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Science News for March 11, 2021


Firefly tourism takes flight, sparking wonder and concern

A comprehensive review reveals the benefits of firefly tourism, including economic and social gains, but also highlights threats to local firefly populations. The authors urge site managers, tour guides, and tourists to adopt tailored conservation practices and promote eco-friendly behavior to protect these charismatic creatures.

SourceTufts University·JournalConservation Science and Practice·DateMar 11, 2021

Immunogenicity of Ad26.COV2.S vaccine for COVID-19

A phase 1 study found that a single dose of Ad26.COV2.S vaccine induced both antibody and cellular immune responses. The vaccine is currently being tested in two phase 3 clinical trials to determine its efficacy against COVID-19.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 11, 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 test using environmental DNA to monitor grass pollen levels

A new study suggests that environmental DNA can help better understand which grasses are the worst offenders for outdoor allergens. The research found substantial variability in airborne pollen from different grass species and identified a disproportionate influence of certain grasses on relevant health outcomes.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 11, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

50 new genes for eye colour

A large-scale genetic study has identified 50 new genes associated with human eye color, significantly expanding the current understanding of this complex trait. These findings will help improve diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases such as pigmentary glaucoma and ocular albinism.

SourceKing's College London·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 11, 2021

Researchers set new resolution record for imaging the human eye

A new imaging method has been developed that can capture high-resolution images of photoreceptors in the human eye, overcoming resolution limitations imposed by light diffraction. The technique uses annular pupil illumination and sub-Airy detection to enhance microscopy techniques for earlier detection and treatment of eye diseases.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateMar 11, 2021

With masks on, three feet is just as safe as six feet apart in Massachusetts schools

A statewide study in Massachusetts public schools found no significant difference in COVID-19 case rates between districts with 3-foot versus 6-foot physical distancing policies with universal mask mandates. The study suggests that lower physical distancing policies can be adopted without negatively impacting student or staff safety.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateMar 11, 2021

Standard vital signs could help estimate people's pain levels

A new study shows that machine-learning strategies can be applied to routinely collected physiological data to provide clues about pain levels in people with sickle cell disease. The researchers found that these vital signs give clues into the patients' reported pain levels, outperforming baseline models.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 11, 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.

UH geologists discover powerful 'river of rocks' below Caribbean

A team of researchers from the University of Houston found that the asthenosphere, a hot and softer layer beneath tectonic plates, is flowing vigorously, driving plate motions. This 'river of rocks' has been actively flowing for eight million years, shaping the Earth's surface and influencing earthquakes.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 11, 2021

New insight into how cancer spreads

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding how cancer cells communicate to spread, a key step in metastasis. By targeting the VEGF-C protein, they aim to slow down or stop metastatic growth, providing new hope for treating fatal diseases.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalOncogene·DateMar 11, 2021

Global battle against antibiotic resistance requires tailored solutions

The study found enormous differences in the availability and use of antibiotics between African and Asian countries, with Asia having more readily available antibiotics. Self-medication is a significant problem, with high rates in some countries, and context plays a crucial role in combating antibiotic resistance.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateMar 11, 2021

Are there differences in the brains of autistic men and women?

Research suggests autistic individuals, particularly females, exhibit unique neural connections and reduced default network activity compared to neurotypical males. These findings indicate a combination of sex-dependent and independent effects on brain connectivity in autism.

SourceThe Child Mind Institute·JournalMolecular Autism·DateMar 11, 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.

'Hunker down' stress genes boosted in women who live in violent neighborhoods

A study of low-income single Black mothers in Chicago's South Side found that chronic stress from violent neighborhoods alters gene activity in immune cells. The 'hunker down' response to long-term threat can lead to accelerated aging and worsened health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateMar 11, 2021

Scientists stabilize atomically thin boron for practical use

Researchers have successfully created borophane, a stable form of atomically thin boron, which exhibits strength, flexibility and electronics properties. This breakthrough enables the exploration of its real-world applications in fields like batteries, electronics and quantum computing.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateMar 11, 2021

How to make all headphones intelligent

Researchers develop HeadFi, a plug-in headphone adapter that transforms regular headphones into sensors for user identification, heart rate monitoring and gesture recognition. The invention shows promise in upgrading existing headphones without requiring new hardware or customization.

