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Science News for March 3, 2021


County where people live may predict some cardiovascular death by race, ethnicity

A study found that county-level factors, such as demographics and socioeconomic conditions, significantly impact cardiovascular disease death rates among different racial and ethnic groups. Black adults had the highest average death rate, while socioeconomic concerns explained much of the variation in death rates among this population.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMar 3, 2021

Prehistoric killing machine exposed

A new study reveals that the Anteosaurus, a 260-million-year-old predator, was capable of outrunning and tracking down its prey effectively due to its specialized nervous system and fine-tuned sensory organs. The research found that the animal's brain and balance organs were optimized for hunting swiftly and striking fast.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalActa Palaeontologica Polonica·DateMar 3, 2021

Researchers introduce a new generation of tiny, agile drones

Researchers at MIT have developed a new generation of tiny, agile drones that can operate in cramped spaces and withstand collisions. The drones use soft actuators to mimic insect flight, allowing them to flap their wings nearly 500 times per second and navigate complex environments with high agility.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Robotics·DateMar 3, 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.

SARS-CoV-2 immunization passports: A ticket to normal life?

The introduction of immunization passports may help countries reopen and revitalize their economies while reducing the spread of SARS-CoV-2. To implement these passports effectively, governments must establish secure digital immunization records and ensure adherence to international standards.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 3, 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.

Diversity of fish species supply endangered killer whale diet throughout the year

A new analysis shows that Southern Resident killer whales prey on a variety of fish species throughout the year, including Chinook, steelhead, chum, and coho salmon. The researchers found that the whales' diet becomes less diverse during lean times, highlighting the need for strategies to support their food supply.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 3, 2021

New long-term study affirms contact lens wear as healthy option for children

A six-year study found minimal impact on physiological response in children wearing daily disposable soft contact lenses, affirming their safety for correcting myopia and slowing its progression. The research also highlights the importance of lens fit, material, and patient habits in ensuring successful wear.

SourceMcDougall Communications·JournalContact Lens and Anterior Eye·DateMar 3, 2021

Mobile app helps young adults talk with friends about risky drug, alcohol use

A smartphone app called Harbor teaches young adults how to support their peers who engage in risky substance use behaviors. The app provides prompts and feedback to help users have a supportive conversation without being confrontational or enabling.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateMar 3, 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.

University students with special educational needs highlight the benefits of e-assessment

A study by Universitat Oberta de Catalunya found that students with disabilities accept e-authentication systems but express concerns about technical issues. Key factors influencing acceptance include student familiarity with technology, additional effort required, and perceived intrusiveness.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalInternational Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education·DateMar 3, 2021

Origin of childhood cancer malignant rhabdoid tumour discovered

Researchers have discovered that malignant rhabdoid tumour (MRT) arises from developmental cells in the neural crest whose maturation is blocked by a genetic defect. The study identified two drugs that could be used to overcome this block and resume normal development, bringing hope for new treatments.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 3, 2021

When should patients with dementia receive palliative care?

A recent analysis found a lack of consensus regarding palliative care referral in dementia patients, highlighting the need for standardized criteria. Specialist palliative care can optimize quality of life and provide relief from symptoms, but its application varies widely.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 3, 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.

How 'green' are environmentally friendly fireworks?

Researchers estimated emissions from environmentally friendly fireworks and found they produce a much smaller plume with 15-65% PM2.5 reduction. However, peak concentrations exceed WHO guidelines, suggesting restrictions on usage.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 3, 2021

Reading the physics hiding in data

A multidisciplinary team of scientists has developed a new way to detect phase transitions in raw data by analyzing its intrinsic dimension, a statistical property that reveals collective properties of partition functions. This method is agnostic and does not require prior knowledge of the system's parameters.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalPhysical Review X·DateMar 3, 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.

