Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for March 8, 2016


Increased education could help adolescents limit caffeine consumption

A recent study published in Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that nearly half of adolescents consume caffeinated beverages one to six times a week. Researchers believe that further education could lead to better decision-making regarding caffeine intake and mitigate potential health risks.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateMar 8, 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 an artificial protein rescues dying cells

Researchers at Princeton University discovered how a synthetic protein called SynSerB promotes cell growth in serine-depleted E. coli cells. By inducing overexpression of a protein called HisB, SynSerB enables the production of essential amino acid serine, allowing cells to survive.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 8, 2016

Geochemists show experimental verification of principle of detailed balance

Researchers at Indiana University and Virginia Tech develop a method to assess the validity of the principle of detailed balance, widely used in models for environmental projects. The study confirms that the principle applies in systems where rates of forward and reverse processes are balanced.

SourceIndiana University·JournalGeochemical Perspectives Letters·DateMar 8, 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.

How to predict pediatric post-concussion symptoms: Published in JAMA

A new study developed a validated clinical prediction score to help health providers and researchers predict the duration of pediatric concussion symptoms. The score, based on nine clinical variables, was proven significantly better than physicians' predictions in predicting persistent post-concussion symptoms.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute·JournalJAMA·DateMar 8, 2016

Violin varnish: Key to a fiddle's tone

Researchers found that varnish increases damping throughout the wood surface, leading to a more isotropic sound radiation. The type of varnish used can also affect the sound, with German master violin makers' varnishes producing a louder tone.

SourceSpringer·DateMar 8, 2016

2016 Protein Society Awards

The 2016 Protein Society Awards recognized Dr. Gary Pielak, Dr. Rachel Klevit, Dr. H. Eric Xu, and Dr. Andreas Plückthun for their groundbreaking contributions to protein science. The winners received prestigious awards sponsored by Rigaku Corporation, Genentech, The Neurath Foundation, and The Protein Society.

SourceThe Protein Society·DateMar 8, 2016

UC San Diego biophysicists discover how hydra opens its mouth

Researchers tracked individual cells in Hydra to reveal the mechanism behind its mouth opening, which involves dramatic elastic deformations of epithelial cells. The findings solve a long-standing puzzle on how Hydra feeds and offer insights into tissue formation and patterning in simple organisms.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMar 8, 2016

Time spent playing video games may have positive effects on young children

A study by Columbia University found that high video game usage is associated with higher intellectual functioning and better overall school competence in children. No significant associations were found with mental health problems or relationship issues.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalSocial Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology·DateMar 8, 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.

Surprisingly long learning curve for surgeons operating on oesophageal cancer

A Swedish cohort study found that surgeons need to perform at least 15 operations to obtain stable survival results during the first months after oesophagectomy. The learning curve for achieving optimal long-term survival takes 60 operations, highlighting the importance of proper mentorship and training programs.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 8, 2016

NASA's OSIRIS-REx spacecraft in thermal vacuum testing

The OSIRIS-REx spacecraft is being tested in a thermal vacuum chamber to evaluate its performance under extreme conditions. The 22-day test will assess the spacecraft's instruments and systems, ensuring they can withstand the harsh environment of space.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 8, 2016

Syntax is not unique to human language

Researchers found that Japanese great tits use specific rules to combine calls and convey compound messages, demonstrating non-human syntax. The study suggests that syntax may be a general adaptation to social complexity in communication systems.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 8, 2016

Nature: KIT simulation analyzes cosmic rays

Recent measurements from the LOFAR radio telescope have provided new insights into the properties of cosmic rays, including a surprisingly high number of light particles at high energies. The KIT simulation code CoREAS has enabled precise analysis and interpretation of these signals.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature·DateMar 8, 2016

Why Hurricane Irene fizzled as it neared New Jersey in 2011

A Rutgers-led study published in Nature Communications found a dynamic ocean process responsible for cooling coastal waters ahead of land-falling hurricanes. This process weakened Hurricane Irene as it neared New Jersey in 2011, improving forecasts and reducing losses linked to inaccuracies.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 8, 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.

Scientists find brain cells that know which end is up

Researchers found neurons in a color-recognizing region of the brain that can infer gravity direction from visual cues. These cells provide critical information for object physics, balance, and posture., The study suggests these cells help humans orient themselves and predict object behavior.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 8, 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.

