Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for July 6, 2016


'The Blob' overshadows El Niño

Research finds The Blob had a stronger negative impact on marine productivity than El Niño off the West Coast, with ocean warming slowing nutrient flow and reducing ecosystem productivity. The study uses real-time data from autonomous gliders to assess the effects of major climate disruptions.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 6, 2016

Benefits from freeze-all embryo strategy in older IVF patients

A large multicentre study found that freeze-all embryo protocols are associated with significantly improved IVF outcomes, particularly in women over 35. The study showed a 13% increase in ongoing pregnancy rates for these patients compared to traditional fresh embryo transfer methods.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

Researchers pinpoint neurons that tell the brain when to stop drinking

Scientists have pinpointed D2 neurons as key players in regulating drinking behavior, discovering they discourage action and inhibit excessive consumption. Activating these 'no-go' neurons could help prevent problem drinking behavior, paving the way for new treatments.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 6, 2016

Accelerating research into dark energy

Researchers at UCL have created a new approach to simulate virtual universes, allowing for accelerated research into the effects of dark energy and dark matter. By comparing results from large studies to computational models, scientists can gain more accurate predictions and explore alternative versions of these mysterious substances.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

'Omics' data improves breast cancer survival prediction

Whole-genome gene expression and methylation data offer more predictive power than commonly-used clinical information in breast cancer survival predictions. Combining these data with clinical information improves predictions, suggesting a promising genomic approach for future clinic applications.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

Changes in benign tissue next to prostate tumors may predict biomedical recurrence

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have discovered that analyzing image features from adjacent benign tissues to tumor areas can provide an early warning for patients at higher risk of biochemical recurrence. This study may lead to doctors making decisions sooner about follow-up therapies or more regular monitoring.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalEuropean Urology·DateJul 6, 2016

New study calls for old methods of coastal management

Researchers found that the Atchafalaya Basin, with restored access to riverine sediment, is more stable than surrounding areas like Terrebonne Basin. The basin has emerged above mean sea level and maintained its shoreline despite rising waters and sediment loss.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalSustainability Science·DateJul 6, 2016

IMCI strategy for children under 5 -- a systematic review

A systematic review found that the IMCI strategy may lead to slightly fewer deaths among children under five years old. However, its effect on other issues such as illness and quality of care was mixed. The review's findings suggest that while IMCI may be beneficial in certain settings, its cost-effectiveness is uncertain.

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

Physics researchers question calcium-52's magic

Experimentalists discovered calcium-52 had a large charge radius, challenging its status as a magic nucleus. Theoretical research using Titan supercomputer confirmed the trend without kink in charge radius graph, but even advanced models couldn't perfectly match experimental data.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateJul 6, 2016

NASA gets an eyeful of Hurricane Blas

Satellites captured a developing eye in Hurricane Blas, showing a cloud-filled and wide storm system. The hurricane is moving west-northwest at 12 mph and has maximum sustained winds of near 125 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

Dopamine receptor blockade seen as cause for antipsychotic drug side-effects

Researchers have identified the key cellular mechanism behind antipsychotic-induced parkinsonism, which includes involuntary movements and tremors. By targeting dopamine D2 receptor blockade in specialized neurons, a new approach to designing novel antipsychotics without side effects may be possible.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNeuron·DateJul 6, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How to get moral 'free-riders' to cooperate

Researchers found that pre-assessment of moral free riders can stabilize costly moral systems and promote cooperation. This approach considers a pool account where individuals can contribute in advance, allowing for more efficient detection of those unwilling to pay for justice.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalBiology Letters·DateJul 6, 2016

Neural networks to obtain synthetic petroleum

A research group has made progress in obtaining bio-oils and raw materials from biomass using its patented reactor. Artificial neural networks are being used to calculate the gross calorific value of biomass, which is essential for designing and improving biomass pyrolysis, gasification, and combustion systems.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalFuel·DateJul 6, 2016

A new look at the galaxy-shaping power of black holes

Data from Japan's Hitomi X-ray satellite shows that supermassive black holes play a crucial role in the evolution of galaxies, regulating their growth by releasing energy that keeps plasma hot. This heat prevents galaxies from forming new stars and becoming even larger.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNature·DateJul 6, 2016

