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Science News for June 6, 2016


Faithfulness is in the eye of the beholder

A recent study by Dr. Shana Cole, Dr. Yaacov Trope, and Dr. Emily Balcetis found that people in relationships perceive tempting individuals as less attractive, helping them resist temptation and stay committed to their partners.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateJun 6, 2016

News about the light-dependent magnetic compass of birds

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt discovered that birds use a light-independent radical pair to detect the Earth's magnetic field lines. This finding indicates a special evolutionary adaptation in birds, as cryptochrome is used exclusively for light perception in other organisms.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalInterface·DateJun 6, 2016

The biological clock gets a time stamp

Yale researchers have identified key molecular pathways involved in the aging of human eggs, which could lead to new treatments for age-related fertility issues. The study found that oxygen-deprived cells are a major cause of egg damage, leading to chromosomal abnormalities and reduced egg quality in women over 40.

SourceYale University·JournalMolecular Human Reproduction·DateJun 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.

Progression-free survival triples in select metastatic lung cancer patients with surgery or radiation after standard chemotherapy

A new study led by MD Anderson Cancer Center found an eight-month progression-free survival benefit in patients treated with local consolidative therapy, a significant shift in clinical care for thousands of lung cancer patients. The treatment improved outcomes for those with oligometastases, defined as three or fewer sites of metastasis.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateJun 6, 2016

Genetic variations linked with social and economic success

Research found that genetic links with educational attainment predict outcomes beyond schooling completion, including career success, financial management, and social mobility. Higher polygenic scores were associated with increased socioeconomic success, regardless of birth family conditions.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 6, 2016

Army personnel most at risk for violent suicide

A study found that Army personnel were most at risk for violent suicide among active duty enlisted service members. Firearms accounted for 62% of suicides with a known cause of death. The results suggest that infantry and special operations job classifications may be more likely to use firearms to commit suicide.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 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.

Videoconferencing between hospital clinicians, nursing home staff offers new dementia treatment

A new study found that video consultation technology brings together nursing home staff and hospital-based clinical experts to manage behavioral challenges associated with dementia. The program, Project ECHO-AGE, resulted in significant reductions in the use of physical restraints and antipsychotic medication among patients.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·DateJun 6, 2016

Methotrexate exposure impacts cognitive processes cancer survivors need to multitask

Pediatric leukemia patients exposed to higher concentrations of methotrexate are more likely to struggle with mental flexibility, organization, and related skills as long-term survivors. Brain imaging revealed changes in brain regions associated with executive functioning, including increased activity in the frontal lobe region.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 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.

The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology: Mediterranean diet high in healthy fat does not lead to weight gain, according to randomized trial

Eating a Mediterranean diet rich in vegetable fats like olive oil and nuts has been shown to have little effect on bodyweight or waist circumference compared to a low-fat diet. The study suggests that current health guidelines recommending low-fat diets may be creating unnecessary fear of healthy fats.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateJun 6, 2016

Copper is key in burning fat

A recent study has found that copper is essential for breaking down fat cells, and its deficiency may be linked to obesity. The nutrient can be found in foods like oysters, leafy greens, mushrooms, seeds, nuts, and beans, with an estimated daily requirement of 700 micrograms.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJun 6, 2016

Study of 81,000 adults examines mental illness, gun violence and suicide

A new study analyzed the gun use, violent crime, and suicide rates of 81,704 people with serious mental illnesses in Florida. The research found that nearly four times the average suicide rate occurred among these individuals, highlighting a significant public health concern.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJun 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.

