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Science News for April 1, 2021


Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Changes in article views in leading medical journals during COVID-19

Researchers assessed changes in article views of articles published in three leading medical journals since COVID-19 started, finding a significant decline in views. The study reveals that online engagement has been impacted by the pandemic, with many journals experiencing a drop in article views.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 1, 2021

Connecting the dots between engagement and learning

New research from Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh examines how changes in internal states like engagement affect learning. The study found that fluctuations in neural activity are influenced by shifts in internal states, suggesting a key role for engagement in learning.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 1, 2021

Probiotics keep calves healthy, too!

Scientists at Hokkaido University developed a novel probiotic formulation to control severe diarrhea in calves, reducing mortality and economic loss. The probiotic supplement was tested on newborn calves and found to be effective in preventing bovine diarrhea caused by BRV and cryptosporidiosis.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalVeterinary Microbiology·DateApr 1, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NASA OSIRIS-REx's final asteroid observation run

The OSIRIS-REx spacecraft will perform a final flyover of asteroid Bennu, capturing high-resolution images and collecting data from the asteroid's surface and science instruments. The mission aims to understand the extent of the disturbance caused by the sample collection event.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 1, 2021

Articles for Geosphere posted online in March

Researchers reconstructed chemical weathering history in the western Himalaya using sediment records since 17 million years ago. In California, a study analyzed late Pleistocene rock uplift and faulting rates along the boundary between the southern Coast Ranges and western Transverse Ranges.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeosphere·DateApr 1, 2021

NOAA study shows promise of forecasting meteotsunamis

Researchers used local citizen photos and data to reconstruct the first documented meteotsunami in the Great Lakes, caused by an atmospheric inertia-gravity wave. Existing NOAA models may enable scientists to predict these meteotsunamis minutes to hours in advance.

SourceNOAA Headquarters·JournalNatural Hazards·DateApr 1, 2021

Disrupted biochemical pathway in the brain linked to bipolar disorder

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison discovered a disrupted Akt protein pathway in men with bipolar disorder, leading to memory problems and weakened brain connections. The findings offer a new target for treating bipolar disorder's often-overlooked cognitive impairments.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNeuron·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Researchers devise more efficient, enduring CAR gene therapy to combat HIV

The study shows that using a truncated form of the CD4 molecule as part of a gene therapy yields superior and longer-lasting results in mouse models than previous similar therapies. The new approach to CAR T gene therapy has the potential to create lifelong protection from HIV infection by producing memory cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateApr 1, 2021

Gut microbiota in cesarean-born babies catches up

A study found that cesarean-born infants have less diverse gut microbiota at birth but catch up with their peers by age 3-5. The intestinal microbiota forms an ecosystem that takes years to mature, and its development can vary significantly among children.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 1, 2021

Diet + exercise + chemo = increased survival in youth with leukemia

A new study found that patients who followed a diet with reduced calories and increased exercise had 70% fewer detectable cancer cells after one month of chemotherapy. This intervention showed promise in increasing survival rates for youth with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the most common childhood cancer.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalBlood Advances·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Poor judgment of autistic adults

A new study found that autistic adults are often misjudged due to stereotypical behaviors, leading to disadvantage in the legal system. The researchers argue that these behaviors can be misinterpreted by judges and juries, resulting in harsher sentences for autistic individuals.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateApr 1, 2021

Flowers!

Asteroid impact led to 45% plant extinction and paved the way for modern tropical rainforests. Plant diversity took over 10 million years to recover after the impact, with flowering plants dominating ecosystems.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalScience·DateApr 1, 2021

2D materials for conducting hole currents from grain boundaries in perovskite solar cells

Researchers have developed a novel method to improve photovoltaic performance in perovskite solar cells by modifying grain boundaries with 2D materials. The modifications lead to enhanced carrier mobility and stability, even under certain conditions where grain boundaries are favorable for device performance.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateApr 1, 2021

Cohesive circuit protection for wearable electronics

A new cellulose nanofiber coating offers enhanced water resistance for flexible electronic devices, allowing them to withstand hundreds of bending cycles and underwater exposure. The coating's unique properties make it an ideal solution for medical devices used in emergency disaster response situations.

