Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for March 17, 2021


Pressure sensors could ensure a proper helmet fit to help protect the brain

Researchers have developed a highly sensitive pressure sensor cap that can help reveal whether a helmet is a perfect fit for an individual player's head. The device uses fabric-based sensors that map pressure in real-time, providing valuable information on helmet fit and potentially reducing the severity of sports-related head injuries.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateMar 17, 2021

Health promotion, prevention, and psychosocial health

An interdisciplinary team proposes an action model to promote psychosocial health by synergistically combining health promotion and prevention concepts. The model includes five elements: psychosocial health, health promotion, disease prevention, and their relationships.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Public Health Journal·DateMar 17, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study explores how environmental exposures before conception may impact fetal development

A new report published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests older age and alcohol consumption before conception may alter a specific gene's epigenetic marks, impacting human egg development. The study provides valuable insights into environmental factors affecting gene regulation through epigenetics and imprinting.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2021

High speed air hand dryers spread contamination more than paper towels

A study published in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology found that high speed air hand dryers spread more contamination than paper towels, with levels of surface contamination 10 times higher after air dryer use. Microbes can also transfer to clothing and other surfaces via contaminated hands.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateMar 17, 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.

Gun violence rises in TV dramas over two decades, paralleling U.S. gun homicide trends

Research by the Annenberg Public Policy Center found that gun violence on popular prime-time TV dramas doubled from 2000 to 2018, with gun use substantially increasing and rising significantly as a proportion of the violence depicted in the shows. This trend parallels the rise in U.S. homicide deaths attributable to firearms.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 17, 2021

Researchers identify head impact rates in four major high school sports

A large study from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that soccer had the highest head impact rate for both boys and girls, attributed to intentional headers. Basketball and field hockey had lower but still significant head impact rates, with notable differences between male and female athletes.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalOrthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine·DateMar 17, 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.

Hepatitis B: What people can learn from donkeys

Researchers identified a new hepatitis B virus in donkeys and zebras that causes prolonged infections, potentially leading to better understanding of chronic hepatitis B and development of new therapies.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2021

A new satellite-measured "Solar-induced Chlorophyll Fluorescence" (SIF) product aims to improve carbon neutrality research

A new satellite-measured Solar-induced Chlorophyll Fluorescence (SIF) product is introduced to enhance carbon neutrality research. The SIF product, developed using a physical-based algorithm named IAPCAS/SIF, retrieves emission data from two micro-windows within the O2 A-band.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateMar 17, 2021

Mitigating impact of artificial light at night in tropical forests

Researchers found that using amber-colored filters on 'warm white' LED lamps reduces insect attraction to nocturnal lighting in a tropical forest. Insects play crucial roles as pollinators, regulators, decomposers, and food sources; using filtered LEDs can mitigate the negative impacts of ALAN on wildlife.

SourceSmithsonian National Zoological Park·JournalInsect Conservation and Diversity·DateMar 17, 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.

Tri-tube heart valve replacement adapts to the growing heart in lambs

Scientists developed a tri-tube heart valve replacement that can regenerate and grow over time, addressing the need for long-term valve replacements in children with congenital heart disorders. The new design showed improved growth dynamics and reduced calcification compared to clinically used bioprosthetic valves.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 17, 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.

Death enables complexity in chemical evolution

Researchers at the University of Groningen found that introducing a molecule that attacks self-replicating fibres allows for the emergence of more complex structures. This discovery solves Spiegelman's monster, which previously hindered the origin of complexity in life.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 17, 2021

Genome scalpel invented for industrial microalgae to efficiently turn CO2into biofuel

Researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences have developed a 'genome scalpel' to efficiently produce sustainable biofuels from sunlight and CO2 by removing non-essential genes from microalgae. This approach could lead to more efficient production of biomolecules like biofuels, with potential applications in renewable energy and redu...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateMar 17, 2021

