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Science News for March 5, 2021


Making sense of commotion under the ocean to locate tremors near deep-sea faults

Researchers developed a new methodology to estimate the source of weak ground vibrations in subduction zones, providing more accurate travel times and insights into fluid pressure and permeability at plate interfaces. This approach can aid in detecting slipping among plates and warning against larger earthquakes and tsunamis.

SourceKyushu University·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateMar 5, 2021

Automatic adverse drug reaction extraction from electronic health records

The study uses natural language processing to extract adverse effects from Spanish health records, highlighting a major health problem and improving clinical decision making. The system learns more effectively with larger corpora, contributing to closing the gap in clinical text mining across languages.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalComputer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine·DateMar 5, 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.

Controlling adhesions in the abdomen

Adhesions form after inflammation or surgery and can lead to chronic pain, digestive problems, infertility, and life-threatening consequences. Researchers have discovered that macrophages play a key role in their development and have developed a new imaging system to visualize them.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalScience·DateMar 5, 2021

Health care use among undocumented patients

Researchers found that increased anti-immigrant rhetoric during the 2016 presidential campaign led to a significant increase in healthcare services usage among undocumented patients. The study suggests that this association may be attributed to decreased trust and increased stress related to immigration policies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 5, 2021

Variable compensation and salesperson health

Research finds variable compensation plans can induce performance pressure leading to stress, burnout, and sickness among salespeople. Companies can mitigate this by screening for stress-vulnerability and providing resources such as job-related support and social connections.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMar 5, 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.

Research identifies impact of teenage screen use

Research at the University of Leicester found that two-thirds of children use multiple screens simultaneously, leading to reduced physical activity, higher BMI, and less sleep. The study also identified a strong correlation between screen use and poor self-esteem.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateMar 5, 2021

Significant gender disparities revealed in COVID-19 clinical trial leadership

A study found that less than one-third of COVID-19 clinical trials are led by women, a disparity compared to non-COVID-19 trials. The research suggests that gender biases and imbalances may expose systemic inequalities in women's access to research activities and funding.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalClinical Microbiology and Infection·DateMar 5, 2021

The amazing promise of artificial intelligence in health care

Artificial intelligence has already shown promise in pathology, including image classification and diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy. Future developments aim to further enhance diagnostic accuracy and improve patient outcomes through augmented intelligence. The authors emphasize the need for careful validation, performance monitoring, ...

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalArchives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine·DateMar 5, 2021

New 'split-drive' system puts scientists in the (gene) driver seat

Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a new 'split-drive' system that harnesses the spread of cargo carried by gene drives, providing more control over their releases. The system uses a non-spreadable Cas9 component to separate genetic implementation processes, increasing safety and control.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 5, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Key task in computer vision and graphics gets a boost

A Kanazawa University researcher has developed a method to speed up non-rigid point set registration, a fundamental problem in computing with extensive applications in autonomous driving, medical imaging, and robotic manipulation. The proposed technique reduces computing time for large point sets, outperforming state-of-the-art approac...

SourceKanazawa University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence·DateMar 5, 2021

Study reveals how egg cells get so big

A new study in fruit flies reveals the process of oocyte growth relies on physical phenomena analogous to gas exchange between balloons. Nurse cells surrounding the larger oocyte dump their contents into it, using a counterintuitive mechanism where air flows from smaller to larger balloons.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 5, 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.

Chimpanzees without borders

A recent study found that chimpanzees have been reconnected for extended periods during the most recent maximal expansion of African forests, contrary to previous assumptions. The team's comprehensive sampling and use of rapidly-evolving genetic markers revealed genetic connectivity mirrors geographic distance and local factors.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalCommunications Biology·DateMar 5, 2021

Rapid 3D printing method moves toward 3D-printed organs

A new rapid 3D printing method developed by University at Buffalo engineers has the potential to create life-sized human tissue and organs in just minutes, rather than hours. The technique uses hydrogels and stereolithography to print cells with embedded blood vessel networks, a key step towards producing functional 3D-printed organs.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateMar 5, 2021

Blind trust in social media cements conspiracy beliefs

A recent study from Washington State University reveals that people who blindly trust information on social media are more likely to believe conspiracy theories, even if they can identify misinformation. Researchers found that a strong trust in social media information lowers the ability to reject conspiracy beliefs, highlighting the n...