SourceOsaka University·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Mt. Sinai Health Care Foundation awards $1 million grant to CWRU School o

The Mt. Sinai Health Care Foundation has awarded a $1 million challenge grant to the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine's Department of Pharmacology. The grant will support recruitment and retention of exceptional faculty, as well as bridge funding for promising early-stage research.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateApr 1, 2021

Increasing applied pesticide toxicity threatens plants and insects

A study published in Science reveals that applied pesticide toxicity has increased substantially between 2004 and 2016, threatening plant and insect biodiversity. The findings apply to genetically modified (GM) crops, challenging the claim of decreasing environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of Koblenz-Landau·JournalScience·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Two plant immune branches more intimately connected than previously believed

Recent discoveries have revealed a complex picture of plant defense, with responses to PRR receptor signaling and NLR signaling extensively overlapping. The two immune branches are now considered to be more intimately connected than previously thought, leading to a re-thought model of separate ETI and PTI pathways.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateApr 1, 2021

Stem cell transplants prevent relapses of most common childhood cancer

A new study finds that stem cell transplants after CAR T-cell therapy reduce relapse rates in childhood cancer patients by less than 10% two years later. The research suggests long-term benefits for young patients who receive the treatment, with most experiencing complete remission.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateApr 1, 2021

African elephants only occupy a fraction of their potential range

African elephants could occupy a fraction of their potential range if protected from human pressure, with 62% of Africa suitable for their survival. The study found that elephants have great potential for recovery into areas where the human footprint is light.

SourceColorado State University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Large study identified new genetic link to male infertility

A large-scale study has identified a new genetic link to male infertility, revealing that unstable Y chromosomes are associated with a significantly increased risk of fertility issues. The study analyzed over 2,300 Estonian men and found that the genetic variation was more common in European descent populations.

SourceEstonian Research Council·DateApr 1, 2021

Pollen season in Switzerland earlier and more intense due to climate change

A study analyzing pollen data from 1990 to 2020 found that the pollen season has shifted substantially over the past 30 years, with some species starting as early as January. This increase in duration and intensity can lead to more severe health issues, including inflammation in the lungs and negative impacts on the cardiovascular system.

SourceSwiss Tropical and Public Health Institute·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateApr 1, 2021

Undetected coronavirus variant was in at least 15 countries before its discovery

A highly contagious SARS-CoV-2 variant was unknowingly spreading in the US by October 2020, with evidence suggesting it had arrived in at least 15 countries by mid-November. Researchers estimate that travelers from the UK introduced the variant to these countries between Sept. 22 and Dec. 7, 2020.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateApr 1, 2021

Plasma jets stabilize water to splash less

Researchers at KAIST discovered that plasma jets produce more stable interactions with water surfaces compared to neutral gas jets, reducing bubbling and splashing. The study's findings will help improve our understanding of plasma-liquid interactions and their applications in various industrial fields.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature·DateApr 1, 2021

African elephants' range is just 17% of what it could be, study finds

A recent study found that African elephants' actual range has shrunk to just 17% of its potential due to human pressures, including ivory killing. Despite this, the researchers suggest that elephants can still recover into areas with light human footprint for peaceful coexistence.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

A robot that senses hidden objects

Researchers have developed a robot that combines radio wave sensing with computer vision to locate and grasp occluded objects. RF-Grasp uses radio waves to sense objects even when they're fully blocked from view, enabling efficient fulfillment in warehouses or retrieving lost items.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateApr 1, 2021