Pelleting and extrusion increase digestible and metabolizable energy in diets for pigs

Research shows that pelleting and extrusion increase digestible and metabolizable energy in diets for pigs, regardless of fiber content. Pelleting alone or combining with extrusion provides greater increases in amino acid digestibility, improving energy utilization.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

A sharper focus for plasmonic lasers

Plasmonic lasers use metal films to confine light energy and have potential applications in integrated optics and ultrafast digital processing. The researchers developed a scheme that emits radiation at extremely long wavelengths with a narrow beam divergence angle of just 4 degrees, the narrowest achieved for such terahertz lasers.

SourceLehigh University·JournalOptica·DateJul 6, 2016

Rapidly intensifying typhoon examined by NASA's GPM, RapidScat

NASA's GPM core satellite analyzed rainfall rates, while RapidScat measured wind speeds near or above 30 meters per second around the center of the storm. The typhoon intensified over warm sea surface temperatures with minimal wind shear and good outflow, eventually reaching Category 5 hurricane status.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

University of Utah spin-off awarded grant to develop new antibiotics

Curza Global, a pharmaceutical startup company, has received a Phase I SBIR grant to develop new antibacterials against Gram-negative infections. The two-year project will focus on structure-based drug design and medicinal chemistry to create potent antimicrobials with high selectivity for bacterial ribosomes.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateJul 6, 2016

Ancient Brazilians occupied the same homes for centuries

New research reveals that ancient Brazilians continuously occupied oversized pit houses in the southern Brazilian highlands for over two centuries. The homes were extended by adding new floors on top of old ones, and occupants used different techniques to renovate their homes.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

Trauma research funding needed now more than ever, say experts

Trauma researchers emphasize the importance of increased funding to develop evidence-based interventions and enhance disaster preparedness. The US is experiencing a surge in mass casualty events, including natural disasters and gun violence incidents.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalTrauma Surgery & Acute Care Open·DateJul 6, 2016

Anatomy of a decision

Researchers have created an atlas of gene expression during early mammalian development using single-cell sequencing. This new tool allows for direct observations of individual cells, enabling scientists to map healthy cells against those with genetic abnormalities, shedding light on the causes of birth defects.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory - European Bioinformatics Institute·JournalNature·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

Can anti-inflammatory therapies be effective against epilepsy?

Research suggests that anti-inflammatory therapies targeting the CCL2 chemokine may be effective in treating epilepsy. The study highlights the link between inflammation and epileptic seizures, providing a potential new target for anticonvulsant therapy.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalDNA and Cell Biology·DateJul 6, 2016

Flipping crystals improves solar-cell performance

Researchers have developed a new type of two-dimensional layered perovskite with outstanding stability and more than triple the material's previous power conversion efficiency. The breakthrough involves flipping crystals during casting, eliminating a gap in electron flow that previously reduced efficiency.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJul 6, 2016

Driving, dementia -- assessing safe driving in high-risk older adults

A study published in Public Health Nursing highlights the cognitive factors that inhibit effective driving among older adults with dementia. The authors propose a three-pronged approach to testing for safety, including patient assessments and medication reviews, computerized simulations, and road tests. This evaluation program aims to ...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalPublic Health Nursing·DateJul 6, 2016

Scientists use mass spectrometry to 'look inside' an ancient Greek amphora

Researchers from the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology used mass spectrometry to identify components in an ancient bitumen sample from a 5th century BCE amphora. The analysis revealed a prolonged period of biodegradation due to bacterial activity, leading to increased oxygen content in the sample.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalJournal of Mass Spectrometry·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

Radiocarbon dating suggests joint cartilage can't renew

Researchers used radiocarbon dating to find that human cartilage is an essentially permanent tissue in healthy and osteoarthritic adults alike, which may explain limited success of cartilage transplant therapy for osteoarthritis.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 6, 2016

Does chronic pain run in families?