The battle against hard-to-treat fungal infections

Fungal infections are rare but deadly, with limited treatment options due to resistance. Developing new antifungals is challenging due to biological similarities between humans and fungi.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 3, 2021

Scientists discover how microorganisms evolve cooperative behaviors

Researchers from Institute for Systems Biology uncover evidence that mutations generate positive genetic interactions among rare microbial individuals, increasing cooperativity and enabling their persistence. The study also reveals parallel evolution underlying the co-evolution of two organisms in a mutualistic community.

SourceInstitute for Systems Biology·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateMar 3, 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.

Utah researchers illuminate potential precursors of blood cancers

Utah researchers identify mutation hotspots and find that approximately 2% of healthy participants had the same mutations as cancer patients. This study provides new insights into the development of blood cancers and may help identify people at risk.

SourceHuntsman Cancer Institute·JournalBlood Cancer Discovery·DateMar 3, 2021

Do marketers matter for entrepreneurs?

A field experiment in Uganda shows that marketers can increase sales, profits, assets, and employees for small-scale entrepreneurs. The study highlights the positive impact of marketers on business growth in emerging markets.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMar 3, 2021

Immunotherapy drug delays onset of Type 1 diabetes in at-risk group

A new trial shows that immunotherapy drug teplizumab can delay the onset of Type 1 diabetes in people at high risk by an average of five years compared to a placebo. The study, published in Science Translational Medicine, found reduced T-cell damage and improved insulin-producing beta cells in those who received the treatment.

SourceYale University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 3, 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.

First detailed insight into newborn babies' lungs at birth

Researchers have captured detailed images of newborn babies' lungs as they take their first breaths, revealing complex methods of adapting to air-breathing at birth. The study provides clues to improving preterm babies' survival chances and long-term health outcomes.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 3, 2021

Sesaminol: Parkinson's disease's surprise medicine

Researchers at Osaka City University discover sesaminol protects against neuronal damage and increases dopamine levels in Parkinson's disease models. The study suggests sesaminol may be the first-ever medicine for Parkinson's disease, potentially derived from industrial waste.

SourceOsaka City University·DateMar 3, 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.

$1m grant funds research on potential new RX for prostate cancer

A $1.06 million grant has been awarded to LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine to explore a new treatment for Castrate Resistant Prostate Cancer (CPRC). The research focuses on the role of Prostate Derived ETS Transcription Factor (PDEF) in prostate cancer, with the goal of identifying novel targets for intervention.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateMar 3, 2021

Tenfold increase in CO2 emissions cuts needed to stem climate emergency

New research shows that while 64 countries cut fossil CO2 emissions during 2016-2019, the rate of reduction needs to increase tenfold to meet the Paris Agreement aims to tackle climate change. Global emissions grew by 0.21 billion tonnes of CO2 per year during 2016-2019 compared to 2011-2015.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 3, 2021

Filming a 3D video of a virus with instantaneous light and AI

Researchers successfully filmed and restored the 3D structure of nanoparticles that share structural similarities with viruses using X-ray free electron laser (XFEL) and machine learning. This breakthrough enables high accuracy and speed imaging of viruses, opening new avenues for understanding their structures.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 3, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Common dolphin populations at risk

A genomic study of over 500 common dolphins across 1,500 sq km reveals complex population structure and connectivity across state and international jurisdictions. The research emphasizes the importance of inter-jurisdictional collaboration to mitigate fisheries interactions and protect dolphin populations.

SourceFlinders University·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateMar 3, 2021

Periodontitis: Researchers search for a new active substance

A team of researchers has developed a new method to combat periodontitis by targeting only the bacteria that cause the disease. The approach uses a test substance that attacks glutaminyl cyclase, an enzyme in the bacteria that plays a special role in metabolism.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 3, 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.

Mantis shrimp inspires new breed of light sensors

Researchers developed a new optical sensor that mimics the mantis shrimp's eye, enabling simultaneous hyperspectral and polarimetric imaging. The SIMPOL sensor can detect spectral features 10 times narrower than typical sensors, opening doors to organic electronic sensing technologies.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 3, 2021

Nerve damage after chemo: potential risk factors revealed

A recent study has identified potential risk factors for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), including age, body mass index (BMI), and low haemoglobin levels. Patients who are older, overweight, or have lower red blood cell counts may be more at risk of developing debilitating nerve damage following chemotherapy.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 3, 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.