Bird communication: Chirping with syntax

Researchers discovered Japanese great tits have developed syntactic rules, combining calls like 'ABC' and 'D' to convey specific meanings. These birds use these rules to deter predators and attract partners, demonstrating a complex form of communication.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 8, 2016

NAI conference spotlights the innovation process

The NAI Conference featured presentations on the importance of invention in academic institutions and its impact on everyday life. The Special Section includes articles on the discovery of Lyrica and the commercialization process, while a new T&I feature profiles Nobel Laureate Steven Chu.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Technology and Innovation·DateMar 8, 2016

Everyone sees the world through their own prism

Researchers found that a person's preconceived ideas, shaped by socialization and politics, influence their views on climate protection. Economic justifications and personal aspects like health do not sway skeptics, highlighting the need for comprehensive communication strategies.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 8, 2016

Sea level rise threatens larger number of people than earlier estimated

A new study estimates that 1.9 billion people, or 28% of the world's total population, live closer than 100 km from the coast in areas less than 100 meters above the present sea level. By 2050, this number is predicted to increase to 2.4 billion, with 500 million people living lower than 5 meters above current sea level.

SourceAalto University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 8, 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.

Inside the mouth of a hydra

A study published in Biophysical Journal illustrates the biomechanics of Hydra's mouth opening process, revealing that cells stretch and deform to accommodate the widening of its mouth. The researchers found that radially oriented fibers contract to stretch the cells apart, similar to muscle contraction.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMar 8, 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.

New insights into the functional organization of the somatosensory cortex

Researchers at Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience used electrophysiological and optical approaches to visualize and manipulate neuronal activity in individual neurons of the somatosensory cortex. They found that the formation of functional microcircuits was determined by specific settings and the number of neurons stimulated...

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 8, 2016

Do gun restrictions help reduce gun deaths?

A review of 130 studies across 10 countries found that firearm-related laws led to declines in firearm homicide and suicide rates. Laws regulating background checks and storage also showed specific reductions in certain types of gun deaths.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalEpidemiologic Reviews·DateMar 8, 2016

Many women around the world leave health facilities too soon after giving birth

A new study found that a substantial proportion of women globally do not stay in health facilities long enough after giving birth, resulting in inadequate postnatal care. The average length of stay varies greatly across countries, with some women staying as little as 0.5 days or as long as 6.2 days.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 8, 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.

New breast cancer genetic mutation found in Chinese population and will help refine screening and target drug development

Researchers have identified a genetic mutation associated with a high risk of breast cancer in the Chinese ethnic population. The RECQL mutation was found to be present in 0.54% of Southern Chinese women, suggesting it may be an important factor in genetic screening for women with a family history of breast cancer.

SourceECCO-the European CanCer Organisation·DateMar 8, 2016

How weight affects 'wait!'

A study by University of Iowa researchers found that children with higher body mass indices were more impatient, impulsive, and prone to collisions while crossing the street. They were also less likely to select the safest route, a risk factor for pedestrian injuries.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·DateMar 8, 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.

Doctors aren't diagnosing or treating most cases of prediabetes, UF study finds

A University of Florida study found that less than one-quarter of patients with prediabetes received treatment from their primary care physician. Prediabetes is a common condition that increases the risk of vascular problems and diabetes, yet many people remain undiagnosed or untreated.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateMar 8, 2016

Shareholders rate women board members more highly than men

Researchers find that companies with women on their boards are valued more highly by stock markets, but only because the best women have worked harder to get there. The study suggests that firms should apply equal standards for both men and women to select board members.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateMar 8, 2016

A gut check for PCOS-related obesity

Researchers discovered that changes in gut bacteria are strongly associated with PCOS-related obesity and signs of diabetes. Modifying the gut microbiome may be a potential treatment option for women with PCOS.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 8, 2016

Some assembly required to boost robot ratings

Researchers found that participants who assembled their own robots experienced a higher sense of accomplishment and ownership. However, those who faced difficulties during assembly lowered their ratings. The study suggests that manufacturers should balance positive and negative aspects of self-assembly when designing robots.

SourcePenn State·DateMar 8, 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.

Skin cancer teams up with Sonic the Hedgehog

Lomonosov Moscow State University scientists discovered that skin cancer basal cell carcinoma contains gene mutations linked to other cancer types, including melanoma. The study found that 85% of BCC cases contain Sonic hedgehog signaling pathway gene mutations, which resist anticancer therapy.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 8, 2016

First case of acute myelitis in a patient infected with Zika virus

A young patient infected with Zika virus presented with motor deficiency, intense pain, and urinary retention. Researchers detected high concentrations of the virus in cerebrospinal fluid and treated the patient with methylprednisolone, leading to improved neurological conditions.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 8, 2016

Slower evolution and climate change drove ichthyosaurs to extinction

New research reveals that ichthyosaurs, highly diverse during their reign, were negatively affected by global changes leading to their extinction. A two-phase event suppressed ecological diversity and wiped out the group at the beginning of the Late Cretaceous period.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 8, 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.