Ice age bison fossils shed light on early human migrations in North America

Scientists have dated the opening of an ice-free corridor in the Rocky Mountains, which allowed for later human and animal migrations between North America's far north and rest. The research used bison fossils to track the movement of animals into the corridor, showing it was open by around 13,000 years ago.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

New molecular design to get hydrogen-powered cars motoring

Researchers have designed a molecular catalyst that produces only hydrogen and carbon dioxide when formic acid is decomposed at a low temperature. This breakthrough could pave the way for hydrogen-powered cars by overcoming one of the major challenges: efficient production of clean energy.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·DateJun 6, 2016

Cleaning up decades of phosphorus pollution in lakes

A series of studies published in Water Research assesses the ecological and chemical responses to geo-engineering in lakes. While some case studies report dramatic improvements, others show little effect or short-lived responses. The approach is promising when used correctly, but its potential side effects are not well understood.

SourceElsevier·JournalWater Research·DateJun 6, 2016

'Breaking me softly:' UCF fiber findings featured in Nature

A University of Central Florida researcher has found a means of controlling materials at the nanoscale, enabling the creation of new-generation manufacturing processes. By exploiting necking phenomena in cold-drawn fibers, Abouraddy's team has opened up possibilities for customized materials with futuristic attributes.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature·DateJun 6, 2016

Asteroseismologists listen to the relics of the Milky Way

Researchers from the University of Birmingham detected resonant acoustic oscillations in 'M4', a 13 billion-year-old star cluster, using data from NASA's Kepler/K2 mission. This breakthrough enables asteroseismology to study the Milky Way's very early history.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 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.

Physicists predict novel phenomena in exotic materials

Researchers at MIT develop a theoretical model for topological semimetals, predicting several new ones with unique electrical properties. The model describes the chemical formula and crystal structure of a new material that should exhibit unprecedented electrical characteristics.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 6, 2016

Blood-born molecules could predict those who will develop liver cancer

Researchers from Thomas Jefferson University have identified a panel of microRNAs in blood samples that can predict patients at high risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma, the most common type of liver cancer, in individuals infected with hepatitis B virus.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateJun 6, 2016

Expansion of kidney progenitor cells toward regenerative medicine

Researchers have developed a culture method that significantly increases kidney progenitor cell proliferation while maintaining their ability to form glomeruli and tubules. This breakthrough finding has major implications for regenerative medicine, potentially aiding in the search for causes of kidney disease and new drug development.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 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.

The truth is out there: Scientists unlock X-Files DNA mystery

Sheffield scientists capture never-before-seen snapshots of enzymes trimming branched DNA after cell division. The discovery provides insight into the molecular process of DNA replication and repair, essential for all life forms.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJun 6, 2016

UNIST professor, chosen for 2015 IEEE CPMT Best Paper Award

Prof. Ki Jin Han of Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology has received the 2015 IEEE CPMT Best Paper Award for his work on improved electromagnetic modeling of TSVs, a technology crucial for 3D integration. The award recognizes his research on modeling depletion capacitance and substrate layer thickness effects.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateJun 6, 2016

Reduce cyberslacking and increase physical activity with a tap, a click or a kick

Researchers at the University of Waterloo introduce Tap-Kick-Click, a foot interaction method for standing desks that reduces cyberslacking and increases physical activity. The system tracks user movement using a depth camera and instrumented shoes, encouraging users to stand in an uncomfortable position while viewing distracting content.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·DateJun 6, 2016

A new approach to chemical synthesis

Researchers have devised a new method for synthesizing communesins, a group of fungal compounds with anticancer properties, by transforming carbon atoms into radicals and joining them together. This approach enables the production of designed variants with potentially greater potency.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 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.