A conceptual model by Amanda L. Stone and Anna C. Wilson suggests that genetic factors, early neurobiological development, and social learning play a role in the transmission of chronic pain from parents to children. The researchers propose five plausible mechanisms for this risk, including genetics, early neurobiological development, ...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPain·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

Doggy paddles help dogs to stay on the move

Labradors with elbow dysplasia showed improved mobility and stride characteristics after hydrotherapy, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic tool. The study also found benefits in healthy control groups, indicating swimming can be beneficial for dogs.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 6, 2016

Local consumption, global consequences: Examining impacts of an interconnected world

A new special issue by Yale's Journal of Industrial Ecology investigates the widening gap between where products are made and where impacts occur. The articles analyze environmental impacts such as water, energy, and land use, as well as economic and social indicators like child labor and carbon emissions.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalJournal of Industrial Ecology·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

'Origami' is reshaping DNA's future

Researchers are using DNA origami to create large, two-dimensional honeycombs and tubes with precise structures. They aim to develop new medicines by exposing the immune system to DNA origami scaffolds holding virus pieces, and explore protein arrangements for sophisticated medicines and electronic devices.

SourceThe Kavli Foundation·JournalJournal of the American Ceramic Society·DateJul 6, 2016

What does a healthy aging cat look like?

A special issue of the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery defines common physical and functional changes in cats during aging. The issue provides assessment criteria for veterinary practitioners to provide the best care to ageing pet cats, as well as resources for future clinical research.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Feline Medicine and Surgery·DateJul 6, 2016

Cheap blood test can discriminate between bacterial, viral infections, study finds

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine developed a diagnostic test that can distinguish between bacterial and viral infections using just seven human genes. The seven-gene test is more accurate, cheaper, and faster than earlier tests, with the potential to reduce antibiotic misuse and save healthcare systems money.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

Transforming water fleas prepare for battle!

Water fleas, such as Daphnia, grow defensive structures like helmets and spines in response to predator chemical cues. This 'arming' process allows them to tailor their defenses to specific predators, potentially affecting ecosystem composition and population dynamics.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 6, 2016

Global obesity estimates may miss more than half a billion worldwide

Standard BMI may underestimate global obesity levels by over 400-500 million, particularly in East Asian populations with slimmer builds. Researchers propose adjusting BMI cutoffs for basal slenderness to better estimate obesity and undernutrition rates worldwide.

SourceArizona State University·JournalObesity Reviews·DateJul 6, 2016

Swordfish lubricate heads for super-speedy swim

Researchers have discovered that swordfish use a large oil gland at the base of their bill to reduce drag and achieve super-fast speeds. This gland produces a surface that is super water-repellent, reducing drag by over 20%.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

Attention problems in early childhood can have lasting impact

A new Duke University study examines how early childhood characteristics affect academic performance, finding that children with attention problems were 40% less likely to graduate from high school. Social acceptance by peers also predicted grades in fifth grade.

SourceDuke University·JournalSchool Psychology Review·DateJul 6, 2016

Evolution may have moved at a furious pace on a much warmer Earth

Early life forms on Earth are likely to have mutated and evolved at much higher rates than they do today, thanks to a hotter planet billions of years ago. The rate of spontaneous DNA mutation was at least 4,000 times higher than it is now, according to a new analysis from the University of North Carolina.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 6, 2016

July Health Affairs: Increased cost sharing in European health systems

A study published in July Health Affairs found increased out-of-pocket expenditures among people aged fifty and older in eleven European countries between 2006-07 and 2013. The study revealed that those in lower income quintiles incurred less out-of-pocket expenditure compared to higher-income populations.

SourceHealth Affairs·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 6, 2016

Metformin as a potential treatment for a rare pediatric disorder

Researchers at the Buck Institute discover metformin reduces toxic acid levels associated with Maple Syrup Urine Disease, a disorder identified 1 in 180,000 births. Metformin treatment significantly reduced ketoacid buildup in skeletal muscle of mice and toxic acid levels in human skin cells.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

Sex could play a role in type 2 diabetes treatment

A study by Jennifer Estall and Aurèle Besse-Patin explores how female mice respond to FGF21, a hormone that improves metabolism and insulin sensitivity. The researchers aim to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the effect of sex on drug treatment for metabolic diseases.

