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Science News for February 23, 2021


Multi-ethnic neighborhoods in England retain diversity unlike in the U.S.

Multi-ethnic neighborhoods in England have grown from 0.5% to over 4% of all neighborhoods between 1991 and 2011, while retaining high diversity and stability rates. This contrasts with racially diverse neighborhoods in the U.S., which are often transitional.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalTransactions of the Institute of British Geographers·DateFeb 23, 2021

Abundance of iron drives cell death and could inform novel treatments for neuroblastoma

A recent study found that MYCN overexpression leads to increased iron levels, which induce ferroptosis, a type of cell death. This vulnerability can be exploited by drugs blocking ROS elimination, making cancer cells susceptible to treatment. The researchers plan to test FDA-approved rheumatoid arthritis drugs in preclinical models.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalCancer Research·DateFeb 23, 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.

Older people often incorrectly assume medicines don't have potential side effects

Researchers found that older people correctly understood basic medication information in over 70% of cases. However, when physicians failed to discuss potential side effects, patients incorrectly assumed there were none for nearly half of their prescribed medications.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateFeb 23, 2021

WVU researchers study high-risk populations in low-tech communities

Researchers are examining how Amish and Mennonite communities are responding to COVID-19, including their social distancing practices and health misinformation. They are using community newspapers and local health data to track pandemic-related behaviors and identify factors driving misinformation.

SourceWest Virginia University·DateFeb 23, 2021

High-throughput screening for Weyl semimetals with S4 symmetry

Researchers have developed a new method to discover Weyl semimetals with S4 symmetry, allowing for high-throughput screening. The approach uses a novel topological invariant that can be calculated efficiently using the one-dimensional Wilson-loop method.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateFeb 23, 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.

Fighting fit cockroaches have 'hidden strength'

A new study found that dominant male wide-horned hissing cockroaches have larger respiratory systems, allowing them to dominate physical mating battles. This adaptation may enhance their fighting ability and play a crucial role in sexual selection.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateFeb 23, 2021

Sustainable but smartly: Tackling security and privacy issues in smart agriculture

A comprehensive analysis identifies risks in smart agriculture and proposes countermeasures to prevent information theft and cyberattacks. The researchers categorized agricultural systems into three modes and proposed six general countermeasures, including technological and physical solutions.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateFeb 23, 2021

ALS neuron damage reversed with new compound

Scientists at Northwestern University have identified a compound that eliminates degeneration of upper motor neurons in ALS, a neurodegenerative disease. After 60 days of treatment, diseased brain cells regain health and function like healthy control neurons.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalClinical and Translational Medicine·DateFeb 23, 2021

Detecting COVID-19 with a sticker on your skin

A University of Missouri engineer has received a $500,000 grant to mass-produce a wearable bioelectronic device capable of detecting COVID-19 and tracking multiple vital signs. The device, which can be customized to fit individual health needs, aims to provide critical information for early detection and potentially save lives.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateFeb 23, 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.

The magic angle of twisted graphene

Researchers discovered that twisted graphene at a 1.1-degree angle produces superconductivity, allowing for efficient electricity transport without resistance. The magic angle creates a moiré effect, trapping electrons and phonons in domains that enable superconducting properties.

SourceUniversité catholique de Louvain·JournalNature·DateFeb 23, 2021

Glaciers accelerate in the Getz region of West Antarctica

Research finds widespread increases in ice speed across the Getz sector, with some ice accelerating into the ocean by nearly 50%. Thirteen glaciers are thinning and flowing more quickly into the ocean, contributing to a total loss of 315 gigatonnes of ice between 1994 and 2018.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2021

Game theory may be useful in explaining and combating viruses

Researchers applied game theory to analyze cellular processes, revealing insights into viral behavior and immune system deception. The study provides blueprints for understanding mimicry formation and destruction in cellular populations.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateFeb 23, 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.