Missing baryons found in far-out reaches of galactic halos

Researchers used cosmic microwave background data to map location and density of missing baryons around galaxy groups. The measurements reveal that these halos extend up to 6 million light-years from their center, challenging previous models.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review D·DateMar 17, 2021

IPK scientists: New method for genome assembly in barley provides excellent results

A new method of DNA sequencing using PacBio HiFi sequencing has been successfully applied to assemble the genome of barley with high accuracy and speed. The approach yielded better quality genome sequences compared to other methods, including more complete genes and accurate reassembly of non-coding regions.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMar 17, 2021

Ultrafast intra-atom motion tracked using synchrotron radiation

Researchers have successfully tracked the ultrafast motion of electrons inside a Xenon atom using synchrotron radiation. By interfering with the coherent light waves, they observed the electron movement at a time scale of femtoseconds, significantly faster than previously thought.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 17, 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.

Solar cells: Losses made visible on the nanoscale

Researchers used conductive atomic force microscopy to detect tiny channels for dark currents in solar cell surfaces, revealing the loss mechanism at the interface of silicon heterojunction solar cells. The study showed that these channels are caused by disorder in the a-Si:H layer and lead to trap-assisted quantum mechanical tunnelling.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateMar 17, 2021

Three times the gains

A groundbreaking global study maps ocean areas that, if strongly protected, can help solve climate, food and biodiversity crises. The research identified specific regions that could provide multiple benefits, including safeguarding nearly 80% of marine species and preventing the release of one billion tons of CO2 into the ocean.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateMar 17, 2021

Astronomers see a 'space jellyfish'

An Australian-Italian team used the Murchison Widefield Array telescope to observe a cluster of galaxies in Abell 2877. The team discovered a radio 'jellyfish' structure with a steep spectrum that challenges current understanding. The discovery was made possible by the unique low-frequency capabilities of the MWA.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateMar 17, 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.

Artificial light at night may disrupt firefly mating

New research reveals that artificial light at night significantly suppresses courtship activity in fireflies, with bright amber light having the greatest impact on female receptivity. This study highlights the need to minimize outdoor lighting to protect firefly populations.

SourceWiley·JournalInsect Conservation and Diversity·DateMar 17, 2021

Cancer survivors face elevated heart disease risk, study finds

A new study found that cancer survivors have a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular disease in the next decade. Researchers estimate that about 8% of cancer survivors will develop heart disease or stroke over the 10-year period, compared to 5% of those without a cancer history.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 17, 2021

A new view on plate tectonics

A new study published in Nature reveals that transform faults are actively involved in shaping the ocean floors, contradicting a previous assumption. The research found that these faults cause extension of the seafloor and magmatism at their outer corners.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalNature·DateMar 17, 2021

Elusive protein complex could hold the key to treating chromosomal disorders

Scientists discovered the structural and molecular factors governing the stability of a protein complex involved in DNA repair pathways. The study reveals that exposure to organic solvents and oxidizing environments can cause the complex to disassemble, offering insights into novel phenomena and potential treatments for diseases such a...

SourceTokyo University of Science·DateMar 17, 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.

Christmas Island reptile-killer identified

A silent killer, Enterococcus lacertideformus, has been discovered as the cause of mysterious deaths in native reptile populations on Christmas Island. The bacterium grows in the animal's head and internal organs, causing death through direct contact or biting, highlighting the need for targeted antibiotic trials.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateMar 17, 2021

https://discovery.kaust.edu.sa/en/article/1098/the-right-ring-count-to-harness-waste-heat

Researchers at KAUST have developed electron-transporting, air-stable organic semiconductors that can generate electricity from waste heat. The polymers' unique design enhances electrical conductivity and thermoelectric performance, paving the way for scalable, sustainable energy solutions.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 17, 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.

