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Science News for March 30, 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.

$1.7 million grant to unlock barley's genetic superpowers

A UC Riverside geneticist has won a $1.7 million grant to study how barley has adapted to survive thousands of years, with the goal of understanding its future survival in extreme weather conditions. The project will also train undergraduates in agricultural science and computational techniques.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateMar 30, 2021

Sussex scientists develop ultra-thin terahertz source

Researchers at the University of Sussex have developed an extremely thin, large-area semiconductor surface source of terahertz radiation, opening up opportunities for anti-counterfeiting and 'the internet of things'. The new development is 10 times thinner than previously achieved, with comparable or even better performances.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 30, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ever wondered what red foxes eat? There's a database for that

A new online database, CarniDIET, has been created to provide detailed information on the diets of carnivores worldwide. Users can search for data by species or country and access interactive maps to understand geographical variations in diet.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateMar 30, 2021

Early Earth's hot mantle may have led to Archean 'water world'

A new study suggests that early Earth's hotter mantle could have stored more water than today, leading to a larger global ocean. The findings challenge previous assumptions about the size of the ocean and offer clues to its evolution over time.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalAGU Advances·DateMar 30, 2021

UMD study suggests supporting Indonesian women in conservation supports biodiversity

A UMD study found that supporting Indonesian women in conservation sciences can help tackle global biodiversity challenges. The research, which documented the motivations and challenges faced by women in this field, highlights the need for culturally appropriate training and mentorship to enable their participation.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalConservation Science and Practice·DateMar 30, 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.

Land-based learning reconnects Indigenous youth to their cultures, says Elizabeth Fast

A series of land-based learning retreats is helping Indigenous youth reconnect with their cultures, emphasizing knowledge-sharing, survival skills, and ceremonies. The retreats provide a safe space for young people to learn about their heritage, including cultural workshops, arts-based activities, and storytelling sessions.

SourceConcordia University·JournalInternational Journal of Indigenous Health·DateMar 30, 2021

New model to help identify risk factors for reading difficulties in children

Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center developed a new framework to understand how a child's brain is wired to learn to read. The 'eco-bio-developmental' model identifies risk factors for reading difficulties in infancy, emphasizing the importance of early screening and intervention.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 30, 2021

Investigating boundary layers in hypersonic flight

Researchers investigate shockwave boundary layer interactions, with a focus on transitional regime experiments and simulations. Better understanding of these interactions could prevent catastrophes in high-speed vehicles.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateMar 30, 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.

Big data tells story of diversity, migration of math's elite

A recent study analyzing nearly 250,000 mathematicians found that the Fields Medal has elevated marginalized nationalities, but also perpetuates self-reinforcing behavior through mentoring relationships. The research highlights the need for the prize to return to its roots and achieve its original goal of promoting inclusivity in math.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalHumanities and Social Sciences Communications·DateMar 30, 2021

Bespoke neuroblastoma therapy weaponizes cell metabolism

Researchers at VCU Massey Cancer Center developed a bespoke therapy combining phenformin and AZD3965 to exploit the metabolic 'hunger' of aggressive neuroblastoma, leading to greater tumor shrinkage without collateral damage. The treatment showed promising results in mice seeded with MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma patient cells.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 2021

Heart attacks in young adults more deadly in those with systemic inflammatory disease

A study found that young adults with inflammatory conditions like psoriasis, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis are twice as likely to experience fatal heart attacks. Researchers also discovered that patients with these conditions were less likely to be prescribed aspirin and statins after a heart attack.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateMar 30, 2021

Algorithm-based music recommendations: Low accuracy for lovers of non-mainstream music

A study found that algorithm-generated music recommendations are less accurate for listeners of non-mainstream music compared to those who listen to mainstream music. The researchers identified four groups of non-mainstream music listeners based on their listening habits and found that users who listened to high-energy music received t...

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalEPJ Data Science·DateMar 30, 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 discover new type of ancient crater lake on Mars

Researchers from Brown University have discovered a previously unknown type of ancient crater lake on Mars that differs from other Martian crater lakes. The crater was likely fed by runoff from a long-lost Martian glacier, which suggests the planet's early climate may have been warmer and wetter than previously thought.

SourceBrown University·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·DateMar 30, 2021

The 'one who causes fear' - new meat-eating predator discovered

A new species of dinosaur, Llkalkan aliocranianus, was discovered with extreme powerful bites, very sharp teeth, and huge claws. Its unique skull structure suggests it may have had a better sense of hearing than other abelisaurids.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateMar 30, 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.

