Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for April 20, 2021


Marine animals inspire new approaches to structural topology optimization

Researchers at Georgia Tech and Brazil's Pontifical Catholic University developed a new framework for designing hierarchical, spatially-varying microstructures with potential applications in cranial reconstruction, space exploration, and biomaterials. This approach combines design and manufacturing to create novel microstructures.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 20, 2021

Database developed on key mollusk to study pollution in coastal areas

A new study has identified the transcriptome and proteome of Scrobiculariaplana, a bivalve used as a bioindicator for pollution. The database provides insights into molecular functions related to stress response mechanisms under pollution, helping to better gauge the effects on marine ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalGenomics·DateApr 20, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study reveals roadmap of muscle decline with age

A comprehensive study in mice reveals a roadmap of muscle decline with age, identifying key molecular mechanisms and potential new treatments. Klotho supplementation improved muscle strength in old but not oldest-old mice, suggesting earlier intervention may prevent declines.

SourceeLife·DateApr 20, 2021

Fast brainwave oscillations identify and localize epileptic brain

Researchers have discovered that fast brainwave oscillations can pinpoint brain tissues responsible for epileptic seizures. The collaborative research leverages noninvasive EEG technology to automatically identify high-frequency oscillations and epileptiform spikes, which are key links related to epilepsy.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2021

Overgrowth of gut yeast in newborns may increase asthma risk

A study published in eLife found that an overgrowth of yeast in the gut within the first few months of life may increase the risk of asthma later on. The period after birth is critical for immune system development and gut microbiome health, and disruptions to gut bacteria can lead to asthma.

SourceeLife·DateApr 20, 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.

Ten ways to ensure bees benefit from the solar power boom

A Lancaster University-led team reviewed evidence on solar park land management practices to enhance pollinator biodiversity. They highlighted ten ways to protect and even enhance bee populations, including sowing wildflowers and connecting parks to nearby habitats.

SourceLancaster University·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateApr 20, 2021

Explanations in online symptom checkers could improve user trust

Researchers at Penn State found that providing explanations for online symptom checker recommendations can increase user confidence and trust in the diagnosis. The study showed that users were more likely to trust the symptoms checker when they received clear explanations of how the system generated its probable diagnoses and suggestions.

SourcePenn State·DateApr 20, 2021

Rock glaciers will slow Himalayan ice melt

New research suggests Himalayan rock glaciers, which account for 1/25 of glacial ice, will resist global warming more than traditional 'true' ice glaciers. These slow-moving glaciers are well-insulated and contain about 51 cubic kilometers of ice.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateApr 20, 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.

Base editors flex sights on sickle-cell disease

Scientists at Beam Therapeutics have created a redesigned base editor that successfully repairs the single-base mutation causing sickle-cell disease. The therapy targets an upstream regulatory pathway to express fetal hemoglobin, offering a potential solution for this genetic disorder.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe CRISPR Journal·DateApr 20, 2021

Individualized training is key for autistic adolescents learning to drive

A collaborative study identified strengths and challenges autistic teens face while learning to drive. Researchers recommend scaffolded instruction and caregiver-supervised practice to overcome obstacles. Autistic drivers show similar crash rates to non-autistic peers, with lower license suspension rates.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalAmerican Journal of Occupational Therapy·DateApr 20, 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.

Fearsome tyrannosaurs were social animals, study suggests

A new study based on research at a unique fossil site in Utah finds that tyrannosaurs were likely gregarious animals, with evidence suggesting they died together during a seasonal flooding event. The discovery sheds light on the behavior of these fearsome predators and challenges long-held assumptions about their solitary hunting habits.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalPeerJ·DateApr 20, 2021

Combining light, superconductors could boost AI capabilities

Researchers propose integrating photonic components with superconducting electronics to enable artificial cognitive systems of scale and functionality. This approach may be easier at low temperatures using superconductors than at room temperatures using semiconductors.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 20, 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.

All-in-one test for COVID-19 surveillance

Researchers have developed an all-in-one test that integrates COVID-19 diagnosis, variant tracking, and co-infection detection into a single portable mini-laboratory. The NIRVANA test can detect SARS-CoV-2 mutations and report them simultaneously, making it a promising solution for rapid field-deployable detection.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalMed·DateApr 20, 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.

