A recent UMBC study finds that female researchers have led the way in bird song research, fundamentally changing our understanding of avian biology and evolution. Women made up 56% of authors and held 68% of first-author positions on papers about female bird song.
Researchers found that selective breeding of junglefowl for reduced fear led to changes in brain composition and affected fear memory. The domesticated birds became accustomed to non-hazardous events more rapidly due to smaller brains relative to body size.
Researchers used computational simulations to show that spontaneous retinal waves can generate long-range horizontal connectivity in the visual cortex, resolving a long-standing puzzle. The findings suggest that neural circuits must begin developing earlier than sensory input to prepare the brain for vision.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A team of researchers led by Dr. Tanja Wintrich discovered that even Tyrannosaurus rex could have suffered a slipped disc, as ancient reptiles had intervertebral discs similar to those in humans. This finding provides new insights into human spine mobility and medicine.
Synbiotics combine pre- and probiotics, providing a wider range of health benefits. The new definition allows for the use of microorganisms and selectively utilized substrates, enabling the creation of synergistic synbiotics with targeted health benefits.
Research reveals climate change is drastically affecting species abundance in the tropics, with 69% of tropical species showing negative responses to temperature increases. This study highlights the urgent need for understanding how species respond to changing climates on a global scale.
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.
A team of researchers found that black-naped terns adjust their migration timing and path based on typhoon activity, with those migrating during peak typhoon season targeting stopover areas. The study used geographic tracking data from 20 birds to understand how the birds respond to environmental cues and optimize their routes.
Three ancient Egyptian animals, a snake, bird, and cat, have been digitally unwrapped using high-resolution 3D scans. The scans revealed the animals' ages, possible causes of death, and conditions they were kept in, providing new insights into animal mummification, religion, and human-animal relationships in ancient Egypt.
Researchers studied three swan species and found all were most frequently aggressive to their own kind, suggesting similar individuals compete for resources. The findings provide insight into how swan behavior affects other waterbirds over winter and highlight the importance of understanding bird competition.
A Concordia student has created detailed range maps for over 400 primate species, showing how warming temperatures are losing their habitats. The study reveals that a 2°C temperature increase could lead to over a quarter of species experiencing temperatures above pre-industrial levels.
A new study by Duke University researchers suggests that songbirds perform better during the day when they warm up their voices in the early morning hours. By singing early and often, birds improve their trill rate and vocal range, ultimately nailing their songs during the day.
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.
A study found that reducing TET2 activity protects neurons from inflammatory insults and neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease. The research suggests calming TET2 activity could be a powerful preventative measure to delay or prevent symptom onset.
Researchers detect plastic contamination in every sample analyzed using mass spectrometry, with bisphenol A found in all 47 human samples. The study provides the first array of methods for examining monomer, nano- and microplastic occurrence in human organs from individuals with a known history of environmental exposure.
Portland State University received $901,000 to study how brains interact with their environment. The team will develop new theories and tools to better understand the brain's control systems.
Researchers found that infants who heard different names for each animal successfully recognized most of the training animals. Infants who heard the same name for all animals had difficulty recognizing the training animals due to lack of individual differences recognition.
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 team of Harvard researchers found that image-processing circuits in the primary visual cortex are more active when animals move, suggesting a complex relationship between vision and movement. The study's results offer new insights into how neural activity works in sensory regions of the brain.
A new study by the University of Exeter and Cefas highlights the potential risks of microplastics carrying pathogens, which could threaten food production and safety. The research found high levels of bacteria on microplastic particles, including those that can cause disease in humans and animals.
Researchers compared tear composition in birds, reptiles, and humans, discovering similar electrolyte levels but distinct crystal structures. The study's findings may lead to new insights into the evolution of tears across species and improved treatments for eye health.
Researchers found 24 diverse species feeding on snowshoe hare carcasses, challenging previous thought of food webs. The study revealed prey species' impact on both direct predators and scavengers, highlighting the complex role of scavenging in ecosystems.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered that depleting the key protein Reelin can protect against multiple sclerosis symptoms and promote recovery. By reducing monocyte adhesion on blood vessel walls, Reelin levels may be a novel way to treat MS.
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.