Endangered songbird challenging assumptions about evolution

A University of Colorado Boulder-led research team found the Iberá Seedeater, an endangered songbird, used genetic shuffling instead of new mutations for speciation. The bird's unique behavior keeps it apart from closely related species.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience·DateMar 30, 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.

Urban squirrels, how much are we disturbing you?

Research finds that urban squirrels' success rates increase with repeated solving of a novel food-extraction task, suggesting adaptability to urban stressors. The study also reveals that direct human disturbance is a major stressor, while green coverage and squirrel population size have less impact on problem-solving performance.

SourceHokkaido University·DateMar 30, 2021

High-fiber diet may play a role in controlling the inflammation associated with COVID-19

Researchers found that high-fiber compounds reduced the expression of a gene and cytokine receptor involved in viral cell entry and inflammation. The findings suggest that high-fiber diets may help control inflammation caused by COVID-19, which can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms and changes in gut microbiota.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalGut Microbes·DateMar 30, 2021

Helping childhood-onset lupus patients stay healthy as adults

Researchers found that patients with public health insurance, a history of Child Protective Services involvement, and an unscheduled hospitalization during pediatric care were at higher risk for end-stage renal disease and death. Childhood-onset lupus patients face significant challenges as they transition to adult healthcare.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalSeminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism·DateMar 30, 2021

Unique AI method for generating proteins will speed up drug development

Researchers from Chalmers University of Technology have developed an AI-based approach called ProteinGAN, which uses generative deep learning to create highly diverse protein variants with naturalistic-like physical properties. This method accelerates the rate of protein engineering, driving down development costs and enabling environm...

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateMar 30, 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.

Scientists discover unique Cornish 'falgae'

Researchers found genetically distinct Fal Estuary maerl beds, shaped by geographical isolation and limited connectivity. Threats from shipping and climate change require targeted conservation efforts to protect these ancient ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateMar 30, 2021

Study investigates non-verbal signs of resistance

A new study examines how people with limited language ability express their wishes and preferences, and how support workers respond. The research found that subtle non-verbal cues signal resistance to activities, emphasizing the need for flexible institutional timetables and staff training.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalSociology of Health & Illness·DateMar 30, 2021

The neural mechanism of a circulatory response to stress

Researchers found that the lateral habenula (LHb) regulates cardiovascular responses via the serotonergic system, controlling heart rate and blood pressure. The study provides new insights into the neural mechanisms underlying stress-induced behavioral responses.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateMar 30, 2021

Architecture of Eolian successions under icehouse and greenhouse conditions

A new study analyzes thousands of geological features to quantify the response of ancient eolian systems to global climatic shifts. The results demonstrate that preserved sedimentary architectures developed under icehouse and greenhouse conditions are fundamentally different due to contrasting environmental conditions. This research ca...

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeological Society of America Bulletin·DateMar 30, 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.

T cells recognize recent SARS-CoV-2 variants

Researchers found that CD8+ T cells in recovered COVID-19 patients can recognize virtually all mutations in recent SARS-CoV-2 variants, offering protection against emerging strains. This suggests that vaccination may still be effective against new variants, and booster vaccinations may be needed to maintain immunity.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateMar 30, 2021

Pandemic stress, boredom caused some PA residents to increase cigarette use

During the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly a third of Pennsylvania smokers increased their daily cigarette consumption due to stress, boredom, and increased free time. Smokers who experienced this increase were at a higher risk of dependence and had difficulty quitting.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMar 30, 2021

Social media addiction linked to cyberbullying

A new study by the University of Georgia suggests that social media addiction is associated with an increased risk of cyberbullying behaviors among adolescents. Higher scores on social media addiction tests, more time spent online, and identifying as male were linked to a greater likelihood of perpetrating cyberbullying.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Counseling·DateMar 30, 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.

Preventive treatment reduces diabetic retinopathy complications

A four-year clinical trial from the DRCR Retina Network found that early anti-VEGF injections slowed diabetic retinopathy progression, but did not improve vision at two years. Standard treatment remained effective in preventing further vision loss.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateMar 30, 2021

Salt substitution -- an effective way to reduce blood pressure in rural India

A new study by The George Institute for Global Health found that replacing regular salt with a reduced-sodium, added-potassium salt substitute significantly lowered systolic blood pressure in rural Indian hypertensive patients. The intervention was shown to be an effective and low-cost way to control blood pressure in these communities.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMar 30, 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.