SourceInstitut de recherches cliniques de Montreal·DateJul 6, 2016

Experts listen in on noisy Falmouth seas

Researchers from the University of Exeter and Bath investigated noise in Falmouth Bay for 14 months, finding varied noise levels affected by natural conditions. This study highlights the need for long-term monitoring to understand human impact on marine environments.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateJul 6, 2016

Computational modeling can predict onset and progression of knee osteoarthritis in overweight people

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland has developed a computational model that can predict the onset and progression of knee osteoarthritis in overweight people. The model analyzes the degradation of the collagen fibril network in articular cartilage and simulates the effect of various loadings on cartilage cells.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 6, 2016

Female bonobos send mixed messages to males

A study of wild female bonobos found that their sexual swellings are unreliable signals of fertility, allowing females to manipulate mate choice. The findings suggest that male bonobos may not be able to successfully compete over females due to the variability in swelling patterns.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateJul 6, 2016

Lessons of lager: Yeast origin becomes a complex tale

The domesticated yeast that makes cold-brewed lager beer is a complex mix of two species, with scientists discovering new strains in Europe and the Americas. Genetic analysis reveals the organism's origins are more geographically diverse than initially thought.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

Chronic pain costs are high to Ontario health care system and to individual patients

A study found that about 15% of complex postoperative pain patients develop moderate to severe chronic pain, consuming 90% of healthcare's pain-related resources. The annual projected total cost linked to TGH surgical patients who develop moderate-to-severe chronic post-surgical pain could range from $2.5 million up to a possible $4.1 ...

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalPain Management·DateJul 6, 2016

Linguists team up with primatologists to crack the meaning of monkey calls

Researchers have developed a systematic approach to studying monkey morphology, syntax, and semantics using methods from theoretical titi monkeys linguistics. This allows them to compare one monkey species to another and analyze the meanings of their calls in detail, revealing complex formal properties and syntax.

SourceNew York University·JournalNatural Language & Linguistic Theory·DateJul 6, 2016

Study tests new breast cancer drug in African-American women

A phase II study evaluates the safety of palbociclib in African American patients, including those with benign ethnic neutropenia. The study aims to determine if these patients can safely use the drug, which was previously excluded due to risk of infection.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·DateJul 6, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Drought stalls tree growth and shuts down Amazon carbon sink, researchers find

A recent study by researchers at the Universities of Exeter and Leeds found that a drought completely shut down the Amazon Basin's carbon sink, killing trees and slowing their growth. The study used long-term measurements from the RAINFOR network to examine tree responses during two large-scale droughts occurring in 2005 and 2010.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGlobal Biogeochemical Cycles·DateJul 6, 2016

Special issue of Future Oncology explores the field of Oncofertility

A recent special issue of Future Oncology examines the field of oncofertility, highlighting its importance in cancer survivors' well-being. The focus on preserving fertility in cancer patients has revolutionized reproductive medicine and biology, with direct impact on oncology.

SourceFuture Science Group·JournalFuture Oncology·DateJul 6, 2016

Women trust their own instincts when choosing breast cancer surgery

A study found that women with early-stage breast cancer prioritize their own judgments over surgeon and partner input when making surgical decisions. The majority of women with mastectomies identified themselves as the most influential factor in their decision, while those with lumpectomies prioritized surgeons.

SourceCare New England·JournalAnnals of Surgical Oncology·DateJul 6, 2016

Understanding tsunamis with EM fields

A Kyoto University study shows tsunami-borne EM fields can extract key information about earthquake hypocenters, including fault dip direction, which helps with early warning systems. This discovery could lead to improved tsunami forecasting and timely evacuations.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

High prevalence of preclinical heart failure in the population

A recent study reveals that nearly 60 percent of people have preclinical heart failure stages A and B, with stage B individuals at increased risk for death. The findings highlight the importance of targeting prevention efforts at the earliest HF stages to avoid death, particularly among men and older adults.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateJul 6, 2016

BU researcher awarded grant to better understand breast cancer

Researchers are seeking to understand why African-American women die at a higher rate and experience more aggressive breast tumors than white women. The new study aims to identify genetic variants related to breast cancer in African-American women, which may lead to better treatments and prevention.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateJul 6, 2016

