Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for May 2, 2018


Paramedics find better drug to tame violent patients

A recent study found that paramedics using the new drug droperidol sedate patients nearly 70% quicker than those receiving midazolam, with fewer side effects. The Queensland Ambulance Service introduced droperidol in 2016 to reduce violence against paramedics.

SourceEmergency Medicine Foundation (Australia)·JournalPrehospital Emergency Care·DateMay 2, 2018

QUT joins fight to save wombats

The QUT Design Lab has partnered with the Sleepy Burrows Wombat Sanctuary to develop an Australian-first 'hospital' burrow for treating manged wombats. The prototype design aims to improve treatment times and survival rates, with data collected in a field study helping refine the design.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

Improving 3-D printing of plastic parts

Researchers developed structured core-shell polymer filaments to improve the strength of 3-D printed plastics. The new filaments have a polycarbonate core and an olefin ionomer shell, which self-reinforce the printed parts and make them more resistant to impacts.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

Novel reaction could spark alternate approach to ammonia production

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have discovered a new type of catalytic reaction that generates ammonia from nitrogen and water using an electric field and nanoscale carbon spikes. The process occurs at room temperature and could lead to more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly methods for fertilizer production.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 2, 2018

Scientists make major breakthrough on omega-3 production

Researchers find that many invertebrates, including corals and molluscs, can produce omega-3 fatty acids through enzymes called desaturases. This breakthrough challenges the long-held principle that marine microbes are responsible for primary production of omega-3.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 2, 2018

Sirius qualifies suppliers for the high-tech market

Brazil's new synchrotron light source, Sirius, has selected 23 suppliers from 18 firms to develop its high-tech components. The suppliers were chosen based on their ability to develop world-class advanced technologies and meet the project's strict parameters.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

Kickoff of the DynaMORE resilience research project

The DynaMORE project aims to develop a personalized computer model that can measure and enhance psychological resilience in individuals. The model will provide support to those experiencing difficult stages of life or trauma, offering recommendations to improve resilience and prevent stress-related problems.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateMay 2, 2018

Brick by brick: Assembly of the measles virus

Researchers capture images of measles viruses as they emerge from infected cells, gaining insights into the internal organization and potential antiviral strategies. The study reveals a scaffold-like matrix protein acting as a framework for viral assembly.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 2, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Blood pressure-regulating hormone may be a key marker of sociality in monkeys

Researchers found a potential biomarker for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in monkeys with low social behavior, which had lower arginine vasopressin concentrations in their cerebrospinal fluid. This discovery suggests that AVP may be a target for developing new drugs to alleviate social impairment in ASD patients.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 2, 2018

Math sheds light on how living cells 'think'

Researchers have developed new mathematics to understand how proteins work together as an integrated network within cells, enabling them to adapt and reset themselves after exposure to a new stimulus. This finding has potential applications in various fields, including cancer therapies and understanding the human hormone system.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 2, 2018

Using Google Street View to estimate travel patterns in cities

A recent study published in PLOS ONE used Google Street View images to estimate walking, cycling, and other travel patterns in cities. The researchers found strong correlation with data from the 2011 census and Active People Survey, suggesting that Google Street View has great potential for understanding urban travel.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 2, 2018

River dolphins are declining steeply in the Amazon basin

Populations of freshwater dolphins in the Amazon basin are declining rapidly, with both boto and tucuxi species facing severe decline rates. The study reveals that these species would be classified as Critically Endangered under IUCN Red List criteria if current trends continue.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 2, 2018

No corners or edges

Peter Wasserscheid receives second Advanced Investigator Grant from European Research Council to explore fundamental new concept in catalysis based on metal droplets with low melting point. This research has the potential to replace expensive precious metals with cost-effective alternatives.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

Cracking open the formation of fossil concretions

Researchers at Nagoya University developed a method to analyze concretions using L-shaped cross-plot diagrams, revealing that they grow quickly due to the presence of organic matter. The study found that concretions can preserve well-preserved fossils of soft tissues, which are rarely fossilized under other conditions.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 2, 2018

Climate change will boost global lake evaporation -- with 'extreme' consequences

A new Yale study finds that global lake evaporation will increase 16 percent by the end of the century as a result of climate change. The specific mechanisms driving this phenomenon are not what scientists expected, with other factors such as shortened ice periods and changes in heat energy allocation playing a crucial role.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 2, 2018

Having two jobs is great for employers, but family life suffers

A study of dual job holders found that they do not prioritize one job over the other and demonstrate high levels of work engagement and performance. However, this often leads to increased work-family conflict due to time spent away from home.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Business and Psychology·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