SARS-CoV-2 infects cells via specific viral entry factors

A new study reveals that SARS-CoV-2 infects cells with high expression of ACE2 receptor and protease, found in lung epithelium and other organs. The study suggests that elderly people, men, and smokers are more severely affected due to increased viral entry factor expression.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 17, 2021

Low-education voters disregard policy beliefs at the polls, research finds

A recent study published in Education & Society found that voters with low education levels tend to support social welfare programs but vote against left-wing candidates. Meanwhile, more educated voters are less likely to sacrifice their policy preferences and vote for parties with opposing views.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEducation and Society·DateMar 17, 2021

Antibody Mediated Prevention (AMP) trials data published by theNew England Journal of Medicine

The AMP trials tested a broadly neutralizing antibody called VRC01, which was effective at preventing the acquisition of HIV strains in sensitive populations. However, results showed that more than one single bnAb is needed to prevent HIV acquisition, highlighting the need for combination monoclonal antibody cocktails.

SourcePublic Relations Pacific LLC·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 17, 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.

South African Oxford AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine study a global game-changer

A landmark South African study validates the need for second-generation Covid-19 vaccines, as the AstraZeneca vaccine showed minimal protection against mild to moderate infections caused by the B.1.351 variant. Despite this, the WHO recommends continued deployment of the vaccine in countries where the variant circulates.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 17, 2021

Modernizing the naval selection process

The US Navy is developing a virtual reality personality assessment tool to improve recruitment and selection processes. The Manpower and Personnel Assessment Battery (MPAB) will use virtual reality technology, physiological markers, and real-time data analytics to assess applicants' skills and personalities.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMar 17, 2021

Inexpensive tin packs a big punch for the future of supercapacitors

Researchers have created a more powerful, fast-charging supercapacitor with improved connectivity and recyclability using affordable tin. The material enhances the properties of cobalt oxide-based electrodes, leading to increased conductivity and promising practical applications.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMar 17, 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.

Recreational cannabis use among adults in the home is on the rise, but what about the children?

A new study by Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found that cannabis use among adults with children in states where legalization has occurred increased significantly. The study highlights the need for education on protecting youth from secondhand cannabis smoke, which poses health risks similar to tobacco smoke.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAddiction·DateMar 17, 2021

Donald Sparks honored by European Geosciences Union

Donald Sparks has won the 2021 Philippe Duchaufour Medal for his pioneering work on soil chemistry and carbon dynamics. He is recognized as a global leader in environmental soil chemistry, having carried out visionary science throughout his career.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateMar 17, 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.

Stimulating the immune system to fight cancer

Researchers from Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology have developed a cell-based assay that identifies highly potent IDO1 inhibitors with different mechanisms of action, which could lead to promising immunotherapies for cancer treatment. The new approach overcomes limitations of existing cell-free assays and holds promise for ...

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 17, 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.

Cu-based small-pore zeolites for deNOx

Cu-based small-pore zeolites have been demonstrated to be promising candidates for NH3-SCR catalysts due to their unique structural features and physicochemical properties. The latest advances in Cu-SSZ-13 applied to the NH3-SCR reaction highlight the significant opportunity presented by zeolite-based catalysts.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateMar 17, 2021

Simple blood test could replace surgery for some brain tumour patients

Researchers at the University of Plymouth have discovered a biomarker, Fibulin-2 (FBLN2), that can distinguish between grade I and II meningioma tumours. This breakthrough could spare surgery for up to 85% of patients with lower-grade tumours, reducing the need for high-risk treatments.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateMar 17, 2021

The trouble of being tall

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have studied the giraffe's genome, discovering a key gene FGFRL1 that enables its extraordinary features, such as high blood pressure and dense bones. The study also found that giraffes spend less time sleeping than other mammals due to their unique circadian rhythm regulation.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 17, 2021

Fermented wool is the answer

Researchers at FAU have uncovered the secret behind the Pazyryk carpet's vivid colors using high-resolution x-ray fluorescence microscopy. Fermenting sheep's wool before dyeing increases brilliance and longevity of the color.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 17, 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.