Cells send out stop signs

Researchers discovered that cells can pack and release ephrins and Eph receptors through extracellular vesicles, allowing them to transmit signals over a distance. This discovery has significant implications for understanding cell communication and developing new treatments for diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

The taming of the rat

Researchers have selectively bred domesticated rat strains to exhibit tame behavior, with no instances of biting reported. The study also reveals hormonal responses and sex differences in aggression between male and female rats, shedding light on the physiological changes during domestication.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 6, 2016

Researchers and farmers collaborate to prevent E. coli

A recent Michigan State University study found that stressed dairy cattle are more likely to shed deadly Shiga toxin-producing E. coli bacteria, which can cause serious illnesses in humans.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJul 6, 2016

Chemical trail on Titan may be key to prebiotic conditions

Researchers have discovered a chemical trail on Saturn's moon Titan that could indicate the presence of prebiotic conditions. The trail was found in the form of hydrogen cyanide, an organic chemical that can react with itself or other molecules to form long chains called polyimine.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 6, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Rare bactrian deer survives years of turmoil in Afghanistan

A recent survey led by UMass Amherst researcher Zulmai Moheb confirms the existence of a small population of Bactrian deer in northern Afghanistan, a sub-species believed to have been extinct since the 1970s. The animals urgently need conservation due to habitat loss and hunting pressure.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateJul 6, 2016

One reaction, two results, zero waste

Two researchers have discovered a single-step chemical process that creates both alcohols and esters without generating any waste or using harmful reagents. The process is more straightforward and simpler than existing methods, offering an economical and sustainable alternative for industrial applications.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalACS Catalysis·DateJul 6, 2016

Poor sleep health could contribute to inflammatory disease

A new meta-analysis in Biological Psychiatry reports associations between sleep disturbances and long sleep duration with increased levels of inflammatory markers. Treatments targeting sleep behavior may be a strategy for reversing inflammation and reducing risk of inflammatory illnesses.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

On the path toward molecular robots

Researchers at Hokkaido University have created light-powered molecular motors that repetitively bend and unbend, bringing us closer to molecular robots. The development enables complex tasks and autonomous chemical reactions, which may lead to applications in medicine and other fields.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 6, 2016

Research: Your kids are what you eat

A recent study found that parental diet quality has a significant impact on children's diet quality, with too few vegetables and empty calories being major contributors. Researchers analyzed data from over 600 parent-child duos and found that parents had better diet scores than kids, but only by a small margin.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateJul 6, 2016

ACA's tobacco surcharges reduce smokers' insurance take-up, study finds

A new study by Yale University researchers found that high tobacco surcharges under the Affordable Care Act reduced smokers' insurance enrollment rates, contrary to the ACA's goal of universal coverage. The study also showed no increase in smoking cessation among smokers facing these surcharges.

SourceYale University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 6, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Old specimens establish a new bamboo worm genus and species

PhD student Wang Yueyun and Dr Li Xinzheng discover two new species and a new genus of bamboo worms in the open access journal ZooKeys. The new genus is characterized by a unique collar-like glandular band on its sixth chaetiger, setting it apart from other Maldaninae subfamily members.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateJul 6, 2016

LSU professor publishes study on state Medicaid provision, federal subsidization

A recent study by LSU Economics and Policy Research Group Director Stephen Barnes explores the determination of state Medicaid provision in the US, finding that federal subsidization leads to a decline in Medicaid coverage. The study also reveals a positive relationship between progressivity of tax structure and Medicaid coverage.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalReview of Economic Dynamics·DateJul 6, 2016

iDiv gets additional millions for new funding period

The German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) has secured additional funding of EUR 36.4 million over four years, a 32% increase from the first period. This will enable iDiv scientists to investigate biodiversity using various methods and increase their activities.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

Wealthier Americans now get much more health care than middle class or poor: Harvard study

A Harvard study reveals that wealthier Americans are getting significantly more healthcare than middle-class and poor individuals, reversing a long-term trend of increased equality. The wealthiest fifth of Americans now consume 43% more healthcare than the poorest fifth, while middle-income people receive 23% less care.