Tarantula toxins offer key insights into neuroscience of pain

Researchers have discovered two tarantula toxins that target a previously unknown pain pathway in sensory nerves, potentially leading to new drugs for treating chronic pain. The toxins also represent a broadly applicable tool for selectively manipulating sodium channels implicated in numerous neurological disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateJun 6, 2016

Study: News stories often wrongly link violence with mental illness

Researchers found that nearly four in 10 news stories connect mental illness with violent behavior, despite less than five percent of violence being directly related to mental illness. The study suggests that this routine linkage paints an unfair portrait of those with mental illness and may have increased stigma.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJun 6, 2016

Electric eels make leaping attacks

Under certain conditions, electric eels attack by raising up out of the water and delivering a series of powerful electrical shocks, effectively deterring predators. This behavior is believed to provide the eels with an evolutionary advantage in defending their territory.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

New approach could make bone marrow transplants safer

Researchers have developed a non-toxic transplantation procedure using antibodies to target blood stem cells, making it potentially safer and more effective than current methods. The new treatment removes nearly all blood stem cells, offering hope for patients with blood disorders like sickle cell anemia.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 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.

Novel imaging model helps reveal new therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer

Researchers developed an innovative imaging model to track drug resistance and identify a new therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer. The study revealed that the Musashi gene plays a critical role in promoting aggressive disease and found effective antisense inhibitors against Msi, halting tumor growth and improving survival.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateJun 6, 2016

Cancer drug trial success

Researchers developed a new compound to target mutated p53 genes, found in over 50% of cancers, which are responsible for uncontrolled cell growth. The treatment has shown promising results in patients with modest toxicity, and trials will now expand to 400 patients across Europe and the USA.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateJun 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.

Intervention reduces rates of overweight tots by half

A new responsive parenting intervention has been shown to reduce the rates of overweight toddlers by half, with benefits seen in both breastfed and formula-fed babies. The study found that mothers who practiced responsive parenting had less likely to have overweight babies at their one-year checkup.

SourcePenn State·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJun 6, 2016

How the brain merges the senses

Scientists propose a computational model explaining multisensory integration in humans, utilizing a Multisensory Correlation Detector. The brain detects similarity across visual and auditory signals to integrate stimuli, opening new clinical perspectives for neurological syndromes like Autism Spectrum Disorder and Dyslexia.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2016

A matter of orientation

A collaborative research centre at the University of Konstanz is studying directional properties of particles and their superstructures. The SFB 1214 aims to create a new generation of materials with tailor-made properties by controlling particle arrangement.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·DateJun 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.

The rise of intimate partner violence during the Great Recession

A recent study found that living through major economic recessions increases a mother's chance of suffering from domestic violence. The researchers discovered that even when the male partner didn't directly experience unemployment or material hardship, rapid economic downturns led to increased controlling behavior and fear of hard times.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalDemography·DateJun 6, 2016

A protective shield against the heavy metal uranium

The study found that glutathione reduces uranium's chemical toxicity, allowing cells to grow and resist contamination. This discovery is crucial for innovative biological decontamination strategies, particularly in bioremediation of mining waste piles.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJun 6, 2016

Rice study details stress-diabetes link

Researchers at Rice University found a link between emotional stress and Type 2 diabetes, with low inhibition leading to increased pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6. The study showed that individuals with poor inhibition were more likely to develop diabetes due to the pathway from high anxiety to inflammation.

SourceRice University·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateJun 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.

Walking and talking behaviors may help predict epidemics and trends

Researchers found that location and communication data from mobile phone carriers show predictable patterns in human behavior, enabling predictions of epidemic spread. The study's mathematical equation allows for forecasting of virus spread and identification of cultural trends.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

IL-33 ameliorates Alzheimer's-like pathology and cognitive decline

Scientists at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology discover that interleukin-33 (IL-33) rescues contextual memory deficits and reduces beta-amyloid peptide deposition in AD mouse models, suggesting a new therapeutic intervention.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Lucy had neighbors: A review of African fossils

Key fossil discoveries in Africa confirm the co-existence of multiple early human ancestor species between 3.8 and 3.3 million years ago. The new review outlines a diverse evolutionary past, raising questions about how ancient species shared resources and adapted to their environments.

SourceCleveland Museum of Natural History·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 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.

Speeding up drug discovery to fight tuberculosis

Seattle researchers deciphered how tuberculosis bacteria tolerates bedaquiline by silencing regulatory genes or pairing with pretomanid, disrupting tolerance gene networks to improve efficacy. This systems-approach represents a significant advance in the fight against tuberculosis.