Ghosts of past pesticide use can haunt organic farms for decades

Researchers identified pesticide residues at 100 Swiss farms, including all organic fields, with beneficial microbes' abundance negatively impacted by their occurrence. Organic farming strategies avoid synthetic substances, yet pesticides can persist in the soil.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 3, 2021

Chemists boost boron's utility

Researchers have created a boron-containing chemical group that is 10,000 times more stable than its predecessors. This new group, called benzoxaboralone, can be added to compounds to provide desirable attributes such as improved protein-binding strength.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2021

High end of climate sensitivity in new climate models seen as less plausible

A recent analysis of CMIP6 climate models found that those with high climate sensitivity do not provide a plausible scenario of Earth's future climate. Models with lower climate sensitivity are more consistent with observed differences in temperature between the northern and southern hemispheres.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 3, 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.

Reconstructing historical typhoons from a 142-year record

A team of scientists has identified landfalls of tropical cyclones in Japan for the period from 1877 to 2019, providing valuable knowledge for disaster preparedness. The analysis shows that TC landfall locations tend to shift and annual numbers have been increasing in recent years.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalClimatic Change·DateMar 3, 2021

New research unlocks mysteries of soupfin shark migration and reproduction

Researchers have discovered that soupfin sharks undergo a triennial migratory cycle and reproductive cycle, returning to the same location every three years. This finding has significant implications for conservation and management of the species in U.S. waters, highlighting the need for revised management strategies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateMar 3, 2021

'Best case' goals for climate warming which could still result in massive wildfire risk

Researchers found that a half-degree of additional warming would likely create a notably greater danger of fire on continents like the Amazon and African savanna, and around the Mediterranean. Suppressing extra warming could reduce climate-driven extreme fire activities in many places, potentially saving lives and billions of dollars.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 3, 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.

Heat-free optical switch would enable optical quantum computing chips

A heat-free optical switch developed by KTH researchers can control single photons without generating heat, making it compatible with sensitive single-photon detectors. This technology is crucial for integrating optical switches and photon detectors in a single chip, paving the way for quantum computing and communication advancements.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 3, 2021

Scientists find strongest evidence yet of 'migration gene'

Researchers identified a single gene, ADCY8, associated with migration in peregrine falcons, which is also linked to long-term memory. The study predicts that climate change may lead to population decline and migration patterns changes in western Eurasian peregrines.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature·DateMar 3, 2021

Albumin provides no benefit to hospitalized patients with advanced liver disease

A large-scale trial found that daily albumin infusions provide no significant health benefit to patients hospitalised with advanced liver disease, over and above 'standard care'. The study showed no reduction in infection, kidney dysfunction, or death among patients receiving targeted albumin treatment.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 3, 2021

Limiting invasive species may be a better goal than eliminating them

A new study suggests that limiting the numbers of invasive species may be a better goal than eliminating them altogether. The research, led by Stephanie Green, proposes a strategy called functional eradication to curtail the impact of destructive and widespread invasive species.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateMar 3, 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.

Source of hazardous high-energy particles located in the Sun

Scientists at UCL and George Mason University have located the source of potentially hazardous solar particles for the first time, finding they originate from plasma confined close to the top of the Sun's chromosphere. This discovery aims to improve forecasts of solar storms and reduce risks to satellites and electronic infrastructure.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 3, 2021

Climate change 'winners' may owe financial compensation to polluters

A study by Princeton University researchers suggests that climate change can have both positive and negative effects on different groups. Those harmed by climate change should be compensated first, while those benefiting from it may receive payment afterwards. The approach aims to correct incentives and promote fairness in climate policy.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalEconomics and Philosophy·DateMar 3, 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.

New form of symbiosis discovered

Researchers have discovered a unique endosymbiotic relationship where a bacterium provides energy to its unicellular host by breathing nitrate, complementing or replacing mitochondrial functions. This finding opens the possibility of simple eukaryotes hosting energy-providing endosymbionts.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalNature·DateMar 3, 2021

How do you know where volcanic ash will end up?