Voters prefer to be represented by extortioners

In a climate game experiment, researchers found that 40% of participants chose representatives with extortionate strategies. However, these strategies ultimately led to successful outcomes due to the benefit for all parties involved. The results suggest that such strategies could be beneficial in avoiding dangerous climate change.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 8, 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.

Being short or overweight linked to reduced life chances

A study by the BMJ found that shorter height and higher BMI are associated with lower levels of education, job status, and income, particularly among men and women. The research suggests that taller stature is linked to higher social position, while being overweight or short can lead to socioeconomic disadvantages.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 8, 2016

APLU task force supports tech transfer for tenure & promotion in academia

The APLU task force suggests that universities consider the value of technology transfer activities in tenure and promotion decisions, with a focus on merit-based recognition rather than requirement. The task force recommends flexibility in evaluating technology transfer work, weighing impact, quality, and societal benefit.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Technology and Innovation·DateMar 8, 2016

Game apps for creative kids

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed new augmented creativity apps that combine virtual elements with real-life environments, enhancing children's creativity and social skills. The interactive colouring book and collaborative games in 3D showcase the potential of augmented reality to transform public spaces into engaging experiences.

SourceETH Zurich·DateMar 8, 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.

Researchers unlock mechanisms in the brain that separate food consumption from cravings

Scientists discovered the chemical circuits and mechanisms in the brain that separate food consumption from cravings. The study found that dopamine is involved in the approach or craving phase, while orexin-A is linked to consumption. These findings could lead to more specific and effective treatments for overeating and drug addiction

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalBehavioral Neuroscience·DateMar 8, 2016

Small cuts, big outcomes

A study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada found that less invasive hysterectomies resulted in quicker recoveries, fewer complications, and cost savings for The Ottawa Hospital. The research showed a significant increase in minimally invasive surgeries from 40% to 74% between 2005 and 2012.

SourceThe Ottawa Hospital·JournalJournal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada·DateMar 8, 2016

Mount Sinai researchers report insights into blood stem cells from engineered stem cells

Researchers at Mount Sinai identified precursor cells in mice embryos that can be matured into hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) using reprogramming technology. This breakthrough could lead to the development of patient-specific HSPCs for cell-replacement therapy and alleviate the need for transplantable stem cells.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMar 8, 2016

Nothing to sneeze at -- battling mucus to beat cancer

Researchers at the University of Oklahoma have identified a gene target called GCNT3 that may offer promise in improving the treatment of pancreatic cancer. By targeting this gene, they theorized that multiple mucins could be shut down simultaneously, breaking down cancer's protective barrier.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalCancer Research·DateMar 8, 2016

Mix and match MOF

A team of scientists has created a composite material that can selectively separate oxygen from other gases, potentially revolutionizing energy applications such as fuel cells. The new material, made by combining a MOF with a helper molecule, shows promise for being inexpensive, reusable, and easy to prepare.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 8, 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.

Family technology rules: What kids expect of parents

A new study reveals that kids expect parents to follow strict household technology rules, including no texting while driving and no oversharing on social media. The researchers found that families who developed collective rules and lived by them were more successful in enforcing these rules.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateMar 8, 2016

Researcher asks what makes a species by looking closely at lizards

A University of Kansas researcher is questioning traditional methods for defining species by studying the genetic basis for species differences in lizards. He found that variation in dewlap colors and patterns, previously used to separate subspecies, were not a reliable sign of underlying genetic differences.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·DateMar 8, 2016

Brain activity of nematodes seeking food offers new view on sleep

Researchers at University of Oregon discovered a connection between brain activity in nematode worms and human sleep disorders, finding similar fragmentation patterns. This study provides a framework to understand genetic and physiological underpinnings of neural circuitry involved in sleep.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·DateMar 8, 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.

Asparagus freezing tolerance related to rhizome traits

Researchers found that asparagus rhizome traits, specifically water content and metabolite levels, are key indicators of freezing tolerance. The study tested three cultivars, with Guelph Millennium proving to be the most tolerant, suggesting that adapting to colder climates may depend on optimizing rhizome characteristics.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateMar 8, 2016

NIST's Internet Time Service serves the world

The NIST Internet Time Service serves much of the world, receiving 316 million unique IP address requests from 20 servers in one month. This represents at least 8.5 percent of devices on the entire internet, highlighting its importance as a reliable source of time.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of Research of the National Institute of Standards and Technology·DateMar 8, 2016

New study: Disparity in student loan debt between blacks and whites

A recent study published in Race and Social Problems found that black young adults have significantly more student loan debt than their white counterparts, due to disparities in parental wealth, family background, and college choices. The study suggests that the racial gap in student loan debt may be exacerbated by limited access to fi...