Liver fix thyself

Scientists from Cincinnati Children's and UCSF have discovered a mechanism behind an unusual form of tissue regeneration in mice with Alagille syndrome, a rare liver disease. This discovery may lead to a viable treatment for human disease by instructing other types of liver cells to switch identities.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNature·DateMay 2, 2018

Let's get physical: Breast cancer survivors on the move

New research from UBC Okanagan shows that community-based initiatives and microgrants are effective in increasing physical activity among breast cancer survivors. The program, Project MOVE, supports community-led interventions and fosters social support and confidence

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalPsycho-Oncology·DateMay 2, 2018

Research finds 'Achilles heel' for aggressive prostate cancer

Analysis of hundreds of human prostate tumors revealed that the most aggressive cancers depend on a built-in cellular stress response to put a brake on their own hot-wired physiology. Experiments showed that blocking this stress response causes treatment-resistant cancer cells to self-destruct while leaving normal cells unaffected.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

Tip sheet for the Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment May 2018 Issue

The article explores four key strategies to prevent environmental generational amnesia, which can accelerate environmental degradation. Coral reef restoration is also discussed, highlighting the importance of herbivory, reducing coral predation, and promoting algae-farming fishes. Additionally, passive acoustic monitoring in freshwater...

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateMay 2, 2018

Pioneering paper shows infection control and prevention in clinics is in everyone's hands

A pioneering paper provides a practical guide for infection control in clinics, emphasizing the importance of hand hygiene, injection safety, cleaning, sterilization, and high-level disinfection. The guide promotes a proactive approach to infection prevention and control, empowering patients to hold healthcare providers accountable.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

Energy recovery of urban waste

Researchers propose a two-stage system converting urban waste into gas under reducing conditions, then burning the gas efficiently in optimized equipment. This method minimizes toxic substance generation and reduces CO2 emissions by up to 300 kg per ton of treated waste.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalWaste Management·DateMay 2, 2018

Rare sharks are no longer in the 'dark,' thanks to new species survey method

Researchers analyzed genetic material from organisms to assess dark diversity of sharks and found three times more species in wilderness areas than traditional visual methods. The results suggest a lower estimated dark diversity of sharks in the region, potentially impacting IUCN Red List classifications and aiding conservation efforts.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 2, 2018

Bats go quiet during fall mating season

Hoary bats exhibit unusual silent behavior during their fall mating season, potentially to avoid eavesdropping from competitors and mates. The study suggests that this 'inconspicuous echolocation' may provide an advantage in the mating game but poses a deadly risk when encountering obstacles like wind turbines.

SourceWake Forest University·DateMay 2, 2018

Newly improved glass slide turns microscopes into thermometers

A newly improved glass slide turns microscopes into thermometers, allowing scientists to visualize tiny objects while measuring their temperature. The breakthrough, made possible by a new transparent coating, has the potential to streamline scientific research worldwide and enhance industries such as computers and electronics.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

Mixed progress on drug resistance in A. baumannii infections in children

A US study tracked antibiotic resistance in A. baumannii infections among children from 1999 to 2012, finding an overall increase in resistance to cephalosporins and carbapenems, but a decline after 2008 due to improved infection control measures.

SourceCenter for Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy·JournalJournal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society·DateMay 2, 2018

Toy-inspired experiment on behavior of quantum systems

Researchers built a quantum version of Newton's cradle to study the behavior of quantum particles and understand how they reach thermal equilibrium. They observed that the chaotic motion leads to thermalization in a sequence of two exponential steps, challenging previous predictions.

SourceStanford University·JournalPhysical Review X·DateMay 2, 2018

French bulldogs at risk of various health problems

A recent UK study found that French Bulldogs are prone to various health conditions, with ear infections, diarrhea, and conjunctivitis being the most common. The research also suggests that male French Bulldogs may be less healthy than females, highlighting concerns about the breed's welfare due to its extreme physical features.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalCanine Genetics and Epidemiology·DateMay 2, 2018

Weather forecast model predicts complex patterns of volcanic ash dispersal

Researchers at the University of Bristol used high-resolution meteorological modeling to study volcanic ash transport patterns. They identified how wind flow around the volcano topography controls ash deposit patterns, influencing ash deposition over hundreds of km from St Vincent, including on nearby islands and ships.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

Helium detected in exoplanet atmosphere for the first time

Astronomers have successfully detected helium in the atmosphere of WASP-107b, a super-Neptune exoplanet. The detection was made using the Hubble Space Telescope and reveals an abundance of helium in the upper atmosphere, extending tens of thousands of kilometres into space.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature·DateMay 2, 2018

