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Science News for March 19, 2021


Advancement creates nanosized, foldable robots

Cornell University researchers developed micron-sized shape memory actuators that enable atomically thin materials to fold themselves into 3D configurations. These tiny machines can hold their shape even after voltage is removed, enabling potential applications in nano-robots and smart materials.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalScience Robotics·DateMar 19, 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.

Researchers identify immune cells that contribute to transplant rejection

Non-circulating memory T cells play a crucial role in chronic transplant rejection by providing local protection against re-infection and causing prolonged immune responses. Targeting these cells could improve clinical transplant outcomes while preserving the immune system's ability to fight off infections.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience Immunology·DateMar 19, 2021

Three-dimensional imaging provides valuable insight to immune responses

Researchers have developed a new imaging technique that allows them to visualize immune T cells in three dimensions, revealing specialized niches that determine their function. The study identifies avenues for therapeutically targeting effector and memory cells, which could lead to improved vaccine strategies.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Immunology·DateMar 19, 2021

Better batteries start with basics -- and a big computer

Researchers used quantum simulations to understand glycerol carbonate, a compound that could improve lithium-ion battery efficiency and reduce environmental impact. The study revealed new details about hydrogen bonding and its effects on solvent properties.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateMar 19, 2021

Important advance in research on future drugs

Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have determined the 3D structure and mechanism of MGST2, an enzyme involved in oxidative stress and DNA damage. The study's findings reveal three functional units controlled by sophisticated movements, regulating vital functions and offering insights into future drug development.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 19, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Is it worth investing in solar PV with batteries at home?

Researchers found that without battery storage, homeowners only use 30-40% of their solar PV electricity, while the rest is exported to the grid. With a home battery, self-consumption doubles and grid reliance reduces by up to 84%. Innovative energy policies can make PV-batteries profitable, even in low-solar irradiation countries.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalApplied Energy·DateMar 19, 2021

Researchers design a biological device capable of computing by printing cells on paper

A team of researchers from Pompeu Fabra University has developed a new technology to print cellular devices on paper that can be used outside the laboratory. These devices can detect multiple markers and generate complex responses, making them useful for applications such as detecting mercury, cholera, or preeclampsia.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 19, 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.

How do humpback whales rest?

Researchers attached an omnidirectional camera to a humpback whale to study its resting behavior. The whale was found to be inactive for half the recorded period, with active behavior in the latter half, suggesting it may have been recovering from foraging.

SourceKobe University·JournalBehavioural Processes·DateMar 19, 2021

Bioengineers learn the secrets to precisely turning on and off genes

Bioengineers have discovered a way to harness multiple forms of regulation in living cells to strictly control gene expression. This breakthrough enables precise regulation of biochemical processes involved in producing chemicals, medicines, and other products, leading to improved biotechnologies.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 19, 2021

Solving 'barren plateaus' is the key to quantum machine learning

Researchers have established theorems that guarantee whether a given machine learning algorithm will work as it scales up on larger computers. This breakthrough solves a key problem of useability for quantum machine learning and takes an important step toward achieving quantum advantage.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 19, 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.

A new dye shakes up solar cells

Researchers have developed a new dye called MS5 that significantly enhances the efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), which are already being manufactured on a large scale. The new dye produces an open-circuit voltage of 1.24 Volts and achieves a power conversion efficiency of 13.5%, surpassing previous records in the field.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 19, 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.

For good health, trust your gut

University of Cincinnati assistant professor Ashley Ross is developing tools to detect and study chemical signals between the brain and immune system using a federal grant. Her research aims to understand how neurons regulate inflammation and develop new therapies.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateMar 19, 2021

Turns out altruism is for the fish

A research group at Osaka City University has shown that convict cichlid fish display prosocial choice tasks, choosing to share food with a partner rather than an unknown or rival fish. This behavior suggests that these small fish have an altruistic nature and can distinguish between paired females, unknown females, and rival males.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 19, 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.

Happiness can be learned

A nine-month program combining theoretical studies and meditation practices improved life satisfaction, perceived well-being, and emotional regulation. The study suggests that happiness is linked to inner equilibrium and offers a secular approach to develop authentic happiness.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMar 19, 2021

In pandemic, potentially avoidable hospitalizations for non-COVID conditions fell more among whites

During the COVID-19 pandemic, potentially avoidable hospitalizations for non-COVID conditions dropped more among white patients than Black patients. This UCLA study suggests that existing racial healthcare disparities worsened, with African Americans facing worse access to outpatient care.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMar 19, 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.

80% of Spanish health professionals were willing to be vaccinated during the second COVID-19 wave

A study by Universitat Oberta de Catalunya found that 80% of Spanish health professionals are willing to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The main reasons for not wanting vaccination were concerns about safety and side effects. The low acceptance rate among nursing staff is particularly worrying, as they are closely involved with patients.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalVaccines·DateMar 19, 2021

Stroke risk higher than expected among COVID-19 patients

Research reveals COVID-19 patients are at a higher risk of stroke, particularly those with high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, or irregular heartbeat. The analysis of over 20,000 patients found that Black Americans may have a higher risk of ischemic stroke after contracting the virus.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMar 19, 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.