Scientists show technology can save people from shark bites

The deployment of personal electronic deterrents is an effective way to prevent future deaths and injuries from shark bites. The technology has been shown to reduce the likelihood of a bite by about 60%, potentially saving hundreds of lives.

SourceFlinders University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMar 30, 2021

Dementia and COVID: What families and physicians should know

A new study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease found that COVID-19 patients with dementia were more likely to experience delirium and confusion compared to those without dementia. While dementia itself was not a primary driver of mortality, other factors such as age and comorbidities played a significant role.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·DateMar 30, 2021

Turning back the clock on a severe vision disorder

A new gene therapy approach has been successful in restoring both normal structure and function to the retina's cone photoreceptor cells in dogs with a severe form of Leber congenital amaurosis. The treatment, which delivered a normal copy of the NPHP5 gene, was tested in nine five-week-old dogs and showed promising results.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateMar 30, 2021

'Bottom-up' approach needed to study freshwater blooms

A national research team is calling for a more comprehensive understanding of freshwater cyanobacteria blooms by studying the organisms that live at the bottom of lakes. This could help predict how climate change affects bloom frequency, intensity, and duration.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalJournal of Plankton Research·DateMar 30, 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.

Infants' language skills more advanced than first words suggest

Researchers found that infants as young as 11-12 months can distinguish between frequently used and less common multiword sequences, suggesting they learn individual words and complex phrases simultaneously. This study challenges traditional views on how children acquire language.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalCognition·DateMar 30, 2021

In the deep sea, the last ice age is not yet over

Researchers investigated methane hydrate deposit in deep-sea fan of Danube in western Black Sea, finding dynamic situation related to Black Sea development since last ice age. The study suggests gas hydrates decompose due to salinity, pressure, and temperature changes, with implications for climate change

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateMar 30, 2021

Doctors experiencing domestic abuse feel socially and professionally isolated

A new study reveals that female doctors who suffer domestic abuse often feel unable to get help due to perceptions of shame and a judgemental culture in medical settings. The findings highlight the need for a designated confidential service and cultural change to support doctor victim-survivors.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalBritish Journal of General Practice·DateMar 30, 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.

COVID-19-associated seizures may be common, linked to higher risk of death

A new study from Massachusetts General Hospital reveals that nonconvulsive seizures in COVID-19 patients are associated with worse outcomes, including higher rates of death and longer hospital stays. Seizures can occur even in patients without prior neurological history, highlighting the need for close monitoring and treatment.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateMar 30, 2021

Human hiking trails custom built for sauntering grizzlies

Researchers measured grizzly bears' metabolic rates on flat and uphill gradients, finding they use less energy walking downhill. The study reveals why grizzlies often appear on human hiking trails, and provides insights for hiker safety.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateMar 30, 2021

New research shows risk of COVID-19 from aerosols to healthcare workers

A new study found that coughing and deep breathing create more than 100-fold greater amounts of aerosols than oxygen therapies, increasing the risk to frontline staff. The research challenges current guidelines, suggesting that healthcare workers wear only surgical masks face a higher risk of infection.

SourceAAGBI·JournalAnaesthesia·DateMar 30, 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.

Cervical cancer testing tech could replace pap smears, save lives

Emerging technologies can screen for cervical cancer better than Pap smears, especially in places with limited access to healthcare. Advanced nanotechnology and computer learning are helping develop HPV screening that takes the guesswork out of precancer tests.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiophysics Reviews·DateMar 30, 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.

Mysterious living monuments

Researchers found that nearly nothing is known about the biggest trees and how they die, making them difficult to study. Climate change, severe storms, and droughts are affecting these giant trees, releasing more carbon into the atmosphere.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalNature Plants·DateMar 30, 2021

Why are optical refractive indices so small?

A recent study published in Physical Review X reveals that the refractive index of dilute atomic gases can only reach a maximum value of 1.7 due to near-field interactions and multiple scattering effects.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalPhysical Review X·DateMar 30, 2021

Growing appetite for meat alternatives in Brussels

A recent study by the University of Bath found that over half of Belgians are now satisfied with plant-based meat alternatives, up from 44% in 2019. Meanwhile, attitudes towards cultured meat remain stable, but also hold appeal for certain consumer groups.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalAppetite·DateMar 30, 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.

