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Science News for March 25, 2021


Urban agriculture can help, but not solve, city food security problems

Researchers found that urban agriculture alone cannot meet the nutritional needs of a city's population due to limited crop yields and nutrient deficiencies. However, with fortification or supplementation, urban agriculture can contribute significantly to meeting food demand.

SourcePenn State·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 25, 2021

Preservative used in hundreds of popular foods may harm the immune system

A new peer-reviewed study by Environmental Working Group found that the preservative tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) may harm the immune system, as shown in animal tests and high-throughput in vitro toxicology testing. The FDA should test all food chemicals for safety, according to the study's lead author.

SourceEnvironmental Working Group·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMar 25, 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.

New clues to classic cancer target found in immune cells

Studies found that disrupting interaction between p53 and Mdm2 in tumor cells is less effective than thought, as it can impair immune cell function. New compound APG115 showed promise in boosting T cell activity against cancer, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Immunology·DateMar 25, 2021

Soft robotic dragonfly signals environmental disruptions

A soft robotic dragonfly, called DraBot, uses microarchitectures and self-healing hydrogels to detect changes in pH, temperature, and oil levels. This proof-of-concept demonstration could lead to the development of autonomous environmental sentinels for monitoring environmental disruptions.

SourceDuke University·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·DateMar 25, 2021

Ancient megafaunal mutualisms and extinctions as factors in plant domestication

Researchers propose that plants evolved for long-distance seed dispersal and rapid growth as adaptations for megafaunal mutualisms. These traits allowed them to thrive in human-dominated landscapes, contributing to the global dominance of certain plant families. The study suggests that exaptation traits played a key role in the domesti...

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateMar 25, 2021

Nearly $1 million for an INRS research project in Madagascar

The INRS project aims to improve access to safe drinking water for rural communities along the Ikopa River in Madagascar. The study will assess the risks of well water contamination and propose solutions to address frequent floods that contaminate underground and surface drinking water sources.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateMar 25, 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.

3D-printed artificial lung model

Researchers successfully produced an artificial lung model with a three-layer structure of about 10 micrometers thickness using inkjet bioprinting. The model replicated the physiological response to viral infectivity and antiviral response, enabling mass production and quality control for disease models.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMar 25, 2021

Headline: How energy modelling influences policymaking and vice versa

A new study reveals that energy models play a significant role in shaping the energy transition, influencing policy decisions and informing energy futures. Policymakers are increasingly relying on modeling outputs to define energy and climate targets, while researchers demand greater transparency to protect model credibility.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalEnergy Research & Social Science·DateMar 25, 2021

Discovery of a third T cell lineage

Researchers at Monash University have identified a novel T cell lineage, γμ T cells, which use a unique antibody-like structure to recognize pathogens. This discovery expands the immunology 'toolbox' and may lead to new approaches for fighting viral infections such as COVID-19.

SourceMonash University·JournalScience·DateMar 25, 2021

Researchers harvest energy from radio waves to power wearable devices

Researchers have developed a way to harvest energy from radio waves to power wearable devices, offering a sustainable and continuous energy source. The system consists of stretchable metal antennas that convert ambient radio waves into electricity, which can be used to power health-monitoring sensors.

SourcePenn State·JournalMaterials Today Physics·DateMar 25, 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 links genes with function across the human brain

A recent study by McGill University researchers has mapped gene signatures to functional processes across the human brain, revealing key insights into cognitive and affective processes. The findings suggest that specific genetic signals are linked to attention and memory, while others are associated with emotions and fear.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateMar 25, 2021

Researchers show how stem cell depletion leads to recurring pregnancy loss

A study by researchers at Warwick Medical School reveals that decidual precursor cells play a critical role in pregnancy and their depletion may lead to recurrent pregnancy loss. The study suggests that these cells can be harnessed to prevent pregnancy disorders, offering new hope for women struggling with miscarriage.

SourceAlphaMed Press·JournalStem Cells·DateMar 25, 2021

Octopuses have two alternating sleep states, study shows

Researchers found that octopuses alternate between an 'active sleep' stage and a 'quiet sleep' stage, characterized by dynamic color changes and muscular twitches. The findings suggest that octopuses may experience something akin to dreams during the 'active sleep' state.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·DateMar 25, 2021

Where do the gender differences in the human pelvis come from?