Vibrational microscopy goes super resolution

Researchers have developed a novel super-resolution vibrational microscopy harnessing Stimulated Raman Excited Fluorescence (SREF) for ultrasensitive vibrational contrast. This technique enables all-far-field Raman spectroscopy with sensitivity down to single-molecule resolution.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateApr 20, 2021

Newly discovered airway cells may shed light on SIDS and other conditions

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital discovered three distinct types of pulmonary neuroendocrine cells (PNECs) that line the human airway, which may be involved in breathing-related diseases in infants. The study found higher numbers of certain PNECs in autopsied tissues from children who died from SIDS and other conditions.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 20, 2021

The immune link between a leaky blood-brain barrier and schizophrenia

A study by Penn researchers found that people with schizophrenia have a compromised blood-brain barrier, allowing the immune system to improperly influence the central nervous system. This inflammation contributes to the condition's symptoms. The findings may also apply to other mental disorders.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalBrain·DateApr 20, 2021

Astronauts' mental health risks tested in the Antarctic

Researchers found continuous declines in positive emotions among astronauts at two Antarctic stations, without a bounce-back effect after returning home. Positive emotions such as satisfaction and enthusiasm are crucial for thriving in high-pressure settings, and interventions targeting these may reduce psychological risk.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalActa Astronautica·DateApr 20, 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.

Filling federal oversight gaps

The withdrawal of federal regulation on smaller transboundary waters has left individual states with the responsibility to fill in the gaps, but evidence suggests this may not lead to desired outcomes. Research highlights the flaws in the 2020 Navigable Waters Protection Rule's economics analysis and the failure to account for economic...

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalScience·DateApr 20, 2021

A study finds gender bias in music recommendation algorithms

A study by researchers from the Music Technology research group found that a widely used music recommendation algorithm is biased towards male artists, resulting in less exposure for female artists. The algorithm's ranking system perpetuates this bias, with female artist recommendations often appearing later in the list.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·DateApr 20, 2021

Researchers raise alarm over stalled adoption of biotechnology to improve food security

A team of researchers calls on governments worldwide to support the adoption of biotechnologies to improve crop production and combat climate change. They argue that societal acceptance of technologies like gene editing is a major obstacle, highlighting the need for effective communication and advocacy to gain public confidence.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalTrends in Plant Science·DateApr 20, 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.

Study could lead to production of more efficient optoelectronic devices

Researchers used advanced spectroscopy and electronic transport techniques to determine charge accumulation and dynamics in resonant-tunneling diodes. The study aims to develop novel RTDs with optimized charge distribution to enhance photodetection efficiency or minimize optical losses.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateApr 20, 2021

'Undruggable' cancer protein becomes druggable, thanks to shrub

A chemist at Purdue University has found a way to synthesize a compound that can fight a previously 'undruggable' cancer protein with benefits across various cancer types. The compound, curcusone D, was discovered in a shrub native to North America and has shown potent anti-cancer activity against breast cancer cells.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 20, 2021

Predicting the next pandemic virus is harder than we think

Researchers argue that zoonotic risk predictions are limited in value and instead propose focusing on the human-animal interface for intensive viral surveillance to detect novel viruses early. This approach may help prevent future pandemics like COVID-19.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 20, 2021

Brain-on-a-chip would need little training

Researchers at KAUST developed a brain-on-a-chip that can learn real-world data patterns without extensive training, leveraging spiking neural networks and spike-timing-dependent plasticity model. The system is more than 20 times faster and 200 times more energy efficient than other neural network platforms.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Networks and Learning Systems·DateApr 20, 2021

Noncalcified coronary plaque burden higher in people with HIV

A study found that people living with HIV have a two to three times higher noncalcified coronary plaque burden than non-HIV healthy volunteers. Researchers emphasize the importance of adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle for those with HIV.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateApr 20, 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.