SourceRutgers University·DateMar 11, 2021

NIH-led team sets new bar in retinal imaging

A NIH-led team has noninvasively visualized photoreceptors in the retina with greater detail than ever before, improving resolution by a third. This breakthrough technique enables better tracking of degenerative changes and may lead to earlier detection and treatment of vision loss diseases.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalOptica·DateMar 11, 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.

Clear vs covered masks during surgical clinic visits

A randomized clinical trial found that wearing clear masks reveals surgeons' faces, improving patients' perceptions of communication, trust, and empathy. This study suggests a potential benefit to using clear masks in surgical clinics.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMar 11, 2021

Climate change may not expand drylands

Researchers challenge prevailing views that warmer climate means more dry land by developing a new metric of drylands based on land surface properties. The study found that climate models don't project a dramatic and rapid global expansion of drylands, but still struggle with uncertainty about future land changes.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 11, 2021

Pandemic emphasizes need for digital literacy education

Researchers emphasize the importance of universal digital intelligence standards in K-12 classrooms to safeguard students from cyberbullying, gaming disorders, and other online threats. A global framework is being adopted by institutions worldwide to equip one billion people with digital skills within 10 years.

SourceIowa State University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateMar 11, 2021

Scientists discover cellular stress enzyme that might play key role in neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health have discovered a cellular stress enzyme called MARK2 that controls protein synthesis in response to types of stress or damage seen in neurodegenerative disorders. The finding suggests that MARK2 may play a key role in diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 11, 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.

Hyperpolarized proton MRI used to observe metabolic processes in real time

A new hyperpolarized proton MRI method has been developed by researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz and the Helmholtz Institute Mainz. This technique uses parahydrogen to track biochemical processes in real-time, enabling the observation of metabolic processes without the drawbacks of existing hydrogen-based imaging methods.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 11, 2021

Researchers reveal 3D structure responsible for gene expression

Researchers at Northwestern University have visualized the 3D structure of the Mediator-bound pre-initiation complex (Med-PIC) in human cells, revealing its role in regulating gene expression. The complex, consisting of 26 subunits, helps position RNA polymerase II and general transcription factors to transcribe specific genes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateMar 11, 2021

First lab-grown mini-thyroids use patients' own tissue

Researchers have successfully generated lab-grown mini-thyroid organs from patients' own thyroid tissue, which can produce thyroid hormones. The study provides a potentially unlimited source of lab-grown thyroid tissue and may lead to new therapy options for hypothyroidism.

SourceInternational Society for Stem Cell Research·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateMar 11, 2021

Fine structure revealed of potential alternative to lead compound used in sensors

A novel technique has been developed to explore the fine structure of barium titanate, a perovskite titanate that could potentially replace lead titanate in sensors. The study found similar orbital hybridization between titanium and oxygen, as well as between barium and titanium electrons, contributing to polarization reversal.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalActa Materialia·DateMar 11, 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.

HPV vaccines for adults over age 26 may not be cost-effective

A new study found that vaccinating adults age 26 and older against HPV may not provide significant health benefits, due to high costs and lower vaccine efficacy in older individuals. Cervical cancer screening remains an effective way to protect women from cervical cancer.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 11, 2021

Fossilized feeding frenzy

A 47-million-year-old fly fossil found in Vienna revealed that flies played a significant role in ancient pollination. The fly's stomach contents showed pollen from various plant species, suggesting its importance in pollen dispersal and biotic interactions.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 11, 2021

Targeted screening for prostate cancer could prevent one in six deaths

A new study suggests that targeted screening for prostate cancer could prevent up to 16% of prostate cancer deaths and reduce overdiagnosis by 27%. The study, led by UCL researchers, recommends screening men with a high genetic risk profile using an MRI scan before biopsy.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 11, 2021

Female snowy plovers are no bad mothers

In snowy plover species, females often abandon their broods to mate with new partners, a behavior that may be beneficial for parental reproductive success. The study found that females desert their broods primarily due to poor environmental conditions or when chicks have a good chance of survival without them.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalBehavioral Ecology·DateMar 11, 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.