Whisker simulation gives insight into mammals' sense of touch

Researchers at Northwestern University developed a mechanical simulation of the whisker inside the follicle, discovering that bending creates an 'S'-shaped bend within the follicle. This deformation triggers sensor cells, sending touch signals to the brain, and can predict how whiskers activate different sensory cells.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateApr 1, 2021

A PTV-based polymer enabled organic solar cells with over 16% efficiency

Researchers developed PTVT-T, a low-cost polymer with high photovoltaic performance, revitalizing classical conjugated polymers for efficient OSCs. The study achieved a remarkable 16.2% efficiency and demonstrated the potential of PTVT-T to match with new emerging acceptor materials.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateApr 1, 2021

Low risk of researchers passing coronavirus to North American bats

A new study by the USGS found that the risk of COVID-19 transmission to North American bats is low, with a risk of 1 in 1,000 if no protective measures are taken. The risk falls lower with proper use of personal protective equipment or if scientists test negative for COVID-19 before beginning research.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalConservation Science and Practice·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Origin of modern rainforests traced to end-Cretaceous asteroid impact

A recent study reveals that the end-Cretaceous asteroid impact drastically restructured tropical forests, leading to a decline in plant diversity and the emergence of angiosperms. The findings suggest that the impact's long-term effects on tropical ecosystems were variable, depending on proximity to the crater and local conditions.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 1, 2021

Polarized photovoltaic properties emerge

Scientists have found a way to create polarity and photovoltaic behavior in non-photovoltaic 2D materials by arranging them in a special way. The resulting effect is different from traditional solar cells and shows promise for future solar panel improvements.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

BrainGate: First human use of high-bandwidth wireless brain-computer interface

Researchers at Brown University have successfully demonstrated the use of an intracortical wireless BCI system in clinical trial participants with tetraplegia. The system enables users to point, click and type on a tablet computer with high accuracy and fidelity, opening up new possibilities for people with paralysis.

SourceBrown University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateApr 1, 2021

Study predicts which kids hospitalized with RSV likely to worsen

A new study by researchers at WashU Medicine found that children hospitalized with RSV are likely to get sicker if they have high levels of defective viral genomes. These defective genomes can trigger a strong antiviral immune response, but timing matters in determining the course of illness.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Microbiology·DateApr 1, 2021

Diet and exercise may increase efficacy of chemotherapy for children with cancer

A new pilot study suggests that restricting calories, reducing fat and sugar intake, and increasing physical activity can improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy for older children and adolescents with leukemia. The intervention showed promise in reducing minimal residual disease, a strong predictor of relapse.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood Advances·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Improving equity in the physics of medical devices

Achuta Kadambi's article in Science explores how medical device physics can perpetuate bias across racial and gender lines. He suggests quantifying sample fairness and recalibrating performance metrics to address these issues.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalScience·DateApr 1, 2021

COVID-19 survivors might need just one dose of two-part vaccine

A study by Cedars-Sinai researchers found that individuals with prior COVID-19 infections who received a single dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine developed an antibody response similar to those without prior infection. The findings suggest that a single booster dose may be sufficient for previously infected individuals.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 1, 2021

Spin-to-charge conversion achieves 95% overall qubit readout fidelity

Researchers develop innovative spin-to-charge conversion method to achieve high-fidelity readout of qubits, surpassing traditional resonance fluorescence method with an error rate of 4.6%. This breakthrough enables the realization of fault-tolerant quantum computing and improves detection efficiency for quantum sensors.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 1, 2021

Mice with hallucination-like behaviors reveal insight into psychotic illness

A new study in mice and people offers a promising entry point to developing new therapies for schizophrenia. Researchers found that hallucination-like events were more common among individuals who experienced spontaneous hallucinations, suggesting a link between brain circuits underlying both human and mouse minds.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Low-calorie diet and mild exercise improve survival for young people with leukemia

