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Science News for May 7, 2015


Scandinavian trade 'triggered' the Viking Age

Researchers identify Vikings visiting Ribe, Denmark's west coast, as early as 725 AD, suggesting a less violent start to the Viking Age. This discovery challenges traditional narratives of the Viking Age as a period of violent expansion and highlights the importance of trade and maritime mobility.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalEuropean Journal of Archaeology·DateMay 7, 2015

Researchers sound out scaffolds for eardrum replacement

Researchers have created complex scaffolds that mimic the human eardrum's intricate network of collagen fibres. These scaffolds could potentially replace damaged eardrums, reducing the need for surgical reconstruction using patient tissue.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalBiofabrication·DateMay 7, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study reveals why almost half of patients opt out of comprehensive cancer testing

A recent study found that almost half of patients opted out of comprehensive cancer gene screening due to concerns about uncertainty and potential distress. Pre-test counseling significantly reduced anxiety in these patients, but highlighted the need for individualized guidance before genetic testing.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateMay 7, 2015

Naturally occurring amino acid could improve oral health

Researchers at the University of Michigan discovered that L-arginine can break down dental plaque, a biofilm that contributes to cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. This naturally occurring amino acid may provide an alternative to current antimicrobial treatments, which can affect taste and stain teeth.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 7, 2015

When the baby comes, working couples no longer share housework equally

A new study found that when highly educated, dual-career couples have their first child, women add significantly more daily housework and childcare responsibilities than men. Before the baby was born, both spouses thought their workloads would increase equally, but detailed time diaries showed a stark contrast.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·DateMay 7, 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.

New care approach to colorectal operations speeds patients' recovery times

A new study finds that combining an evidence-based enhanced recovery program with infection prevention significantly reduces hospital stay time and costs for patients undergoing colorectal operations. The program also decreases surgical site infections and sepsis rates.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMay 7, 2015

Penn researchers develop custom artificial membranes with programmable surfaces

Penn researchers have developed a novel model of artificial membranes with programmable surfaces, allowing for precise control over glycan structures. This breakthrough enables the study of membrane-sugar-protein interactions, which are crucial for understanding diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 2015

Role of obesity and depression in excessive daytime sleepiness

Researchers found obesity and depression to be underlying causes of regular drowsiness, with low-grade chronic inflammation a primary mechanism for fatigue in obese individuals. Depressed individuals also experienced high incidence of EDS, likely due to physiologic sleep disturbances.

SourcePenn State·JournalSLEEP·DateMay 7, 2015

GTEx -- How our fenetic code regulates gene expression

The GTEx project analyzed over 54,000 genes across 43 body sites from 175 individuals to identify distinct regions in the genome that affect gene expression. This work sheds light on how genetic variation predisposes people to disease and provides a resource for future studies investigating genetic control of gene expression.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 7, 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.

Alzheimer protein's structure may explain its toxicity

The study reveals amyloid beta-42 forms three flat structures with a 'salt bridge' that stabilizes its toxic shape. This discovery provides new insights into amyloid propagation in Alzheimer's disease and may impact the effectiveness of existing treatments.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateMay 7, 2015

Mercury's core dynamo present early in planet's history

Scientists have discovered a magnetization signal emanating from an ancient region of Mercury's crust, indicating the presence of a dynamo-driven magnetic field 3.8 billion years ago. This finding suggests that Mercury's core dynamo has persisted for billions of years.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 7, 2015

Electrons corralled using new quantum tool

Researchers have created a new 'whispering gallery' effect for electrons in graphene, allowing precise control over the reflecting region. This confinement could lead to the development of electronic lenses and other quantum-based electron-optics devices, enabling the study of subtle charge carrier behavior at a microscopic level.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMay 7, 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.

How climate science denial affects the scientific community

A new study from the University of Bristol argues that climate science denial is seeping into the scientific community's discussion of climate change, causing them to overemphasize scientific uncertainty. This 'seepage' of contrarian claims has led scientists to downplay the degree of threat and undercommunicate knowledge, despite know...

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateMay 7, 2015

IRF5, a new player in the occurrence of obesity complications

Researchers discovered IRF5 helps prevent metabolic complications by storing fat subcutaneously. In contrast to intra-abdominal fat, which leads to type 2 diabetes, this storage form reduces inflammation and promotes tissue remodelling.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 7, 2015

New intervention pioneered at UC Davis helps mothers address depression

The Motivating our Mothers (MOM) program uses pediatricians for diagnosis and coaching mothers to seek additional help. The intervention showed a remarkable impact, with 74% of mothers in the intervention group seeking help compared to 54% in the control group.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalAcademic Pediatrics·DateMay 7, 2015

Biting back: Scientists aim to forecast West Nile outbreaks

A new study by NCAR and CDC researchers finds strong correlations between warmer temperatures and higher rates of West Nile virus disease in the US. Precipitation also influences disease outbreaks, but with varying regional impacts. The study aims to develop a system to forecast outbreaks weeks or months in advance.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateMay 7, 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.