SourceInstitute for Systems Biology·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJun 6, 2016

Marine invertebrate larvae actively respond to their surroundings

Marine invertebrate larvae of sea urchins demonstrate active responses to turbulence and flow conditions by adjusting their swimming speeds. This behavior has significant implications for the adult populations' transport, survival, and recruitment.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJun 6, 2016

Soluble elements from a new corner of the periodic table

Researchers at JMU successfully stabilize beryllium in its elemental state, marking a significant step towards developing alternatives to toxic heavy metals. This achievement opens up new possibilities for catalyzing challenging chemical reactions with abundant main group elements.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 6, 2016

'Pristine' landscapes haven't existed for thousands of years due to human activity

A new study reveals that human activity has shaped the world's landscapes for thousands of years, leading to significant extinctions and ecosystem changes. The research highlights four major phases of human impact, including global expansion, agriculture, island colonization, and urbanization.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 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.

Law reform in Canada may help curb organ transplant tourism

Creating a confidential reporting system in Canada about organ transplant tourism could help reduce the practice and disrupt international networks. Physicians can discourage transplant tourism by discussing risks with patients and providing continued care pre- and postoperatively.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 6, 2016

This desert moss has developed the ultimate water collection toolkit

The study reveals how Syntrichia caninervis moss collects and transports water using its specialized awn structures, allowing it to survive in extremely dry conditions. The findings also have potential applications in industry and public hygiene, such as reducing splash-back in urinals.

SourceUtah State University·JournalNature Plants·DateJun 6, 2016

Operation IceBridge completes 2016 Arctic spring campaign

Operation IceBridge completed its eighth spring Arctic campaign, collecting data on key portions of the Greenland Ice Sheet and Arctic sea ice. The mission focused on measuring changes in sea ice extent, thickness, and elevation, with implications for predicting melt season patterns.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 6, 2016

Genome engineering of quantifiable protein tags: Western blot on the way down?

Scientists have developed a set of universal protein tags that enable accurate quantification of proteins using targeted proteomics techniques. The new tags, named PQS, are designed to work with selective reaction monitoring (SRM) and eliminate the need for labor-intensive assay development.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 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.

Larger wine glasses may lead people to drink more

Researchers found that larger wine glasses led to an almost 10% increase in wine sales, with consumers drinking more due to perceived volume changes. The study suggests that avoiding larger wine glasses could reduce consumption, but further research is needed to confirm this effect.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJun 6, 2016

New compound shows promise against malaria

Researchers discover potent activity of oxaboroles against malaria parasites, highlighting a promising new class of antimalarial drugs. The compounds target the LeuRS enzyme, which is essential for protein synthesis, making them a potential cure for malaria with minimal resistance risk.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateJun 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.

Penn study describes a better animal model to improve HIV vaccine development

Researchers developed a new animal model to test HIV vaccines, combining the envelope of HIV with simian immunodeficiency virus to replicate in monkeys. Changing a single amino acid in the envelope coat protein improved the model's ability to infect monkeys while retaining native-like features.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Eddies enhance survival of coral reef fish in sub-tropical waters

Researchers found that young fish reared in eddies grew faster and had a survival advantage compared to those outside eddies. The study's findings suggest that eddies can act as pelagic nursery areas, providing a critical head start for larval fish growth.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Blood test to personalize depression treatment for the first time

A blood test developed by King's College London accurately predicts which depressed patients will respond to common antidepressants. The test identifies biomarkers associated with inflammation, guiding patients towards earlier access to more assertive treatments.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateJun 6, 2016

MPs want academic 'match-making' service to help inform policy

Researchers found that MPs are willing to use a rapid match-making advisory service to access the latest research findings and seek advice from cutting-edge researchers. The EIS could provide a useful complement to existing information services and help ensure decisions are based on reliable evidence.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateJun 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.