Text me about cervical cancer

Research from Michigan State University highlights the racial disparity gap in cervical cancer information and follow-up, citing poor provider-patient communication as a key factor. The study suggests that improving education and using digital channels like text messages can help bridge this gap.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalGynecologic Oncology·DateMar 17, 2021

AI method can detect precursors to cervical cancer

A new AI-powered screening tool has been developed to detect precursors to cervical cancer in women, particularly in low-income countries where access to skilled pathologists and advanced equipment is limited. The method uses mobile digital microscopy and achieves a sensitivity of 96-100% in identifying patients with precancerous lesions.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 17, 2021

Patient-researcher collaboration proves to be a win-win, Japanese study shows

A new study from Osaka University reveals that Japan is ready to embrace active patient involvement in research, following the US and UK trends. The Rare and Undiagnosed Diseases Study JAPAN uses online platforms and virtual tools to facilitate collaboration between patients and researchers.

SourceOsaka University·JournalResearch Involvement and Engagement·DateMar 17, 2021

Modelling speed-ups in nutrient-seeking bacteria

Researchers developed a more accurate model of how bacteria search for nutrients by considering both chemotaxis and chemokinesis. The new model reveals that combining these two motions enhances population responses to nutrient distributions.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMar 17, 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.

Researchers identify barriers to use of surface electromyography in neurorehabilitation

Kessler Foundation researchers identified practical and technical barriers to the use of surface electromyography (sEMG) in clinical neurorehabilitation. They propose a collaborative approach to enable rehabilitation professionals to routinely use sEMG, including hands-on experience, user-friendly technology interfaces, and open-access...

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalFrontiers in Neurology·DateMar 17, 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.

Cellular benefits of gene therapy seen decades after treatment

A study found that gene therapy can create a long-term store of correct T cells in the human thymus, leading to sustained health in patients with SCID-X1. The treatment works by delivering corrected genes into stem cells, which then produce healthy immune cells.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 17, 2021

'Time lost is brain lost'

A new study finds that mobile stroke units (MSUs) improve patient outcomes and lessen the chance for disability by delivering care faster than standard stroke care. MSU patients received tPA treatment within 60 minutes, resulting in better outcomes and less disability.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateMar 17, 2021

FAU researchers break bonds in molecular nitrogen with calcium

A research team at FAU has discovered that calcium can break the strong nitrogen bond at a temperature of minus 60°C. This finding could lead to simplified industrial processes for converting nitrogen into useful chemicals.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalScience·DateMar 17, 2021

A remedy for the spread of false news?

A new study by MIT scholars finds that most people who share false news stories online do so unintentionally, and that their sharing habits can be modified through reminders about accuracy. Inattention and knowledge deficits are key factors in the spread of misinformation, rather than deception.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateMar 17, 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.

Crystal structure prediction of multi-elements random alloy

Researchers developed an AI model that predicts crystal structures of multi-element alloys without requiring massive data. The method showed high accuracy in predicting structural phase and can save calculation cost by up to 1,000 times compared to previous methods.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 17, 2021

Helping stevia plants brave the cold

Research has identified two stevia varieties that can withstand freezing temperatures, making them suitable for growth in temperate climates. The study aims to improve the yield and taste of stevia while reducing production costs.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·DateMar 17, 2021

Examining the value of lumbar spine surgery

A prospective clinical study found that patients have three times greater chance of positive outcomes when their surgeons follow evidence-based guidelines for lumbar spinal fusion. The results suggest that patients meeting criteria for successful surgery are three times more likely to experience improved quality of life and reduced pain.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalNeurosurgery·DateMar 17, 2021

The health of older women is determined by the characteristics of their partner

A study by Jordi Gumà and Jeroen Spijker finds that partner characteristics, especially education level, significantly affect the health of Spanish women aged 65+, whereas men's health is less sensitive to their partner's status. Traditional gender roles in Spain also play a role in this phenomenon.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalGaceta Sanitaria·DateMar 17, 2021

Suicide risk prediction models could be cost-effective in clinical practice

Researchers found that several existing suicide risk prediction models are accurate enough to be implemented cost-effectively in clinical practice. The models could help identify individuals at high risk of suicide and offer effective interventions such as active contact and follow-up or cognitive behavioral therapy.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMar 17, 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.