Better marketing for a better world

This special issue of the Journal of Marketing explores how marketing can contribute to a better world by examining its impact on outcomes beyond financial performance. It highlights research on topics like sustainability, economic empowerment, health, and prosocial giving.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateApr 20, 2021

Green energy technology

Versogen, a UD spinoff company, has developed patented membrane technology to produce low-cost green hydrogen at scale using a new class of low-cost electrolyzer technology. This technology aims to decarbonize heavy industries and reduce industrial carbon emissions in an environmentally responsible way.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateApr 20, 2021

One in five American adults experience chronic pain

According to a new study published in Pain, nearly one-fifth of American adults (20.5%) suffer from chronic pain, with significant impacts on workdays missed, social activities, and daily living. The total economic burden is estimated at nearly $300 billion annually, including lost wages and productivity.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalPain·DateApr 20, 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.

New study reveal targeted therapy working in early breast cancer

A new study from the University of Bergen reveals that targeted therapy using PARP inhibitors can be effective in treating early-stage triple negative breast cancers. The study found a significant response rate among patients not harboring germline mutations, highlighting a potential for improved personalized treatment.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateApr 20, 2021

Is social media use a potentially addictive behaviour?

Research at University of Strathclyde suggests frequent social media use is not necessarily linked to addiction, contradicting previous studies on attentional bias. The study tested participants' attention towards specific apps and found no association with self-reported addictive severity or established measures of engagement.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalJournal of Behavioral Addictions·DateApr 20, 2021

Little Foot fossil shows early human ancestor clung closely to trees

A new study on the Little Foot fossil suggests that early human ancestors used their arms to bear substantial weight while climbing trees. The research, published in the Journal of Human Evolution, analyzed the upper body of the 3.67 million-year-old Australopithecus individual and found evidence of apelike characteristics.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateApr 20, 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.

WHOI and Analog Devices launch ocean and climate innovation accelerator

The Ocean and Climate Innovation Accelerator (OCIA) consortium aims to advance knowledge of the ocean's role in combating climate change and develop new solutions. The consortium will focus on advancing the 'networked ocean' concept, placing sensors across oceanic environments to monitor critical metrics.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·DateApr 20, 2021

Understanding our restoring force

A research team led by Michigan State University found that restoration benefits outweigh detriments from land use history two-to-one. Despite the benefits, restoration could not erase all of farming's lasting effects. The study provides insights for ecologists to target restoration efforts effectively.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 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.

Predicting the onset of diseases

Scientists developed a new mathematical model to predict disease onset risk using patient genomic data, providing improved predictive quality and personalized health risks for patients. The model can analyze large datasets of genetic markers linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2021

Chickens and pigs with integrated genetic scissors

Researchers at TUM have developed a method to introduce specific gene mutations into desired organs or correct existing genes without creating new animal models. This reduces the number of animals required for research and enables precise gene manipulation in farm animals, such as chickens and pigs.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2021

Handwashing responsible for bacteria in sinks, largest non-hospital study shows

Scientists at the University of Reading found that handwashing shapes communities of bacteria in sink drains, with dominant families differing by location and plumbing system type. The study suggests that even thorough cleaning may not eliminate all bacteria, highlighting the need for thorough disinfection of sinks.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalEnvironmental DNA·DateApr 20, 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.

Helpful, engineered 'living' machines in the future?

Researchers created a soft mechanical metamaterial that can compute digital logic computations using binary inputs and outputs. The material thinks by reconfiguring its conductive polymer network in response to mechanical force and electrical signals.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2021

AI agent helps identify material properties faster

A team of researchers has developed an AI agent called Crystallography Companion Agent (XCA) to analyze X-ray diffraction data and identify material properties faster. The agent collaborates with scientists to perform autonomous phase identifications, overcoming traditional neuronal network overconfidence.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Computational Science·DateApr 20, 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.

Study finds dramatic gains in life expectancy for people with HIV in Latin America

A recent study found dramatic increases in life expectancy for people living with HIV in seven Latin American countries, with a 14-year retrospective analysis of 30,688 individuals. The study reveals significant gains in life expectancy, particularly among women and those with lower HIV transmission risk factors.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet HIV·DateApr 20, 2021

Can extreme melt destabilize ice sheets?