Combination therapy cures tick-borne illness in mice

A novel combination therapy has been found to clear the infection and prevent recurrence of babesiosis up to 122 days after treatment. The study used a mouse model to test the efficacy of atovaquone and ELQ-334, two drugs that work together to attack the parasite's target enzyme.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJun 6, 2016

Shorter patient consent forms, video formats improve comprehension

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed simplified patient-centered consent forms that were equally effective but more engaging than traditional lengthy forms. Video formats also improved comprehension, with participants reporting feeling more engaged in the consenting process.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalMedical Decision Making·DateJun 6, 2016

Doctors unleash new weapon to fight pediatric neuroblastoma

A new combination of immunotherapy and chemotherapy has shown a remarkable 53% response rate in pediatric neuroblastoma patients, with some tumors shrinking or disappearing completely. Researchers plan to expand the study to include more children, offering hope for a potential cure.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateJun 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.

Essential aspects of the regulation of the anti-tumor protein p53

Researchers have identified essential aspects of the regulation of the anti-tumor protein p53, with surprising results suggesting that only a few ribosomal proteins are required to maintain nucleolar structure. This discovery has significant implications for cancer research and development of new biomarkers.

SourceUniversité libre de Bruxelles·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2016

New support for human evolution in grasslands

A 24-million-year-old record of vegetation trends suggests that humans developed key traits like flexible diets and large brains while adapting to the spread of open grasslands. The study provides a comprehensive timeline for the development of grasses, which were part of human evolution from the very beginning.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Microgrids, not always economically efficient in regulated electricity markets

New research suggests that microgrids may not always be economically efficient in regulated electricity markets. The study examines scenarios for adding a microgrid to a vertically integrated utility network, finding that it can increase or decrease economic efficiency depending on cost assumptions and network characteristics. In some ...

SourcePenn State·JournalApplied Energy·DateJun 6, 2016

UTSA receives $1.9 million grant to support underrepresented minority researchers

The University of Texas at San Antonio's Maximizing Access to Research Centers (MARC) program has received a $1.9 million grant over five years to train 12 undergraduate students per year in UTSA laboratories. The program prepares students for Ph.D. programs and enables them to conduct top-tier research in the biomedical field.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·DateJun 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.

Distinguishing deadly Staph bacteria from harmless strains

Scientists compared 64 Staphylococcus aureus strains' genomes to develop a comprehensive understanding of the bacteria's virulence and antibiotic resistance. The study revealed that 19% of genes are essential for life, while dispensable genes offer advantages in specific environments.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Electroacupuncture may help relieve pain from carpal tunnel syndrome

A randomized controlled trial found that electroacupuncture combined with nighttime splinting improved symptoms of chronic carpal tunnel syndrome. The treatment provided small improvements in disability, function, and pinch strength among patients with mild to moderate symptoms.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 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.

Myricitrin may protect against neuronal loss in Parkinson's disease

Researchers found that myricitrin can help maintain two key functions of mouse neurons exposed to neurotoxicity, including enzymatic activity and rapamycin complex 1 activation. The study suggests that myricitrin could have a role in preventing neuronal degeneration in Parkinson's disease.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Medicinal Food·DateJun 6, 2016

Epigenomic alterations contribute to obesity-associated diabetes

Researchers identify epigenomic changes that contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes in obese individuals. These changes are associated with inflammation and trigger insulin resistance, highlighting the importance of epigenetic regulation in metabolic diseases.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 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.

Unexpected function of small nucleolar RNAs explains cause of some diseases

Research reveals snoRNAs control ribosome modification and regulate alternative splicing, leading to wrong protein variants. This discovery explains the cause of diseases like Prader-Willi syndrome and cancer, and offers a possible therapy for genetic hyperphagia.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Interracial friendships decrease over time in elementary and middle school

A study led by NYU's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development found that same-race friendships increase over time, particularly among white students. Teachers' classroom support and differential treatment also play a role in shaping student friendships.