SourceWashington State University·JournalPublic Understanding of Science·DateMar 5, 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.

Molecular mechanisms identified in chronic skin inflammation

Researchers have identified p62 as a multifunctional protein that influences inflammatory changes in diseased epidermis. Inhibiting p62 leads to alleviation of chronic inflammation, suggesting it as a promising therapeutic target for atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateMar 5, 2021

Building networks not enough to expand rural broadband

Rural broadband cooperatives face high operation and maintenance costs, low population density, and prohibitively high service fees. Policymakers should consider eliminating property taxes on broadband infrastructure and payments to rent space on poles to make high-speed internet more affordable.

SourceCornell University·JournalTelecommunications Policy·DateMar 5, 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.

Species are our livelihoods

A new study found that biophysical and species-linked ecosystem services often occur simultaneously, especially on larger spatial scales. The researchers discovered that regions where species conservation and ecosystem services play a role coincide more frequently than previously assumed.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalEcosystem Services·DateMar 5, 2021

Cultural values and demographics impact COVID-19 pandemic

Researchers found COVID-19 cases and deaths significantly affected by local culture and demographics in global scale studies. The model identified population size, density, public transportation use, African American percentage, and Democrat election vote share as predictive factors for US counties.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalEconomics & Human Biology·DateMar 5, 2021

Life's rich pattern: Researchers use sound to shape the future of printing

Researchers have developed a new technique called sonolithography, which harnesses the power of sound to create precise patterns on surfaces from aerosol droplets or particles. This method has far-reaching implications for biomedicine, electronics, and other fields, offering improved speed, cost, and precision in non-contact patterning.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateMar 5, 2021

Christopher Tunnell wins NSF CAREER Award

Dr. Christopher Tunnell, a computational astroparticle physicist at Rice University, has been awarded a National Science Foundation (NSF) CAREER Award to further his research on dark matter and other phenomena. The award will support a combined physics and computer science effort to detect rare particles and understand the universe.

SourceRice University·DateMar 5, 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.

How does your brain process emotions? Answer could help address loneliness epidemic

A study found specific brain regions respond differently to emotional stimuli related to loneliness and wisdom. Lonelier individuals showed increased activity in the left superior parietal cortex when presented with angry faces, while wiser individuals displayed enhanced happy emotion-driven activity in the left insula.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateMar 5, 2021

CVIAhas just published a new issue, Volume 5 Issue 3

This issue of CVIA features important papers on COVID-19's impact on cardiology, including a meta-analysis of pacemaker complications and risk factors for pressure injuries during aortic surgery. Research also explores the relationship between cardiac injury and inflammatory biomarkers in severe COVID-19 patients.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateMar 5, 2021

New Corona test developed

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute have developed a new colorimetric RT-LAMP assay called Cap-iLAMP, which extracts viral RNA from gargle lavage samples. The improved testing method outperforms previous methods, reducing false positives and increasing detection accuracy.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 5, 2021

Tracking proteins in the heart of cells

Scientists at UNIGE have developed a fluorescent dye to track the movement of kinesin proteins within cells, revealing their path and direction. This breakthrough enables researchers to study the fundamental question of protein transport and cargo distribution in cells.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 5, 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.

Leading migraine researcher supported by the NIH wins The Brain Prize 2021

Michael A. Moskowitz, a leading migraine researcher supported by the NIH, has won The Brain Prize 2021 for his groundbreaking contributions to understanding migraine triggers. By blocking the action of released neuropeptides, Moskowitz proposes a new approach to treating this debilitating condition.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·DateMar 5, 2021

BCAS3-C16orf70 complex is a new actor on the mammalian autophagic machinery

Researchers discovered human BCAS3 and C16orf70 as novel autophagic proteins, which accumulate around damaged mitochondria after mitophagy induction. The BCAS3-C16orf70 complex is required for autophagosome formation site recruitment, indicating accessory functions in autophagy machinery.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science·JournalAutophagy·DateMar 5, 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.