A team of biologists found that human pelvis sex differences are similar to those in chimpanzees, suggesting an ancient origin. The magnitude of these differences is only half as large in chimpanzees, indicating that modern humans inherited this pattern from earlier mammals.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 25, 2021

Catching more breast cancers when mammograms are limited

Researchers recommend a risk-based algorithm that maximizes cancer detection by considering clinical indication, breast symptoms, and age. The approach successfully detects high-risk individuals, accounting for 55% of cancers despite limited mammograms.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 25, 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.

Changes in ocean chemistry show how sea level affects global carbon cycle

Scientists reconstructed fluctuations in ocean chemistry by analyzing strontium isotope ratios, which provide information about geochemical processes. The study found that seawater strontium concentration has changed considerably over the past 35 million years and still changes today.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalScience·DateMar 25, 2021

Ocean currents predicted on enceladus

Scientists predict ocean currents on Enceladus, driven by salinity variations like those in Earth's Southern Ocean. The research suggests a pole-to-equator circulation influencing heat and nutrient distribution.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 25, 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.

Carrying naloxone can save lives but newly abstinent opioid users resist

A study found that newly abstinent opioid users resist carrying naloxone, even if it can save their lives. Researchers suggest reframing the meaning of carrying naloxone to represent a commitment to group safety and wellbeing. They propose re-targeting naloxone distribution efforts to include persons at any phase of their drug use.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·DateMar 25, 2021

Relieve your stress, relieve your allergies

A study published in International Journal of Molecular Sciences suggests a link between corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and increased expression of mast cells in the nasal cavity, exacerbating allergic reactions. The research offers promising therapeutic potential with CRHR1 inhibitors and SCF neutralizing antibodies.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateMar 25, 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.

Choosy females drive rapid speciation in birds that share a home

A new study finds that female choice regarding mate traits drives the emergence of new species in Iberá Seedeater songbirds. The study reveals pre-mating isolation as a powerful force in maintaining reproductive barriers between co-occurring species, leading to rapid speciation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 25, 2021

No increase in colorectal cancer after obesity surgery

A long-term study published in PLOS ONE found that bariatric surgery does not increase the risk of colorectal cancer in obese individuals. After a median follow-up period of 22 years, there were 57 cases of colorectal cancer in the surgery group and 67 in the control group, suggesting no association between the two.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 25, 2021

Design could enable longer lasting, more powerful lithium batteries

Researchers at MIT have developed a novel electrolyte that overcomes chemical reactions hindering metal electrode use in lithium-ion batteries. This breakthrough could lead to significantly improved capacity and cycle life, enabling new applications like long-range drones and robots.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Energy·DateMar 25, 2021

Natural Sciences students' research published in prestigious journal

A team of undergraduate students from the University of Exeter's Natural Sciences department has published their second-year research in a top academic journal. They applied novel image analysis techniques to study the Belousov-Zhabotinsky chemical reaction, extracting features such as wave velocity and making unprecedented progress.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateMar 25, 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.

Turning wood into plastic

A research team has created a high-quality bioplastic from wood byproducts, showing promise for producing durable and sustainable plastics. The resulting material exhibits high mechanical strength, stability, and UV-light resistance, making it suitable for various applications, including packaging and automobile manufacturing.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalNature Sustainability·DateMar 25, 2021

Will COVID-19 vaccines need to be adapted regularly?

Researchers from Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin studied genetic evolution of common cold coronaviruses, comparing with SARS-CoV-2. They found SARS-CoV-2 changes at a rate four times slower than the influenza virus, but still expected to need regular updates due to rapid evolution during pandemic.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalVirus Evolution·DateMar 25, 2021

What is killing bald eagles in the U.S.?

A toxic cyanobacterial neurotoxin, aetokthonotoxin, causes vacuolar myelinopathy (VM) in bald eagles and their prey, linked to invasive aquatic plants. The toxin is produced when herbicides containing bromine stimulate its formation on plant leaves.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalScience·DateMar 25, 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.

Gene discovery confirms role of serine deficiency in rare eye disease

A new study identifies gene variants that cause a metabolic deficiency in the eye, linking it to a rare eye disease called macular telangiectasia type 2. The research found that most patients have a serine deficiency that leads to toxic lipid accumulation, causing damage to retinal cells.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Metabolism·DateMar 25, 2021

Mobile app generates data for the energy management of the future

A mobile app developed by Graz University of Technology aims to optimize energy consumption through user participation and data collection. The app uses game-like elements to encourage users to share their energy usage data, which is then used to predict household energy consumption and inform smart grid management.