Machine learning aids in simulating dynamics of interacting atoms

A new machine learning approach simulates atom dynamics in materials like aluminum, enhancing computational materials discovery. The automated method uses active learning to iteratively build a diverse training dataset, emulating highly accurate quantum simulations at reduced computational cost.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2021

Alaska thunderstorms may triple with climate change

Researchers predict that Alaska will experience a significant increase in thunderstorms by the end of the century, with storms becoming more frequent and intense, especially in southern regions. This shift is driven by warming temperatures and ice-free waters around Alaska, which will fuel atmospheric moisture.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalClimate Dynamics·DateFeb 23, 2021

Losing Obamacare protections during pandemic could increase health disparities

A third of patients with COVID-19 did not have another health condition before contracting the virus, highlighting the need to protect those with pre-existing conditions. This study suggests that repealing Affordable Care Act protections for pre-existing conditions could further increase health disparities among people of color.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateFeb 23, 2021

How women, migrants and workers are represented in the German Bundestag

Members from underrepresented groups in German Bundestag are more active in legislative process but tend to move on after few years due to career-related incentives. They often focus on group interests initially, then shift to broader topics for greater power and appeal.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalBritish Journal of Political Science·DateFeb 23, 2021

For selenium in rivers, timing matters

Research in the Lower Gunnison River Basin found that selenium concentrations in fish prey were highest in April and August due to snowmelt and irrigation. This study highlights the importance of considering the timing of exposure to selenium, which can impair development and survival in aquatic species.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 23, 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.

Waitlist policies may contribute to racial disparities in kidney transplant access

A recent study found that enrolling Black patients on the waitlist with slightly better kidney function could reduce racial disparities in transplant access. This approach aims to bridge the gap between Black and white patients' wait times before kidney failure, ultimately promoting greater equality in transplantation.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 23, 2021

Agile underwater glider could quietly survey the seas

Purdue University scientists create ROUGHIE, a maneuverable underwater glider that can operate silently and efficiently in shallow seas. The glider's unique design allows it to follow complex paths and explore areas inaccessible to other underwater gliders.

SourcePurdue University·JournalSensors·DateFeb 23, 2021

Models to predict dengue, zika and yellow fever outbreaks are developed by researchers

A groundbreaking study aims to create predictive models to monitor and combat epidemics of yellow fever and other mosquito-borne diseases. By analyzing factors such as deforestation, rainfall variations and non-human primate populations, researchers hope to develop models that can predict outbreaks and protect the public.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEmerging Topics in Life Sciences·DateFeb 23, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Parasitic plants conspire to keep hosts alive

Researchers found mistletoes can increase photosynthesis to share resources with their hosts, reducing harm to the tree. This strategy allows them to coexist and even benefit birds and pollinators.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 23, 2021

Oxidation processes in combustion engines and in the atmosphere take the same routes

A research team at TROPOS and University of Helsinki has discovered that alkanes in fuels produce highly oxygenated compounds that can form organic aerosol and contribute to air pollution. The study uses state-of-the-art measurement technology to demonstrate an efficient autoxidation chain reaction for saturated hydrocarbons.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS)·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateFeb 23, 2021

Dingo effects on ecosystem visible from space

A recent UNSW Sydney study pairs satellite imagery with site-based field research to show that removing dingoes leads to overgrazing and reduced soil quality. The effects of dingo removal are visible from space, with vegetation inside the fence having poorer long-term growth than outside.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalLandscape Ecology·DateFeb 23, 2021

New therapeutic target for Huntington's treatment

Researchers at the University of Barcelona have identified small RNAs as a potential therapeutic target for Huntington's disease, which could lead to new treatments and biomarkers. The study reveals that sRNAs play a crucial role in the progression of the disease, including neurotoxicity and neuronal loss.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateFeb 23, 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.

For students of color, online racism leads to real-world mental health challenges

A recent study found that online racism has a significant impact on the mental health of college students of color, even more so than in-person experiences. The study suggests that social media platforms can be a breeding ground for racialized aggressions and assaults, which can lead to real and significant mental health impacts.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalJournal of Student Affairs Research and Practice·DateFeb 23, 2021

Do people with migraine get enough exercise?

People with chronic migraine are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and sleep problems if they don't get enough exercise. Researchers found that a minimum of two-and-a-half hours of moderate to vigorous exercise per week can reduce migraine triggers.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 23, 2021

How did dogs get to the Americas? An ancient bone fragment holds clues

A new study has discovered a bone fragment in Southeast Alaska that belongs to the oldest confirmed dog in the Americas, dated to around 10,150 years ago. The DNA analysis suggests that the dog's lineage diverged from Siberian dogs around 16,700 years ago, coinciding with human migration along a coastal route.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateFeb 23, 2021

Saki monkeys get screen time for more control over their lives in captivity

Researchers from Aalto University designed a video player that saki monkeys can activate on demand, promoting animal welfare and reducing stress. The study found that the animals spent more time watching certain types of videos, such as underwater scenes and worms, and exhibited less scratching behavior when presented with video content.