Fatal police violence nearby increases risk of preterm birth

A new study by researchers at UCSF found that fatal police violence near a pregnant woman's home increases the risk of preterm birth. The study analyzed records of 3.8 million pregnant women and found that deaths due to police violence, particularly among Black victims, were strongly associated with moderate or late preterm delivery.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPaediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology·DateMar 11, 2021

Pain hides in our data

Researchers developed an AI algorithm to mine physiological data from patients with chronic pain, detecting changes in pain levels and atypical fluctuations. The study aims to provide a more precise treatment method by supplementing subjective pain assessments with objective data-driven approaches.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 11, 2021

Modulation of photocarrier relaxation dynamics in two-dimensional semiconductors

The review article discusses modulation strategies for 2D semiconductors, including Coulomb interaction modification and influencing factors like initial photocarrier distribution and phonon-assisted relaxation. Researchers aim to provide guidance for developing robust methods tuning photocarrier relaxation behaviors.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMar 11, 2021

Stress reduction as a path to eating less fast food

A 16-week lifestyle intervention reduced stress levels and led to fewer fast-food meals among overweight, low-income mothers. The program focused on stress management and practical tips, resulting in a 7% decrease in high-fat food consumption.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNutrients·DateMar 11, 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.

Mapping the best places to plant trees

The Reforestation Hub is an interactive map that color-codes individual counties by reforestation opportunity, revealing a great deal of potential for restoration across the US. The tool identifies trends and quantifies land suitability for forest cover, providing valuable insights for foresters and policymakers.

SourceCell Press·JournalOne Earth·DateMar 11, 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.

Contactless high performance power transmission

A team of physicists at TUM has developed a coil with superconducting wires capable of transmitting power in the order of more than five kilowatts without significant loss. The researchers optimized the distance between individual windings to achieve a higher power density, paving the way for exciting application areas such as industri...

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Applied Superconductivity·DateMar 11, 2021

Breakthrough lays groundwork for future quantum networks

Researchers successfully transferred entangled qubit states through a communication cable, paving the way for future quantum networks. The team achieved entanglement amplification via the cable, using superconducting qubits, and demonstrated a system that can send entangled quantum states with minimal loss of information.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalNature·DateMar 11, 2021

Modeling viral infections using patient-specific "digital twins"

Researchers propose using patient-specific digital twins to model viral infections, integrating human physiology, immunology, and real-time clinical data. Medical digital twins could aid in optimizing treatments for individual COVID-19 patients, combining mechanistic knowledge with observational data and artificial intelligence.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 11, 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.

Scientists found new way to synthesize chiral tetraarylmethanes

Researchers at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology have developed a novel approach to synthesize chiral tetraarylmethanes, a type of spherical molecule. The new method enables efficient access to this previously underexplored chemical space, with promising activity against cancer cells and enterovirus.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Catalysis·DateMar 11, 2021

Wing tags severely impair flight in African Cape Vultures

Researchers found that wing tags severely impair Cape Vultures' flight performance, causing them to travel shorter distances and fly slower. Leg bands are a less invasive alternative for marking individuals, prompting a shift towards this method in vulture conservation.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalAnimal Biotelemetry·DateMar 11, 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.

Study of Redoubt and other volcanoes improves unrest detection

Researchers discover that thermal unrest can occur for several years before an eruption, allowing for early warning signs. The study used satellite data to analyze the radiant temperature of volcanoes' flanks, revealing a clear correlation with impending eruptions.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 11, 2021

A touch of silver

A unique Ag-hydrogel composite offers high electrical conductivity while maintaining soft compliance and deformability. The composite has applications in wearable electronics, brain sensors, and treating muscular disorders, such as Parkinson's disease.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Electronics·DateMar 11, 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.

The world's oldest crater from a meteorite isn't an impact crater after all

A team led by Chris Yakymchuk at the University of Waterloo found that a three-billion-year-old crater in Greenland is inconsistent with an impact crater, but instead formed through normal geological processes. The discovery was made after a 40-million-year delay from the initial proposed meteorite impact date.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateMar 11, 2021

Debaryomycesyeast prevents healing in Crohn's-diseased tissues

Researchers found that Debaryomyces hansenii promotes chronic inflammation and impairs wound healing in Crohn's disease patients. The fungus preferentially colonizes inflamed intestinal tissues, suggesting it as a potential therapeutic agent.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 11, 2021

Has climate change altered river flows at a global scale?

A new study finds that climate change is the causal driver influencing the magnitude of global river flows. The analysis of thousands of time series from around the world revealed recent spatially complex hydrological trends, with rivers in some regions drying up and flowing less while others are growing wetter.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 11, 2021

Making green energy the default choice can help tackle climate change, study finds

A Swiss energy market study found that adopting a 'green default' option for consumers leads to significant shifts towards renewable energy. The study, published in Nature Human Behaviour, showed that both households and businesses predominantly accepted the default option, resulting in substantial CO2 emissions reductions.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateMar 11, 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.