SourceGraz University of Technology·DateMar 25, 2021

Salivary gland cells revealed as sites of COVID-19 infection

Researchers have discovered that SARS-CoV-2 can infect specific cells in the salivary gland, which could play a role in transmission to the lungs or digestive system via saliva. The study found live cells from the mouth were present in saliva and the virus replicated within these infected cells.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 25, 2021

DNA damage 'hot spots' discovered within neurons

Scientists have identified specific regions within the DNA of neurons that accumulate a certain type of damage, which appears to be unique to neurons. This discovery challenges current knowledge about the cause of DNA damage and its potential implications in neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature·DateMar 25, 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.

Gearing up nanoscale machines

Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology have developed a means to visualize snapshots of ultrasmall gear trains in action. They created molecular cogwheels with tailored electronic properties using scanning tunneling microscopy images.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalChemical Science·DateMar 25, 2021

Women accumulate Alzheimer's-related protein faster

Research from Lund University in Sweden suggests that women accumulate Alzheimer's-related protein tau at a higher rate than men. The study found a 75% higher accumulation rate of tau in women compared to men in the temporal lobe affected by the disease.

SourceLund University·JournalBrain·DateMar 25, 2021

Moderate daily caffeine intake during pregnancy may lead to smaller birth size

A study found that pregnant women who consumed moderate amounts of caffeine had infants with smaller birth sizes, lower lean body mass, and smaller head circumferences. This may increase the risk of obesity and related health issues later in life.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 25, 2021

Failed your New Year resolution again? Join the club

ECU researchers found that two thirds of participants gave up on their New Year resolutions within the first month. Setting specific resolutions with time, place and/or people is key to sticking to them, according to Professor Joanne Dickson. Flexibility in adapting to changing situations also predicts increased mental wellbeing.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMar 25, 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.

Ocean's mammals at crucial crossroads

A review of 126 marine mammal species reveals that accidental capture, climate change, and pollution are driving declines. Conservation efforts have saved some species, but many more are at risk, including the vaquita porpoise and North Atlantic right whale.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEndangered Species Research·DateMar 25, 2021

How tiny machines become capable of learning

Researchers developed microswimmers that can change direction by heating tiny gold particles, then learned to navigate through a virtual environment via external control and virtual rewards. The findings suggest an optimal speed is key to navigation, with implications for autonomous tasks and collective behavior in biological systems.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalScience Robotics·DateMar 25, 2021

Cholesterol may be key to new therapies for Alzheimer's disease, diabetes

A new approach has led to the discovery of a small molecule that may help regulate cholesterol levels in the brain, making it a potential therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease. Increasing the activity of ABCA1 is expected to positively influence insulin signaling and reduce inflammation in the brain.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalACS Pharmacology & Translational Science·DateMar 25, 2021

Protein fingerprinting in minutes

Researchers developed a mass spectrometry-based technique to measure thousands of proteins in blood plasma in just a few minutes. The new technology identified previously unknown proteins associated with disease severity, including those involved in the immune response to pathogens.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 25, 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.

Narcissism driven by insecurity, not grandiose sense of self

Researchers found that narcissists are insecure, using flexing behaviors to cope with low self-worth, which further aggravates their insecurities. The study's results suggest that vulnerable narcissism is a better understanding of genuine narcissism.

SourceNew York University·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateMar 25, 2021

Does selfishness evolve? Ask a cannibal

Researchers found that less selfish behavior evolved under living conditions forcing frequent sibling interactions, verifying a key concept in evolutionary theory. The study provides insight into the importance of cannibalism in ecosystems and its potential application to studying human behavior.

SourceRice University·JournalEcology Letters·DateMar 25, 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.

Shrub willow as a bioenergy crop

Researchers have grown shrub willow on a semi-commercial scale to better understand its nuances as a bioenergy crop. Key findings include determining the best varieties to plant and how to handle planting and harvesting. The study also highlights the crop's ability to store carbon, host pollinators, and provide ecosystem services.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateMar 25, 2021

Leap forward' in risk management of rectal cancer

A team at Washington University in St. Louis has developed an imaging technique using acoustic resolution photoacoustic microscopy co-registered with ultrasound and paired with deep learning to differentiate between residual tumors and healthy tissue in rectal cancer patients after chemotherapy and radiation. This technique shows promi...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalRadiology·DateMar 25, 2021

NTU Singapore scientists develop antibacterial gel bandage using durian husk

Researchers developed an antibacterial gel bandage using durian husk, which works even at freezing temperatures and contains natural antimicrobial compounds derived from yeast. The organic gel is non-toxic, biodegradable, and has a smaller environmental footprint than conventional synthetic bandages.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateMar 25, 2021

Researchers identify brain's role in broken heart syndrome

A new study reveals that increased stress-associated metabolic activity in the brain can lead to a higher risk of developing broken heart syndrome. The research found that brain areas with higher metabolic activity were more prone to producing stressful responses, which may contribute to the development of TTS.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMar 25, 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.

