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Research letter examines evolving standards of beauty

A new study compares celebrities from People magazine's World's Most Beautiful lists in 1990 and 2017, revealing increased representation of darker skin types and older age groups. The researchers found that traditional beauty standards are evolving as people become more exposed to diverse cultures and media influences.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateOct 11, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Injecting electrons jolts 2-D structure into new atomic pattern

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have found a way to reversibly change the atomic structure of a 2-D material by injecting electrons, using far less energy than current methods. This process has potential for new electronic memory and low-power switching in ultra-thin devices.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateOct 11, 2017

More traits associated with your Neandertal DNA

Neandertal DNA has been linked to various human characteristics, including skin tone, hair color, and sleep patterns. The study suggests that sun exposure plays a crucial role in shaping these traits, with Neandertal genes contributing to lighter or darker skin tones.

SourceCell Press·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateOct 5, 2017

Chemists make playdough/Lego-like hybrid to create tiny building blocks

A team of chemists has developed particles that can form endless architectures from a handful of basic pieces, self-assembling without human intervention. This technology enables the creation of microscopic building blocks with on-board instruction manuals, mimicking nature's manufacturing technology.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature·DateSep 18, 2017
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.

Reducing leather pollution with molten salts

Researchers develop eco-friendly leather processing method using molten salts to remove hair and open fibers, reducing pollution output and treatment time. The new process eliminates the use of harsh chemicals like lime and sodium sulfide.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateSep 13, 2017

UT Austin study raises question: Why are fossilized hairs so rare?

Researchers at UT Austin found that fossilized hair is extremely rare, unlike feathers, due to its composition and preservation conditions. The team analyzed a massive database of fossilized body coverings to determine the frequency of different types of body coverings in exceptional sites.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateSep 7, 2017

Stressed lemurs have worse chances of survival

A recent study published in BMC Ecology found that grey mouse lemurs with high hair cortisol levels had a lower chance of survival. The researchers discovered that low cortisol levels were associated with a 13.9% higher chance of survival compared to those with high levels.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Ecology·DateAug 31, 2017

Perfect mannequins a turnoff for some consumers

A UBC study found that consumers with low self-esteem are more likely to dislike clothing on mannequins, while those with higher self-esteem see no issue. The effect was not seen in less aesthetically pleasing mannequin displays.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 30, 2017
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.

Our hairy insides

Researchers found that angled hairs can affect fluid flow, slowing it down like a grate. This discovery may help illuminate the role of hairy surfaces in the body and enable the design of new microfluidic devices.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 21, 2017

Survey examines pubic hair grooming-related injuries

A national survey of pubic hair grooming habits found that 76.1% of participants reported a history of grooming, with 25.6% experiencing injuries such as cuts, burns, and rashes. The study's findings may contribute to the development of clinical guidelines for safe pubic hair removal.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateAug 16, 2017

The environmental injustice of beauty

Research highlights the disproportionate impact of beauty product-related chemicals on women of color, who face higher levels of exposure and health risks. The study suggests that marketing practices and societal pressure contribute to this issue, emphasizing the need for improved testing and disclosure to advance environmental justice.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

Reintroduced Przewalski's horses have a different diet

Researchers found that Przewalski's horses, now protected in the Gobi Desert, consume only high-quality grass throughout the year due to improved human attitudes. In contrast, Khulan wild asses also live in the same habitat but are still hunted and have a more restricted diet.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 20, 2017

Cosmetic complaints climb but products still on market

A new Northwestern University study reveals that cosmetic complaints have more than doubled from 2015 to 2016, with hair care products being the biggest offender. The lack of regulatory scrutiny and poor reporting by consumers and manufacturers lead to significant under-reporting of adverse events, with only 200-400 reported annually

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 26, 2017

How many adverse events are reported to FDA for cosmetics, personal care?

A study analyzed 5,144 reported adverse events from 2004 to 2016, with a significant increase in hair care product-related incidents between 2015-2016. The findings highlight the need for better cosmetic surveillance due to limited FDA reporting obligations and potential consumer attributions of serious health outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 26, 2017
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.

Cornell researches black bear boom in New York

A new study by Cornell University researchers estimates the densities of black bears in southern New York, finding an average density of about 13 bears per 38.6 square miles. The findings provide clues for how bears might continue to use landscapes farther north as their ranges expand.

SourceCornell University·JournalThe Journal of Wildlife Management·DateMay 11, 2017

Disney method enables more realistic hair simulation

A new innovative method developed by Disney Research makes it possible to realistically simulate hair by observing real hair in motion. The framework considers the dynamics of hair and can be used with a wide variety of simulation methods.