Healthy Diet Index supports diet quality assessment and dietary counselling in healthcare

The Healthy Diet Index is a tool developed by Finnish nutrition experts to assess diet quality. It was found to associate with the intake of energy nutrients, fibre, and several vitamins and minerals, and to be linked to lower body mass index, waist circumference, and blood glucose levels in both men and women.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMar 11, 2021

Experiences of Latinx individuals hospitalized for COVID-19

A recent study reveals the challenges faced by Latinx patients hospitalized with COVID-19, including delayed diagnosis and inadequate treatment. The research underscores the need for improved culturally sensitive care to address these disparities and improve health outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 11, 2021

Cheaper carbon capture is on the way

A new solvent, EEMPA, has been developed that captures carbon dioxide at a cost of $47.10 per metric ton, surpassing commercial technology's $58.30 per metric ton. The solvent is water-lean and 99% less viscous than previous formulations, allowing it to be easily applied in existing capture systems.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalInternational Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control·DateMar 11, 2021

The narwhal's tusk reveals its past living conditions

Researchers analyzed narwhals' tusks to understand past living conditions, revealing a shift from sea-ice linked prey to open ocean food sources. The findings support the impact of climate change on Arctic ecosystems and highlight the need for mercury pollution reduction efforts.

SourceAarhus University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 11, 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.

After cracking the "sum of cubes" puzzle for 42, researchers discover a new solution for 3

After solving the sum of cubes puzzle for 42, researchers found a new solution for 3 using an optimized algorithm that utilized mathematical 'sieving' techniques. The discovery suggests there may be infinitely many more solutions for other values of k, with the next solution involving gigantic 21-digit numbers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2021

Lithium niobate crystal film for integrated photonic applications

The article reviews progress in microstructure engineering and domain engineering of lithium niobate photonics, including photonic modulation and nonlinear photonics. High-efficiency wavelength converters using optical waveguides involve nonlinear integrated photonics.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMar 11, 2021

Probiotics increase gut bacteria diversity in extremely preterm infants

A new clinical study has shown that supplements of a lactic acid bacterium may have positive effects by increasing the diversity of intestinal bacteria in extremely preterm infants. The treatment reduced the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis, a life-threatening inflammation of the gut.

SourceLinköping University·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateMar 11, 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.

Hubble sees new atmosphere forming on a rocky exoplanet

Astronomers have discovered a secondary atmosphere on GJ 1132 b, rich in hydrogen and hydrocarbons, which is believed to be replenished by volcanism and tidal heating. The new findings provide insights into the exoplanet's geology and offer a window into its interior.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·DateMar 11, 2021

Simultaneous multicontrast OR-PAM from single laser source

Researchers developed a multiwavelength OR-PAM system based on a single laser source, enabling simultaneous multicontrast imaging of hemoglobin concentration, blood flow speed, blood oxygen saturation, and lymphatic concentration. This innovation shortens imaging time and improves accuracy for functional imaging in biological tissues.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateMar 11, 2021

Deforestation favors an increase in the diversity of antibiotic-resistant soil bacteria

A study found that deforestation in the Amazon leads to an increase in antibiotic-resistant soil bacteria, with a larger number of genes and molecular mechanisms detected in deforested areas than in forested ones. The researchers warn that these microorganisms can pose a significant public health risk if they reach humans.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalSoil Biology and Biochemistry·DateMar 11, 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.

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.

Revealing the way a critical enzyme works in the cell

Researchers uncover key mechanism of acyl protein thioesterase APT2's membrane binding and function. APT2 binds membranes through electrostatic interactions and hydrophobic loop, enabling deacetylating proteins.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMar 11, 2021

Information transition mechanisms of spatiotemporal metasurfaces

Researchers propose two information transition mechanisms for spatiotemporal metasurfaces: group extension and independent control of multiple harmonics. These mechanisms enable accurate manipulations of electromagnetic information and open up new possibilities for multitasking and wireless communications.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMar 11, 2021

Tumours illuminated brightly and precisely with new biodegradable nanoprobe

Researchers at Imperial College London have developed a new type of nanoprobe that uses second harmonic generation (SHG) to detect tumors more brightly and precisely than existing fluorescent nanoprobes. The biodegradable bioharmonophores attach specifically to tumor cells, reducing misrepresentation and improving detection sensitivity.