Physics camp has proven benefits for high school girls

A summer program at Rice University has proven successful in helping high school girls thrive in challenging science courses, with participants scoring 3% better in physics. The study also found that hands-on engineering experiences help teachers engage students and improve their own self-efficacy in engineering instruction.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review Physics Education Research·DateMar 5, 2021

Coastal changes worsen nuisance flooding on many U.S. shorelines, study finds

A new study found that increased tidal ranges due to human alterations cause more nuisance flooding days in many coastal locations. Coastal nuisance flooding causes problems such as flooded roads and overloaded stormwater systems, and researchers urge caution in altering sensitive estuarine systems.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 5, 2021

A call to action to address racial inequities in medical tests

Clinical algorithms that adjust for race can cause harm to patients by delaying access to additional tests and treatments, according to a new article. The authors argue that the medical community must step up to achieve consensus on paths forward to address racial inequities in health care.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 5, 2021

How bone marrow regenerates after chemotherapy

Researchers from Osaka University have identified the molecular mechanism underlying bone marrow regeneration after chemotherapy. They found that group 2 innate lymphoid cells produce granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor to aid in HSPC recovery, and their transfer accelerates hematopoietic recovery.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMar 5, 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.

Taking 2D materials for a spin

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba successfully detect and map electronic spins in a working transistor made of molybdenum disulfide. This breakthrough could lead to the development of faster spintronic computers that exploit electrons' natural magnetism.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalCommunications Materials·DateMar 5, 2021

Built to last: New copolymer binder to extend the life of lithium ion batteries

Researchers at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology developed a novel binder material that protects graphite anodes from degradation, leading to improved battery performance. The new binder outperforms traditional PVDF in terms of mechanical stability, conductivity, and resistance.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateMar 5, 2021

RCSI researchers discover new way to halt excessive inflammation

Researchers at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences have discovered a new way to halt excessive inflammation by regulating Arginase-2, a protein that limits inflammatory cytokine production. This breakthrough has the potential to protect the body from tissue damage caused by inflammatory diseases.

SourceRCSI·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 5, 2021

Research may offer another avenue to tackling sexually aggressive behavior

A new study from the University of Iowa developed a 12-point list of sexual assault prevention strategies, finding that 71% of surveyed men used these tactics regularly. The research suggests that implementing these strategies could be an effective way to reduce sexually aggressive behavior in college men.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalAggressive Behavior·DateMar 5, 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.

Online dating: Super effective, or just... superficial?

Research finds that people's reason for swiping right is primarily based on attractiveness and the race of a potential partner. Decisions are often made quickly, with only personality, approach style, or long-term goals mattering slightly.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Research in Personality·DateMar 5, 2021

Monoclonal antibody "cocktail" blocks COVID-19 variants: Study

A monoclonal antibody 'cocktail' developed at Vanderbilt University Medical Center effectively neutralizes all known COVID-19 variants. The treatment, comprising two antibodies isolated from previously infected individuals, targets sites on the spike protein other than the highly mutable E484K residue.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 5, 2021

Novel urine test developed to diagnose human kidney transplant rejection

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed a novel urine test to diagnose human kidney transplant rejection. The study, published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, demonstrates that exosomes isolated from urine samples can serve as a viable biomarker for kidney transplant rejection.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 5, 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.

Comet Catalina suggests comets delivered carbon to rocky planets

Researchers say Comet Catalina suggests comets were a key source of carbon on Earth and Mars during the solar system's early formation. This carbon-rich comet's composition helps explain how planets evolved into life-supporting worlds.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·DateMar 5, 2021

With unfair police treatment, the tragedy is not limited to the incident itself

New research suggests that unfair police treatment is associated with detrimental outcomes such as depression, suicidal thoughts, drug use, and loss of self-efficacy. The study used a nationally representative sample of over 12,000 participants and found significant disparities in the consequences faced by white and Black people.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalCriminology·DateMar 5, 2021

Compression or strain - the material expands always the same

A team of scientists has created a novel material with unique properties, exhibiting half-auxetic behavior under both strain and compression. This discovery could lead to breakthroughs in sensing and magneto-optics technologies.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 5, 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.