SourceNew York University·JournalThe Journal of Early Adolescence·DateJun 6, 2016

New photonic sensor opens the door to high-speed biodetection

Researchers developed a new technique for fast photonic sensing of freely flowing particles using an opto-mechano-fluidic resonator. The sensor measures compressibility and viscoelasticity of cells and bioparticles, which correlates with diseases like cancers and anemia.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalOptica·DateJun 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.

Evidence of hearing damage in teens prompts researchers' warning

A study published in Scientific Reports found that almost all teenagers engage in risky listening habits, leading to persistent tinnitus and heightened sensitivity to loud sounds. The researchers warn of a major public health challenge as the prevalence of hearing damage is expected to increase.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 6, 2016

Algorithm could construct first images of black holes

Researchers developed an algorithm that can stitch together astronomical measurements from around the globe, producing the first images of black holes. The algorithm uses a technique called interferometry and preserves continuity in the image by using a mathematical model inspired by rubber sheets and plastic wrap.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJun 6, 2016

Long after heart attack, chymase inhibitors could extend cell survival

Researchers from Emory University School of Medicine have discovered that chymase inhibitors could extend cell survival after a heart attack. The study found that suppressing chymase activity can prevent late death of heart muscle cells, which occurs several days after blood flow is restored.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 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.

Towards building next-generation batteries using a pigment electrode

Researchers developed CIBs using PB and PBAs as electrode materials, achieving reversible capacities of 40-50 mAh/g. The excellent cyclability is attributed to the durable structure and charge balance during insertion and extraction of calcium ions.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalElectrochimica Acta·DateJun 6, 2016

Roads 'a serious threat' to rare bats

A recent study by the University of Exeter found that roads present a real and growing danger to protected bat populations, disrupting their ability to reach feeding and roosting areas. The research identified over 1,000 bat fatalities caused by collisions with cars.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalMammal Review·DateJun 6, 2016

Research proves Aboriginal Australians were first inhabitants

Researchers from Griffith University's Research Centre for Human Evolution refuted a landmark study suggesting Mungo Man was an extinct lineage of modern humans. The team recovered the genomic sequence of an early inhabitant of Lake Mungo, supporting the argument that Aboriginal Australians were the first inhabitants of Australia.

SourceGriffith University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Researchers can now build an inexpensive and flexible micro-raman system

Researchers have developed an inexpensive and flexible micro-Raman system for non-destructive analysis of biological samples, offering a fraction of the cost and capability of commercial tools. This system allows for label-free detection of variations in biomolecular composition and correlates it with corresponding biological changes.

SourceIOS Press·JournalBiomedical Spectroscopy and Imaging·DateJun 6, 2016

WSU researcher affirms 86-year-old hypothesis

A WSU biologist has spent 20 years studying the movement of nutrients through plants, confirming an 86-year-old hypothesis about phloem transport. His research could lead to new strategies for fighting plant diseases and improving crop efficiency.

SourceWashington State University·DateJun 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.

'Wasteful' galaxies launch heavy elements into surrounding halos and deep space

Research suggests that galaxies actively launch large amounts of oxygen, carbon, and iron atoms up to a million light years away from their surroundings, leaving them with depleted reserves. This process, driven by violent supernovae and supermassive black holes, can take over 10 billion years.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 6, 2016

Inbred Neanderthals left humans a genetic burden

Non-African humans inherited marginally lower fitness due to Neanderthal inheritance, with estimated 40% reduction in reproductively fit individuals. The study suggests that these harmful gene variants continue to reduce the fitness of some populations today.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateJun 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.