'Mop up' malaria vaccine advances to trials in people

A new malaria vaccine aims to stop mosquitoes from transmitting Plasmodium parasites to people by immunizing them against infection. The vaccine, developed by University of Florida researcher Rhoel Dinglasan, has shown promise in laboratory studies and is now set to be tested in humans.

SourceUniversity of Florida·DateMar 30, 2021

Groundwater discharge affects water quality in coastal waters

A global study led by the University of Gothenburg found that groundwater discharges are a major source of nitrogen and phosphorus to coastal waters worldwide, often exceeding river pollution at 60% of sites. This discovery highlights the importance of considering groundwater aquifers in managing coastal water quality.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Reviews Earth & Environment·DateMar 30, 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.

Water splitting for solar energy conversion

Researchers have developed a highly-efficient water decomposition reaction using BaTaO2N photocatalyst, achieving nearly 100 times the efficiency of conventional methods. The new method involves sequential cocatalyst decoration on the surface of BaTaO2N particles, resulting in high dispersion and improved hydrogen production.

SourceShinshu University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 30, 2021

Stopping the sickness: Protein may be key to blocking a nauseating bacterium

Researchers at Washington State University have discovered a protein that could block Campylobacter, a leading cause of food poisoning. The secreted protein, CiaD, facilitates cell entry and takes control of important cell processes. This breakthrough could lead to real-world solutions for preventing Campylobacter-related diseases.

SourceWashington State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 30, 2021

New tool assesses patients' home dialysis experience

Researchers developed a new tool to capture patients' opinions on home dialysis care, highlighting the importance of communication and care coordination. The Home Dialysis Care Experience instrument will be valuable for future research, clinical care, and quality improvement initiatives among home dialysis facilities.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 30, 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.

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.

Breaking records like baking bread

Researchers at KAUST have developed a novel method called thermal interdiffusion alloying (TIA) to create high-quality thin films of aluminum gallium oxide alloys. By controlling the annealing temperature and time, they achieved a record-high composition of up to 81% aluminum, resulting in a wide bandgap range.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 30, 2021

New statistical method eases data reproducibility crisis

Researchers at Penn State developed a new statistical tool, MAMBA, to enhance replicability of large genomic datasets. The method estimates the probability that an experiment can be replicated with different individuals, mitigating the reproducibility crisis.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 30, 2021

Viewing the virus close up

The 'Compact Cell-Imaging Device' project aims to advance research into viral diseases by developing a miniaturized soft X-ray approach. This method allows for three-dimensional imaging of intact cells and can reveal changes induced by viral infections, making it an attractive tool for studying SARS-CoV-2.

SourceHeidelberg University·DateMar 30, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

The egg in the X-ray beam

A team of scientists has developed a new time-resolved method to analyze the structural changes in egg whites when heated. The study reveals how proteins unfold and cross-link to form a solid structure, with implications for food industry applications.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 30, 2021

Modern analysis of rock art

A machine learning study of rock art in Arnhem Land, Australia, has reconstructed the chronology of artistic styles using over 14 million images. The analysis revealed a link between style similarity and time, showing that styles closer in age were also more similar in appearance.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAustralian Archaeology·DateMar 30, 2021

Professor Qingwei Ma seeks to unlock the potential of marine wave energy

The WavE-Suite project aims to overcome challenges in survivability of wave energy converters using a novel numerical modelling suite. The project combines machine learning techniques for more accurate and efficient simulations, enabling engineers to design reliable and economically viable devices.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·DateMar 30, 2021

An organic material for the next generation of HVAC technologies

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed an organic material that uses less energy to dry air, enhancing the efficiency of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. The polyimide-based dehumidifiers can bring down the cost of HVAC systems, which currently cost thousands of dollars.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Membrane Science·DateMar 30, 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.

Cone snails use sexual enticements to lure prey out of hiding

Researchers discovered that cone snails produce small chemicals mimicking worm pheromones to trigger sexual activity in marine worms. In laboratory experiments, these compounds sparked mating behavior in female and male fire worms, making it easier to lure them out of hiding.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 30, 2021

Chronic inflammatory liver disease: cell stress mechanisms identified

A recent study published in Hepatology has identified a molecular signature for ER stress in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis, which is associated with poorer prognosis and higher incidence of complications. The discovery opens up new treatment options by targeting ER stress with drugs already in clinical testing.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalHepatology·DateMar 30, 2021

Study: Insights from two reopened schools during the COVID-19 pandemic

Two reopened k-12 schools in the US demonstrated low in-school transmission rates with universal testing and mitigation measures, such as mask-wearing and ventilation. The study suggests that testing allows for early detection of potential outbreaks and can help prevent big school closures.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalJournal of School Health·DateMar 30, 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.