Study: Older multiple myeloma patients can be spared of long-term steroids

A phase III clinical trial showed that reducing steroid use in intermediate-fit older patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma yields similar outcomes to standard treatment. The adapted Rd treatment schedule spares steroid use after nine months, resulting in fewer adverse effects and improved event-free survival.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood·DateMar 19, 2021

Intelligent insect counter opens new opportunities for nature monitoring

Researchers from Aarhus University have developed an intelligent light trap that can count insects and determine their species, significantly boosting nature monitoring. The invention uses ultraviolet light to attract insects and image recognition to register them, allowing for more precise knowledge about insect populations and habitats.

SourceAarhus University·JournalSensors·DateMar 19, 2021

CU cancer researcher wins two awards to study drug-resistant cancer cells

Sabrina L. Spencer, a CU Boulder researcher, has won two awards to further her research on drug-resistant cancer cells. The grants will help her investigate how these cells acquire DNA damage and activate stress response pathways to evade drugs. Understanding these mechanisms could lead to new treatments for cancer.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 19, 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.

Strengthening water resources planning in East Africa

A study co-developed with local stakeholders explores regional water scenarios to facilitate rational water resource planning in the extended Lake Victoria Basin. The analysis suggests that water use and withdrawal will increase significantly due to population and GDP growth, coupled with climate change.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalOne Earth·DateMar 19, 2021

Tiny machine poised to unlock brain's mysteries

Scientists have developed a novel technology combining 3-D bioelectronic systems with human neural cultures to study brain development and repair. The device can record electrical activity, manipulate neural activity using light pulses, and perform optogenetic experiments.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 19, 2021

The eukaryotic cell nucleus resembles the layout of a superstore

The eukaryotic cell nucleus has an organized layout, similar to a superstore, with DNA-packed into compact structures and molecules moving efficiently through channels. The chromatin fibers work like shelves, holding genetic information, while proteins move randomly within the channels according to Brownian motion rules.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateMar 19, 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.

Cancer immunotherapy may also treat certain autoimmune diseases

Researchers have found that disrupting the interaction between cancer cells and certain immune cells is more effective at killing cancer cells than current immunotherapy treatments. The new approach, targeting protein CD6, has shown promise in mice and may also treat autoimmune diseases.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJCI Insight·DateMar 19, 2021

Unveiling smart buoys for marine environment monitoring!

Researchers have developed smart buoys using seawater batteries to monitor various marine data, including salinity, pH, and water temperature. The buoys utilize a naturally-abundant sodium source in seawater to charge and discharge electricity, enabling scalable energy storage.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateMar 19, 2021

Research aims to help Alaskans and visitors avoid wildfire smoke

A five-member team led by Jingqiu Mao at the University of Alaska Fairbanks is working on a tool to provide air quality forecasts for Alaskans and visitors. The team will use satellite data, ground-based instruments, and computer models to create a web-based forecast that can help wildland fire managers deploy resources effectively.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·DateMar 19, 2021

Foreign-born run greater risk of workplace bullying

Research by Linköping University finds that foreign-born employees are more likely to experience person-related bullying, which is based on their cultural identity. The study reveals an increased risk of workplace bullying for people born abroad, particularly those from Asia.

SourceLinköping University·DateMar 19, 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.

Reactive boride infusion stabilizes ni-rich cathodes for lithium-ion batteries

A new coating technology has been developed to stabilize Ni-rich cathodes in lithium-ion batteries, improving cycling stability and capacity retention. The technique involves infusing a cobalt boride metallic glass into the grain boundaries of the cathode material, resulting in improved electrochemical performance and safety.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Energy·DateMar 19, 2021

How flashlight fish communicate with light signals in the school

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum found that flashlight fish use blink patterns resembling Morse code to communicate in schools. The frequency and intensity of these signals affect the animals' behavior, with faster blinking associated with increased attraction to group members.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 19, 2021

Polymerized estrogen provides neuroprotection in preclinical testing

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a polymerized estrogen biomaterial that shows promise as a treatment for spinal cord injuries. The study found enhanced neuroprotection in preclinical mouse models with implanted polymerized estrogen, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalACS Chemical Neuroscience·DateMar 19, 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.