SourceDartmouth College·JournalRace and Social Problems·DateMar 8, 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.

Predicting potential pharma side effects

Researchers have developed a computer program that predicts pharmaceutical side effects, outperforming earlier software in accuracy. The system assesses drug molecules and identifies potential side effects using an ensemble approach, demonstrating its effectiveness in flagging adverse reactions.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Computational Biology and Drug Design·DateMar 8, 2016

Trouble sleeping? The size of your tongue and tonsils could be why

A new study led by University at Buffalo orthodontic researcher Thikriat Al-Jewair found that large tonsils and tongue indentations are common risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea. The research also showed that obese patients were almost 10 times more likely to report OSA symptoms than non-obese patients.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalSaudi Medical Journal·DateMar 8, 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.

CU Anschutz researchers study marijuana use in pregnant mothers

Researchers at CU Anschutz Medical Campus are conducting a study to detect prenatal marijuana use and its association with adverse outcomes, such as fetal growth restriction and hypertension. The study aims to develop a survey tool for new mothers to provide accurate information on marijuana use during pregnancy.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateMar 8, 2016

Gut microbes linked to deadly intestinal disease in preemies

A large-scale study reveals that premature babies with necrotizing enterocolitis have a distinct mix of gut microbes compared to healthy infants. The researchers identified Gram-negative bacteria and anaerobic bacteria as potential contributors to the disease, and found that breast milk may offer some protection.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 8, 2016

Fifteen shades of photoreceptor in a butterfly's eye

Researchers found that Common Bluebottles have 15 photoreceptor classes, one for each wavelength of light, allowing them to distinguish millions of colors. This discovery reveals a unique system in butterfly vision, where four classes are used for routine color vision and eleven others detect specific stimuli.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateMar 8, 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.

Electricity, heating most climate-friendly uses for natural gas

Researchers found that replacing coal-fired power plants with natural gas can reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by more than 50 percent. Replacing old oil-burning furnaces for residential heating also yields emissions savings of up to 48 percent.

SourceRice University·JournalInternational Journal of Global Warming·DateMar 8, 2016

Genetically modified anthocyanin-expressing citrus developed

Scientists have developed a genetically modified lime that produces anthocyanins, resulting in unique leaf pigmentation, flower coloration, and fruit pulp colors. The discovery opens up opportunities for new citrus fruits, ornamental plants, and potentially health-beneficial fresh produce.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateMar 8, 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.

Health apps and the sharing of information with third parties

A study of Android diabetes apps found that 81% lacked privacy policies and 76% shared sensitive health information without consent. The apps' transmission of data to third parties poses significant privacy risks, as there are no federal legal protections against the sale or disclosure of medical app data.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 8, 2016

Diabetes treatment can reduce mammographic density

A study of 5,644 women found that diabetes treatment decreases mammographic density, while insulin use increases it. The researchers also urge women with and without diabetes to adopt simple lifestyle changes to reduce breast cancer risk.

SourceECCO-the European CanCer Organisation·DateMar 8, 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.

Low-level arsenic may impact fetal growth, Dartmouth-led study finds

A Dartmouth-led study found that low levels of arsenic in pregnant women's drinking water and food may be related to decreased head circumference at birth. The study also linked arsenic exposure to lower birth weight and birth length, with associations varying by mother's pre-pregnancy BMI and infant sex.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateMar 8, 2016

Short man or overweight woman? Your size could make you poorer

A study published in The BMJ found that shorter height in men and higher body mass index (BMI) in women are associated with lower socioeconomic status, including reduced income. The research used genetic data from 120,000 participants to analyze the link between height, weight, and socioeconomic factors.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 8, 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.

NASA's first wide-field soft X-ray camera is a gift that keeps giving

The mission aims to observe the emission of soft X-rays from solar particles colliding with Earth's upper atmosphere and neutral gases in interplanetary space. The data will help scientists understand charge exchange processes, atmospheric loss on Mars, and radiation effects on near-Earth space.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 8, 2016

Evolutionary leap from fins to legs was surprisingly simple

A new study reveals that the earliest tetrapods developed fins with surprisingly similar levels of diversity, challenging long-held assumptions about evolution. The research found that fish and early tetrapods exhibited comparable variations in fin anatomy, despite differences in skeletal structures.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalPalaeontology·DateMar 8, 2016

More than 2 million people co-infected with HIV and hepatitis C

A global study reveals 2.3 million people co-infected with HIV and hepatitis C, with a significant burden in Eastern Europe and central Asia. The study highlights the need for improved integrated HIV/HCV services and increased screening and treatment to reduce morbidity and new infections.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateMar 8, 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.