Retinal implants can give artificial vision to the blind

Researchers at EPFL have developed a retinal implant that uses electrodes to stimulate retinal cells, allowing blind individuals to see simplified images in black-and-white. The system has been tested virtually using virtual reality simulations and has demonstrated promising results, paving the way for potential human trials.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCommunications Materials·DateMar 5, 2021

Small volcanic lakes tapping giant underground reservoirs

Researchers studied CO2 fluxes at East Lake in Newberry Volcano, Oregon, and found that the lake's ecosystem is driven by its volcanic inputs. The study suggests that variations in CO2 flux can be used for volcano monitoring, and that East Lake is unlikely to experience catastrophic gas releases.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateMar 5, 2021

The complexity of artificial intelligence

Professor Sun's research focuses on deep learning and meta-learning for recognizing images and videos. Her team is working on a food app that uses AI to track nutrition and achieve a healthy diet, but faces challenges due to cultural diversity.

SourceSingapore Management University·DateMar 5, 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.

Uncovering hidden forever chemicals

Researchers have developed a new testing method to identify and quantify previously undetectable per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) compounds in watersheds on Cape Cod. The study found large quantities of PFAS, including those from fire-retardant foams, exceeding state maximum contaminant levels.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 5, 2021

Racial/ethnic disparities in autism

A study analyzing survey data from 2014-2019 found significant racial/ethnic disparities in autism spectrum disorder rates. The research estimated changes in these disparities over time, providing insight into the impact of diversity on autism diagnosis and prevalence.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 5, 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.

Three-layered masks most effective against large respiratory droplets

Researchers have shown that three-layered surgical masks are most effective at stopping large cough droplets from getting atomized into smaller aerosols. This is crucial since these smaller droplets can linger in the air, spreading to people at larger distances.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 5, 2021

Survey identifies factors in reducing clinical research coordinator turnover

A Vanderbilt University Medical Center survey identified strong collaborative relationships as a key factor in retaining clinical research coordinators. The study also found that compensation, career growth opportunities, and collegial relationships through hands-on involvement in clinical trials were significant predictors of retention.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateMar 5, 2021

New quantum theory heats up thermodynamic research

Researchers developed a new quantum theory that resolves the Gibbs paradox, a 150-year-old thermodynamic thought experiment. The study shows that even an 'ignorant' experimenter can extract work from a mixing process in a quantum system.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 5, 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.

New molecular driver of frontal circuit maturation discovered

Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital have identified a new molecular driver of frontal circuit maturation that is essential for cognitive function. By selectively suppressing communication via nicotinic receptors in the frontal circuit, attention deficits caused by Fragile X syndrome can be prevented in animal models.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 5, 2021

McDermott creating art exhibit out of data from old cellular phones

Artist Michael McDermott creates an art exhibit using images, text, and audio from old cellular phones to raise awareness about digital data privacy. The project aims to educate viewers on the importance of safeguarding deleted information and best practices for disposing of old devices.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateMar 5, 2021

The gut mycobiome influences the metabolism of processed foods

New research in mice reveals a crucial link between the gut mycobiome and host metabolic outcomes. The study found that exposure to processed diets led to persistent differences in fungal communities, which correlated with differential body mass deposition and metabolic disturbance.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalCommunications Biology·DateMar 5, 2021

New method facilitates development of antibody-based drugs

Researchers at Lund University have developed a new method for generating antibodies using CRISPR-Cas9, which enables the identification of novel target molecules and could lead to more effective treatments for cancer and autoimmune diseases.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 5, 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.