SourceImperial College London·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 11, 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.

Twin Peaks: more twinning in humans than ever before

A new study reveals a significant increase in global twin births, with about 1.6 million twins born each year worldwide. The rate has risen by a third since the 1980s, mainly due to growth in medically assisted reproduction and delayed childbearing.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateMar 11, 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.

Capturing all of light's data in one snapshot

Researchers at Duke University and other institutions are developing a 'super camera' capable of capturing all types of information carried by light, including polarization, depth, phase, coherence, and incidence angle. The project aims to create an imaging system that can handle sensing and processing simultaneously, streamlining size...

SourceDuke University·DateMar 11, 2021

Researchers boost potency of an HIV-1 antibody, tracing new pathways for vaccine development

Scientists have identified a promising antibody that can effectively fight HIV-1 by tracing new pathways for vaccine development. The study found that the binding strength of the antibody is directly correlated to its ability to neutralize HIV-1, and researchers discovered genetic mutations that enhance the antibody's potency against d...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 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.

African American women experience higher risk of pregnancy-related stroke, death

Researchers analyzed data from nearly 40 million pregnant and post-partum women and found that African American women experienced a 41% higher incidence of pregnancy-associated stroke and a 7.8% in-hospital mortality rate compared to white women. The study highlights serious disparities in cardiovascular disease outcomes despite adjust...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMar 11, 2021

Stroke survivors may have higher suicide risk

Research suggests that stroke survivors are at a higher risk of attempting or dying by suicide, with rates of depression among survivors ranging from 28% to 35%. The study analyzed over 2 million stroke survivors and found a significant association between stroke and increased suicidal thoughts.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMar 11, 2021

The skeleton of the malaria parasite reveals its secrets

Researchers at UNIGE have discovered a vestigial form of conoid organelle in the malaria parasite, which could play a role in host invasion. The study uses expansion microscopy to view the parasite's cytoskeleton at an unprecedented scale, shedding new light on its life cycle.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 11, 2021

Long-term stroke death rates are higher among Black Medicare patients

Researchers analyzed data on 744,044 Medicare beneficiaries who had been treated for ischemic stroke between 2005 and 2007. The study found that Black patients had higher rates of kidney failure, dementia, and diabetes, while white patients had more common chronic conditions like atherosclerosis and COPD.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMar 11, 2021

ADHD: Aggressive behavior is genetically coded

Researchers have found genetic variants increasing ADHD risk and aggressive behavior in children, shared with the general population. These variants affect aggression in both children with and without ADHD, highlighting a complex interplay between genetics and environment.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 11, 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.

Uncovering exotic molecules of potential astrochemical interest

Researchers detect HCCP and CH2=C=PH, unusual phosphorus-containing molecules in interstellar clouds. The discovery paves the way for studying their properties and potential extraterrestrial detections, advancing our knowledge of astrochemistry.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 11, 2021

New clinical method could lower risk of recurring heart attacks

Researchers at Lund University developed a new examination method using NIRS and IVUS, which identifies high-risk plaques that cannot be seen with traditional angiograms. The study found that over 14% of treated patients experienced heart disease recurrence within four years, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment.

SourceLund University·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 11, 2021

How does a crustacean become a crab?

Researchers at Harvard University found that the crab-like body plan evolved at least five times independently in both true crabs (Brachyura) and false crabs (Anomura). The team also discovered that the crab-like body plan has been lost at least seven times in a process called decarcinization. This study provides insights into the evol...

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalBioEssays·DateMar 11, 2021

Rare earths outside China: FAU researchers identify new deposits

Researchers at FAU have discovered a way to find previously unknown deposits of rare earths worldwide using fayalite crystals in sediment of granite-like magma. This discovery is crucial for addressing the scarcity of heavy rare earth elements on the global market.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalGeology·DateMar 11, 2021

'Silent' heart attacks may increase risk of stroke

Research presented at the American Stroke Association International Stroke Conference 2021 found that silent heart attacks may increase stroke risk in adults 65 and older. Participants who had evidence of a silent heart attack had a 47% increased risk of developing a stroke, compared to those without a silent heart attack.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMar 11, 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.