Game on: Science edition

Researchers trained an AI agent to conduct scientific experiments using a virtual beamline simulation, allowing for efficient and remote experimentation. The team implemented reinforcement learning to train the AI, which enabled it to learn from experience and master the experiment.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·DateMar 25, 2021

Leveraging the 5G network to wirelessly power IoT devices

Georgia Tech inventors create a flexible Rotman lens-based rectenna system capable of millimeter-wave harvesting in the 28-GHz band, enabling large antenna operation with wide angle coverage. The technology achieved a 21-fold increase in harvested power compared to a referenced counterpart.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 25, 2021

Study of NCOA3 yields novel findings of melanoma progression

Pre-clinical study finds NCOA3 activation contributes to melanoma development after exposure to ultraviolet light, promoting survival advantage and accumulation of DNA damage. A single nucleotide polymorphism in NCOA3 decreases protein production, increasing sensitivity to UV-mediated cell death.

SourceSutter Health·JournalCancer Research·DateMar 25, 2021

A killer revealed: A cyanobacterial neurotoxin responsible for the largest undiagnosed mass mortalit

A new cyanobacterial neurotoxin called aetokthonotoxin has been identified as the cause of vacuolar myelinopathy in waterbirds and raptors, with exposure to bromide-enriched invasive water plants playing a key role. Bioaccumulation of the toxin affects not only the birds that eat the contaminated plants but also their predators.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 25, 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.

Oncotarget: Phase 1 study of Z-Endoxifen in patients with solid tumors

A Phase 1 study of Z-endoxifen in patients with solid tumors demonstrated antitumor activity and prolonged stable disease, even in those who had previously responded sub-optimally to tamoxifen. The trial found that 44.4% of patients at certain dose levels achieved partial responses or stable disease.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateMar 25, 2021

Combination therapy protects against advanced Marburg virus disease

A new study published in Nature Communications shows that combining monoclonal antibodies and remdesivir is effective in treating advanced Marburg virus disease. The combination therapy demonstrated an 80% protection rate against the lethal virus, offering promise for treatment of advanced infections.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 25, 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.

Toxin in potatoes evolved from a bitter-tasting compound in tomatoes

Researchers discovered that the potato toxin α-solanine is biosynthesized from the spirosolane α-tomatine found in tomatoes. The conversion involves a dioxygenase enzyme called DPS, which can be suppressed with an inhibitor, offering a potential basis for suppressing poisonous compound synthesis in potatoes.

SourceKobe University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 25, 2021

Duke-NUS clinician scientist and his team bag two prestigious awards

Professor David Matchar and his team received the Stroke Rehabilitation Award from the American Stroke Association for their project investigating incentives to improve outpatient rehabilitation services among stroke patients. The study found that providing incentives significantly increased the uptake of these services, highlighting a...

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·DateMar 25, 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.

'Climbing droplets' could lead to more efficient water harvesting

Researchers create liquid-lubricant surface that encourages tiny water droplets to move spontaneously into larger droplets, enhancing water harvesting. The 'coarsening droplet phenomenon' facilitates rapid collection of water droplets, clearing surfaces for new condensation.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateMar 25, 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.

HIV vaccine candidate's mysteries unlocked 20 years later

Researchers from Oregon Health & Science University have finally understood how their cytomegalovirus-based vaccine works in monkeys, generating a unique type of immune response to fight off SIV. The breakthrough sheds light on the design of future CMV-based vaccines and offers new hope against HIV.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalScience·DateMar 25, 2021

New insights into close encounters between albatross and fishing vessels

A novel analysis of albatross and commercial fishing vessel encounters provides new understanding of seabird behavior and environmental conditions that influence these interactions. Researchers found that birds are more likely to engage with vessels in foraging states, and certain vessel characteristics do not impact bird-vessel intera...