Scientists used mathematical modeling to track long-tailed tits in Sheffield's Rivelin Valley, finding patterns that help explain flock segregation. The study reveals birds avoid larger flocks and prefer woodland centers, contradicting previous assumptions about their behavior.
A recent study by researchers at Swansea University found that inbreeding can reduce cooperation in banded mongooses. Inbred pups that receive extensive care from adults have similar survival rates to outbred pups, but eventually become bad carers when they are older.
Researchers developed three techniques to replace malfunctioning microglia, with varying efficiencies and donor sources. The techniques offer promise for treating neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's, ALS, and Parkinson's.
Researchers propose repurposing agtech labs for diagnostic testing in human pandemics. Sophisticated equipment used for crop and animal breeding can be easily adapted for tracing and detection. The approach aims to relieve pressure on limited health sector testing tools and speed up response measures.
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
Researchers found that native lizards harbor parasites controlling invasive species, keeping their populations under control. The study suggests biodiversity is a key factor in resisting invasions.
A study by Florida Atlantic University's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute found high concentrations of atrazine, DEP, NPE, and triclosan in stranded dolphins and whales. The study revealed significant variations in toxin and element concentrations based on animal demographic factors and geography.
Researchers discover a novel mechanism of structural color in Viburnum tinus fruits, using lipid nanostructures to reflect blue light. The striking blue color may also serve as a signal to birds indicating the fruit's nutritional value.
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.
Marine heatwaves are displacing habitats for marine life by thousands of kilometers, a phenomenon known as thermal displacement. This metric measures the degree of change species may be responding to, highlighting potential ecosystem changes and management questions.
An international team sequenced the complete genome of the tuatara, a lizard-like creature that lives on New Zealand's islands. The study reveals that tuataras have fewer DNA substitutions over time than other reptiles, making them unique in terms of molecular evolution.
A new study found that animals carrying diseases known to infect humans are more common in landscapes intensively used by people. The research suggests altering land use to reduce the risk of future spillovers of infectious diseases.
A new computational model called TransComp-R has been developed to improve the translation of drugs from animal studies to human clinical trials. The model identified an overlooked biological mechanism possibly responsible for a patient's resistance to infliximab, a drug for inflammatory bowel diseases.
A study on dairy cows' social grooming behavior found that cows form strong bonds through mutual cooperation and prefer individuals of similar age. Older cows groom more individuals, suggesting a 'peacemaker' role in the herd. These findings could inform innovative farm management strategies prioritizing cattle emotional and social needs.
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.
The study's three-dimensional reconstructions of Namapoikia fossils suggest that they were constructed by microbes, not animals. The results indicate a microbial construction, contradicting the long-held idea of calcifying sponge evolution.
Researchers propose a new understanding of how animals decide when to create new mental maps in response to changing environments. By mathematically modeling the process as probabilistic reasoning, scientists can better interpret experiments that rely on measuring remapping for learning and memory research.
Research reveals insecticide-treated mosquito nets, crucial in global malaria fight, have lost significant protection effectiveness. Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs), credited with saving millions lives since 2000, are now only killing 40% of mosquitoes they come into contact with.
Researchers at NIST have doubled the size of a reference library containing oligosaccharides found in milk, helping scientists identify unknown compounds. The expanded library includes examples from human and nonhuman mammalian milk samples, supporting infant formula development and human health research.
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 successfully trained AI models to recognize individual birds using labeled images and camera traps, achieving over 90% accuracy in wild populations. This breakthrough enables long-term monitoring of populations and protects species from climate change pressures.
Researchers discovered abnormalities in communication between brain cells and molecular changes affecting protein production due to dysfunctional CASK gene. The study also suggests an unexpected role for CASK in regulating energy production in cells, which may explain diminished brain size and dysregulated function.
Researchers found ProCap DDGS contains more crude protein and amino acids than conventional de-oiled DDGS, and its standardized ileal digestibility is nearly all amino acids. The product also provides approximately 1,200 kcal per kilogram of metabolizable energy more than conventional DDGS.
Research by Professor Ami Citri and PhD student Anna Terem at Hebrew University of Jerusalem found that the claustrum plays a significant role in creating associations between rewards and contexts. The study used conditioned-place preference tests on lab mice to demonstrate the claustrum's involvement in incentive salience.
