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Honeybees are math stars

Honeybees can learn to distinguish between quantities of three and four, but fail at finer differences. Training with a bitter-tasting quinine-flavored water reward improves their math skills, enabling them to differentiate between four and five shapes.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateOct 10, 2019
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.

Bacteria make pearl chains

Researchers observed flavobacteria forming tubes and then strings of pearls, which capture and break down laminarin sugar for nutrition. This ecological strategy appears successful, as the bacteria are found in large numbers after algal blooms.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateSep 25, 2019

Rethinking diabetes care with nutrition therapy

A new clinical trial aims to improve blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes by delivering medically tailored meals and nutrition education via telehealth. Researchers are testing whether this approach can reduce emergency department visits and hospital admissions, and if it is cost-effective.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·DateSep 24, 2019

Climate change study finds that maple syrup season may come earlier

A study found that climate change could cause the maple syrup season to shift one month earlier, with eastern North America potentially losing production capacity. The research suggests that areas like Quebec will see increased production, while others may experience declines.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateSep 20, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Searching for the characteristics of award-winning wine

Researchers analyzed data from the Mundus Vini Challenge to identify key characteristics of award-winning wines. The study found that wines with high ethanol and sugar levels, as well as flavors associated with sweetness, tend to win top awards.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Wine Research·DateSep 18, 2019
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.

Diabetes medications masking surgical complication

A recent study published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia found that people with diabetes taking gliflozin medications are at risk of ketoacidosis during surgery. Euglycaemic ketoacidosis can be deceiving, presenting with normal blood sugar levels, and may be missed easily by clinicians.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalBritish Journal of Anaesthesia·DateJul 18, 2019
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.

Study identifies the best healthy eating nudges

A meta-analysis of real-life experiments found that behavioural nudges can reduce daily energy intake by up to 209 kcal, equivalent to 21 cubes of sugar. Cognitive and affective nudges were less effective, with average reductions of 64 kcal and 129 kcal respectively.

SourceINSEAD·JournalMarketing Science·DateJul 9, 2019
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.

Foundational study explores role of diet in diabetes complications

A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that a combination of high levels of dietary cholesterol with specific saturated fats exacerbates retinal damage in a preclinical model of diabetes. The research used an experimental rat model to examine the effects of different dietary fats on early molecular signs of inflammation and damage.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJul 2, 2019

Carbohydrate in the heart seems to help regulate blood pressure

Researchers found that a specific carbohydrate attaches to a peptide hormone called atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), regulating fluid balance and blood pressure. The study may lead to improved medications for high blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 2, 2019

Found: A sweet way to make everyday things almost indestructible

A team of researchers from the University of Virginia School of Medicine discovered a sugary coating on ancient single-celled organisms that makes their protein filaments resistant to extreme conditions. The breakthrough could lead to the creation of durable clothing, carpet, and building materials.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·DateJun 27, 2019
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.

Science snapshots: A toxin antidote in frogs, atomic motion in 4D, and better biofuels

Scientists have discovered a natural defense against the deadly neurotoxin saxitoxin in bullfrogs, which could lead to the first-ever antidote for this compound. Additionally, researchers have captured atomic motion in 4D and identified a molecular switch that promotes IIL tolerance in bacteria, paving the way for better biofuels.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJun 26, 2019

Zero-calorie sweeteners on trial again

Researchers found that maternal exposure to sucralose and acesulfame-K during pregnancy and lactation led to altered intestinal flora and liver toxicity in mouse pups. The study suggests that artificial sweeteners may be safe for adults when used in moderation, but not a substitute for sugar.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateJun 25, 2019

Vanilla makes milk beverages seem sweeter

Researchers at Penn State used vanilla to reduce sugar content in flavored milk, finding that participants perceived the beverage as significantly sweeter. The study aims to develop a reduced-sugar chocolate milk for the National School Lunch Program.

SourcePenn State·JournalFood Quality and Preference·DateJun 20, 2019

Sugar industry's use of dietitians to influence dental professionals, 1974-1978

The Regional Nutritional Information Program was a key component of the U.S. Sugar Association's public relations campaign, designed to promote sugar's safety and benefits in a balanced diet. The program involved dietitians hosting workshops, influencing dental professionals' attitudes towards sugar, and shaping oral health messages.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateJun 19, 2019
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.

Researchers take two steps toward green fuel

Researchers have developed a two-step process to more efficiently break down carbohydrates into their single sugar components, producing bioethanol or biobutanol for use as fuel. The process produces about 30% more sugars than traditional methods and has the potential to commercialize green fuel production.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateJun 14, 2019

Do policies targeting sugary drinks pay off?

A study estimates that a national SSB tax could prevent around 17,000 new obesity-associated cancer cases and save $2.4 billion in lifetime medical costs. Health warnings on SSBs can also reduce purchases and consumption, with potential to reduce average body mass index by about 0.6 kg/m2 over 5 years.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJun 9, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

New research suggests sugar taxes and labeling are effective

A new study suggests that implementing sugar taxes and labeling on packaged products can lead to a reduction in sugar consumption. The study found that consumers were more likely to choose products with less sugar when prices increased due to taxes or when nutrition labels were displayed on the front of packages.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateMay 29, 2019

Don't overdo omega-6 fat consumption during pregnancy

Research in rats found high linoleic acid intake may harm pregnant women, increasing inflammation and disrupting hormone regulation. The study suggests reducing linoleic acid consumption during pregnancy may mitigate these risks.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateMay 24, 2019

Economists find net benefit in soda tax

A new analysis suggests that soda taxes serve as a 'net good,' with health benefits and reduced consumption for low-income individuals. Researchers estimate a nationwide soda tax would yield $7 billion in net benefits annually.