More is better: The diversity and number of soil animals determine leaf decomposition

Researchers found that diverse soil animal communities lead to better decomposition of leaves, regardless of region or management practices. A study of 80 forests in Germany and Sumatra revealed that high species richness and biomass explain spatial turnover in ecosystem functioning.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateJun 6, 2016

Dartmouth researchers develop a new method to transparently measure health care value

Researchers developed a new method to measure healthcare value transparently, combining quality and cost measures. They found that hospitals' ability to deliver high-quality, low-cost care varied across procedures, with those providing the highest-value care having more beds and beds than those providing the lowest-value care.

SourceThe Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice·JournalMilbank Quarterly·DateJun 6, 2016

Hearing problems reduce the quality of life of older people

Research finds that hearing problems impact older people's ability to communicate, move about, and participate in hobbies. Studies show that those with hearing issues have a limited life space and lower quality of life compared to those with good hearing.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalGerontology·DateJun 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.

Babies don't just look cute, scientists find

Oxford University researchers found that infants' cuteness appeals to all senses, triggering caregiving behaviors vital for infant survival. This study reveals the complex choreography of slow, deliberate prosocial behaviors eliciting fundamental brain pleasure systems.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

War and peace in the human gut: Probing the microbiome

A new study examines the role of diet in promoting cooperation or conflict between gut microbes and human cells. The research proposes a framework for understanding the subtle interplay of diet and health, with potential implications for the management of inflammatory and metabolic disease.

SourceArizona State University·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Lean gene discovery could lead to new type 2 diabetes therapies

Researchers have identified a protein called TST that helps detoxify waste products in fat cells, leading to improved insulin sensitivity and reduced weight gain in obese mice. The study's findings suggest a potential new approach to treating type 2 diabetes associated with obesity.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 6, 2016

Spiders put the bite on irritable bowel syndrome pain

Researchers discovered a specific protein in spider venom that stimulates pain-sensing nerves, underlying abdominal pain in irritable bowel syndrome patients. Developing molecules to block this protein could lead to novel treatments for the condition.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature·DateJun 6, 2016

New gene shown to cause Parkinson's disease

Researchers discovered mutations in TMEM230, a new gene linked to Parkinson's disease, in patients from North America and Asia. The gene produces a protein involved in dopamine packaging in neurons, which is crucial for movement disorder diagnosis.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 6, 2016

Almost all food and beverage products marketed by music stars are unhealthy

A new study by NYU Langone Health finds that music stars' endorsement of food and beverage products are mostly unhealthy, contributing to the rising rate of childhood obesity. The researchers analyzed over 163 identified pop stars' endorsements, finding 81% of their endorsed food products were nutrient-poor.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 6, 2016

Early farmers from across Europe were direct descendants of Aegeans

A study led by Mainz paleogeneticists reveals that early European farmers originated from modern-day Greece and western Turkey, bringing agriculture and domestic animals to the continent. The research challenges previous theories on farming's spread in Europe.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Intensive treatment of glucose levels can lead to serious complications

A new study found that intensive glucose treatment can nearly double the risk of severe hypoglycemia in older patients and those with serious chronic conditions. Patients taking multiple medications to lower HbA1C levels were at higher risk of experiencing severe low blood sugar episodes.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 6, 2016

Ships flagged for illegal fishing still able to get insurance: UBC study

A new University of British Columbia study finds that ships flagged for illegal fishing can obtain insurance; researchers propose using vessel list checks to block such vessels from securing coverage. This approach is cheaper and more effective than traditional methods to combat illegal fishing.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJun 6, 2016

Study finds wide geographic differences in treatment of diabetes, hypertension, depression

A large-scale observational study found significant variations in treatment pathways for patients with type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and depression worldwide. The study analyzed 250 million patient records from four countries and identified unique treatment patterns for each condition.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Stampede 2 drives frontiers of science and engineering forward

Stampede 2 is a new large-scale supercomputing system funded by the NSF, providing high-performance computing capabilities for thousands of researchers across the US. The system will employ cutting-edge processor and memory technology, delivering peak performance of up to 18 Petaflops.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateJun 6, 2016