Icy ocean worlds seismometer passes further testing in Greenland

The SIIOS team successfully tested its technology on Greenland's surface, detecting seismic waves comparable to those from ground-based seismometers. The findings could aid NASA's future missions to Europa and Enceladus, where subsurface liquid oceans are believed to exist.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateMar 17, 2021

Purifying the air to prevent COVID-19 transmission

Filtration with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters is the most popular choice in hospitals and clinical settings. Other methods using ultraviolet C (UVC) light and bipolar ionization also show promise, but research on their effectiveness against COVID-19 is still evolving.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 17, 2021

Ultrasound has potential to damage coronaviruses, study finds

Researchers at MIT used computer simulations to model the mechanical response of coronaviruses to ultrasound vibrations. They found that frequencies between 25-100 megahertz triggered shell and spike collapse within a millisecond.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the Mechanics and Physics of Solids·DateMar 17, 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.

A new, vital player in graft-versus-host disease and organ transplant rejection

A new study reveals that a long noncoding RNA molecule named Linc00402 plays a key role in mobilizing the immune response after bone marrow or solid organ transplantation. The researchers found that inhibiting this RNA could improve outcomes for transplant recipients, reducing the risk of graft-versus-host disease and cancer relapse.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 17, 2021

Double-duty catalyst generates hydrogen fuel while cleaning up wastewater

Researchers have developed a dual-functioning catalyst that breaks down common drugs in wastewater while efficiently converting water into hydrogen for fuel. The catalyst, composed of cobalt oxide and titanium dioxide with platinum nanoparticles, showed promise in degrading antibiotics and producing substantial amounts of hydrogen.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS ES&T Engineering·DateMar 17, 2021

Declining caribou population victim of ecological chain reaction

Researchers found that increased deciduous vegetation leads to higher moose populations, which in turn affects wolves and ultimately caribou. Human land use, like forestry, significantly increases vegetation productivity, contributing to caribou declines.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·DateMar 17, 2021

New technique reveals genes underlying human evolution

Researchers at Stanford University developed a new technique to compare genetic differences between humans and chimpanzees, revealing significant disparities in the expression of genes SSTR2 and EVC2. This study provides insight into human evolution and potential causes of neuropsychiatric diseases.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateMar 17, 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.

When volcanoes go metal

Researchers at North Carolina State University conducted a pilot study to model ferrovolcanism, the predicted manifestation of planetary volcanism on metallic worlds. They found that metallic lava flows travel 10 times faster and spread more thinly than rocky flows, creating braided channels with smooth, thin layers.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 17, 2021

Algae growing on dead coral could paint a falsely rosy portrait of reef health

Researchers found that algae colonizing dead coral can lead to false impressions of a healthy reef ecosystem. This challenges traditional methods for assessing coral health, which rely on measuring calcium carbonate production, as it may not accurately account for the impact of algal overgrowth.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateMar 17, 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.

Polystyrene waste is everywhere

Researchers at Ames Laboratory have developed a new method to break down polystyrene waste in a single step, at room temperature, and without harmful solvents. The process involves ball-milling, which generates free radicals that enable the extraction of monomeric styrene from the oligomeric radical-bearing species formed.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalNew Journal of Chemistry·DateMar 17, 2021

Health disparities in type 1 diabetes and COVID-19 infection with Dr. Kathryn Sumpter

A recent study published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that non-Hispanic black patients with Type 1 diabetes and COVID-19 are almost four times as likely to present with diabetic ketoacidosis compared to white patients. The study highlights the importance of addressing social determinants of health, includ...

SourceLe Bonheur Children's Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 17, 2021

Honey bee behavior from within the hive

A study published in PLOS ONE reveals rare honey bee behaviors, including mouth-to-mouth larval feedings, using video recordings from within the hive. The research provides new insights into individual honey bee behavior, revealing complex social interactions and processes previously undocumented.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 17, 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.