Researchers studied ash from volcanic eruptions, discovering premature sedimentation and the rafting effect. These findings will refine forecasting models used by VAACs to predict volcanic ash clouds' impact on aircraft routes.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 3, 2021

Study links kidney stones with bone problems

Researchers analyzed nationwide data to find a strong correlation between kidney stones and osteoporosis or bone fracture diagnoses. The study suggests that bone density screening may be necessary for individuals with kidney stones, particularly middle-aged and older men at risk of osteoporosis or fracture.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateMar 3, 2021

Scientists investigate 3D-printed high-entropy alloys

Researchers studied the fatigue properties of CrFeCoNi alloy produced by Laser-Powder Bed Fusion technique, revealing improvements in plasticity and extended fatigue life after annealing. The study aims to advance the use of high-entropy alloys in industries and mechanical engineering.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·DateMar 3, 2021

Neuroimaging reveals how ideology affects race perception

Research using neuroimaging found that white conservatives exhibit higher sensitivity to racial ambiguity in the anterior insula, leading them to overcategorize mixed-race faces as Black. This effect is linked to an affective reaction to racial mixing rather than a sensitivity to Blackness.

SourceCornell University·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateMar 3, 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.

Helping soft robots turn rigid on demand

Researchers at MIT have developed a new type of control system that allows soft-bodied robots to turn rigid on demand. This advancement could enable robots to combine the strength and precision of rigid robots with the fluidity and safety of soft ones, leading to improved performance in various tasks such as caring for human patients.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMar 3, 2021

An ultra-degree-of-freedom structured vector beam

Scientists have successfully created a vector beam with an unprecedented 5 degrees of freedom, exceeding the previously reported 2 DoFs. This breakthrough exploits ray-wave duality in a frequency-degenerate laser to generate a non-separable output that combines periodic number, transverse index, oscillating phase, and astigmatic degree.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalOptics Express·DateMar 3, 2021

Gender assumptions harm progress on climate adaption and resilience

A new study reveals that four common assumptions about gender are hindering effective policymaking and action on climate change. The review of literature highlights how these narrow diagnoses of gender inequality have counterproductive consequences, such as overburdening women and obscuring vulnerabilities of other groups.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 3, 2021

Camera traps reveal newly discovered biodiversity relationship

Researchers analyzed camera-trap data from 15 tropical rainforests to find a predictable relationship between mammal communities and plant productivity. The study suggests that unique species are more common in forests with high productivity, allowing them to thrive without intense competition.

SourceRice University·DateMar 3, 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 effect of red ginseng: suppression of lung cancer metastasis

Researchers at KIST discovered that red ginseng can significantly suppress lung cancer metastasis, with components Rk1 and Rg5 showing effective inhibition. The study developed a microwave processing method to increase the concentration of these components, leading to potential anti-cancer effects.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalJournal of Ginseng Research·DateMar 3, 2021

Deeper understanding of host-dependent long-distance movement of viruses in plants

A new study from China Agricultural University investigates the role of Hsc70-2 protein in virus-host interaction, identifying key amino acids responsible for systemic infection. The research supports a scenario where viral coat protein adaptations ensure better survival and spread among different plant hosts.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateMar 3, 2021

USTC detects a sharp rise in detection rate of broad absorption line variations

Researchers from USTC detected a 'sharp rise' signature in detection rate of BAL variations, leading to ionized gas density determination. They found the detection rate curve could distinguish gaseous components with different densities, optimizing their method measuring gas density by trec.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateMar 3, 2021

Cardiovascular risk factors, cognitive impairment in people with schizophrenia

A comprehensive study combining 27 research studies and 10,000 participant data reveals strong associations between cardiovascular risk factors and cognitive impairment in individuals with schizophrenia. The findings suggest that managing cardiovascular conditions is essential to mitigate cognitive decline in these patients.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMar 3, 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.