Findings of game-changing EMS airway study to be presented at SAEM18

A multicenter trial found that initial laryngeal tube insertion may be associated with better clinical outcomes than endotracheal intubation for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients. The study, presented at SAEM18, compared the effectiveness of these two airway management techniques in adult OHCA resuscitation.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

Risk factors involved in the early onset and severity of childhood obesity

A new study reveals that a family history of obesity is a significant risk factor for early onset and severity of childhood obesity. The research found that the youngest children were the most severely obese and showed signs of insulin resistance, increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Endocrinology·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

An ironic health care twist for undocumented immigrants

A new analysis highlights that undocumented people in certain states may get more medical help due to the current administration's effort to give states more flexibility with their health care spending. States like Florida and Texas have already received permission to increase funding for safety-net hospitals, leading to a 50-70% rise ...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 2, 2018

The future of power is LEGO-like power electronics-based microgrids

A breakthrough in modular power electronics systems aims to revolutionize the way we distribute energy. By developing 'LEGO-like' power electronic systems with high-performance modular power converters, researchers can create flexible and efficient microgrids that can work in both grid-connected and autonomous modes.

SourceLehigh University·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

Substance in Chinese medicine can cause cardiac arrhythmia

Researchers found that Evodia rutaecarpa extracts contain substances that can cause cardiac arrhythmia, specifically Torsade de pointes and ventricular fibrillation. The natural compounds dehydroevodiamine and hortiamine were shown to be potent inhibitors of potassium channels in the heart muscle.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalPharmaceutical Research·DateMay 2, 2018

Vasopressin a possible biomarker for social deficits in autism

Researchers discovered that rhesus macaques and children with autism spectrum disorder have lower vasopressin levels, linked to reduced sociability. The study suggests vasopressin as a potential biomarker for social deficits in autism.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 2, 2018

Breast cancer places greater financial burden on black women

A new study found that breast cancer places a significantly greater financial burden on black women than white women, with 58% of black women experiencing negative financial impact compared to 39% of white women. Black women were more likely to experience barriers to care due to cost, lose jobs or private health insurance.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

Yale physicists find signs of a time crystal

Researchers at Yale University have found hints of time crystals in monoammonium phosphate (MAP) crystals, which are easy to grow and commonly used in children's kits. The discovery presents new challenges for understanding how time crystals form and could lead to improvements in atomic clocks and quantum technologies.

SourceYale University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 2, 2018

Purdue researchers developing device to detect pregnancy complications

A team of Purdue researchers is developing an app and wearable technology to detect preeclampsia, a pregnancy complication that can cause organ damage and premature birth. The device uses a simple but underused tool called the supine pressor test to assess blood flow through the kidney and identify the risk for preeclampsia.

SourcePurdue University·DateMay 2, 2018

Changing cities' food systems to help reduce carbon emissions

Researchers found that increasing urban agriculture, switching to renewable energy, reducing retail and consumer food waste, and adopting plant-based diets can significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions. By implementing these measures, cities can achieve a substantial reduction in their carbon footprint.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 2, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Harsher drug laws won't stop violence, argues former police chief

A former police chief and LEAP UK argue that harsher drug laws are ineffective in reducing violence and suggest a shift towards public health policies. They point to the failure of punitive approaches and highlight the need for regulation, taxation, support, and education.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 2, 2018

Why plants are so sensitive to gravity: The lowdown

Researchers discovered that plant statoliths exhibit fluid behavior due to molecular 'motors' stirring them about, enabling the detection of slightest gravity changes. This finding provides insight into what makes plants sensitive to gravity.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 2, 2018

AI better than most human experts at detecting cause of preemie blindness

A new AI-powered algorithm has been developed to diagnose retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a leading cause of childhood blindness, with an accuracy rate of 91% compared to 82% for human experts. The algorithm uses deep learning to analyze images of infant eyes and can help prevent blindness in more babies worldwide.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateMay 2, 2018

The case for hope: Educating as if survival matters

A new article in BioScience proposes that education can be a powerful tool to empower students and inspire action on environmental sustainability. The authors argue that teachers should encourage students to investigate environmental issues, collect data, and participate in citizen science and conservation efforts.

SourceCornell University·JournalBioScience·DateMay 2, 2018

Seeking the truth on female genital cutting

Researchers found that older influential men and educated individuals were more likely to support female genital cutting, highlighting the need for targeted campaigns. The study provides new insights into addressing this practice through culturally sensitive approaches.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

The DES saga: Death risk high for young women exposed in utero

A recent study found that DES-exposed patients with clear-cell adenocarcinoma had significantly increased mortality rates, with risks up to 27 times higher than the general U.S. population. The risk of death decreased with age, emphasizing the importance of early detection and aggressive treatment.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 2, 2018

Ultrafast laser pulse created by golden nanoparticles

Scientists have successfully created a fast, tunable, and stable nanoparticle-array laser, enabling ultrafast lasing dynamics with short and rapidly appearing laser pulses. The study showcases promising potential for all-optical switching and sensing applications.