Researchers found that deleting a key gene in mice just their fat tissue made them insulin resistant and had other effects. The findings shed light on Type 2 diabetes and could have implications for human disease.
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 research has developed a Lego-inspired scaffolding system using tiny, 3D-printed blocks to promote faster and more efficient healing of broken bones. The study found that growth factor-filled blocks placed near repaired rat bones led to about three times more blood vessel growth than conventional scaffolding material.
A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis found diets high in plant protein are associated with a lower risk of death from any cause. Plant protein intake was also linked to reduced risks of cardiovascular disease and cancer mortality.
A new study by Dr Katerina Johnson and Dr Philip Burnet found that antibiotic treatment in early life impairs brain signalling pathways for social behaviour and pain regulation in mice. The most striking finding was the reduced expression of receptors mediating endorphin, oxytocin, and vasopressin signalling in young animals treated wi...
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 study from the University of Tokyo found that feeding distillation remnants from shochu production to pigs reduces stress levels and improves the quality of meat, resulting in better-tasting sirloin and fillets. The leftovers also contain nutrients like leucine and histidine peptides, which may contribute to the benefits.
A groundbreaking study using MRI scans of 130 mammalian brains found that brain connectivity levels are equal in all species, including humans. The research revealed a universal law: Conservation of Brain Connectivity, which suggests that the efficiency of information transfer in the brain's neural network is the same across mammals.
A new experimental drug that inhibits AHR has been shown to effectively combat Zika virus replication and prevent microcephaly in mouse fetuses. The study found a significant reduction in viral load and histopathological changes, suggesting a promising antiviral therapy.
Research by Welsh academics finds that patients with PTSD exhibit exaggerated pupil reactions to both threatening and positive images, suggesting a hyper-response to any arousing stimulus. This discovery may lead to the development of new therapy approaches using positive images.
Researchers at Lehigh University have developed a hydrogel material that can degrade and re-form in the stomach, protecting oral drugs from acidic environments. The gel, called covalent adaptable hydrogels (CAHs), could revolutionize oral drug delivery by targeting specific areas of the intestine.
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
The PETA International Science Consortium Ltd. has co-launched a six-part webinar series focusing on the applications and benefits of animal-free recombinant antibodies for COVID-19 treatment and research. Experts from industry, government, and academia will share their work on human-relevant, non-animal testing strategies.
A new study shows that dominant individuals can actually reduce influence in groups, especially when individuals have a choice about who to follow. In contrast, passive individuals wield the greatest influence in bringing a group to consensus.
The team developed a low-power, low-weight wireless camera system that can capture first-person views from live insects or small robots. The camera uses a mechanical arm to pivot 60 degrees, allowing for wide-angle views without consuming excessive power.
Researchers found that ferrets generalize avian smells, while hedgehogs do not, which could inform strategies to protect bird colonies by saturating the area with bird smell. The study provides insights into the hunting strategies and priorities of invasive predators.
A research team from Göttingen University has re-examined the skin of Dark Ronald XX and found no evidence of the PLOD1 mutation responsible for Warmblood fragile foal syndrome. The study suggests that the disease may have originated from a different genetic source, challenging previous theories.
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.
Researchers discovered that flies turn their bodies before flipping their heads during take-off from an upside-down position. The insect achieves this rapid reorientation within six wing beats at speeds of up to 30 revolutions per second.
A new finger-stick test can estimate radiation exposure in mice with high accuracy, using microRNA biomarkers. The test distinguishes between various doses of radiation, including those requiring triage, and could improve acute radiation syndrome diagnosis and treatment.
The new ARRIVE 2.0 guidelines aim to simplify and streamline reporting of animal studies, promoting better study design and transparency. The guidelines prioritize two sets: Essential 10 for basic minimum reporting and a recommended set for context.
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.
Scientists have discovered that inserting the Nix gene in female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes converts them to fertile males, which could aid in mosquito control strategies. The converted males cannot fly due to the lack of another essential gene, myo-sex.
A new study has narrowed down the region of the genome that drives the black color in warblers by studying hybrid offspring. The hybrids have a mix of coloration from the parent species, allowing researchers to identify which regions of the genome are associated with which color patterns.
Researchers found graying hair does not linearly progress with age in chimpanzees, but rather plateaus after midlife, leading to a 'salt and pepper' appearance.