Mindfulness meditation improves quality of life in heart attack survivors

A study published at ESC Acute CardioVascular Care 2021 found that an eight-week programme of mindfulness meditation improves quality of life and reduces fear of movement in heart attack survivors. The intervention also showed benefits for emotional function, with participants reporting better feelings about their daily lives.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateMar 11, 2021

Seeing both sides of light collection

Researchers at KAUST have developed a new solar cell material combination that surpasses the performance of traditional silicon-based panels. By optimizing perovskite materials and device architecture, they achieved efficiencies beyond commercial silicon solar cells.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Energy·DateMar 11, 2021

CHOP researchers find ribosome assembly essential for stem cell regeneration

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have identified genes responsible for hematopoietic stem cell regeneration via ribosome assembly. This finding enhances our understanding of the importance of proper ribosome assembly in stem cell regeneration and identifies possible targets for future therapies for ribosomopathies, ch...

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMar 11, 2021

FAST captures distant fast radio bursts from the youth of universe

Researchers discovered three new FRBs with high dispersion measure from the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope (FAST), indicating they happened billions of years ago. The findings suggest there could be as many as 120,000 detectable FRBs arriving on Earth every day.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 11, 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.

Lithium chloride promotes recovery of radiation-induced oral mucositis and dysgeusia

Researchers investigated the use of lithium chloride to promote restoration of oral mucosa integrity and taste function after radiation. The study found that LiCl alleviated weight loss and tongue ulceration while promoting epithelial cell proliferation and inhibiting transition in tongue mucosa.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateMar 11, 2021

Electricity could help speed wound healing, new study shows

A new study published in Lab on a Chip suggests that electrical stimulation can increase blood vessel permeability, potentially speeding up the wound healing process. This increased permeability allows white blood cells and oxygen to reach injuries more efficiently.

SourceOhio State University·JournalLab on a Chip·DateMar 11, 2021

Paleontology: Microscope helps with dinosaur puzzle

Researchers from the University of Bonn have developed a new method to identify and separate individual dinosaur fossils by analyzing bone tissue. By examining the growth patterns, vascularization, and annual rings in fossilized bones, scientists can now determine whether a particular bone belongs to a specific animal or skeleton.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPalaeontologia Electronica·DateMar 11, 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.

Does your child have MIS-C, COVID-19 or Kawasaki disease?

MIS-C is a rare but life-threatening condition that can cause severe inflammation in organs like the heart, brain, lungs, kidneys, and gastrointestinal system. Diagnosing and treating MIS-C requires accurate differentiation from severe COVID-19 and Kawasaki disease.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA·DateMar 11, 2021

Preterm birth, prolonged labor influenced by progesterone balance

A new study found that unbalanced progesterone signals may cause preterm labor or prolonged labor in pregnant women. The researchers used genetically engineered mouse models to alter the ratio of PGR-A and PGR-B signaling in the uterus, identifying key biological pathways influenced by both forms.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2021

NIH awards grants to support bacteriophage therapy research

The NIH has awarded grants to support research on bacteriophage therapy, an emerging field that could yield new ways to fight antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. Researchers will study the interaction between phages and bacteria to create lasting, re-usable therapeutics.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateMar 11, 2021

Air pollution: The silent killer called PM2.5

The study found that many regions with high air pollution don't measure PM2.5 levels and have weak standards, while places like Canada and Australia have strict enforcement. High population density is not a barrier to fighting air pollution successfully, as seen in countries like Japan and Singapore.

SourceMcGill University·JournalBulletin of the World Health Organization·DateMar 11, 2021

Extinction cascading through ecosystems could spell trouble for humans

A study published in Nature Communications reveals that even if ecosystem services themselves aren't directly threatened, they can become vulnerable to secondary extinctions when surrounding species go extinct. This highlights the need to protect key species that support these services to mitigate indirect threats.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 11, 2021

Computing clean water

Computational models predict solute-surface affinity, allowing for more effective membrane design and improved energy efficiency. Researchers discovered that surface water molecular structures play a crucial role in determining affinity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2021

Laser-driven experiments provide insights into the formation of the universe

Researchers have captured the time history of magnetic field growth in a lab setting using laser-driven experiments. The findings suggest that turbulent dynamo mechanism amplifies magnetic fields rapidly, exceeding theoretical expectations and potentially explaining the origin of large-scale fields in galaxy clusters.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2021