SourceAalto University·JournalNano Letters·DateMay 2, 2018

Nanodiamond turns into controllable light source

Researchers from ITMO University developed a controlled light source based on nanodiamond, doubling emission speed without additional nanostructures. The artificial defects in the diamond crystal lattice enable efficient control of light emission, crucial for quantum computers and optical networks.

SourceITMO University·JournalNanoscale·DateMay 2, 2018

Study links parental support and career success of children

A recent study by North Carolina State University researcher Anna Manzoni found that young people with direct financial support from their parents have higher occupational status, while those who live at home with less support experience lower career outcomes. This highlights how social inequality is transmitted across generations.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

New species in the North Sea

Scientists have confirmed the existence of a new cryptic amphipod species, Epimeria frankei, in the North Sea. The discovery was made possible by analyzing DNA barcodes and genomic information, which revealed subtle differences between two previously thought to be one species.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 2, 2018

A new giant virus found in the waters of Oahu, Hawaii

A new virus has been discovered in the waters of Oahu, Hawaii, which infects common marine algae and contains the largest genome ever sequenced for a viral infection. The virus, named TetV-1, appears to have picked up genes from its host, allowing it to survive in low-oxygen conditions.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalVirology·DateMay 2, 2018

Flares in the universe can now be studied on Earth

Researchers have developed a new laboratory method to study magnetic reconnection, a process giving rise to solar flares and northern lights. The technique enables precise investigation of this phenomenon without overheating the plasma, opening doors to better understanding solar flares' impact on communication systems.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

Stanford scientists find fear, courage switches in brain

Researchers identify two brain nuclei that send signals to opposite areas of the brain, sparking timid or bold responses. Stimulating these nuclei can shift a mouse's behavior from freezing to standing its ground, offering insights into treating anxiety disorders.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature·DateMay 2, 2018

Researchers find gut microbiome plays an important role in atherosclerosis

The study found that patients with unexplained atherosclerosis had significantly higher blood levels of toxic metabolites produced by intestinal bacteria. The researchers suggest that the gut microbiome plays an important role in an individual's risk for atherosclerosis, opening the door for new treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalAtherosclerosis·DateMay 2, 2018

Pilot study validates artificial intelligence to help predict school violence

A pilot study found that machine learning algorithms can accurately predict students at risk of perpetrating school violence, outperforming human assessments in some cases. The technology has the potential to aid in preventing school violence by identifying high-risk individuals and providing targeted interventions.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalPsychiatric Quarterly·DateMay 2, 2018

Heart disease symptoms improved by blocking immune cell migration

Researchers found that immune cells in the bloodstream can worsen heart disease when they migrate to the heart. Blocking their migration improved symptoms in mouse models of heart disease, offering a novel therapeutic approach for non-ischemic cardiomyopathy.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 2, 2018

Flaw found in water treatment method

A recent study from Johns Hopkins University reveals a flaw in the water treatment process that can create toxic transformation products, including 2-butene-1,4-dial. This compound has been linked to negative effects on human cells and may be responsible for toxicity in cigarette smoke and car exhaust.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 2, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Understanding fear of guilt key in better treating OCD

A new study at University of Waterloo found that fear of guilt evokes feelings of doubt in decision-making, leading to indecisiveness and repetition in OCD patients. The study's results suggest that addressing this specific factor could improve treatment outcomes for individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders·DateMay 2, 2018

Organic printing inks may restore sight to blind people

Researchers have developed a tiny, simple photoactive film that converts light impulses into electrical signals, stimulating neurons and potentially restoring sight to blind people. The technology uses cheap and widely-available organic pigments and has been successfully tested in experiments with non-functioning retinas.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

No evidence of 'gaming' after death rates for bowel surgeons published

A study published by The BMJ found no evidence of 'gaming' after death rates for bowel surgeons were publicly reported. However, improvements were seen in mortality rates for patients undergoing non-emergency surgery, suggesting that the introduction of public reporting may have triggered better outcomes through teamwork.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 2, 2018

Hawking's last paper co-authored with ERC grantee posits new cosmology

Hawking's final theory on the origin of the universe predicts a simpler and finite universe, contradicting the prevailing theory of eternal inflation. The new theory, developed by Hawking and ERC grantee Thomas Hertog, proposes that the universe is reasonably smooth and globally finite.