Mental health treatment rate rose early in pandemic

A study published in The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found a significant increase in mental health treatment visits, particularly for substance use and anxiety, during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. This rise is attributed to the challenges posed by shelter-in-place orders and the shift to virtual care.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateMar 3, 2021

Evolution drives autism and other conditions to occur much more frequently in boys

A team of genetics researchers found that evolutionary forces drive a gender imbalance in health conditions, with men being more vulnerable to physical and mental health issues. This imbalance is due to the human genome's favoring of different characteristics in males and females, making men more susceptible to various conditions.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Molecular Evolution·DateMar 3, 2021

NASA scientists complete 1st global survey of freshwater fluctuation

Scientists used ICESat-2 to track water level fluctuations in Earth's lakes and ponds over 22 months, finding natural lakes and ponds change by 8.6 inches seasonally, while reservoirs fluctuate nearly quadruple that amount. The study also revealed regional patterns of variability in reservoirs.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature·DateMar 3, 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.

Chickpea genetics reduce need for chemicals

Researchers have identified chickpea varieties with natural resistance to Pythium ultimum, a soil-born water mold threatening the crop's production. These resistant varieties will be used to breed new kabuli chickpea varieties with improved disease resistance.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateMar 3, 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.

Nature: new compound for male contraceptive pill

Researchers at The Lundquist Institute have discovered a new compound called triptonide, which exhibits ideal male contraceptive effects in pre-clinical studies. Triptonide can be purified from a Chinese herb or produced through chemical synthesis and induces altered sperm with minimal motility, leading to male infertility in 3-4 weeks.

SourceThe Lundquist Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 3, 2021

Will this solve the mystery of the expansion of the universe?

Researchers propose a new type of dark energy that could explain conflicting measurements of the universe's expansion rate. The theory suggests that dark energy underwent a phase transition triggered by the universe's expansion, resulting in a more consistent explanation for observed phenomena.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalPhysical Review D·DateMar 3, 2021

Lessons from Wuhan: What managers and employees need to know

A study by the University of Illinois Chicago reveals that employee engagement and performance are highest when employees are mentally prepared to return to work and their managers prioritize health and safety. Managers must set a good example, communicate effectively, and enforce safety protocols to promote workplace well-being.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateMar 3, 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.

How to track the variants of the pandemic faster

Scientists highlight the need for sustainable collaboration frameworks and harmonization of health data practices to tackle the pandemic. Improved sequencing could enable better tracking of transmission and mutations, leading to more accurate estimates of R-number and improved understanding of mutational impacts.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalNature·DateMar 3, 2021

Tracking data reveals shared political responsibility for the conservation of albatrosses and petrel

Researchers analyzed tracking data of 5,775 birds across 39 species to estimate global political responsibility for their protection. The study found that many countries lack agreements with each other's breeding grounds, highlighting the need for international agreements to conserve these threatened seabirds.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 3, 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.

Color blindness-correcting contact lenses

Researchers developed infusing contact lenses with gold nanoparticles to create a safer way to see colors for people with color blindness. The gold nanocomposite lenses improved red-green color perception in clinical trials without leaching dye, offering a potential solution for those struggling with the condition.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 3, 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.

Researchers realize the ice inhibition for cryopreservation

Researchers have developed a new method to prevent ice crystal formation during cryopreservation, enabling cells and organs to survive and even proliferate after thawing. The technique uses nanocomposites to regulate ice nucleation and reduce damage caused by crystallization.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMar 3, 2021

Study reveals details of immune defense guidance system

Researchers at NYU Langone Health discovered that sphingosine 1 phosphate (S1P) levels in lymph nodes increase as the immune response mounts, leading to inflammation and damage. This finding could lead to better drugs used to fight inflammation, such as medications already approved for inflammatory bowel disease and multiple sclerosis.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateMar 3, 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.

Fluorescent nanodiamonds successfully injected into living cells

Researchers at Lund University have successfully injected large numbers of nanodiamonds into living cells, providing a novel means to monitor cellular activity over time. This technique has potential applications in separating healthy cells from diseased ones and targeting disease-causing proteins.