SourceAalto University·JournalAnimals·DateFeb 23, 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.

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.

Terahertz imaging of graphene paves the way to industrialization

Researchers have developed a new measurement standard for graphene analysis, allowing for fast and non-destructive quality control. The technique enables the creation of high-quality graphene products with consistent performance, accelerating large-scale production and industrialization.

SourceGraphene Flagship·Journal2D Materials·DateFeb 23, 2021

Low-level jets create winds of change for turbines

Researchers found that low-level jets can increase power production by up to 30% when positioned below turbines. Turbines placed above or at the same height as LLJs experience reduced efficiency due to blocked airflow. The study highlights the importance of optimizing turbine height for maximum energy capture.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateFeb 23, 2021

The unveiling of a novel mechanism of resistance to immunotherapy targeting HER2

Researchers have identified a novel mechanism of resistance to immunotherapy targeting HER2, where cancer cells adopt a strategy to evade clearance by redirected lymphocytes. The study found that disrupting interferon-gamma signaling confers resistance to these immunotherapies, promoting disease progression.

SourceVall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 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.

CUHK study brings new direction for treating neurological diseases

A recent CUHK study has provided a novel understanding of the molecular regulatory mechanisms behind the function of the blood-CSF barrier. The research team found that SOX9 is essential to prevent leakage of undesired molecules into the cerebrospinal fluid, highlighting its critical role in maintaining brain homeostasis.

SourceThe Chinese University of Hong Kong·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 23, 2021

Project examines how to make 'farm to table' more sustainable

A University of Texas at Arlington assistant professor is leading a study on making 'farm to table' more sustainable by examining peri-urban farming in central Iowa. The goal is to produce 50% of Des Moines residents' nutritional needs and reduce environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateFeb 23, 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.

Climate impacts drive east-west divide in forest seed production

A new study finds that eastern forests are more responsive to climate change, with younger trees increasing their seed production. In contrast, older western trees have been less responsive, which could limit their ability to regenerate after diebacks. The study reveals a continental divide in forest responses to climate change.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2021

Beta blockers can repair malformed blood vessels in the brain

A study published in Stroke found that propranolol can shrink and stabilize vascular lesions in the brain, potentially treating cerebral cavernous malformations. Researchers administered propranolol to mice with hereditary CCMs, which resulted in fewer and smaller lesions.

SourceUppsala University·JournalStroke·DateFeb 23, 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.

Distinguishing between two very similar pediatric brain conditions

A new study by UT Southwestern scientists reveals distinct characteristics of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) and autoimmune encephalitis (AE), which may enable better treatment outcomes for patients. Slight differences in clinical features, lab results, and imaging findings can help distinguish between the two conditions.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalPediatric Neurology·DateFeb 23, 2021

Largest comprehensive Middle East GWAS reveals Arab genetic risk factors

A comprehensive genetic study in Qatar identifies genetic associations with 45 clinically relevant traits, shedding new light on the genetic architecture of clinical laboratory tests. The study highlights the importance of further research to define the genetic architecture of diseases in the Middle East region.

SourceQatar Foundation·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2021

'Problem of missing ice' finally solved by movement of the Earth's crust

Researchers have successfully resolved the 'Missing Ice Problem' by including crustal, gravitational, and rotational perturbations in their model. The new reconstruction reveals that the total mass of Last Ice Age glaciers was 20% smaller and accumulated faster than previously thought.

SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 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.

New research identifies the most important global supply chain linkages

The study's model analyzes country-sector linkages in the European Union, identifying EU trade partners as the most important linkages for sector growth. Domestic ties are also crucial, but less important than trade agreements.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEconomic Systems Research·DateFeb 23, 2021

COVID-19 communication

A medical school professor highlights the importance of empathy in COVID-19 care, prioritizing humanity over statistics for families affected by critical illness. The essay aims to shift the focus from data-driven approaches to compassion and caring in healthcare.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 23, 2021

Managing suicide risk in research study participants

A new protocol aims to identify and measure suicidal ideation in research studies, ensuring participant safety. The protocol uses the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale to score risk levels, triggering interventions such as stopping data collection or contacting mental health resources.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNursing Research·DateFeb 23, 2021

Cre-controlled CRISPR: Conditional gene inactivation just got easier

Researchers have developed a new method, Cre-Controlled CRISPR, which combines the benefits of the Cre/lox system and CRISPR/Cas9 genetic scissors for conditional gene inactivation. This approach allows for faster and easier gene editing with reduced labor needed to flank genes with lox sequences.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 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.