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateMar 25, 2021

Rural Alaskans struggle to access and afford water

Researchers from McGill University warn of worsening water scarcity in rural Alaska due to climate change. Households often rely on rainwater catchment and grey water recycling, but affordability remains a significant issue, with costs exceeding household income.

SourceMcGill University·JournalEnvironmental Management·DateMar 25, 2021

Detecting hidden signals

The research team applied filter functions and optimal quantum control theories to detect known signals from background noise in quantum bit (qubit) sensors. They obtained analytical insight into the optimal control protocol when background noise is white, similar to classical matched filtering scheme.

SourceJohns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory·Journalnpj Quantum Information·DateMar 25, 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.

A clue to how some fast-growing tumors hide in plain sight

Researchers have identified a key protein, DAPK3, that plays a crucial role in the body's early immune response to cancer. The discovery highlights a new approach to cancer immunotherapy, where targeting the tumor's own innate immune system can help slow tumor growth and improve treatment outcomes.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Immunology·DateMar 25, 2021

C-Path launches acute kidney injury project with support from FDA

The Acute Kidney Injury Project aims to develop improved predictive and detection tools for kidney injury, addressing a global public health concern. The project will focus on developing prognostic tools to identify drug-induced kidney injury, with the goal of improving patient safety during clinical trials and advancing drug development.

SourceCritical Path Institute (C-Path)·DateMar 25, 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.

A new way to visualize mountains of biological data

A new method developed by researchers at the University of Missouri uses machine learning to analyze large amounts of biological data from single-cell RNA-sequencing. This allows scientists to identify patterns and make faster conclusions, which can lead to potential treatments for diseases such as Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 25, 2021

Skoltech researchers create a new human height inheritance model

The study proposes an alternative model where the effects of sex, genes, and environment are multiplied, not added, to account for complex interactions. This reveals consistent differences in average heights across countries and sexes.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalEuropean Journal of Human Genetics·DateMar 25, 2021

Study maps key proteins linked to epilepsy, revealing new drug targets

Researchers at NYU Langone Health identified hundreds of potential new treatment targets for epilepsy by analyzing adult human brain tissue. Altered levels of brain proteins were found predominantly in the hippocampus and frontal cortex, suggesting that these regions may play a role in the development of the disorder.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalBrain Communications·DateMar 25, 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.

Stressed brain linked to broken heart

Research found heightened brain activity in the amygdala region of stressed individuals, increasing risk of TTS, a temporary weakening of heart muscles. Stress reduction interventions may help prevent TTS, which is more common in women.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMar 25, 2021

Pediatric heart transplant method developed by U of A doctors allows for more surgeries, better outcomes: Study

A new pediatric heart transplant procedure has been shown to be at least as effective as the traditional approach, with similar survival rates and fewer infections. The method, pioneered by Canadian doctors, has enabled twice as many organs to be available for type O infants born with heart defects.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·DateMar 25, 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.

Inhibiting impact of dust aerosols on eastern Pacific tropical cyclones from the perspective of energy transmission

Dust aerosol optical depth negatively affects cloud water in the lower troposphere. This change can alter atmospheric enthalpy surrounding a tropical cyclone, influencing its intensity. Dr. Zhang's study suggests that anomalous enthalpy changes are related to dust AOD conditions in eastern Pacific TCs.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateMar 25, 2021

How artificial intelligence is helping make food production smarter

A research consortium led by Professor Wolfgang Maaß of Saarland University is using artificial intelligence to create a data marketplace for food producers. This platform enables producers to retrieve fact-based information on market prices, weather forecasts, and production volumes, allowing them to make informed decisions and reduce...

SourceSaarland University·DateMar 25, 2021

When synthetic evolution rhymes with natural diversity

A new study reveals a complex co-evolutionary relationship between bacterial antigens and plant immune receptors, with implications for our understanding of the plant microbiome. The research found that synthetic experiments can mimic natural diversity in molecular signals, allowing plants to detect and respond to 'non-self' pathogens.

SourceGregor Mendel Institute of Molecular Plant Biology·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMar 25, 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.

The world's longest bottlebrush polymer ever synthesized

Researchers at NIMS and RIKEN successfully synthesized the longest bottlebrush polymer ever made, reaching a length of 7 μm. This achievement has significant implications for the development of flexible and low-friction polymeric materials.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 25, 2021

UTA team working with communities to combat environmental racism, urban sprawl

The University of Texas at Arlington team is working with historically black communities to create maps documenting Freedmen's Towns along the Trinity River and propose design strategies to address long-standing environmental issues. The project aims to combat environmental racism and loss of historic resources in Black settlements.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateMar 25, 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.