Fragments of tRNA suggest a novel mechanism for cancer progression

Researchers at Rockefeller University found that short stretches of genetic material called tRNA fragments can reduce the growth and spread of breast cancer cells. These fragments bind to a key player in the life cycle of cancer cells, known as an oncogene, reducing its ability to promote cell division and metastasis.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateMay 7, 2015

Facebook users the main filter of content

Researchers analyzed Facebook activity of over 10 million users, finding that users chose to ignore about 70% of challenging posts despite algorithm filtering. The study suggests that social media platforms like Facebook can still promote ideological diversity if users actively seek out diverse perspectives.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 7, 2015

The opioid epidemic and its impact on orthopaedic care

A literature review highlights the alarming rise of opioid use in the US, with orthopaedic surgeons as the third highest prescribers. The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive risk assessment and patient-physician relationship trust to avoid overprescribing opioids.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMay 7, 2015

Thirty-day wait before tubal sterilization is unjust, say ob/gyn experts

Elective tubal sterilization is readily available to women with private payment, but Medicaid beneficiaries face a 30-day wait. Experts argue that this violates healthcare justice and access to permanent contraception for low-income women. The policy restricts nearly half of annual deliveries paid by Medicaid.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateMay 7, 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.

If you want change, tell a relevant story -- not just facts

A USC study found that culturally relevant stories increased cervical cancer screenings among Latinas, while non-narrative approaches were less effective. The research used narrative videos with Mexican-American characters to reach this demographic and showed significant improvements in screening rates within six months.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMay 7, 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.

Mobile tracking application may help users meet vitamin D requirements

A new study in Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found a mobile application for tracking vitamin D and calcium intake to be valid. The Vitamin D Calculator app was used by 25 men and 25 women to record their dietary intake, which showed significant positive correlation with orally recalled values.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateMay 7, 2015

WSU ecologist warns of bamboo fueling spread of hantavirus

Bamboo landscaping popularity could lead to increased spread of hantavirus, as deer mice thrive on plant's seeds and reproduce rapidly, posing a risk to human health. Experts recommend changing U.S. and Canadian plant quarantine policies to prevent non-native bamboo invasions.

SourceWashington State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 7, 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.

Popular media influences choice of childbirth

A Monash University study found that women's expectations and attitudes about birth are shaped by popular media, particularly magazines, leading to biased decision-making. Women exposed to magazine articles endorsing non-medicalised birth were more likely to change their intention towards a natural birth.

SourceMonash University·JournalWomen & Health·DateMay 7, 2015

Cells amplify messenger RNA levels to set protein levels

A new statistical analysis of mRNA and protein levels in budding yeast found that mRNA levels account for 85% of differences in protein levels, amplifying the relationship between the two. This discovery contradicts previous studies suggesting that post-transcriptional regulation overrides mRNA levels.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMay 7, 2015

Gene required for plant growth at warmer temperatures discovered

Researchers have identified a new gene, ICARUS1, that enables plants to grow optimally in different temperatures. This discovery could lead to the development of crops that can withstand elevated temperatures, addressing the impacts of climate change on agricultural productivity.

SourceMonash University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMay 7, 2015

Brandeis researchers identify potential cause of schizophrenic symptoms

Researchers at Brandeis University have discovered an abnormality in the schizophrenic brain that may be responsible for its wide-ranging symptoms. Abnormal neural oscillations, or delta waves, have been linked to cognitive deficits such as memory impairment in patients with schizophrenia.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMay 7, 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.

How to build a new global health framework

Global health experts offer a new framework for creating a robust global health system with national health systems at its foundation. The framework proposes key priorities, including funding, technical excellence, operational capacities, normative standards, regional offices, and engaging non-state parties.