System lets Web users share aspects of their browsing history

Researchers developed Eyebrowse, a system allowing users to share self-selected aspects of their online activity with friends and the public. Users can add whitelisted sites, track friend visits, and view community browsing history, providing insights for academics and companies targeting consumers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMar 8, 2016

Physics students at Umeå University in a race to the moon

Physics students at Umeå University are developing an instrument to measure the electric field of the lunar surface, a first for the Moon. The project aims to provide more knowledge about the electric field, crucial for future missions to the Moon and other celestial bodies.

SourceUmea University·DateMar 8, 2016

Effects of salinity and nutrient deficiency determined for spinach

A study by Chenping Xu and Beiquan Mou found that spinach can be improved in nutritional value through cultural practices that impose either low fertilizer levels or slight salt stress. This approach resulted in only moderately or slightly reduced yield, while also increasing antioxidant capacity.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateMar 8, 2016

Human influence on climate dates back to 1930s, new research finds

A new study reveals that human-induced climate change has triggered the last 16 record-breaking hot years globally, with an impact dating back to 1937. The researchers found that industrial aerosols masked this effect in many areas until recently.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 8, 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.

Video games improve brain connections in multiple sclerosis patients

A video game-based cognitive rehabilitation program improved thalamic functional connectivity and boosted cognitive abilities in multiple sclerosis patients. The study found that increased connectivity reflected the brain's plasticity and promoted cognitive rehabilitation for people with neurological diseases.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMar 8, 2016

New therapy could treat poor blood circulation caused by peripheral artery disease

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego have developed a potential new therapy for critical limb ischemia, a condition that causes extremely poor circulation in the limbs. The therapy, an injectable gel derived from skeletal muscle tissue, promotes muscle remodeling and improves blood flow in a rat model.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 8, 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.

Tiny fossils tell a long(ish) story

Researchers have found that the flux of organic matter to the seafloor was reduced for a shorter time than previously thought, with evidence suggesting that some food must have reached the seabed despite mass extinctions. The study used foraminiferal isotopes from a deep-sea core in the South Atlantic to investigate this paradox.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateMar 8, 2016

Chew on this: Study of ancient teeth bites theory of early primate disappearance

A study of fossilized molars reveals that many ancient primates went extinct due to reasons unrelated to food competition with rodents. Most stem primates ate different types of food than the rodents, casting doubt on the theory that rodent competition was the main reason for their decline.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateMar 8, 2016

UNC School of Medicine researchers prove HIV targets tissue macrophages

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have demonstrated that HIV infects and replicates in macrophages, a discovery with significant implications for HIV cure research. The study found that macrophages can sustain HIV replication in the absence of T cells and can establish infection in new hosts.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 8, 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.

Chapman University researcher examines body satisfaction in national study of men

A national study examining how men feel about their bodies found that between 20-40% of men reported feeling dissatisfied with their physical appearance. Gay men were more likely to report feelings of pressure from the media, social pressures, and discomfort in public, highlighting common issues across both heterosexual and gay men.

SourceChapman University·JournalPsychology of Men & Masculinity·DateMar 8, 2016

Green tea and iron, bad combination

A new study published in the American Journal of Pathology suggests that green tea's antioxidant properties may be compromised when consumed with iron-rich foods or supplements. The researchers found that the main compound in green tea, EGCG, loses its ability to inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes when bound to iron.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateMar 8, 2016

State-level immigration policies grow more common

Nearly all states have taken a more-active role in immigration policy, but many lack comprehensive evaluation of costs and benefits. A new report from RAND Corporation suggests that state policymakers need better tools to assess the full impact of their policies.

SourceRAND Corporation·DateMar 8, 2016

Dust grains could be remnants of stellar explosions billions of years ago

Researchers at Michigan State University have found particles of stardust, known as pre-solar grains, in meteoritic material on Earth. These grains are believed to have formed in stellar explosions billions of years ago and contain unusually high amounts of the rare isotope silicon-30.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 8, 2016

WSU receives $3.6 million NIH grant to increase underrepresented students in science majors

The WSU-IMSD program aims to facilitate the entry, persistence, and success of underrepresented minority students into science majors, guiding them to pursue careers in academics and scientific research. The program has shown significant impact, with IMSD student graduation rates at 87% and 64% pursuing further degrees.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateMar 8, 2016