Researchers at Stanford University used a new approach to analyze radar data to show that extreme melt events can create persistent structural changes in the ice sheet, reducing its ability to store meltwater. This change can lead to slippery conditions on the ice bed and speed up the ice sheet's melting.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2021

6G technology: Domestic trio working on tomorrow's mobile communications

A European consortium is working on the technical feasibility of 6G technology, specifically RadioWeaves, which enables real-time data transmission with a dense network of access points. This technology has opportunities for industries such as sports stadiums, where it could provide wireless power and precise location tracking.

SourceGraz University of Technology·DateApr 20, 2021

New biomaterial regrows blood vessels and bone, RCSI research

Scientists have developed a new biomaterial that regrows both blood vessels and bone, potentially providing an alternative to current systems. The biomaterial was inspired by the natural way in which bone defects regenerate and uses a mechanobiology-informed approach to promote both angiogenesis and osteogenesis.

SourceRCSI·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateApr 20, 2021
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.

E-cigarette users in rural Appalachia develop more severe lung injuries

A recent study from West Virginia University reveals that rural e-cigarette users are more likely to develop severe respiratory failure and require critical care. The study found a high correlation between lung injury and toxic volatile organic compounds in e-liquids, particularly in those produced by garage labs.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalHospital Practice·DateApr 20, 2021

Review summarizes known links between endocrine disruptors and breast cancer risk

A comprehensive systematic review of epidemiological research found a link between certain endocrine-disrupting chemicals and increased breast cancer risk. For example, DDT, PCBs, and PFOA were associated with higher breast cancer incidence in some studies, while phytoestrogens like genistein showed potential protective effects.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalCritical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition·DateApr 20, 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.

Reversal of blood droplet flight predicted, captured in experiments

Researchers predict and capture the reversal of blood droplet flight due to gun muzzle gases, impacting forensic analysis of bloodstain patterns. The study also reveals the breakup of blood droplets in flight, affecting the formation and size of blood droplets.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateApr 20, 2021

Crucial action needed for coral reefs

Over 500 million people rely on coral reefs for protection and resources, but these ecosystems are threatened by global warming. A team of scientists recommends a massive energy transition as the most effective action to limit coral reef decline, with international political support necessary.

SourceCNRS·JournalBiological Conservation·DateApr 20, 2021

New findings suggest organ tissues become increasingly immune throughout life

A University of Minnesota Medical School study found that organ tissues develop immunity to viruses over time, leading to a broader understanding of the immune system's role in surveillance. The research reveals that up to 25% of cells in organs are immune cells, significantly contributing to the body's cellular makeup.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalNature·DateApr 20, 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.

ETRI successfully tests AR services on subway

A joint research project between Korea and UK successfully tested AR services on Seoul Subway Line No. 8, demonstrating immersive multimedia experiences with speeds up to 30 times faster than current transmission rates. The test utilized a 5G mobile backhaul network, enabling simultaneous use of AR-immersive services by 190 users.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·DateApr 20, 2021

Stone skipping techniques can improve reentry of space vehicles

Scientists from several Chinese universities investigated the physics of stone skipping and its relation to space vehicle reentry. They found that vertical acceleration and spinning direction affect bouncing and surfing motions, providing new insights for aerospace and marine engineering.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateApr 20, 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.

Designing healthy diets - with computer analysis

A new mathematical model developed by Chalmers University of Technology can predict how different bacteria interact and affect the intestinal microbiome. The model was tested on two clinical studies, one involving Swedish infants and another adults in Finland, showing high accuracy in predicting multiple variables.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2021

Human land use wasn't always at nature's expense

A study combining global maps of population and land use with biodiversity data reveals effective environmental stewardship by Indigenous and traditional peoples. Human transformation of terrestrial nature has been long-standing, contradicting the assumption that development is inherently destructive.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2021

Tiny chip-based device performs ultrafast modulation of X-rays

Researchers developed a new x-ray optics-on-a-chip device that can modulate X-rays at speeds up to 100 times faster than conventional devices. The tiny device, weighing just 3 micrograms, has the potential to capture fast chemical, material and biological processes.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateApr 20, 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.