New documentation: Old-growth forest carbon sinks overestimated

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen refute the claim that old-growth forests play a significant role in climate mitigation due to incorrectly analyzed data. However, they emphasize the importance of old-growth forest for biodiversity. The study found that the carbon storage capacity of unmanaged forests is highly overestimated.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature·DateMar 25, 2021

New UCF nanotech gives boost to detection of cancer and disease

University of Central Florida researchers have developed a new screening technique using nickel-platinum nanoparticles to increase ELISA sensitivity for diseases like cancer, allowing for earlier diagnosis and potentially saving lives.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 25, 2021

Massive study reveals few differences between men and women's brains

A massive study coalesced three decades of research to find that men and women's brains differ slightly in size, not sex or gender. Brain size is the only clear-cut difference, with women's brains being about 11% smaller than men's, impacting certain features such as gray matter and connectivity.

SourceRosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science·JournalNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews·DateMar 25, 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.

Second drug targeting KRASG12C shows benefit in mutated non-small-cell lung cancer

A new study found that a second drug targeting KRASG12C showed promising results in treating non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with this specific mutation. Nearly half of patients evaluable for clinical activity had a partial response to treatment, setting up potential future trials and combinations.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateMar 25, 2021

Text message program shows 60 percent of opioid tablets unused after common procedures

A new study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that more than 60% of opioid tablets prescribed for patients undergoing orthopaedic or urologic procedures went unused. The study used an automated text messaging system to track patient pain and opioid use, revealing that most opioids are taken withi...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 25, 2021

Biocrude passes the 2,000-hour catalyst stability test

Scientists at the DOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory have successfully demonstrated a biocrude conversion process that can operate continuously for over 2,000 hours without losing effectiveness. The process converts various types of biocrude from wastewater and food waste into high-quality renewable diesel fuel.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateMar 25, 2021

A T-cell stimulatory protein and interleukin-10 synergize to prevent gut inflammation

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has identified a synergy between ICOS ligand and interleukin-10 that promotes mutualism with the gut microbiota. The research found that mice deficient in ICOSL had increased frequencies of IL-10-producing CD4+ T cells, which were crucial for preventing severe inf...

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 25, 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.

Researchers at Stanford and Carnegie Mellon reveal cost of key climate solution

New study by Stanford and Carnegie Mellon researchers finds that managing high salinity brines from efficient underground carbon sequestration imposes significant energy and emissions penalties. The approach prioritizes storage in low salinity reservoirs, minimizing extraction ratios and recovery extent to reduce penalties.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 25, 2021

Researchers improve plant prime editing efficiency with optimized pegRNA designs

The study optimized pegRNA designs to maximize plant prime editing efficiency, finding that the melting temperature of the PBS sequence is crucial for efficient editing. The introduction of dual pegRNAs resulted in significant improvements in editing efficiency, with a 3.0-fold increase compared to individual pegRNAs.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 25, 2021

Wisdom, loneliness and your intestinal multitude

A new study reveals a connection between wisdom, loneliness and gut microbial diversity. Participants with lower levels of loneliness and higher levels of wisdom had greater phylogenetic richness and diversity in their gut microbiome. A more diverse gut microbiota may promote better resilience and stability.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·DateMar 25, 2021

Aerobic exercise may help address dialysis-related symptoms

Aerobic exercise has been shown to lessen several hemodialysis-related symptoms, including restless leg syndrome, symptoms of depression, muscle cramping, and fatigue. However, more research is needed to determine the extent of benefits from aerobic exercise for individuals with kidney failure who are undergoing dialysis.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 25, 2021

New 'bi-molecule' with multiple technological applications discovered

A new type of bi-molecule formed from two nitric oxide molecules has been discovered, enabling researchers to study chemical reactions at low temperatures and investigate intermolecular interactions at large distances. The bi-molecule could have multiple technological applications in quantum optics and computing.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 25, 2021

New biomarkers of malignant melanoma identified

Scientists have identified new biomarkers in exosomes produced by cancer stem cells, which could help diagnose and predict malignant melanoma. These biomarkers were found to be present in the blood of patients with different stages of the disease, distinguishing them from healthy individuals.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalMolecular Oncology·DateMar 25, 2021