Researchers observe new isotope of fluorine

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have observed a new form of fluorine, the isotope 13F, which has four fewer neutrons than the naturally occurring stable isotope 19F. This discovery was made using a charge-exchange reaction mechanism, allowing scientists to create a previously inaccessible isotope with exotic properties.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 30, 2021

Columbia establishes treatment center, clinical trials network for Lyme disease

The Cohen Center will provide comprehensive, coordinated treatment for patients with Lyme and tick-borne diseases, offering affordable care with experienced physicians. The center will also integrate research and physician training into its clinical model, aiming to address the growing need for evidence-based treatments.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·DateMar 30, 2021

New early warning system for self-driving cars

A team of researchers at TUM developed a new early warning system for self-driving cars using artificial intelligence to learn from thousands of real traffic situations. The system can predict potentially critical situations with over 85% accuracy, up to seven seconds in advance.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·DateMar 30, 2021

New £1.49 million project to research nuclear decontamination robots

Scientists from Lancaster and Manchester Universities have received a £1.49 million grant to research the use of robots for nuclear decontamination. The ALACANDRA project aims to improve the interpretation of robot-derived information from complex, cluttered spaces contaminated with dispersed radioactivity.

SourceLancaster University·DateMar 30, 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.

Prime editing enables precise gene editing without collateral damage

Scientists report that prime editing successfully shuts down a gene involved in smooth muscle cell differentiation, correcting genetic problems and disease models. Prime editing is less complicated and more precise than traditional CRISPR, with fewer components and no collateral damage.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalGenome Biology·DateMar 30, 2021

Cardiorespiratory fitness improves grades at school

Researchers found an indirect link between cardiorespiratory fitness and higher marks in mathematics and French 2. Better executive functions, specifically cognitive flexibility, were also associated with improved academic performance. The study emphasizes the importance of physical education classes in schools.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateMar 30, 2021

Fasting acts as diet catalyst

A five-day fast followed by a healthy diet reduces inflammation and promotes beneficial gut bacteria, improving cardiovascular health. Long-term effects include lower body mass index, reduced blood pressure, and decreased antihypertensive medication use.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 30, 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.

Screams of 'joy' sound like 'fear' when heard out of context

A new study by psychologists at Emory University found that people can accurately discern most emotions tied to screams, but those of happiness are often misjudged as fear. Screams convey strong emotions, and researchers speculate that this may be an evolutionary carryover bias, where humans err on the side of caution.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalPeerJ·DateMar 30, 2021

A second look at sunlight

A team of researchers re-examines the effectiveness of sunlight in deactivating the SARS-CoV-2 virus, finding that results contradict previous theories and suggest an alternative mechanism involving UV-A light. This discovery could lead to new management strategies using widely available UV-A radiation.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateMar 30, 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.

New oil palm map to inform policy and landscape-level planning

A new map of oil palm extent in Southeast Asia provides critical information for policymakers and stakeholders, allowing for sustainable production and forest conservation. The map's high accuracy enables calculations of greenhouse gas emissions and removals, as well as verification of official statistics.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalScientific Data·DateMar 30, 2021

Synthetic mucus can mimic the real thing

Researchers at MIT have created synthetic mucins with a polymer backbone that mimic the structure and function of naturally occurring mucins, effectively neutralizing the bacterial toxin that causes cholera. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for infectious diseases and potentially less resistance to antibiotics.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 30, 2021

Teachers can use popular media to address anti-Asian bias, KU research shows

A University of Kansas study demonstrates the effectiveness of critical race media literacy in discussing difficult topics, such as racism and sexism, with younger age groups. By using popular media like superhero movies, teachers can create a safe space for students to discuss complex issues.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalInternational Journal of Multicultural Education·DateMar 30, 2021

Using holographic endoscopes to observe distant objects

Researchers developed a holographic endoscope made of single-hair thin optical fibers to reconstruct images of macroscopic objects at larger imaging distances. The tool sheds light on biological processes occurring at the macromolecular and subcellular levels, allowing for better treatment of severe brain diseases like Alzheimer's.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Photonics·DateMar 30, 2021