SourceEuropean Research Council·JournalJournal of High Energy Physics·DateMay 2, 2018

Frequent sauna bathing reduces risk of stroke

A 15-year study found that people taking saunas four to seven times a week were 61% less likely to suffer a stroke than those taking one session per week. Frequent sauna bathing also reduces cardiovascular and all-cause mortality risk.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNeurology·DateMay 2, 2018

Are emperor penguins eating enough?

Researchers use time-lapse video observations to determine the foraging success of Emperor penguins, which is crucial in understanding their diet and adaptability to a warming Antarctic. The study's findings may inform conservation measures to protect the critically endangered species.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMay 2, 2018

Research identifies unconventional immune cell capable of fighting viral infections

Researchers at the University of Birmingham have identified a unique type of immune cell that can combat viral infections. These unconventional V-delta-2 lymphocytes are present at birth and increase in numbers during viral infections, becoming licensed to kill and accessing tissues to detect and destroy virally infected target cells.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

A novel voltage peak in the metal nanowire-superconductor hybrid structure

A novel voltage signal has been observed in a hybrid metal nanowire-superconductor structure, where the voltage peak appears at the proximity-induced superconducting transition temperature and is proportional to the cooling rate. This finding offers a new method for detecting superconductivity without damaging or dissipating current.

SourceScience China Press·DateMay 2, 2018

UH engineer seeks to learn more about crystal formation

A UH engineer is working to understand how crystals form in soft materials, with potential applications in drug design, biomedical diagnostics and petrochemical production. The researcher aims to control the crystallization process to improve outcomes in various fields.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMay 2, 2018

Researchers discover connection between circadian rhythm and aggression

A study by researchers at the University of Copenhagen has confirmed a connection between the circadian rhythm and aggression in Alzheimer's patients. The team identified a circuit linking the brain's circadian clock to an aggression centre, suggesting a potential target for pharmacological intervention. This discovery may lead to new ...

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 2, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

PD-L1 expression in medulloblastoma: An evaluation by subgroup

Research findings show that PD-L1 expression facilitates immune escape in medulloblastoma patients. The study identifies subgroup-specific variations in PD-L1 expression and its relationship with therapeutic responses. Immune adjuvant therapies may be necessary to fully realize the benefits of PD-1 blockade treatments.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateMay 2, 2018

It all comes down to roughness

The study shows that using rough particles can significantly reduce the amount of material needed to achieve sudden solidification in suspensions. This could lead to improved cement flow characteristics and potential applications in everyday materials like bullet-proof vests.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 2, 2018

New leads on treating dementia and Alzheimer's

A recent study sheds light on the role of inflammation in dementia and Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that inflammation is a major cause rather than just a consequence. The research found that many genes linked to dementia regulate susceptibility and response to inflammatory damage.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

NASA finds Tropical Cyclone Flamboyan in a southeastern stretch

Tropical Cyclone Flamboyan has been weakened by strong vertical wind shear, with precipitation pushed southeast of its center. The storm's elongated low-level circulation center is due to the presence of high winds, leading to a gradual decay over the next couple of days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 2, 2018

Plant breeders balance shared innovation, revenue

Researchers recommend developing best practices for revenue sharing, increasing funding for public programs, and establishing professional standards for sharing plant breeding materials. This can support the development of low-return, high-value crops that benefit both farmers and society as a whole.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateMay 2, 2018

Protecting campus free speech, even when it challenges beliefs

A Cornell University study suggests that understanding biases is key to resolving conflicts over free speech, as psychological science has shown many types of bias can prevent opposing sides from accepting each other's arguments. The researchers argue that college experiences should involve challenging beliefs, even when uncomfortable.

SourceCornell University·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateMay 2, 2018

Whooping cough more widespread than previously known

According to Public Health Ontario and ICES, whooping cough cases in Ontario are more frequent than previously known, with estimated cases being nearly double reported cases. This highlights the need for people to ensure their immunizations are up-to-date to limit potential infection and spread.

SourcePublic Health Ontario·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

Why Antarctic snow melts even in winter

Researchers found that Antarctic glaciers can experience surface melting during the winter months due to warm winds. The Larsen C ice sheet shows large meltwater lakes forming, which may affect ice-shelf stability and contribute to sea-level rise if ponds cause ice shelves to break up.

SourceSwansea University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 2, 2018

NASA's GPM examines developing US severe weather

The GPM core satellite analyzed severe weather in the US, predicting a surge of spring tornadoes after a drought. Moisture-laden air from the Gulf of Mexico interacted with dry air, resulting in thunderstorms that spawned rotation and tornadoes.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 2, 2018
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.