A low-calorie diet and moderate exercise program have been shown to dramatically improve survival outcomes for young people with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. After just one month of treatment, participants on the intervention had a 70% decrease in detectable cancer cells compared to those not on the regimen.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalBlood Advances·DateApr 1, 2021

New GSA Bulletin articles published ahead of print in March

Researchers reconstruct the Mesozoic paleogeography of the NE Asian continental margin, revealing a transition from passive to active continental margin settings. Additionally, studies investigate low-δ18O A-type granites in SW China, suggesting interaction between the subducted Paleotethyan slab and the Emeishan mantle plume.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalACM SIGSAM Bulletin·DateApr 1, 2021

Multilingual people have an advantage over those fluent in only two languages

A UTokyo-MIT study reveals multilingual adults can learn new languages faster and more efficiently than bilinguals, thanks to increased brain activity. Multilingual participants demonstrated superior language acquisition skills and faster processing times in a simulated Kazakh language learning environment.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 1, 2021

Middle schoolers with elevated levels of mental health problems pre-pandemic showed reduction in symptoms during the early stages of the pandemic

A study found that middle schoolers from a predominantly Latinx community with elevated mental health problems showed significant reductions in symptoms during the early stages of the pandemic. Family functioning and socio-emotional learning programs may have offered protective effects.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Mask mandates, on-premises dining and COVID-19

A new CDC study reveals that state-issued mask mandates significantly reduced COVID-19 cases and deaths. On-premises restaurant dining restrictions also showed a notable decrease in virus transmission, highlighting the importance of public health measures during the pandemic.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateApr 1, 2021

Trends in blood pressure among US children, teens

A nationally representative US study found increasing blood pressure levels among children and teens over the past 20 years, with significant rises in systolic and diastolic pressures. The study's findings highlight growing concerns about childhood hypertension, emphasizing the need for preventive measures.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 1, 2021

Capturing the complex

Researchers map human impacts on threatened and near-threatened marine species over time, revealing widespread and intensifying pressures. Corals are found to be severely impacted across their entire ranges, with climate-related impacts increasing in severity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Away with the bad cliché: Bacterial complexity is often underestimated

A new German research project aims to challenge the perception of bacteria as simple organisms by studying their complex behavior and multicellularity. The study seeks to gain a deeper understanding of bacterial life forms, with potential applications in combating antibiotic resistance and developing innovative biocatalysis.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·DateApr 1, 2021

Exposure to harmful chemicals in plastic may contribute to postpartum depression

A small study found that exposure to phthalates and bisphenols, commonly found in plastics, may contribute to lower progesterone levels during pregnancy and an increased likelihood of developing postpartum depression. Reducing exposure to these chemicals could be a potential avenue for preventing postpartum depression.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 1, 2021

Smart glass has a bright future

Research demonstrates that smart glazing windows can decrease energy consumption for lighting and temperature control by up to 35 percent, while reducing CO2 emissions by up to 30 percent. The technology also optimizes natural daylight in a room, reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

How dopamine drives hallucination-like perception in mice

A new study found that increased dopamine in the brain's striatum triggers auditory hallucination-like experiences in mice, shedding light on a possible causal role for dopamine-dependent neurological circuits in psychosis. This breakthrough could inform novel targeted treatments for schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 1, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Climate change cut global farming productivity 21% since 1960s

A Cornell-led study found that climate change has slowed global agricultural productivity growth by 21%, or about seven years, since the 1960s. The research used an econometric model linking weather changes and productivity measures to quantify the impact of human-caused climate change on total factor productivity.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 1, 2021

How Fortnite and Zelda can up your surgical game (no joke!)