The COVID-19 is a unique opportunity to move towards more sustainable and equitable society

The COVID-19 crisis has emphasized the need to adapt to global environmental changes, with researchers highlighting the importance of shifting societal priorities from economic growth to human well-being and environmental health. A sustainable transition requires a cohesive and inclusive society where people adhere to collective action...

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalSustainability Science·DateApr 20, 2021

Large clinical trial to study repurposed drugs to treat COVID-19 symptoms

A large randomized Phase 3 clinical trial will test existing prescription and over-the-counter medications for treating mild-to-moderate COVID-19 symptoms. The ACTIV-6 trial aims to provide evidence-based treatment options for adult patients with mild-to-moderate symptoms, reducing the need for hospitalization.

SourceNIH/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)·DateApr 20, 2021

Biologists discover a new type of placental structure in animals

Biologists have discovered a new type of placental structure in animals, specifically in the group Cyclostomata from the phylum Bryozoa. This unique structure, called coenocytes, is formed through nuclear multiplication and cytoplasmic growth, unlike traditional cell fusion in animals.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalBMC Ecology and Evolution·DateApr 20, 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.

Dartmouth startup wins funding for remote physical therapy monitoring system

A Dartmouth startup has received funding to create a remote-sensing resistance band exercise system that can monitor patient progress and guide healthcare providers in at-home rehabilitation programs. The device aims to bridge the gap between clinicians and patients, increasing compliance rates and reducing unnecessary interventions.

SourceThayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth·DateApr 20, 2021

Reliably detecting cocoa off-flavors

A team of scientists has identified key odorants responsible for musty and moldy-smoky cocoa flavors using a molecular sensory science concept. The research provides an objective method to assess fermented cocoa's sensory quality based on odorant concentrations, benefiting the food industry with reliable identification of off-flavors.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateApr 20, 2021

Study highlights role of physical, mental health in cognitive impairment

A recent study suggests that preserving physical and mental health helps older adults experiencing cognitive impairment stave off declines in cognitive engagement. The researchers found that declines in physical and mental health were associated with more pronounced cognitive disengagement, particularly among participants with advanced...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEntropy·DateApr 20, 2021

Forensics puzzle cracked via fluid mechanical principles

Researchers from University of Illinois at Chicago and Iowa State University cracked a forensic puzzle by exploring the fluid physics involved in a 2009 murder case. They found that backward blood spatter droplets can be entrained within a turbulent vortex ring of muzzle gases, potentially leaving shooter clothing bloodstain-free.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateApr 20, 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.

2D nanomaterial MXene: The perfect lubricant

Researchers from TU Wien and international partners discovered MXene's exceptional properties as an ultra-durable dry lubricant, reducing friction to one sixth and withstanding 100,000 movement cycles without issues. Its heat resistance and independence from atmosphere and temperature make it suitable for various industrial applications.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 20, 2021

Our attention is captured by eye-glance

Researchers found that eye contact causes a distortion in temporal perception, making time seem shorter than it really is. In contrast, deviated gazes do not impact time perception.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCognition·DateApr 20, 2021

Gold digger: Neural networks at the nexus of data science and electron microscopy

Researchers at Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience used machine learning to develop Gold Digger software that can accurately identify gold particles bound to specific proteins of interest. The software uses a deep learning approach to distinguish gold particles from shadow artifacts with near-human level accuracy.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 20, 2021

Probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus shows promise for treating inflammatory bowel disease and other intestinal inflammation disorders

Researchers found that probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus strain LA1 generates a rapid and sustained enhancement of the intestinal barrier, effectively treating intestinal inflammation. The study also showed that LA1 can prevent colonic inflammation formation and promote healing in mice with induced colitis.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateApr 20, 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.

Flushing a public toilet? Don't linger, because aerosolized droplets do

Researchers discovered that aerosolized droplets generated by flushing a toilet and urinal in public restrooms pose a significant risk of transmitting COVID-19. The study found that these small droplets can remain suspended for hours, contaminating the air and increasing the risk of infection.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateApr 20, 2021

Was Cascadia's 1700 earthquake part of a sequence of earthquakes?