Skoltech team shows how Turing-like patterns fool neural networks

A team of Skoltech researchers demonstrates that universal adversarial perturbations (UAPs) can be explained by classical Turing patterns. This finding can help construct a theory of adversarial examples and design defenses against pattern recognition systems.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·DateMar 11, 2021

AI analysis of how bacteria attack could help predict infection outcomes

A team of scientists has developed an AI model that can predict the success of bacterial infections by analyzing the interactions between different effectors. The study found that even if some effectors are removed, the infection can still take hold due to the inherent strength and flexibility of the effector network.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience·DateMar 11, 2021

New tool to dissect the "undruggable"

Researchers at Harvard University have designed a new highly-selective tool to study proteins that are difficult to target with drugs, known as 'undruggable' proteins. The tool uses a nanobody to add or remove specific sugars from proteins, providing a detailed understanding of their function.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMar 11, 2021

Loss induced nonreciprocity

Researchers propose using energy loss to induce nonreciprocity, breaking Lorentz reciprocity theorem and time-reversal symmetry. This approach enables unidirectional energy transmission between main resonance modes without requiring gain, nonlinearity or magnetic fields.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMar 11, 2021

Robots learn faster with quantum technology

Researchers have successfully demonstrated a significant speed-up in robot learning time using quantum physics, enabling machines to learn faster and make better decisions. This breakthrough has promising implications for the development of autonomous systems.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature·DateMar 11, 2021

The secrets of the best rainbows on Earth

Researchers found that Hawaii's location in the subtropical Pacific, combined with its mountains and clean air, create an ideal environment for frequent rainbow sightings. The new RainbowChase app, developed by Dr. Steven Businger, uses Doppler radar data and satellite images to alert users of favorable conditions.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateMar 11, 2021

How the habitability of exoplanets is influenced by their rocks

Researchers found that weathering rates and atmospheric composition are crucial for a planet's habitability. Geochemistry plays a key role in determining the balance between radiation and liquid water, with extreme temperatures potentially altering this balance.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·DateMar 11, 2021

Climate change influences river flow

A recent study by ETH Zurich reveals that climate change has a globally visible influence on rivers, with complex patterns emerging worldwide. The research analyzed data from 7,250 measuring stations and found that river flow changed systematically between 1971 and 2010.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateMar 11, 2021

Head injuries may worsen cognitive decline decades later

A recent study published in Annals of Clinical and Translational Neurology found that head injuries in people under 50 can lead to lower cognitive scores at age 70. The researchers discovered a small but significant impact on brain health and thinking skills, potentially accelerating the normal aging process.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·DateMar 11, 2021

Weakened protections led to more disappearances of endangered Mexican wolves

Research found that Mexican wolves were 121% more likely to disappear when legal protections were weakened, contrary to theories that lethal removal would reduce poaching. The disappearances were likely caused by poachers hiding evidence of their activities, leading to underreported poaching.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMar 11, 2021

Distant planet may be on its second atmosphere, NASA's Hubble finds

Scientists using NASA's Hubble Space Telescope have discovered a distant planet, GJ 1132 b, that may have lost its atmosphere but regained a second one. The team believes the current atmospheric hydrogen is being slowly released through volcanic processes to form a new atmosphere.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 11, 2021

New analysis of 2D perovskites could shape the future of solar cells and LEDs

Researchers at the University of Surrey have developed a new analysis of 2D perovskites, which could improve the stability of next-generation solar cells and LEDs. By combining lead with tin, they were able to reduce toxic lead quantities and tune key properties, leading to enhanced performance in photovoltaics and light-emitting diodes.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateMar 11, 2021

Starting small to answer the big questions about photosynthesis

Scientists are opening up photosynthesis to nanoscale investigation using a novel approach that combines hybrid membranes with advanced microscopy techniques. This research aims to reveal the behavior of individual protein molecules and gain a deeper understanding of how proteins interact to convert sunlight into chemical energy.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalSmall·DateMar 11, 2021

Reviewing a decade of research on the 2011 Tohoku-oki earthquake

Researchers analyzed data from dense seismic, geodetic and tsunami networks to understand the 2011 quake. The study found that a large coseismic fault slip ruptured into a shallow part of the Japan Trench's megathrust fault.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 11, 2021