Renewable energy, new perspectives for photovoltaic cells

Researchers at Politecnico di Milano and IFN-CNR have developed new materials that minimize efficiency losses in organic photovoltaic cells. These advancements enable future solar cells to be more efficient, flexible, and environmentally friendly.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 25, 2021

Scientists find evidence that novel coronavirus invades the mouth's cells

A study by researchers at UNC Chapel Hill found evidence that SARS-CoV-2 infects cells in the mouth, potentially explaining widespread symptoms and enabling transmission through saliva. The study revealed RNA for viral entry proteins in certain oral tissues, suggesting these regions are susceptible to infection.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 25, 2021

Genomic sieve analysis can inform SARS-CoV-2 vaccine development

Researchers propose genomic sieve analysis to examine COVID-19 vaccine breakthrough infections, revealing viral mutations that evade the immune response. The technique predicts potential mechanisms of vaccine protection and future vaccine resistance.

SourceThe U.S. Military HIV Research Program (MHRP)·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMar 25, 2021

Gene required for jumping identified in rabbits

A study published in PLOS Genetics identified the RORB gene as necessary for rabbits to perform their characteristic jumping gait. The researchers used a rare breed of domesticated rabbit with a developmental defect to pinpoint the cause, finding a specific mutation in the RORB gene that disrupts the animal's ability to jump.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 25, 2021

A divided cell is a doubled cell

Researchers achieve complete control over vesicle division using osmosis and enzymatic reactions, producing single-phase 'daughter cells' with different membrane compositions. The team can also grow these cells back into phase-separated vesicles by fusing them with tiny vesicles.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 25, 2021

New nanotransistors keep their cool at high voltages

Researchers at EPFL have developed a new transistor design that reduces resistance and heat dissipation in high-power systems. The innovative technology uses multi-channel designs and gallium nitride nanowires to improve conversion efficiencies.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Electronics·DateMar 25, 2021

Plant gene found in insect, shields it from leaf toxins

A Chinese research team discovered that whiteflies use a plant gene to degrade common plant toxins, allowing them to feed on plants safely. The team developed a strategy to undo this superpower by creating a small RNA molecule that interferes with the whitefly's gene.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateMar 25, 2021

MIT engineers make filters from tree branches to purify drinking water

Researchers have developed xylem filters made from native trees that can remove bacteria and viruses from contaminated drinking water, showing promise as a community-based solution. The filters can be fabricated using simple techniques and have been tested in India, demonstrating their effectiveness in real-world situations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 25, 2021

Should you take fish oil? Depends on your genotype

Research suggests that fish oil supplementation only lowers triglycerides in individuals with a specific genetic background (AG genotype), while those with the AA genotype may see increased triglycerides.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 25, 2021

The imaginary part of quantum mechanics really exists!

A team of researchers from University of Warsaw and China found quantum states that can only be distinguished using complex numbers, proving their importance in quantum mechanics. Complex numbers were initially considered purely mathematical but have been shown to play a fundamental role in the theory.

SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 25, 2021

Geisel receives $2.1 million grant to implement shared decision making collaborative

Researchers at Dartmouth's Geisel School of Medicine will engage breast cancer teams across the US in a learning collaborative to adopt and implement conversation aids for early-stage breast cancer treatment options. The goal is to improve patient involvement in decision-making and increase awareness of PCORI-funded research findings.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·DateMar 25, 2021

Researchers capture first 3D super-resolution images in living mice

Scientists have developed a new microscopy technique that can acquire 3D super-resolution images of subcellular structures deep inside biological tissue, including the brain. This breakthrough enables researchers to study subtle changes in neurons over time, during learning, or as a result of disease.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateMar 25, 2021

Researchers use machine learning to rank cancer drugs in order of efficacy

Researchers from Queen Mary University of London developed a machine learning algorithm that ranks cancer drugs based on their effectiveness in reducing cancer cell growth. The approach has the potential to advance personalized therapies by allowing oncologists to select the best drugs for individual patients.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 25, 2021

When fly larvae are hungry

Researchers led by Dr. Katrin Vogt found that fly larvae adjust their behavior in response to internal states and context, similar to human brains. The study, funded by the German Research Foundation and NIH, sheds light on how the brain controls sensory processing.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 25, 2021

