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WSU ecologist warns of bamboo fueling spread of hantavirus

Bamboo landscaping popularity could lead to increased spread of hantavirus, as deer mice thrive on plant's seeds and reproduce rapidly, posing a risk to human health. Experts recommend changing U.S. and Canadian plant quarantine policies to prevent non-native bamboo invasions.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A peek at the secret life of pandas

Researchers tracked 5 pandas for months using rare GPS collars, finding that they sometimes hang together and have complex social interactions. The data also revealed a panda's feeding strategy, showing that they return to core areas after being away for long periods of time.

Scientists document longest-ever case of sperm storage in sharks

Researchers found a brownbanded bamboo shark pup born after nearly four years of isolation from males, marking the longest documented case of sperm storage in any shark species. The discovery highlights the sharks' ability to store sperm for long periods, promoting genetic diversity and potentially helping wild populations.

Tinkering with the Tao of pandas

A new study reveals that giant pandas are not as picky about their habitat as previously believed. The research, led by Michigan State University, found that pandas are willing to live in secondary forests, climb different slopes, and choose areas with varying amounts of sunshine.

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.

Fungal infection control methods for lucky bamboo

A study recommends a systems approach to controlling fungal infections in lucky bamboo, including training and disease management at source and application of systemic fungicides. Latent presence of Colletotrichum dracaenophilum found in up to 43% of non-inoculated stalks.

Skulls of red and giant pandas provide insight into coexistence

Researchers found that red panda skulls are better at distributing mechanical stress during chewing, while giant panda skulls can withstand greater forces. These differences reflect distinct bamboo feeding preferences, with the giant panda eating harder and larger pieces of bamboo.

Livestock found ganging up on pandas at the bamboo buffet

A Michigan State University study reveals that livestock, particularly horses, are devastating panda habitats by competing for food and resources. The research highlights the importance of addressing competition from livestock in sensitive ecosystems.

Gauging what it takes to heal a disaster-ravaged forest

A research team from Michigan State University studied the recovery of forests and bamboo groves in the Wolong Nature Reserve, China, after a devastating earthquake. They found that many areas were on the road to recovery, with replanting efforts helping in areas with poor soil conditions.

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.

PNNL expertise highlighted at Supercomputing

Researchers from PNNL develop new algorithm to identify similar patterns in data, reducing processing time by seconds. A software called Bamboo is also presented, which translates MPI code to speed up data-crunching and reduce communication bottlenecks.

Climate change threatens giant pandas' bamboo buffet -- and survival

Scientists from Michigan State University predict climate change will kill off swaths of bamboo, making prime panda habitat inhospitable by 21st century. The study suggests proactive planning to protect areas with suitable food sources and creating natural bridges for pandas to escape bamboo famine.

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.

Old-growth forests are what giant pandas need

A recent study published in Biology Letters indicates that giant pandas are associated with old-growth forests more than any other ecological variable besides bamboo. This finding suggests that conserving both bamboo and old-growth forests is crucial to protect this critically endangered bear species.

Low-tech cool: Shade trees for subtropical streets

Researchers from National Taiwan University evaluated the cooling effect of trees and bamboo in Taipei, finding that foliage density is key to reducing temperature. The study identified top species like Chinese elm and Rose wood for their high cooling effects, while others were less effective.

Giant panda genome reveals new insights into the bear's bamboo diet

The giant panda genome study has identified genetic traits that may aid in understanding the animal's unique bamboo diet and inform conservation efforts. The research found that pandas lack genes necessary for competing digestion of bamboo, suggesting a reliance on microbes to digest this staple food source.

Bamboo instant houses will soon shelter Sichuan quake victims

A prototype of a sturdy bamboo house was built in under two weeks with a modular design that can be adjusted for specific family needs. The structure is made from processed bamboo veneer sheets and is fireproof, insulated for heat and sound, and sustainable.

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.

A boost for bamboo-based blouses and blankets

Researchers have developed solutions to improve bamboo fabrics' durability and hygiene, making them more suitable for consumer products. The new treatments significantly reduce bacterial growth and increase UV protection, opening doors for eco-friendly clothing options.

UI anthropologist, colleagues discover remains of earliest giant panda

The discovery of a pygmy-sized giant panda skull in south China reveals that the modern giant panda has remained largely unchanged for millions of years. The ancient species lived on bamboo shoots and was adapted to eating bamboo early in its development, highlighting its unique dietary specialization.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Mysteries of Kilimanjaro

Research by Andreas Hemp reveals a host of rare plants in Kilimanjaro's forests, contrary to previous thought, and explains the mountain's unique bamboo zone absence due to elephant lack. The complex links between plants and animals are showcased, highlighting human impact on forest diversity.

Brighter future for giant panda?

A recent study using DNA analysis from giant panda feces found the population underestimated by over 50% in previous surveys. The findings suggest a better chance of long-term viability for the species, but warn against complacency due to still-perilously low numbers.