Lab-created heart valves can grow with the recipient

Researchers created growing heart valves using tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, which showed reduced calcification and improved blood flow function. The valves could prevent repeated surgery in children born with congenital heart defects and be stored for at least six months.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 17, 2021

UCSF study finds evidence of 55 new chemicals in people

A recent study published by the University of California - San Francisco detected 109 chemicals in pregnant women, including 55 new ones, which may be derived from consumer products or industrial sources. The researchers used high-resolution mass spectrometry to identify man-made chemicals in people.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateMar 17, 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.

The a7 protein is ready for its close-up

UT Southwestern researchers have identified the structure of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor a7 in three different shapes. This breakthrough could lead to new pharmaceutical treatments for schizophrenia, lung cancer, and COVID-19.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell·DateMar 17, 2021

A deep dive into cells' RNA reality

A new RNA detection method, BOLORAMIS, overcomes limitations of previous technologies to analyze RNA molecules in their native cellular environment. The study demonstrates high specificity and sensitivity, enabling the analysis of multiple RNAs simultaneously.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateMar 17, 2021

Study finds plants would grow well in solar cell greenhouses

Researchers found no significant difference in plant growth or health when grown under different light filters, making see-through solar panels a feasible option for greenhouses. This technology could enable energy-neutral farming and reduce greenhouse emissions.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateMar 17, 2021

20 years of research on the use of virtual reality in education

A review of 149 articles on VR in education found that basic science, social science, and health/medicine were the most popular disciplines. VR interventions had a medium effect on learning, with disciplinary design and level of immersion influencing this effect.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Computer Assisted Learning·DateMar 17, 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.

Pandemic has increased pregnancy stress for US women

A Washington State University study found that COVID-19 has increased stress among pregnant women in the US, with concerns about baby contracting the disease and financial worries. The pandemic also exacerbated existing disparities in healthcare access and social support for low-income and women of color.

SourceWashington State University·JournalBMC Pregnancy and Childbirth·DateMar 17, 2021

Feeding cattle seaweed reduces their greenhouse gas emissions 82 percent

Researchers at the University of California, Davis, found that feeding seaweed to beef cattle can reduce methane emissions by 82 percent. The study, which tested seaweed supplements over five months, demonstrates the potential for sustainable livestock production and could help address climate change.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 17, 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.

How to speed up muscle repair

Researchers at UC San Diego discover epigenetic mechanisms to accelerate muscle cell growth using pluripotent stem cells. Triggering specific factors can prime these cells for rapid regeneration.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 17, 2021

Advanced mouse embryos grown outside the uterus

Mouse embryos can now be grown outside the womb for up to six days, allowing researchers to observe early stages of development in unprecedented detail. The method, developed by Weizmann Institute of Science researchers, enables detailed study of embryonic development and potential insights into birth defects.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature·DateMar 17, 2021

Scientists create model of an early human embryo from skin cells

An international team of scientists has generated a model of a human embryo from skin cells, called iBlastoids, which can be used to study the biology of early human embryos in the laboratory. The breakthrough allows for extensive study into causes of very early miscarriage and effects of toxins and drugs on early development.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature·DateMar 17, 2021

Nurse work environment influences stroke outcomes

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing found that hospitals with better nurse work environments have lower odds of 7-day and 30-day readmissions and shorter lengths of stay for ischemic stroke patients. This suggests that a positive work environment can lead to improved post-stroke care outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalResearch in Nursing & Health·DateMar 17, 2021

Socioeconomic factors play key role in COVID-19 impact on Blacks, Hispanics

A new study reveals how socioeconomic factors contribute to the increased odds of testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 among Black and Hispanic Americans. The researchers found that median income was the largest proportion of COVID-19 positive tests, with population density and household size also playing a role.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateMar 17, 2021

Electromagnetic fields hinder spread of breast cancer, study shows

A recent study published in Bioelectricity found that electromagnetic fields can hinder the spread of breast cancer cells, slowing their metabolism and potentially stopping them from moving. Researchers believe this approach may be useful in fighting highly metastatic cancers.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBioelectricity·DateMar 17, 2021

It's snowing plastic

A new technique developed by McGill University scientists can detect ultra-trace quantities of plastics in various environmental samples, including snow, water, and soil. The technique allows for more accurate analysis of micro- and nano-plastics, shedding light on the widespread impact of plastic pollution on human health.