Study finds COVID risk communication targeting younger adults may have biggest impact

A US study suggests that young adults (under 40) perceive COVID-19 risks differently than older generations, with lower perceived risk and fewer preventive measures taken. Effective targeted communication efforts could encourage more risk reduction behaviors among younger generations.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateFeb 23, 2021

Microbiome boost may help corals resist bleaching

A team of scientists is exploring the use of beneficial bacteria to help corals cope with climate change and bleaching events. By improving the health of coral symbionts, researchers hope to provide a 'medicine' to help corals adapt to changing environmental pressures.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAnnual Review of Animal Biosciences·DateFeb 23, 2021

Global travellers vulnerable to drug-resistant bacteria - study

A recent study reveals that international travellers are highly susceptible to virulent strains of drug-resistant bacteria, often acquiring multiple types during a single trip. Researchers found that 70% of European volunteers colonised with MDR-GN bacteria, highlighting the need for improved infection control measures.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·DateFeb 23, 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.

Elsevier donates original drawings of the Pernkopf Anatomy Atlas to the MedUni Vienna

The Medical University of Vienna has received the original drawings and materials of the famous Pernkopf Atlas of Anatomy from Elsevier, along with funding for digitization and cataloguing. The donation supports historical reappraisal of the atlas's creation, which used models from executed victims of Nazi justice.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalAnnals of Anatomy - Anatomischer Anzeiger·DateFeb 23, 2021

Drifter or homebody? Study first to show where whitespotted eagle rays roam

A multiyear study by Florida Atlantic University found striking differences in travel patterns between the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of Florida. The majority of Gulf coast whitespotted eagle rays exhibited migratory behaviors, while most Atlantic coast rays remained residents within the Indian River Lagoon.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMarine Biology·DateFeb 23, 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.

Scientists propose a new heavy particle similar to the Higgs boson

Researchers at the University of Granada and Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have proposed a new heavy particle with properties similar to the Higgs boson. This particle is expected to play a fundamental role in explaining the origin of dark matter, which could solve two major problems in theories of particle physics.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalEuropean Journal of Physics·DateFeb 23, 2021

Simply speaking while infected can potentially spread COVID-19

Scientists discovered that speaking while infected with COVID-19 can spread the virus to others through aerosol droplets. In a study published in Physics of Fluids, researchers found that face-to-face contact increases the risk of transmission.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateFeb 23, 2021

Nonconscious brain modulation to remove fears, increase confidence

A new dataset from ATR Brain Information Communication Research Laboratory Group provides insights into Decoded Neurofeedback, a technique that uses AI and brain scanning to modify fear memories and boost confidence. The dataset includes five studies and could lead to new treatments for PTSD, phobias, and anxiety disorders.

SourceATR Brain Information Communication Research Laboratory Group·JournalScientific Data·DateFeb 23, 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.

Whale Sharks show remarkable capacity to recover from injuries

A new study found that whale sharks can heal from lacerations and abrasions within weeks, with partially removed dorsal fins re-growing. This knowledge provides a preliminary understanding of wound healing in this species, highlighting the importance of conservation management to minimize human impacts.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalConservation Physiology·DateFeb 23, 2021

Measuring hemoglobin levels with AI microscope, microfluidic chips

Researchers developed an AI-powered imaging-based tool to estimate hemoglobin levels using a microfluidic chip and automated microscope. The system was validated with a high correlation coefficient of 0.99, meeting regulatory standards. This innovation could revolutionize medical diagnostics by reducing costs and laboratory footprint.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateFeb 23, 2021

Scientists found in marine mold substance that antidotes paraquat

Researchers from Far Eastern Federal University have discovered compounds in marine fungus Penicillium dimorphosporum that protect cells from paraquat's harmful effects. The substances showed a 40% increase in cell viability at low concentrations, and the scientists plan to study their mode of action and potential use with other drugs.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·JournalMarine Drugs·DateFeb 23, 2021

UIC researchers invent new gene-editing tool

Researchers have discovered a new gene-editing technique that allows for the programming of sequential cuts in genes, enabling researchers to better investigate time-sensitive processes like cancer development. The discovery was made by UIC's Bradley Merrill and colleagues using special molecules called 'proGuides',

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 23, 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.