SourceNew York University·DateMay 20, 2019

Colonial policies can result in economic growth

A new study found that areas near historical Dutch sugar factories in 19th century Java are more developed today, with higher per-capita consumption and better schooling. The research suggests that the creation of a colonial manufacturing industry led to a more modern economy, with places near factories having more public infrastructure.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalThe Review of Economic Studies·DateMay 14, 2019
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.

Egg yolk precursor protein regulates mosquitoes' attraction to humans

A study published in PLOS Biology found that feeding mosquitoes sugar reduces their attraction to human skin, and regulates this behavior through the vitellogenin gene. This protein influences reproduction and foraging in insects, and its manipulation could reduce mosquito bites and disease transmission.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 9, 2019

Train your brain to eat less sugar

A new study from Drexel University shows that a computer game can be used to train individuals to eat less sugar, leading to weight loss and improved health. The 'Diet DASH' game targets the part of the brain that inhibits impulses with the goal of reducing sweet food consumption.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Behavioral Medicine·DateMay 7, 2019

Study suggests no direct link between drinking sugar sweetened drinks and higher energy consumption or BMI in children

A nationally representative survey of UK children aged 4-10 years found no strong correlation between drinking sugar sweetened beverages and higher energy consumption or BMI. The study suggests that relying on a single-nutrient approach, such as a 'sugar tax', may not be effective in tackling childhood obesity.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateApr 29, 2019
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.

Pregnant women with type 1 diabetes are at risk of giving birth prematurely

Research at Karolinska Institutet links high HbA1c levels during pregnancy to increased preterm birth risk, affecting up to 22% of infants born to women with type 1 diabetes. The study also identifies risks of other complications for newborns, including respiratory problems and low blood sugar.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 23, 2019

Sugar entering the brain during septic shock causes memory loss

Research reveals that sugar released into bloodstream enters brain during septic shock, causing premature mental aging and memory loss. The study provides a clear target for drug therapy: binding to the sugar or converting it to non-impairing compounds.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2019
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.

New hope for preventing dangerous diabetes complication

Researchers discovered a protein called neuronostatin that protects against low blood sugar and causes the pancreas to release less insulin. By understanding how neuronostatin works, scientists may develop new ways to treat and prevent hypoglycemia, potentially saving lives.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 6, 2019

No such thing as 'sugar rush'! Sugar worsens mood rather than improving it

A new study published in Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews found that sugar has no beneficial effect on mood and can even worsen it. Researchers analyzed data from 31 studies involving over 1,300 adults and discovered that sugar consumption increases tiredness and lowers alertness within an hour after consumption.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews·DateApr 4, 2019
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.

Higher consumption of sugary beverages linked with increased risk of mortality

A large long-term study found that higher consumption of sugary beverages is linked to a greater risk of premature death from cardiovascular disease and cancer. Replacing sugary drinks with artificially sweetened beverages can lower the risk of early death, but excessive ASB consumption may increase mortality risk.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalCirculation·DateMar 18, 2019

In search of new 'sugar cleavers'

Scientists from two French teams have identified 79 new 'sugar cleavers' enzymes using bioinformatics methods, expanding the known families to over 200. These enzymes can serve as tools in domains like bioenergy, cosmetics, and nutrition.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2019
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.

How diabetes causes muscle loss

Elevation of blood sugar levels triggers muscle atrophy by increasing KLF15 protein abundance, slowing down its degradation via WWP1. This leads to diabetes-induced skeletal muscle mass decline.

SourceKobe University·JournalJCI Insight·DateFeb 22, 2019

Genetic blueprint for extraordinary wood-munching fungus

A South African fungus has been found to rapidly degrade lignocellulose into fermentable simple sugars, feeding a community of surrounding fungi. The genome sequence of the fungus reveals its extraordinary ability to break down wood and produce valuable products.

SourceStellenbosch University·DateFeb 20, 2019

Western diet may increase risk of severe sepsis, death, study finds

A Western diet characterized by low fiber and high fat and sugar content can lead to increased chronic inflammation, higher mortality rates, and more severe sepsis severity in mice. The study identifies molecular markers that could predict patients at high risk for severe sepsis or require aggressive treatment.

SourcePortland State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2019

Higher risk of fracture in type 1 diabetes may be linked to poor blood sugar control

Patients with type 1 diabetes and poor blood sugar control face a higher risk of fragility fracture compared to those with good glycemic control. Good blood sugar control is an important goal for patients with diabetes, and research shows that it may help reduce the risk of fractures in type 1 diabetes patients.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 16, 2019
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.

No compelling evidence for health benefits of non-sugar sweeteners

A comprehensive review of 56 studies found no statistically significant differences in health outcomes between those consuming non-sugar sweeteners and those not consuming them. Non-sugar sweeteners were associated with slightly less weight gain, but the evidence was low-quality.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 2, 2019

From a plant sugar to toxic hydrogen sulfide

Researchers discovered a novel bacterial degradation pathway for sulfoquinovose, which produces hydrogen sulfide in the absence of oxygen. The study's findings suggest that organosulfonate substrates from vegetarian diets can also be degraded to hydrogen sulfide.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateDec 19, 2018

Nature's sweets

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a new method for glycosylation, using a precisely designed hydrogen-bond-donor catalyst to attach sugars to molecules. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of crucial biomedical benefits such as new vaccines and drugs to treat human disorders and diseases.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 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.

New light on blocking Shiga and ricin toxins -- And on an iconic biological process

A recent study using CRISPR/Cas9 technology identified two factors necessary for Shiga and ricin toxins to enter cells: TMEM165 and TM9SF2. These proteins are found in the cell's Golgi apparatus and play a crucial role in glycosylation, a fundamental biological process that enables cells to create diverse molecules with varied function...

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 10, 2018