SourceMcGill University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateMar 17, 2021

New quantum algorithm surpasses the QPE norm

Researchers at Osaka City University have developed a new quantum algorithm, BxB, which calculates energy differences directly to predict electronic states of atoms and molecules with chemical precision. The algorithm achieves this with half the number of qubits required by the existing Quantum Phase Estimation (QPE) method.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateMar 17, 2021

Losing rivers

Researchers found nearly two-thirds of wells have water levels below nearest stream, indicating rivers are leaking into aquifers. The phenomenon, exacerbated by human activity, may worsen in decades, with some rivers potentially disappearing, impacting downstream communities and ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateMar 17, 2021

Heart health problems in your 20s may affect thinking skills decades later

A new study published in Neurology suggests that health problems like high blood pressure and obesity in one's 20s can lead to cognitive decline decades later. Researchers analyzed data from over 15,000 participants and found that cardiovascular risk factors were strongly associated with thinking skills decline.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMar 17, 2021

The impact of childhood trauma on performance-enhancing substance use

A study of over 14,000 U.S. young adults found that adverse childhood experiences, such as physical and sexual abuse, predict greater performance-enhancing substance use. The likelihood of using anabolic-androgenic steroids increased nine times among men and six times among women who experienced sexual abuse.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalSubstance Use & Misuse·DateMar 17, 2021

Observed in vivo the collective movement of nanorobots

Scientists have observed the collective movement of nanorobots in living mice, mirroring patterns found in nature. The nanorobots, powered by urease, induce fluid flows and display homogeneous distribution within the bladder.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalScience Robotics·DateMar 17, 2021

Indirect surpassing CO2 utilization in membrane-free CO2 battery

A recent study has unveiled a novel membrane-free CO2 battery that can produce hydrogen and electricity while sequestering carbon dioxide emissions. The new battery exhibits high faradaic efficiency of 92.0% and offers significant benefits for sustainable human life.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNano Energy·DateMar 17, 2021

Nanotech scientists create world's smallest origami bird

Researchers at Cornell University have created a micron-sized self-folding origami bird using shape memory actuators. The device can fold itself into 3D configurations within 100 milliseconds and holds its shape even after the voltage is removed.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Robotics·DateMar 17, 2021

'We marry disorder with order'

Researchers at Leipzig University have developed a new model that enables precise determination of the features in complex pore networks, revealing potential applications in drug release, sensor technology and energy storage.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalLangmuir·DateMar 17, 2021

Arctic was once lush and green, could be again, new research shows

Scientists analyzed ancient lake sediment in the Arctic Ocean and found evidence of a shrub native to northern Canadian ecosystems that was once widespread. The findings may provide insight into the potential future of the Arctic's vegetation as it warms due to climate change, with implications for thawing permafrost and sea level rise.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2021

Artificial light affects plant pollination even during the daytime

Researchers found that artificial light at night reduces diurnal insect visits to plants that were illuminated during the nighttime. Beetles increased their visits instead. The study's findings highlight the indirect ecological effects of light pollution and call for further research to mitigate its impact.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 17, 2021

Magnetism meets topology on a superconductor's surface

Researchers studying an iron-based high-temperature superconductor discovered that an energy band gap opens at the intersection of two allowed energy bands on the material's surface. This unexpected electronic behavior could lead to breakthroughs in quantum computing and dissipationless electronic devices.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2021