SourcePhysicians for a National Health Program·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 6, 2016

Injured muscles 'shocked' back to health

A recent study in rats suggests that acoustic shock waves can accelerate muscle healing by increasing chemical signaling factors and waking up satellite progenitor cells. This technique, called Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT), has promising potential as a non-invasive therapy complementing existing recovery regimes.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 6, 2016

King penguins keep an ear out for predators

Research reveals that king penguins can distinguish between dangerous and benign sounds while sleeping on the beach. They react with alarm to predator calls, but not to unfamiliar sounds like a dog's growl.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 6, 2016
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.

Many top selling sunscreens don't offer adequate protection

A Northwestern University study found that 40% of top-selling sunscreens on Amazon.com fail to meet water or sweat resistance standards. Consumers spend up to 3,000% more for similar products, highlighting a need for affordable and effective options.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateJul 6, 2016

Birds get the green (and red) light

A recent study found that Japanese quail grown in green and red light exhibit higher body weights and reproductive development compared to white and blue light. This surprising discovery has potential applications across various fields, including poultry production, cancer research, and endocrine studies.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 6, 2016

A new angle for countering severe bacterial infections and sepsis

Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital have discovered a new potential avenue for controlling severe bacterial infections and sepsis. The study reveals that a protein fragment called gasdermin-D-NT can kill both bacteria and infected cells, offering a defense against antibiotic-resistant infections.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature·DateJul 6, 2016

Agroforestry helps farmers branch out

Agroforestry allows farmers to balance biomass trees with crops, capturing more carbon, filtering nutrients, and stabilizing soil. The practice offers greater economic security and long-term benefits for farmers.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateJul 6, 2016

Your smartwatch is giving away your ATM PIN

Researchers from Binghamton University and Stevens Institute of Technology found that smartwatches can crack private PINs with 80-percent accuracy on the first try. The study used data from embedded sensors in wearable devices to break codes without contextual information, highlighting security vulnerabilities in these devices.

SourceBinghamton University·DateJul 6, 2016

Researchers improve performance of cathode material by controlling oxygen activity

A new method to increase the robustness and energy storage capability of lithium-rich cathode materials has been discovered. Researchers found that introducing oxygen vacancies at the surface of the material using a carbon dioxide-based gas mixture improved its performance, particularly in high-energy applications like electric vehicles.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 6, 2016

New study upends a theory of how Earth's mantle flows

A new study has found that smaller-scale processes in the Earth's mantle have a more significant impact on plate tectonics than previously thought. The research used high-resolution imaging to map the flow of the mantle beneath the ocean's tectonic plates, revealing that convection channels play a crucial role in driving plate movement.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalNature·DateJul 6, 2016

Smoking out blackgrass seeds

A new technique using 'smokewater' has been found to disrupt dormancy in blackgrass seeds, making them vulnerable to herbicides. The method could help reduce crop losses due to weed growth, which is expected to increase with climate change.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 6, 2016

What really killed the dinosaurs?

A new study published in Nature Communications suggests that a combination of volcanic eruptions and an asteroid impact led to the mass extinction of dinosaurs. The research, conducted by University of Florida geochemist Andrea Dutton, used a novel technique called clumped isotope paleothermometry to analyze ancient ocean temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 6, 2016

People with anger disorder have decreased connectivity between regions of the brain

Research suggests that individuals with intermittent explosive disorder (IED) exhibit reduced connectivity in the superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF), a region connecting the frontal and parietal lobes. This disruption may impair social cognition, contributing to misunderstandings and misinterpretations of others' intentions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateJul 6, 2016

Science could help search for the next tennis champions

A new statistical method developed by researchers at the University of Bath aims to reduce selection bias in elite tennis talent identification. The approach considers biological maturity rather than chronological age, helping to uncover talented players who may be overlooked due to physical advantages gained through early maturation.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalPediatric Exercise Science·DateJul 6, 2016

Artificial intelligence may aid in Alzheimer's diagnosis

Researchers have developed an AI-powered MRI technique that can detect early forms of dementia, including mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. The technique uses machine learning to analyze perfusion maps created by arterial spin labeling (ASL) imaging, with high accuracy in distinguishing between patients.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJul 6, 2016