A study by a University of Ottawa medical student found that video games can improve surgical skills, particularly in robotic surgery and laparoscopic procedures. Games like Super Monkey Ball and Half Life were associated with improvements in time to completion, economy of motion, and overall performance.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalSurgery·DateApr 1, 2021

Study finds why some cancer drugs may be ineffective

A study found that human tumor cells in patient-derived xenografts (PDX) are often compromised by mouse viruses, leading to false-positive results for cancer drug efficacy. The researchers analyzed 184 data sets and found that 170 samples showed the presence of mouse viruses.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Possible trigger for Crohn's disease identified

A study led by McMaster University identified adherent-invasive E-coli (AIEC) as a strong potential trigger for Crohn's disease. AIEC bacteria are often found in the intestines of people with Crohn's, and research suggests that they can cause the condition by allowing them to freely colonize the gut lining.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 1, 2021

Different general anesthetics affect consciousness and memory in different ways

A study published in PLOS Biology found that different general anesthetics have varying effects on the brain's hippocampus, a region essential for memory formation. Isoflurane resulted in undisrupted memory formation in mice, while other anesthetics caused significant changes in brain activity and stability of synaptic connections.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 1, 2021

Reverse-order heart-liver transplant helps prevent rejection for certain patients

A new surgical approach at Mayo Clinic has shown promising results in reducing antibody-mediated rejection in highly sensitized patients. The reverse-order heart-liver transplant procedure involves transplanting the liver first, followed by the heart, and has been successful in all seven patients who underwent the procedure.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Physicians must advocate for common sense gun laws for good of public health

The American College of Physicians suggests that physicians should educate patients about firearm safety, act locally against the NRA, and lobby for sensible firearm injury prevention laws. The editorial highlights the need for action after mass shootings, despite a decline in overall gun violence in 2020.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 1, 2021

Scientists observe role of cavitation in glass fracturing

Researchers observed cavitation governing fracture in glasses, revealing self-organized nucleation and growth of nanocavities. Cavitation-induced nanopatterns are common in various glass types, including polymers and silicates.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 1, 2021

Where we live can affect male reproductive health, finds new study

A new study published in Scientific Reports found a link between geographical location and male reproductive health, with pollution levels varying by region. The researchers analyzed dog testes to identify correlations between environmental exposures and reproductive health.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 1, 2021

Telemedicine improves access to high-quality sleep care

A recent update from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine highlights the benefits of telemedicine in providing safe and effective sleep care. The use of telemedicine has improved adherence to CPAP therapy for obstructive sleep apnea patients, while cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia shows similar results to in-person treatment.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateApr 1, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Weight loss changes people's responsiveness to food marketing: study

A new study by UBC Sauder School of Business found that people with obesity tend to be more responsive to food marketing, but when their weight drops significantly, so does their responsiveness. After significant weight loss, people become less responsive to marketing, making it more sustainable to remain at a lower body mass index.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateApr 1, 2021

A single injection reverses blindness in patient with rare genetic disorder

Researchers at Penn Medicine have developed an RNA therapy that reversed blindness in a patient with a rare genetic disorder, improving vision over a 15-month period after a single injection. The treatment's durability and effectiveness provide new avenues for treating other ciliopathies.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 1, 2021

Replacing what was lost: A novel cell therapy for type I diabetes mellitus

Researchers at The University of Tokyo have developed a novel cell therapy using a lotus-root-shaped device to transplant human pancreatic beta-cells in the long term. The device, called LENCON, was shown to successfully control blood glucose levels for over 180 days in diabetic mice.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournaliScience·DateApr 1, 2021

SLAS Technology April issue dives into reactive oxygen species

The April issue of SLAS Technology explores the therapeutic potential of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in applications ranging from wound healing and hair growth enhancement to cancer treatment and stem cell differentiation. However, limitations in controlling the temporal pattern of ROS release hinder their clinical translation.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS TECHNOLOGY·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Genome sequencing shows coronavirus variation drives pandemic surges

A new study from the University of California, Davis, found that COVID-19 cases are driven by emerging coronavirus variants. The researchers developed a metric called GENI to measure virus variation and its link to transmission rates, showing effective control of spread with measures like lockdowns and mask mandates.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 1, 2021