SourceDisney Research·DateApr 24, 2017

How Venus flytrap triggers digestion

When an insect touches the Venus flytrap's sensory hairs, it triggers a chain reaction involving calcium and hormone jasmonate. The plant's glands then produce acidic vesicles filled with hydrochloric acid to decompose the prey.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 21, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Grey hair linked with increased heart disease risk in men

A prospective observational study found a high association between grey hair and coronary artery disease in adult men. Researchers discovered that as age increases, so does the incidence of both atherosclerosis and hair greying due to similar biological pathways.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateApr 8, 2017

Hair strands could reveal lifestyle secrets of criminals (video)

Researchers have developed a new scientific technique that can analyze human hair to provide clues about a person's lifestyle. The technique uses liquid chromatography in conjunction with isotope ratio mass spectrometry (LC-IRMS) to identify 15 isotope ratio measurements that potentially yield crucial information about certain lifestyl...

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateApr 4, 2017

Hair testing shows high prevalence of new psychoactive substance use

Researchers found that over a fourth of 80 samples tested positive for new psychoactive substances, with 'bath salts' being the most common detected. Hair analysis proved a reliable tool to investigate drug exposure and consumption patterns in this high-risk population.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Analytical Toxicology·DateMar 31, 2017

Hair spacing keeps honeybees clean during pollination

Researchers at Georgia Tech studied the honeybee cleaning process and found that hair spacing is essential for removing up to 15,000 particles in three minutes. The unique spacing allows the forelegs to collect as much pollen as possible with each swipe.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateMar 28, 2017

Aboriginal hair shows 50,000 years connection to country

A study published in Nature found that Aboriginal populations have been continuously present in the same regions for up to 50,000 years, supporting their cultural connection to country. The research analyzed mitochondrial DNA from hair samples collected during anthropological expeditions across Australia and revealed a single founding ...

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature·DateMar 8, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Toward a safer permanent hair dye that mimics melanin

Researchers created a potentially safer alternative to common hair dye ingredient PPD by mimicking melanin using polydopamine. The new dye lasts through multiple wash cycles without causing noticeable side effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·DateMar 1, 2017

Long-term stress linked to higher levels of obesity

Research by UCL scientists found a strong association between long-term stress and obesity, with people experiencing chronically elevated cortisol levels being more prone to weight gain and persistent overweight status.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalObesity·DateFeb 23, 2017

A chemical investigation of employees -- How to distinguish a blue collar from a white one

A study by Russian scientists analyzed the hair of petrochemical workers, finding higher levels of As, Hg, Sn, I, and Si in office workers compared to those in other departments. Essential elements like Cr, Fe, and I were found in higher concentrations in primary oil refining employees, while toxic element content was generally lower i...

SourceRUDN University·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·DateFeb 20, 2017

Hair analysis may help diagnose Cushing syndrome, NIH researchers report

Researchers found that high cortisol levels in hair samples tracked closely with standard diagnostic techniques for Cushing Syndrome. The study's findings suggest that hair analysis may prove useful as a less-invasive screening test or confirmatory tool for the condition.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·DateFeb 9, 2017

Tarantulas inspire new structural color with the greatest viewing angle

Scientists create new structural color material that showcases consistent color from all viewing directions, overcoming conventional wisdom about long-range order photonic structures. The innovative design has a wide viewing angle of 160 degrees, making it suitable for applications such as phone and television screens.

SourceUniversity of Akron·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateFeb 7, 2017
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.

Strength of hair inspires new materials for body armor

Researchers at UC San Diego discovered that hair behaves differently depending on stretching speed, with faster stretches making it stronger. The team found a unique structural transformation allowing hair to withstand high stress without breaking.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMaterials Science and Engineering C·DateJan 17, 2017

Pubic hair grooming linked to heightened sexually transmitted infection risk

Research found that pubic hair grooming is associated with a heightened risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections, particularly among high frequency and intensity groomers. Grooming was linked to an 80% increased risk of infection, with certain practices causing higher risks for specific infections.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalSexually Transmitted Diseases·DateDec 5, 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.

Renaissance astronomer Tycho Brahe was full of gold

Researchers analyzed hair samples from Tycho Brahe's remains and found significantly higher levels of gold than expected in a typical person. This suggests that Brahe was exposed to gold through his daily life, potentially through jewelry, elixirs, or alchemy.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalArchaeometry·DateDec 1, 2016

Safe hair care spares hair, Johns Hopkins dermatologists report

Hair loss and breakage caused by acquired trichorrhexis nodosa (TN) can be reduced with proper cleansing and styling. Researchers recommend choosing the right shampoo based on hair type and minimizing frequent washing for those with tightly curled or dry hair. Conditioners, especially protein-containing ones, are also crucial for healt...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Dermatological Treatment·DateNov 28, 2016

Uncombable hair gene discovered

Researchers found mutations in three genes involved in forming the hair shaft, which causes uncombable hair syndrome, a rare condition affecting around 100 documented cases worldwide. The discovery provides insights into mechanisms of healthy hair formation and secures clinical diagnosis with molecular genetic methods.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateNov 17, 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.