SourceLund University·JournalSmall·DateMar 3, 2021

Incentives can reduce alcohol use among American Indian and Alaska Native people

A low-cost intervention using small prizes and incentives successfully reduced alcohol use among American Indian and Alaska Native adults diagnosed with alcohol dependence. Participants who received contingency management interventions were 70% more likely to abstain from alcohol than control participants.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMar 3, 2021

Tiny computers reveal how wild bats hunt so efficiently

Wild greater mouse-eared bats use extremely weak prey echoes that are like whispers to humans, allowing them to focus on their next meal. The bats control the strength of their returning echoes by calling louder or weaker, using this strategy to simplify their information and process.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 3, 2021

Tackling tumors with two types of virus

A Swiss research group has developed a novel cancer vaccine strategy utilizing two different viruses to stimulate the immune system against tumor cells. In animal experiments, this approach led to the elimination or slowing down of tumors in 20-40% of cases.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateMar 3, 2021

Influenza vaccine produces protective antibodies against diverse flu strains in animals

A nanoparticle-based vaccine has been shown to produce protective antibodies against multiple H1 and H3 influenza A viruses in nonhuman primates. The vaccine's broad immunity suggests it may provide long-term protection, offering a promising solution to the challenge of creating a universal flu vaccine.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 3, 2021
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

The social and economic cost of eating disorders in the United States

The study found that eating disorders in the US resulted in a total economic cost of $64.7 billion and a substantial reduction in wellbeing worth $326.5 billion. The authors aim to scale up effective prevention, early detection, and treatment interventions for eating disorders.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Eating Disorders·DateMar 3, 2021

Study: Bahamas were settled earlier than believed

Researchers at Texas A&M University discovered evidence of human settlement in the Bahamas around 1200-1300 A.D. using charcoal deposits from human fires thousands of years ago. The new settlers dramatically changed the landscape, leading to increased deforestation and loss of native species.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2021

Opioid overdose reduced in patients taking buprenorphine

Patients taking buprenorphine for opioid use disorder who also take benzodiazepines experience a 40% lower risk of overdose, according to research published in The American Journal of Psychiatry. This finding suggests that buprenorphine can protect patients from overdose even when taking benzodiazepines.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateMar 3, 2021

Molybdenum disulfide ushers in era of post-silicon photonics

Researchers discovered giant optical anisotropy in molybdenum disulfide crystals, enabling compact photonic devices and waveguides. The material's birefringence value is several times greater than previous record-breakers.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 3, 2021

Researchers discover SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors

A research team has discovered two families of active substances that can block the replication of SARS-CoV-2 by targeting its main protease enzyme. The drug candidates show promise for therapeutic development, but extensive clinical trials are still required.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 3, 2021

UBC study finds high life satisfaction linked to better overall health

A UBC study found that higher life satisfaction is associated with 21 positive health outcomes, including a 26% reduced risk of mortality. The research suggests that policymakers should consider improving life satisfaction as a target for enhancing physical and mental well-being.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalMilbank Quarterly·DateMar 3, 2021

Conquering the timing jitters

A team of scientists from Argonne National Laboratory developed a method to dramatically improve ultrafast time resolution achievable with X-ray free-electron lasers. This breakthrough enables new insights into the behavior of materials and chemical processes, allowing for more efficient designs and discoveries.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 3, 2021

New, highly precise 'clock' can measure biological age

Researchers developed an 'aging clock' that directly measures biological age from gene expression in Caenorhabditis elegans. The new BiT age clock uses a mathematical trick to minimize gene activity variation, allowing accurate predictions of biological age and its effects.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalAging Cell·DateMar 3, 2021

Bioinspired materials from dandelions

Researchers at the University of Trento have discovered that dandelion clocks can trap air when submerged in water, leading to the development of new materials that could be used in underwater operations. The discovery was made by students and professors who were inspired by a observation made by a high school student.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalMaterials Today Bio·DateMar 3, 2021

Sewage-handling robots help predict COVID-19 outbreaks in San Diego

Researchers at UC San Diego used sewage-handling robots to detect SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater and predicted COVID-19 cases with excellent accuracy. The system extracts RNA from sewage samples, runs PCR to search for virus signature genes, and can process 24 samples every 40 minutes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateMar 3, 2021

Researchers reveal process behind harmful glial cell change in motor neurone disease

Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute have identified the key cellular change that leads to harmful astrocytes in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The discovery could lead to new therapies to slow disease progression and is also relevant to other neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Understanding this c...