Researchers suggest that the 1700 Cascadia earthquake could be part of a longer-lived sequence of earthquakes, potentially spanning many decades. This hypothesis has significant implications for how earthquake hazard maps are created for the region, and may help explain why there is little geologic evidence of the event in some areas.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 20, 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.

How lessons from past emergencies could improve the pandemic response

A new study suggests that lessons learned from past emergencies, such as 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina, can inform improvements to the government's response to pandemics. By adopting a more centralized approach to procurement and communication, governments can achieve goals faster and more effectively.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Emergency Management·DateApr 20, 2021

Specialized technique captures unique protein structures in neuropathy disorders

Researchers have developed a specialized technique to capture unique protein structures associated with neuropathy disorders, such as Charcot Marie Tooth and Dejerine-Sottas syndrome. The technique, ion mobility-mass spectrometry (IM-MS), reveals that an unstable mutant version of the PMP22 protein forms a stable complex called a dimer.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2021

Research brief: Improving drug efficacy against prostate cancer and related bone growths

Researchers developed a system to deliver nucleotide-based drugs more effectively into primary tumor tissue and bone metastases, improving their clinical efficacy. The study found that iRGD-liposomes significantly enhanced the ability of antisense oligonucleotides to inhibit prostate cancer growth and prolong tumor suppression.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateApr 20, 2021

Study finds organic crystals that can trap nitrous oxide, a toxic greenhouse gas

Scientists have discovered a novel approach to separate and capture nitrous oxide, a harmful greenhouse gas, using hydroquinone clathrate. The study reveals that the organic crystal can trap N2O at high concentrations, making it a promising option for reducing emissions and saving energy.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 20, 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.

Examining clinician burnout

Researchers investigated the association of clinician burnout with clinician type, sex, work culture and use of electronic health records. The study found that burnout is more prevalent among certain types of clinicians and in work cultures with heavy reliance on technology.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 20, 2021

The British variant is 45% more contagious than the original virus

A new study at Tel Aviv University found that the British variant (B.1.1.7) of Covid-19 is 45% more contagious than the original virus, with rapid spread and significant impact on vulnerable populations. Constant monitoring of at-risk populations and vaccination can prevent illness and mortality.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateApr 20, 2021

How the language you speak aligns to your genetic origins and may impact research on your health

A recent study has found that South-Eastern Bantu-speaking groups are genetically diverse, with distinct languages and histories, and cannot be treated as a single entity in disease research. This discovery may lead to more accurate genetic analysis and better understanding of complex diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 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.

URI oceanographers reveal links between migrating Gulf Stream and warming ocean waters

A recent study by URI researchers shows that the Gulf Stream's position relative to the Grand Banks of Newfoundland can predict rapid warming of the Northwest Atlantic Shelf. The team used satellite data to observe the mechanism behind these changes, which block the southwestward transport of cold water and lead to marine heat waves.

SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateApr 20, 2021

'Information theory' recruited to help scientists find cancer genes

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine used information theory to identify a likely key genetic culprit in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common form of childhood leukemia. By analyzing DNA methylation patterns, they discovered a gene called UHRF1 that drives the development of cancer.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateApr 20, 2021

Back pain shows association with increased mortality risk in women

A new study from Boston Medical Center reveals a significant association between back pain and elevated mortality risk in women. Mild back pain is unlikely to impact life expectancy, but more severe cases are linked to an increased risk of mortality.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 20, 2021

Large numbers of regular drug users report increased substance use during COVID-19

A new CAMH survey found that nearly half of regular drug users reported increased substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many citing difficulty accessing safe supply programs. The study highlights the need for improved supports and services to mitigate risks associated with substance use.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·DateApr 20, 2021

"Molecular Tomographer" algorithm maps gene expression in space

The Tomographer algorithm transforms gene-sequencing data into spatially resolved images, mapping gene expression patterns across tissues. By analyzing tissue strips and mRNA measurements, the algorithm reconstructs spatial gene-expression patterns in tissues like the brain of the Australian Bearded Dragon.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 20, 2021