve access to music for people using hearing aids

A collaborative project between the University of Leeds and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust aims to improve access to music for people using hearing aids. The research will explore how music listening experiences are affected by deafness, hearing impairments and the use of hearing aids.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateMay 19, 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.

Griffon vultures are exposed to high concentrations of lead in their diets

A study found that Griffon vultures in Catalonia have high levels of lead in their tissues, affecting their immune systems and reproductive function. The birds' diet, which mainly consists of carrion from domestic and wild hunting species, increases their likelihood of ingesting lead.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalEcotoxicology and Environmental Safety·DateMay 19, 2015

Study finds high risk of sleep apnea in young veterans with PTSD

A new study reveals that young U.S. veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are at a higher risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The study found that the severity of PTSD symptoms is strongly associated with an increased risk of OSA, and that nearly 70% of participants had a high risk for sleep apnea.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateMay 19, 2015

Researchers pin down enzyme role in muscle 'aging'

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that an enzyme called 11β-HSD1 is increased in muscles of older women, leading to reduced grip strength and insulin resistance. The researchers believe inhibiting this enzyme could hold the key to preventing or reversing muscle wasting associated with aging.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMay 19, 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.

Secrets of baby talk: Why mothers say coo while fathers stay cool

Researchers found that fathers tend to speak in a more adult-like tone, whereas mothers use higher pitches and varied pitch ranges when interacting with their young children. This study suggests that fathers may be acting as a link to the outside world by helping children deal with unfamiliar speech patterns.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 19, 2015

Hemodialysis is recommended for acute salicylate poisoning

For severe salicylate poisoning, hemodialysis is the best remedy according to a comprehensive review of medical literature. Salicylate poisoning causes significant harm and death, requiring prompt treatment with dialysis.

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateMay 19, 2015

Bugs and slugs ideal houseguests for seagrass health

Seagrass ecosystems rely on small marine invertebrates to graze algae, keeping habitats clean and healthy. A recent study found that diverse communities of these animals are essential for maintaining robust seagrass populations.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalEcology Letters·DateMay 19, 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.

Molecule designed to treat lung cancer shows promising results in mice

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have designed a molecule called RK-33 to target the enzyme DDX3, which is overexpressed in over 90% of lung cancer samples. The therapy has shown promising results in mice, with the ability to lower radiation doses while increasing its effectiveness.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateMay 19, 2015

Large urban hospitals disadvantaged by medicare/medicaid patient satisfaction rating system

A new study by Mount Sinai researchers found that large urban hospitals in densely populated regions of Washington DC, New York State, California, Maryland, and New Jersey have lower patient satisfaction scores due to demographic bias. The authors propose an adjustment formula to mitigate this bias, which, when applied to New York Stat...

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Hospital Medicine·DateMay 19, 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.

Using a sounding rocket to help calibrate NASA's SDO

A calibration mission on a Terrier-Black Brant suborbital sounding rocket will help calibrate the EVE instrument on NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO). The mission aims to measure the total energy output of the sun in extreme ultraviolet light waves and track changes over time.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 19, 2015

Awe may promote altruistic behavior

Research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that inducing a sense of awe can promote altruistic, helpful, and positive social behavior. Awe diminishes emphasis on individual self, encouraging people to prioritize others' welfare.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateMay 19, 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.

Tracking the trends in youth self-harm visitation rates to Alberta's emergency rooms

A University of Alberta study found that youth from families receiving government subsidies and First Nations children accounted for disproportionately high rates of self-harming behavior at Alberta's emergency rooms. The study suggests that social determinants, such as living conditions, play a crucial role in mental health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalCanadian Journal of Emergency Medicine·DateMay 19, 2015

Widespread diabetes screening in India is predicted to be ineffective

A new study suggests that widespread diabetes screening in India using current methods could lead to massive waste of resources and unnecessary testing. The researchers estimate that only between 26 million and 37 million out of 567 million eligible individuals would meet the international diagnostic criteria for diabetes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMay 19, 2015

Giant panda gut bacteria can't efficiently digest bamboo

Giant pandas have a carnivore-like gut microbiota that can't efficiently digest bamboo due to the lack of genes for plant-digesting enzymes in their genome. Their gut diversity is also lower compared to other herbivores, leading to nutritional challenges and increased risk of extinction.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateMay 19, 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.

Antidepressants beneficial for women with postnatal depression

A systematic review of six randomised controlled trials found that antidepressants were of benefit for postnatal depression, with 54% of participants reporting 'much improved' symptoms after treatment. Remission rates were also improved, with 49% of participants showing remission compared to 26% in the placebo group.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJAMA·DateMay 19, 2015

Lifetime scholarly achievement of Lois Parkinson Zamora recognized

The American Comparative Literature Association honored Lois Parkinson Zamora for her pioneering studies on hemispheric American studies and modern Latin American literature. Her work has been recognized nationally, with numerous publications and awards, including the John and Rebecca Moores Distinguished Professorship.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMay 19, 2015