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateMar 3, 2021

Report: The Impact of the COIVD-19 pandemic on CUNY students

A recent survey found that the COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on the mental health and financial stability of approximately 274,000 City University of New York (CUNY) students. Over half reported experiencing depression and/or anxiety, with food insecurity and housing worries being strong predictors of anxiety/depression.

SourceCUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy·JournalJournal of Urban Health·DateMar 3, 2021

Depression and anxiety among first-year college students worsen during pandemic

First-year college students are experiencing higher rates of depression and anxiety due to social isolation and remote learning. The study found that Black students were disproportionately affected by depression, while Hispanic and first-generation students showed improvements in feelings of social isolation.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 3, 2021

Study examines motives for dropping out of higher education

A new study analyzed reasons for university dropout, finding lack of interest in field of study and academic performance issues as key motivators. The research suggests implementing early warning systems and personalized counseling services to support students at risk.

SourceWiley·JournalEuropean Journal of Education·DateMar 3, 2021

Custom diets are essential to mental health, new research shows

New research reveals that diet plays a major role in improving mental health, with different age groups and genders requiring unique dietary approaches. The study found that young adults need more energy and nutrients due to brain development, while men and women have distinct nutritional needs influenced by biological sex.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalNutrients·DateMar 3, 2021

Research news tip sheet: Story ideas from Johns Hopkins Medicine

A study by researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that proteins in urine can be used as biomarkers to predict the likelihood of progression to chronic kidney disease and death after acute kidney injury. The three protein biomarkers, MCP-1, UMOD, and YKL-40, showed promise in predicting patient outcomes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 3, 2021

Study offers an explanation for why the APOE4 gene enhances Alzheimer's risk

A study from MIT reveals the APOE4 gene variant causes widespread disruptions in brain cells' ability to metabolize lipids and respond to stress. Supplementing with choline may reverse these effects, offering a potential new approach to treating Alzheimer's disease.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 3, 2021

How math can help us understand the human body

Researchers at Ohio State University used graph theory to model homeostasis in the human body, predicting changes in dopamine levels and identifying properties of graphs that can help prevent system breakdowns. This approach could lead to targeted medical care for people who need it.

SourceOhio State University·DateMar 3, 2021

Vaping marijuana associated with more symptoms of lung damage than vaping or smoking nicotine

A new University of Michigan study suggests that adolescents who vape cannabis are at greater risk for respiratory symptoms indicative of lung injury than those who smoke cigarettes or vape nicotine. The study found that vaping marijuana was associated with a stronger relationship between respiratory symptoms and asthma diagnosis.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateMar 3, 2021

New search engine for single cell atlases

A new software tool called scfind allows researchers to quickly query datasets generated from single-cell sequencing, identifying which cell types any combination of genes are active in. This enables swift analysis of multiple datasets containing millions of cells by a wide range of users.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 3, 2021

Swiss statistical systems enhanced by big data

Researchers at EPFL's HERUS lab used anonymized data from La Mobilière to develop a spatial regression model predicting 12 socio-economic indicators in six categories. The study aimed to show the potential of insurers' datasets beyond marketing purposes, guiding policymakers and government statistical offices.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 3, 2021

Heart failure-related death rates higher in rural versus urban US counties

Nationwide analysis reveals adults in rural counties experience higher heart failure-related death rates compared to urban counterparts, with greater increases for younger adults. Socioeconomic factors and clinical risk factors contribute to the urban-rural divide, prompting a need for targeted health and economic policy efforts.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 3, 2021