New AI algorithm taught by humans learns beyond its training

Researchers at U of T Engineering developed an AI algorithm that learns directly from human instructions, exceeding conventional training methods by 160% and outperforming its own training by 9%. The algorithm's potential lies in applying heuristic training to fields like medicine and transportation.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Networks and Learning Systems·DateNov 16, 2016

Skin pigment could help strengthen foams and fabrics

Researchers have discovered that adding melanin to polyurethane increases its tensile strength and toughness by up to 10 times. The enhanced material can stretch farther before breaking, making it a promising alternative for various applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateNov 9, 2016

How the African striped mouse got its stripes

Researchers identify Alx3 gene as key to African striped mouse's characteristic light-colored stripes. Analysis reveals similar stripe patterns in North American chipmunks, indicating independent evolution of trait.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateNov 2, 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.

New evidence that hormone levels measured in hair can affect IVF success

A new study found that elevated cortisol levels measured in hair can predict IVF success rates, with women having almost a third less chance of conceiving. The technique enables doctors to measure cumulative hormonal function over 3-6 months, providing a more reliable measure than short-term methods.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateOct 18, 2016

Research examines how beardedness affects women's attraction to men

Beardedness is associated with increased attractiveness in women when evaluating long-term relationships due to its signal of formidability and potential benefits. Stubble appears most appealing for short-term connections, while full beards are preferred for long-term partnerships.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Evolutionary Biology·DateOct 13, 2016

That jumping spider can hear you from across the room

Researchers discovered that jumping spiders can detect sounds at distances of over three meters, a finding that changes scientists' understanding of the world spiders live in. The spiders' hearing is most sensitive to frequencies associated with the wingbeats of parasitoid wasp enemies, prompting a startle response.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 13, 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.

MIT engineers design beaver-inspired wetsuit material

Researchers fabricate fur-like, rubbery pelts to trap warm pockets of air in dense layers of fur. The findings provide a detailed mechanical understanding of how mammals insulate themselves while diving underwater.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·DateOct 5, 2016

Humans may be uniquely identified by the proteins in their hair

Researchers have identified a unique set of protein markers in human hair that could be used to distinguish individuals. The findings demonstrate the robustness of these proteins and estimate that they would be sufficient to provide a unique pattern for an individual among a population of one million.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 7, 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.

Nanofur for oil spill cleanup

Scientists have created a new material called Nanofur that mimics the water-repellent and oil-absorbing properties of aquatic fern leaves. This innovative material is highly effective in cleaning up oil spills, with some leaves absorbing up to 30 seconds' worth of oil.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateAug 23, 2016

Study: Some black teens may feel pulled between health and hair

African-American adolescent girls prefer straightened hair and avoid sweating during exercise due to concerns about ruining their hairstyle. The study explores the impact of cultural pressure on physical activity among black teens, finding a consistent theme across three states.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalBMC Obesity·DateAug 9, 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.

Thirty years of research translates into new treatment strategies for polycystic ovary syndrome

After decades of research, scientists have made significant progress in understanding and treating PCOS, identifying potential biomarkers and developing new diagnostic tests. The review highlights innovative approaches, including genetic testing and hormone analysis, to improve early treatment strategies and prevent long-term complicat...

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Pharmaceutical Design·DateAug 4, 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.

Hairs, feathers and scales have a lot in common!

Researchers demonstrate that hairs, feathers and scales share a common evolutionary origin, developing from placodes with similar molecular signatures. The study provides new insights into the evolution of skin appendages and their diversity.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 24, 2016

How the mouse outlived the giant

Scientists from Wits University discovered that mammal-like reptiles evolved hair around 240-246 million years ago, assisting their survival. This discovery suggests a possible link between the evolution of hair and whiskers with the development of mammals.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 22, 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.

Researchers open hairy new chapter in 3-D printing

The researchers designed arrays of hair-like structures with resolutions as low as 50 microns, printing coarse bristles to fine fur onto flat and curved surfaces. They demonstrated the technology's capabilities by creating Velcro-like bristle pads, sensing systems, and actuation devices.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJun 17, 2016

Dancing hairs alert bees to floral electric fields

Researchers at the University of Bristol discovered that bumblebees' tiny hairs deflect in response to electric fields, but only the hairs alert the bee's nervous system. This finding suggests that electroreception in insects may be more common than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 30, 2016

Plants are 'biting' back

Researchers from Bonn University discovered calcium phosphate as a structural biomineral in rock nettle plants, providing them with a hardened defense mechanism against herbivores. The unique material, structurally similar to reinforced concrete, is used instead of silica or calcium carbonate in most plants.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 19, 2016