Geometallurgist and NSF CAREER awardee breaks down barriers

Isabel Barton is developing a more proactive approach to extraction by applying detailed characterization methods to quantify relevant ore properties. Her research aims to link these properties to leaching results, leading to more efficient mining operations worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateFeb 23, 2021

Researchers use new tool to study stress in root-colonizing bacteria

Researchers at Utah State University used a new tool to study the effects of stress on Pseudomonas chlororaphis O6, a health-promoting bacterium found in dryland wheat roots. The study found that stress can cause compositional changes in the bacteria's outer membrane vesicles, which may be leveraged for crop benefit.

SourceUtah State University·DateFeb 23, 2021

How much is a clam worth to a coastal community?

Shellfish aquaculture provides direct economic benefits and ecosystem services, including habitat for native species and improved water quality. A study estimated that replacing shellfish aquaculture with traditional engineered nutrient reduction strategies would cost between $2.8-5.8 million per year.

SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 23, 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.

'Missing ice problem' finally solved

Climate researchers at the Alfred Wegener Institute have developed a new method to reconcile sea-level height and glacier thickness, advancing our understanding of past climate history. By analyzing sediment cores and geological conditions, they found that glaciers were larger than previously thought, resolving the 'missing ice problem'.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2021

Tracking melting points above 4000 degrees Celsius

A UC San Diego engineer is developing a research platform to study new materials that melt at temperatures higher than 4000 degrees Celsius. The team aims to increase the melting point of materials by mixing large numbers of different atoms together, reducing the driving force for the solid to melt.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateFeb 23, 2021

Researchers reveal genetic predisposition to severe COVID-19

HSE researchers discovered a link between genetic predisposition and severe COVID-19 using machine learning models. The study found that individuals with effective T-cell immunity had lower risk scores, while those with weaker immunity scored higher.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateFeb 23, 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.

Machine learning method identifies precancerous colon polyps

A machine learning algorithm helps differentiate between benign and premalignant polyps in CT colonography data, with a sensitivity of 82% and specificity of 85%. The findings suggest a role for machine learning-derived algorithms in boosting the effectiveness of CT colonography as a screening tool for colorectal cancer.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateFeb 23, 2021

You've got to move it, move it

Researchers found that light-intensity physical activity, such as gardening or walking, may protect mobility in older women. Women who spent the most time performing light-intensity activities had a 46% lower risk of mobility loss compared to those with lower levels of physical activity.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 23, 2021

LSU Health New Orleans study finds disadvantaged census tracts linked to COVID incidence

A new LSU Health New Orleans study found a positive association between social vulnerability and COVID-19 incidence at the census tract level. Census tracts with higher levels of social vulnerability were associated with higher COVID-19 cumulative incidence, suggesting targeted interventions could reduce transmission in vulnerable popu...

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateFeb 23, 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.

New strategy blocks chronic lung disease in mice

Researchers at WashU Medicine have found a new way to block chronic lung diseases such as asthma and COPD by targeting the packaging of inflammatory cytokines in exosomes. By blocking the release of these packaged cytokines, they can prevent damage to the lungs and slow disease progression in mice.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJCI Insight·DateFeb 23, 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.

Innate immune system worsens the situation in severe COVID-19

Researchers found that the innate immune system overreacts in patients with severe COVID-19, leading to blood clots and oxygen saturation issues. The study suggests that this overreaction may be driven by extensive tissue damage, and may be treatable with existing drugs for hereditary angioedema.

SourceUppsala University·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateFeb 23, 2021

Green revolution in electronic displays expected to ease energy and health crises

New strategies aim to achieve ideal bistable electrochromic systems for green displays. Researchers explore various approaches, including material design optimization, indirect EC systems, and device structure improvements. The goal is to overcome technical bottlenecks and enable widespread adoption of sustainable displays.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateFeb 23, 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.

Like wine, environmental conditions impact flavor of whiskey, study finds

A new study by Oregon State University researcher Dustin Herb found that environmental conditions in which barley is grown significantly impacts the flavor of whiskey. The study, published in the journal Foods, used gas chromatography mass spectrometry and sensory analysis to determine the role of terroir in whiskey production.