Children's dietary guidelines need to change, experts say

Research suggests that repeated exposure to veggies and daily variety can increase kids' intake. Experts recommend practical advice on how to offer veggies to young children to establish healthy eating habits from an early age.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMar 11, 2021

A monumental particle accelerator in the Cygnus Cocoon

The Cygnus Cocoon is found to be the most powerful of our galaxy's known natural particle accelerators, with photons recorded from energies up to one hundred teraelectronvolts. The HAWC observatory detected this phenomenon, suggesting that protons accelerated in stellar winds could be responsible for high-energy gamma photon emission.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Astronomy·DateMar 11, 2021

A new model predicts snakebites to save human lives

Researchers at Tel Aviv University developed a simulation model predicting snakebites based on interactions between farmers and snakes. The model was found accurate in Sri Lanka and plans to be implemented in other regions to reduce snakebite deaths by 50% by 2030.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMar 11, 2021

Tracking cosmic ghosts

The IceCube Neutrino Observatory uses a one cubic kilometer block of ice in Antarctica to track high-energy particles called neutrinos. The observatory enables the detection of new cosmic events, such as a recent Glashow resonance event detected by IceCube, which validated the Standard Model of particle physics.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalNature·DateMar 11, 2021

New study finds shared origins for individual chronic diseases in multimorbidity

A new study published in Nature Medicine has identified key risk factors that increase the likelihood of individuals developing multiple non-communicable diseases. The analysis found that underlying biological links exist in individuals with multimorbidity, which is a growing public health challenge. The researchers also identified pot...

SourceUK Research and Innovation·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 11, 2021

Changing defaults can have a significant and lasting effect

Research at ETH Zurich found that defaulting to green electricity increased demand by over 80% in private households, with a significant impact on business customers as well. Despite higher costs, the majority of customers stuck with green options, demonstrating the lasting effect of default settings.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateMar 11, 2021

New approach found for energy-efficient AI applications

Scientists have found a way to reduce energy consumption in deep neural networks, paving the way for more efficient AI hardware. The approach uses simple electrical impulses instead of complex numerical values, maintaining high accuracy.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateMar 11, 2021

Optimal design for acoustic unobservability in water

Researchers at Shinshu University have developed an acoustic cloaking structure that can operate in both air and water. The design uses finite element analysis to optimize the material selection and acoustics properties, enabling functionality in a wide frequency band.

SourceShinshu University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 11, 2021

Pure promethium: ORNL extracts in-demand isotope from plutonium leftovers

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have successfully extracted the rare and valuable isotope promethium-147 from plutonium waste. This process not only reduces disposal costs but also provides a new source of the isotope, which has applications in nuclear batteries, medical imaging, and space exploration.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateMar 11, 2021

How India's rice production can adapt to climate change challenges

A University of Illinois study suggests that India's rice farmers can increase production while reducing water usage by adopting conservation practices like direct-seeding and soil conservation technology. The researchers also recommend reducing post-harvest losses to further increase crop availability.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalWater·DateMar 11, 2021

Arbitrary polarization conversion dichroism metasurfaces for full Poincaré sphere polarizers

Scientists have proposed an effective approach to achieve full Poincaré sphere polarizers in one step using monolayer metasurfaces with arbitrary polarization conversion dichroism. The system can generate an arbitrarily polarized beam at any position on the Poincaré sphere, making it a monolithic arbitrary polarization generator.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMar 11, 2021

Polarization: From better sunglasses to a better way of looking at asteroid surfaces

Researchers at the Arecibo Observatory have developed a technique to analyze radar signals bounced off asteroids' surfaces, providing crucial information on their physical properties. This method can help planetary defense prepare for asteroids on a collision course with Earth by identifying porous, fluffy, or rocky surfaces.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·DateMar 11, 2021

CHOP researchers reveal how critical part of lung forms at cellular level

Researchers from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have determined the process of lung alveolus formation and identified signaling hubs that coordinate cell development. The study provides crucial insights into developing therapies to regenerate critical lung tissue and repair damaged tissue at a cellular level.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalScience·DateMar 11, 2021

New study shows impact of mask wearing on patient trust and perception of surgeons

A recent study published in JAMA Surgery found that patients have a more difficult time understanding and building trust with their surgeons when they cannot see the surgeon's entire face due to masking requirements. Patients reported improved communication and higher ratings for surgeons who wore clear masks.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMar 11, 2021