Diversity can prevent failures in large power grids

Researchers at Northwestern University found that heterogeneity in power grid frequencies leads to faster stabilization when generators are damped by breakers at different rates. This discovery could improve stability and design of future grid systems.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

A new state of light

Researchers at the University of Bonn have discovered a new phase transition in an optical Bose-Einstein condensate of light particles. The overdamped phase exhibits unique properties that could be used to transmit quantum-encrypted messages between multiple participants.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScience·DateApr 1, 2021

Keeping it fresh: New AI-based strategy can assess the freshness of beef samples

A team of scientists from GIST developed an AI-based strategy combining diffuse reflectance spectroscopy with deep learning to detect spoiled meat. The technique accurately classifies beef samples in seconds, offering a fast, affordable, and non-invasive solution for checking freshness.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalFood Chemistry·DateApr 1, 2021

UConn researcher develops successful Zika vaccine in preclinical studies

A UConn researcher has developed a successful Zika vaccine in preclinical studies using a novel platform technology. The vaccine, based on a viral vector and enhanced expression of the virus antigen, was found to mount a strong immune response and protect against Zika virus infection.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Titanium dioxide stars in the first IFJ PAN research at the Cracow synchrotron

Researchers from IFJ PAN studied the changes in titanium dioxide's surface layers under different temperatures and atmospheres, shedding light on its electronic structure and physico-chemical properties. They also recreated the process of forming the rutile phase at lower temperatures than previously thought.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry A·DateApr 1, 2021

Baby aspirin linked to lower risk of colorectal cancer death

Regular use of baby aspirin before a diagnosis of non-metastatic colorectal cancer is associated with better survival outcomes. The study found that low-dose aspirin use limits the spread of cancerous tumors pre-diagnosis, leading to lower death rates from the disease.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 1, 2021

Mimes help us 'see' objects that don't exist

Researchers discovered that mimes can rapidly and automatically build representations of invisible objects in the mind. Participants responded significantly faster when implied surfaces aligned with the mimed action, indicating active mental representation. This finding has implications for artificial intelligence related to vision, su...

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Unique macro-vertebrate at risk from blood sport and climate change

Climate change and poaching pressure are expected to significantly impact kangaskhan habitat suitability, according to a new study. Researchers used several species distribution modeling algorithms to predict the species' future survival.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateApr 1, 2021

New project to boost youth health and data literacy skills

A University of Illinois project aims to improve youth health data literacy through a two-year program. Fifteen teens from across the state will participate, conducting needs assessments and presenting findings to local audiences.

SourceUniversity of Illinois School of Information Sciences·DateApr 1, 2021

Melting ice sheets caused sea levels to rise up to 18 metres

A recent study by Durham University reveals that the rapid sea-level rise at the end of the last ice age was primarily caused by the melting of ice sheets in North America and Scandinavia. This finding, which challenges previous theories, provides valuable insights into the complex interactions between ice-ocean-climate systems.

SourceDurham University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Landslides: New early warning systems reduce false alarms

A new study by the CMCC Foundation explores the potential of ERA5 reanalysis data to improve landslide early warning systems. By incorporating antecedent slope wetness conditions, these systems can minimize false alarms and improve disaster prevention.

SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalLandslides·DateApr 1, 2021

Consumers are searching online but not buying. Why?

A new study published in Marketing Science reveals that customized seller recommendations are more powerful than discounting in increasing conversion rates. The research also found that auction-based pricing mechanisms improve the efficiency of retargeting campaigns, especially when consumers have high search intensity for specific pro...

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateApr 1, 2021

Studying Shakespeare could help medical students connect with patients

A palliative care doctor suggests that studying Shakespeare's plays can help medical students connect more closely with their patients. The doctor argues that a study of Shakespeare's plays may be a creative way to enhance empathic approaches in medical students, creating a space for interpretation and reflection to experience empathy.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateApr 1, 2021