Bringing Total Worker Health® to a multinational agribusiness in Latin America

Researchers applied Total Worker Health framework to a large Latin American agribusiness, adapting existing tools and training to meet diverse cultural needs. The study found improvements in employee health, safety, and well-being, as well as increased productivity.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMar 25, 2021

Exposure to flame retardants early in pregnancy linked to premature birth

A new study has found a link between early exposure to flame retardants and an increased risk of premature birth in pregnant women. Women with high levels of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in their blood were more likely to deliver their babies early, with no such association seen for those with lower exposure levels.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Perinatal Medicine·DateMar 25, 2021

Exploring the nanoworld in 3D

Researchers from CNRS and universities in France and Austria develop new imaging technique to visualize electromagnetic fields surrounding nanocrystals. This breakthrough enables precise targeting of heat transfers and better understanding of materials properties.

SourceCNRS·JournalScience·DateMar 25, 2021

New study published in Science maps wildlife microbiota

A new study published in Science has mapped the gut microbiota of over 200 species of animals in the wild, discovering millions of previously unknown potential human therapeutics. The study's findings add 30 million genes to Wild Biotech's database, which now comprises hundreds of animal species and 100 million genes.

SourceKern Communications·JournalScience·DateMar 25, 2021

New light on baryonic matter and gravity on cosmic scales

Researchers have discovered that missing baryonic matter is found in the space between galaxies as hot, low-density gas. This study also provides new insights into the nature of gravity, showing that observations are compatible with Einstein's theory of General Relativity.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMar 25, 2021

Common Alzheimer's treatment linked to slower cognitive decline

A new study published in Neurology shows that cholinesterase inhibitors can slow cognitive decline and reduce mortality in people with Alzheimer's disease. The study found that patients treated with these drugs had a 27% lower risk of death compared to those not treated, highlighting the benefits of current treatment recommendations.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNeurology·DateMar 25, 2021

How improving acoustic monitoring of bats could help protecting biodiversity

New research suggests that existing acoustic monitoring measures are insufficient to reliably predict bat mortality risk at large wind turbines. To improve coverage, scientists recommend installing supplementary ultrasonic detectors and complementary sensor technologies like radar systems or thermal imaging cameras.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalMammal Review·DateMar 25, 2021

Researchers dig deeper into how migrating cells interact in the body

Cells migrating along networks of fibers exhibit different behavior than in a flat environment, with increased speed and altered interactions when encountering other cells or dividing. This study provides new understanding into cellular behavior and its relevance to drug delivery and wound healing.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 25, 2021

Researchers discover new organic conductor

Scientists have created a new type of salt that acts as an electrical conductor, exhibiting unique magnetic coordination at low temperatures. The discovery was made using tetrathiafulvalene as a skeleton for the new substance, which has infinite chain structure and stabilizes atomic arrangements.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalInorganic Chemistry·DateMar 25, 2021

Palm oil production can grow without converting rainforests and peatland

Research suggests that palm farmers in Indonesia can significantly increase their yields by implementing improved management practices, such as improved harvest methods, better weed control, and plant nutrition. This could lead to an 68% increase in palm oil production on existing plantation areas without expanding into new ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalNature Sustainability·DateMar 25, 2021

World-first discovery paves way to new cancer treatment

Australian researchers have made a world-first discovery in targeting an aggressive childhood cancer, neuroblastoma. They found that the cellular protein ALYREF plays a crucial role in accelerating MYCN-driven cancer growth in neuroblastoma cells.

SourceChildren's Cancer Institute Australia·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 25, 2021

TPU scientists develop sensor with nanopores for definition doping in blood

The researchers created a new sensor using two layers of nanopores that can detect specific enantiomers of chiral molecules, allowing for faster and cheaper detection than traditional methods. The sensor operates by exploiting surface plasmon resonance and takes less than 5 minutes to analyze.

SourceTomsk Polytechnic University·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateMar 25, 2021

In certain circumstances, outsourcing poses risks to vendors

A new study found that outsourcing routine tasks can be risky for vendors, particularly when it involves developing specific capabilities for the client. In contrast, well-defined tasks with trained workers and longer contracts are more beneficial for vendors.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalInformation Systems Frontiers·DateMar 25, 2021

New study sheds light on how X and Y chromosomes interact

Researchers at Lund University investigated X and Y chromosome evolution and adaptation in a population. The results show that breaking up coevolved sets of sex chromosomes can lead to lower survival rates among offspring.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 25, 2021