Hidden genetic defects contain real risks for serious diseases

Researchers found that every person has two to four hidden genetic defects, which can lead to diseases if inherited from both parents. Consanguineous couples are at high risk, with 20% of cases showing increased risks for serious disorders in offspring.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMar 19, 2021

Maintaining body weight won't save colorectal cancer survivors

Researchers at Pennington Biomedical Research Center found that maintaining a stable body weight does not guarantee muscle mass and increases the risk of premature death among colorectal cancer survivors. Women are particularly vulnerable to losing muscle mass, with one in five women experiencing significant changes.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMar 19, 2021

More is better, when it comes to case volume for complex gastrointestinal cancer surgery

A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that patients undergoing elective esophagectomy, gastrectomy, or pancreatectomy for malignancies at top-ranked hospitals had significantly lower in-hospital death rates compared to those at unranked hospitals. The average annual case volume for these high-ri...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMar 19, 2021

New antibiotic clears multi-drug resistant gonorrhea in mice in single dose

A new antibiotic compound targets a molecular pathway found in bacteria but not humans, clearing infection of multi-drug resistant gonorrhea in mice with a single oral dose. The research team developed the compound through iterative optimization and testing, demonstrating its potential as a single-dose therapy for gonorrhea.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 19, 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.

Starving tumors by blocking glutamine uptake

Researchers have identified a small molecule drug candidate that targets the uptake of glutamine in cancer cells, slowing the growth of melanoma and other cancers. The study, published in Molecular Cancer Therapeutics, offers an exciting new therapeutic approach for treating tumors addicted to glutamine.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalMolecular Cancer Therapeutics·DateMar 19, 2021

Tropical species are moving northward in U.S. as winters warm

As US winters warm, tropical plants and animals are expanding their ranges northward, altering ecosystems and posing risks to human health. The study found that insects, fish, reptiles, and mammals are among the species adapting to warmer temperatures, while others may be less welcome, such as invasive Burmese pythons.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMar 19, 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.

Particulates are more dangerous than previously thought

A recent study at the Paul Scherrer Institute has revealed that airborne particulate matter can generate additional oxygen radicals, which can cause oxidative stress and damage lung tissue. The formation of these radicals is triggered by the interaction of iron and organic compounds under typical weather conditions.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 19, 2021

New research shows substantially higher burden of COVID-19 compared to flu

A study conducted at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that COVID-19 cases resulted in significantly more hospitalizations, mechanical ventilation, and mortality rates than influenza cases, highlighting the severity of COVID-19 on patients and hospitals.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMar 19, 2021

How RNA editing affects the immune system

Researchers have discovered that ADAR1 can bind to multiple forms of RNA, leading to the misregulation of the immune response in cancer. This finding has implications for the development of new therapies targeting ADAR1's role in cancer regulation and other diseases.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 19, 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.

Adults in Canada report adverse childhood experiences

Nearly two-thirds of Canadian adults aged 45-85 reported adverse childhood experiences, including physical abuse, intimate partner violence, and emotional abuse. The research found that exposure to these experiences varied by demographic factors, such as age, sex, education, and socioeconomic status.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 19, 2021

Endocrine disruptors threatens semen quality

Researchers found that men exposed to endocrine disruptors in utero are twice as likely to have low semen volume and sperm count. Exposure to pesticides, phthalates, and heavy metals is associated with poorer sperm quality.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateMar 19, 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.

Technique based on artificial intelligence permits automation of crop seed analysis

Researchers developed a non-invasive methodology using artificial intelligence to analyze crop seed quality. The technique uses light-based technology and machine learning to identify immature or poor-quality seeds, avoiding the need for destructive germination tests and providing more accurate results in less time.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateMar 19, 2021

Looking at optical Fano resonances under a new light

Researchers Adam Overvig and Andrea Alù show that strict periodicity is not required for Fano resonances, enabling novel properties in metasurfaces. They demonstrate a nonperiodic metasurface with perfect reflection and phase conjugation, opening up new applications in optics and beyond.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateMar 19, 2021

Building tough 3D nanomaterials with DNA

Columbia Engineers use DNA nanotechnology to design nanoparticle-based 3D materials that can withstand extreme conditions. The new fabrication process results in robust and fully engineered nanoscale frameworks with a broad range of applications.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 19, 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.

Vaccination by inhalation

MIT researchers develop a vaccination strategy that creates an army of T cells ready at the respiratory tract's mucosal surfaces, boosting immune responses. The approach uses albumin proteins to ferry vaccines across mucosal barriers, offering a quicker response to viral invaders and potential treatment for lung cancer.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Immunology·DateMar 19, 2021

Health declining in Gen X and Gen Y, national study shows

Recent generations show a worrying decline in health compared to previous generations, with poorer physical health, higher levels of unhealthy behaviors, and more depression and anxiety. The researchers found that measures of physical health have worsened from the Baby Boomer generation through Gen X and Gen Y.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateMar 19, 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.

Increasing neurodiversity within organisations can boost skill base

Research from Cranfield University reveals that organisations can tap into the unique skills of neurodiverse employees, but fear of stereotyping holds them back. The study found that stereotype threat is a major barrier to hiring and retaining neurodiverse staff, highlighting the need for companies to create more inclusive workplaces.

SourceCranfield University·JournalEmployee Relations·DateMar 19, 2021