SourceO'Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 7, 2015

Large landslides lie low: Himalaya-Karakoram ranges

Large landslides in the Himalaya-Karakoram ranges predominantly occur in the lower portions of the landscape, whereas glaciers and rock glaciers occupy the higher elevations almost exclusively. The study also introduces a new method called excess topography (ZE) to identify potentially unstable rock-mass volumes.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateMay 7, 2015

Populated Puget Sound sees stark shifts in marine fish species

Declines in Pacific herring and surf smelt have been observed in the most densely populated areas of Puget Sound, while jellyfish blooms have increased, diverting energy away from highly productive forage species. This shift may affect larger fish, birds, and marine mammals, highlighting the need for habitat protection and restoration.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateMay 7, 2015

The hairy past

A team of scientists from the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna developed a method to analyze horse tail hair to determine its ecological significance. By aligning hair segments to time using satellite information, they found that tail hair growth rates vary greatly between species and even within individuals.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalRapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry·DateMay 7, 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.

'Fracture' prints, not fingerprints, help solve child abuse cases

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered that skull fractures can create distinct fracture patterns, also known as 'fracture prints', which can aid in determining the cause of head injuries. These findings could help investigators reconstruct events and solve child abuse cases with greater accuracy.

SourceMichigan State University·DateMay 7, 2015

Study shows that children sleep better when they have a nightly bedtime routine

A multinational study found that children with a consistent bedtime routine had better sleep outcomes, including earlier bedtimes and increased sleep duration. The positive impact of bedtime routines on sleep increases with consistency and age, making it a simple yet effective step for families to improve their child's sleep.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalSLEEP·DateMay 7, 2015

Baiting the hook

Researchers found that customers tend to gravitate towards a chain's digital channel for their first online purchases but may drift to other chains once familiar with online shopping. For customer retention and attracting new ones, retailers must offer an equal or better online product assortment than their offline stores.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateMay 7, 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.

Lopsided star explosion holds the key to other supernova mysteries

Recent NuSTAR observations of supernova SN 1987A confirm the predicted lopsided nature of stellar giant deaths, with most material moving away from the observer. This finding supports supercomputer simulations that assume asymmetrical core collapse and could help solve the mystery of dual black hole and neutron star formation.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMay 7, 2015

Potential for a more personalized approach to womb cancer

A study by Manchester researchers has identified genetic subtypes in high-risk endometrial cancer patients, allowing for more targeted treatments. The classification of these subtypes can predict patient relapse and identify specific mutations that can be targeted with anti-cancer drugs.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalModern Pathology·DateMay 7, 2015

UTHealth's Carlos Moreno gets family medicine leadership award

Carlos Moreno, M.D., M.S.P.H., is recognized for his contributions to family medicine education at UTHealth Medical School. He has been awarded the F. Marian Bishop Leadership Award for his efforts to enhance the credibility of family medicine in academic settings.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateMay 7, 2015

As life slips by: Why eye movement doesn't blur the picture

Two proteins, Contactin-4 and amyloid precursor protein, bind during embryonic development to stabilize brain cells involved in image stabilization. This finding suggests precise neural connections are crucial for accurate sensory perception and behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeuron·DateMay 7, 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.

Study finds metabolic link between bacterial 'biofilms' and colon cancer

Researchers discovered a metabolic link between bacterial biofilms and colon cancer, finding that removing biofilms could be a key strategy for preventing and treating the disease. The study also identified an apparent metabolic marker of biofilm-associated colon cancers, which may help diagnose early-stage cancer.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 7, 2015

Chagas disease vaccine shows long-term protection in mice

A candidate vaccine has been shown to induce long-lasting immunity against the parasite that causes Chagas disease. Mice vaccinated with a combination of two parasite proteins showed reduced parasite numbers and improved immune response compared to uninfected mice.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMay 7, 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.

Patient cancer cells help to test treatments

Researchers used organoids derived from human tumor samples to test cancer drugs and predict patient response. The findings demonstrate the power of organoids to capture complex mutations in tumours.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalCell·DateMay 7, 2015

Next generation science: James Brogan of Boston College

James Brogan, a double major in physics and chemistry, has been awarded a Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship for his research on aerosol behavior and its effects on human health. He plans to combine physics and medicine to advance techniques in medical physics.

SourceBoston College·DateMay 7, 2015

Fresh evidence for how water reached Earth found in asteroid debris

New research published by the University of Warwick finds evidence that water-rich asteroids or comets are common around other stars than the Sun. The study suggests that water can be delivered to planets like Earth via these bodies, potentially creating a suitable environment for life to form.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMay 7, 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.

Soil security

The world's soil resources are under threat from erosion, nutrient exhaustion, urbanization, and climate change, which could lead to disruptions in food production and geopolitical conflicts. Experts call for better management of Earth's soils to address this issue.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScience·DateMay 7, 2015

Hip strengthening might ease pain of clogged leg arteries

A new study suggests that exercise training to strengthen hip flexor muscles can increase walking distance and reduce calf pain in patients with clogged leg arteries. Researchers found that PAD patients use their ankle flexors more during walking due to weakness in hip muscles.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMay 7, 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.