SourceOregon State University·JournalFoods·DateFeb 23, 2021

Using landscape connectivity to control deadly mosquito-borne viruses

A Yale-led research team created a new method to track how Aedes aegypti mosquitoes move through the environment, combining genetic and environmental data. The results suggest that these mosquitoes travel through a mix of natural and human-aided dispersal, making eco-friendly control methods more crucial than ever.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 23, 2021

Transforming urban systems: Toward sustainability

The paper synthesizes five leading frameworks of urban ecology to advance global urban science and achieve sustainability goals. By integrating knowledge from different disciplines, the framework offers practical tools to assess sustainability planning and improve human-environmental wellbeing.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·Journalnpj Urban Sustainability·DateFeb 23, 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.

Spintronics: New production method makes crystalline microstructures universally usable

A new production method developed by physicists at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg enables the transfer of crystalline microstructures to any material, advancing the production of smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient components. The method has potential applications in spintronics, magnonics, and hybrid components.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateFeb 23, 2021

Breaking the infertility cycle: Sheep could show us the way

Researchers are using sheep to investigate the multigenerational effects of prenatal exposure to androgen excess and explore dietary interventions to prevent PCOS. The study aims to provide crucial biological information for improving reproductive function across generations and has clinical relevance to women with PCOS.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·DateFeb 23, 2021

Researchers identify 'violent' processes that cause wheezing in the lungs

A team of engineers at the University of Cambridge identified the physical mechanisms responsible for wheezing, a condition affecting up to a quarter of the world's population. They developed a 'tube law' to predict when wheezing occurs and could lead to a cheaper and faster diagnostic for lung disease.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateFeb 23, 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.

New vaccine needed for serious childhood pneumonia

A new study found that a current vaccine reduced childhood pneumonia hospitalizations by 21% but increased empyema admissions by 25%. The researchers urge the development of an effective vaccine against emerging non-vaccine serotypes, particularly serotype 3, which causes 76% of empyema cases.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalThorax·DateFeb 23, 2021

'Good bacteria' in breast milk changes over time

Scientists have identified a range of microbiome species never before detected in human milk, which change significantly between early and late lactation. These bacteria are thought to protect the infant gastrointestinal tract and improve aspects of long-term health, such as allergy prevention and toxin resistance.

SourceMcGill University·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateFeb 23, 2021

Incarceration is strongly linked with premature death in US

A new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found a strong association between jail incarceration and death rates from various causes in the US. The research estimated that every 1,000 population increase in local jail incarceration rate was associated with significant increases in mortality rates from infectio...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateFeb 23, 2021

More than 87,000 scientific papers on coronavirus since pandemic

A new study reveals that researchers produced more than 87,000 scientific papers about coronavirus between January and October 2020. The vast majority of these studies were conducted by scientists from China and the United States, which initially dominated coronavirus research due to government funding and institutional partnerships.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScientometrics·DateFeb 23, 2021

Tool encoded in coronaviruses provides a potential target for COVID-19

Researchers identify nsp13 as a key helicase enzyme in coronaviruses, which could be targeted for COVID-19 treatment and prevention. The study found that nsp13 is a relatively weak helicase requiring assistance to function, providing a potential first line of defense against future coronavirus outbreaks.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateFeb 23, 2021

Certain occupations may be associated with higher rates of heavy drinking

Research found that jobs classified as skilled trade occupations were most likely associated with heavy drinking, while professional occupations had lower rates. The study used data from 100,817 UK adults aged 40-69 and found associations between occupation and alcohol consumption differed in men and women.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateFeb 23, 2021

Give the heart a ketone? It may be beneficial

Emerging evidence suggests ketone bodies exert protective effects on patients with heart disease, potentially providing a safer alternative to the keto diet. Increasing circulating ketone levels through multiple mechanisms may offer therapeutic advantages in reducing cardiovascular risk factors.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 23, 2021

A memory without a brain

Researchers have identified how Physarum polycephalum, a single-celled organism, stores and retrieves information about its environment through its network architecture. The slime mold weaves memories of food encounters into the architecture and uses stored information to make future decisions.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 23, 2021

ESMO Targeted Anticancer Therapies Congress 2021

The ESMO Targeted Anticancer Therapies Congress 2021 presented new data on drug discovery and development for a range of targets, including precision medicine. World-renowned experts discussed breakthroughs in the microbiome and oncolytic viruses, highlighting their potential as tools and targets.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateFeb 23, 2021