Additional benefits of measles vaccination revealed

A new study reveals that measles vaccination prevents not only measles but also other infectious diseases by damaging the immune system's memory. This finding explains why mass measles vaccinations have driven down mortality rates from other diseases in high-income countries.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 7, 2015

The Lancet: Can the Ebola outbreak rejuvenate global health security?

The west African Ebola epidemic has sparked interest in global health security, but its impact on political commitment to public health is uncertain. The crisis has highlighted the importance of securing individuals' access to healthcare as part of global health security. Key challenges include counterfeit medicines, antimicrobial resi...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 7, 2015

Tropical Depression 07W starting to get organized

Tropical Depression 07W is slowly moving east southeast at 5 knots, with sustained winds of 30 knots and a maximum wave height of 10 feet. A tropical storm watch has been issued for several islands in the Federated States of Micronesia, predicting intensification to typhoon strength in approximately 5 days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 7, 2015

Potential new painkiller provides longer lasting effects

Researchers at the University of Missouri have discovered a new compound called boronicaine that offers longer-lasting painkilling effects compared to lidocaine. The compound provides about five times longer relief, making it a potential alternative for treating sports injuries and joint replacement procedures.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalChemMedChem·DateMay 7, 2015

Plugging in your vision's autostabilization feature

Researchers discovered a key protein, Sema6A, that helps guide axons from neurons in the retina to the correct part of the brain. This finding has implications for treating eye movement disorders and regenerating damaged vision-sensing nerve cells.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateMay 7, 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.

Rice scientists use light to probe acoustic tuning in gold nanodisks

Researchers at Rice University have developed a method to fine-tune the acoustic response of nanoparticles by varying the thickness of their attachment layer, opening doors for new applications in photonics and wireless communications. This breakthrough uses ultrafast laser pulses to induce atomic vibrations in gold nanodisks.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 7, 2015

Antioxidant effects of coffee by-products 500 times greater than vitamin C

Researchers discover coffee grounds and silverskin contain powerful antioxidants, fibre and phenols, making them suitable for creating healthy food products. The study's findings suggest these by-products could greatly diminish the environmental impact of discarded coffee waste.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalFood Science and Technology·DateMay 7, 2015

German Research Foundation funds global Open Research Challenge

The German Research Foundation has awarded 75,000 Euros for an international research marketing project that hosts a competition with challenges in digital forensics, discrete optimization, and photonic technologies. The project aims to engage the global research community and promote collaboration and innovation.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·DateMay 7, 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.

A deadly shadow: Measles may weaken immune system up to 3 years

A new study reveals that measles can suppress the immune system for up to three years, making children highly vulnerable to other infectious diseases. The research, published in Science, provides epidemiologic evidence that measles attacks immune memory cells, leading to a state of 'immune amnesia'.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalScience·DateMay 7, 2015

BIO World Congress on Industrial Biotechnology names Industrial Biotechnology its official journal

The BIO World Congress on Industrial Biotechnology has selected Industrial Biotechnology as its official journal, providing readers with more in-depth coverage of the industry's science, technology, markets, and policy efforts. The partnership aims to tell compelling stories of industrial biotech development and innovation.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalIndustrial Biotechnology·DateMay 7, 2015

Little flies in the big city: What you find depends on how you look

A study by the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County found two previously unknown species of vinegar flies (Drosophila gentica and Drosophila flavohirta) breeding on flowers rather than fruit in urban areas. The discovery sheds light on the city's biodiversity and highlights the importance of citizen scientists in this research.

SourceNatural History Museum of Los Angeles County·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 7, 2015

Psychologists to help Dr. Google

Researchers found that relatives play a crucial role in encouraging loved ones to seek medical help for lung cancer, while online information poses problems. A new website is planned to provide tailored guidance for those experiencing symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateMay 7, 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.

Plugging up leaky graphene

Researchers have developed a process to repair leaks in graphene membranes, filling cracks and plugging holes using chemical deposition and polymerization techniques. The team created tiny, uniform pores in the material, allowing only water to pass through, resulting in high flow rates and efficient filtration.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateMay 7, 2015

Light in sight: a step towards a potential therapy for acquired blindness

Researchers have developed a novel optogenetic protein, Opto-mGluR6, which can be tailored to bring this promising technology closer to medical application. This breakthrough could potentially restore sight in patients suffering from any kind of photoreceptor degeneration, including severe forms of age-related macular degeneration.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 7, 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.

Noul continues to intensify as it nears Luzon

Typhoon Noul is expected to make landfall in the Luzon province of Catanduanes and Northern Samar in the next two days. The storm will steadily intensify to 115 knots over the next two days, posing a threat to the densely populated island.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 7, 2015

Locating the brain's SAD center

Researchers have localized the seasonal light cycle effects that drive SAD to a small region in the mid-brain called the dorsal raphe nucleus. The study found that serotonergic neurons fire faster in mice exposed to summer-like light cycles, leading to increased levels of serotonin and norepinephrine.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 7, 2015

TSRI researchers connect haywire protein to breast cancer, leukemia

Researchers found that overexpression of cyclin E slows down DNA replication and introduces harmful mutations in cells. The study discovered specific regions of chromosomes frequently failed to complete replication, leading to genetic instability and potential cancer development.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 7, 2015

Photoactive dye could prevent infection during bone-repair surgery

A green dye called TAPP can kill bacteria on bone fragments and break up biofilms when exposed to light, reducing the risk of infections during reconstructive surgery. The study found that the dye binds tightly to bone without leaching out into surrounding fluid, suggesting a safe and non-toxic application.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateMay 7, 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.

Surprise from the deep ocean

A new study has uncovered Lokiarchaeota, a missing link in the evolution of eukaryotes, revealing unexpected complexity in its genome. The discovery provides insights into the emergence of organelles and cellular structure in early eukaryotic cells.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 2015

Strong statin-diabetes link seen in large study of Tricare patients

A large study of Tricare patients found that statin users were 87% more likely to develop diabetes and had a higher risk of complications. The study confirms past findings on the link between statins and diabetes risk, but is among the first to show this connection in a relatively healthy population.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMay 7, 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.

I'll have what she's having

Research finds that social media and socioeconomic influences drive customer adoption of new sales channels. Marketing campaigns can leverage these influences to promote new brick-and-mortar venues.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateMay 7, 2015

MESSENGER reveals Mercury's magnetic field secrets

Scientists have discovered that Mercury's magnetic field is almost 4 billion years old, providing a new understanding of the planet's history. The discovery was made possible by data from NASA's MESSENGER spacecraft, which orbited Mercury between 2011 and 2015.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience·DateMay 7, 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.

Research shows sleep loss impedes decision making in crisis

A WSU study reveals that sleep deprivation can lead to catastrophic decisions in crisis situations, affecting doctors, first responders, and military personnel. The experiment simulated real-world scenarios, showing that sleep-deprived individuals struggle to adapt to changing circumstances.

SourceWashington State University·JournalSLEEP·DateMay 7, 2015

Malaria parasite's essential doorway into red blood cells illuminated

Researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health have identified a critical host factor, CD55, that enables the malaria parasite to invade human red blood cells. The discovery opens up new avenues for developing therapies to treat and prevent malaria.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalScience·DateMay 7, 2015

Putting a new spin on plasmonics

Researchers at Aalto University have discovered a new method to enhance the polarization of light in ferromagnetic materials. By patterning magnetic materials into arrays of nanoscale dots, they can create highly controllable modifications of light polarization when it reflects from the array. This breakthrough has the potential to adv...

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 7, 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.

Using a shopping list may aid food desert residents

Researchers found that using a shopping list was associated with improved dietary quality and lower weight among low-income participants living in food deserts. The study suggests that this simple tool can be an effective way to promote healthy eating habits and reduce health risks.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateMay 7, 2015

Clues contained in ancient brain point to the origin of heads in early animals

A new study from the University of Cambridge has identified a 500-million-year-old fossil brain that helped determine the origin of heads in early animals. The research found connections between the hard plate and eye-like features at the front of the body, indicating a common evolutionary transition from soft to hard bodies.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 7, 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.

Self-harm, suicide ideation tightly linked in Iraq, Afghanistan veterans

A study published in Psychiatry Research found that Iraq and Afghanistan veterans who engaged in non-suicidal self-injury were five times more likely to attempt suicide. The research suggests that NSSI could serve as a marker for identifying veterans at high risk of suicide.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalPsychiatry Research·DateMay 7, 2015

Evolution in action: Mate competition weeds out GM fish from population

Wild-type zebrafish outcompete genetically modified Glofish for female mates due to aggressive mating behavior, resulting in the rapid decline and eventual disappearance of the GM trait. The study's findings support the idea that mate competition drives natural selection more effectively than mate choice.

SourcePurdue University·JournalEvolution·DateMay 7, 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.