Overweight children exposed to lead in utero may have poor future kidney function

A study published in Environment International found that overweight children exposed to lead in utero and during their first weeks of life are at risk for poorer kidney function in adulthood. The research measured blood levels of lead during pregnancy and eGFR levels in children between 8-12 years old.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalEnvironment International·DateMar 5, 2021

The future of contactless care: robotic systems gain patient approval

A national survey and cohort study found that patients are accepting and satisfied with robotic system evaluations, with 92.5% reporting satisfaction. Robotic systems are deemed useful for acquiring vital signs, conducting testing, and supporting placement of intravenous catheters.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 5, 2021

Virtual clinical trials could revolutionise the way new drugs are developed

Researchers at the University of Leicester are developing a new approach using virtual clinical trials to predict patient responses and optimize therapy efficacy for lung diseases. This innovative approach has the potential to reduce costs and speed up the development process by identifying which drugs are most likely to succeed.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateMar 5, 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.

Switzerland's energy transition

To achieve its goal, Switzerland must double its photovoltaic capacity every decade, with power from wind, hydrogen fuel cells, and imports also contributing. Electric vehicles and heat pumps will become crucial, while energy savings through building renovation are essential for meeting the target.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·DateMar 5, 2021

Eight ways chemical pollutants harm the body

A review proposes eight hallmarks of environmental exposures that contribute to disease, including oxidative stress, genomic alterations, and endocrine disruption. Research is needed to understand the complex mechanisms by which pollutants affect human biology.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalCell·DateMar 5, 2021

Antarctic seals reveal worrying threats to disappearing glaciers

Researchers have obtained full-depth glacial meltwater observations in winter using instruments attached to tagged seals near the Pine Island Glacier. The study found a highly variable meltwater distribution with two meltwater-rich layers connected by scattered columns, which may change the melting rate of fragile ice shelves.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateMar 5, 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.

What can stream quality tell us about quality of life?

Researchers found a strong correlation between stream conditions and human demographics, particularly along racial lines. Stream quality is linked to mortality rates and cancer rates, highlighting the need for environmental justice. Understanding how people interact with nature is crucial to drawing conclusions about health outcomes.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalEcological Indicators·DateMar 5, 2021

Tantalizing signs of phase-change 'turbulence' in RHIC collisions

Researchers analyze RHIC collision data to track transitions between nuclear phases, aiming to understand the universe's evolution and neutron star cores. The analysis reveals tantalizing signs of turbulence, hinting at a possible 'critical point' where quarks and gluons transform from one phase to another.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 5, 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.

Antibiotic-resistant strains of staph bacteria may be spreading between pigs raised in factory farms

A study found that multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains are spreading between pigs, farmworkers, and community residents in North Carolina, raising concerns about a potential emerging public health threat. The strains were closely related and carried genes conferring resistance to multiple antibiotics.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateMar 5, 2021

Call me, maybe? UNLV study probes how people connected during the pandemic

A recent UNLV study reveals that older communication technologies like phone calls and emails are more effective at reducing pandemic-related loneliness and stress than newer options like video chats and social media. In contrast, video gaming and online interactions actually increased feelings of isolation and anxiety.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalHuman Communication & Technology·DateMar 5, 2021

The social support for mothers of patients with eating disorders

This study found that high levels of social support for mothers of patients with eating disorders are associated with lower scores for loneliness and depression. However, there was no significant impact on patient symptoms. The findings suggest that social support can help prevent caregiver depression and loneliness in this population.

SourceNagoya City University·JournalJournal of Eating Disorders·DateMar 5, 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.

The collapse of Northern California kelp forests will be hard to reverse

The Northern California kelp forest ecosystem has collapsed due to an abrupt loss of a key predator, the sunflower sea star, which was wiped out by sea star wasting disease. The area covered by kelp forests has dropped by over 95%, with only isolated patches remaining.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalCommunications Biology·DateMar 5, 2021

Humans evolved to be the water-saving ape

A new study reveals that humans use 30% to 50% less water per day than chimpanzees and gorillas. This finding suggests an ancient shift in the human body's ability to conserve water, enabling early humans to venture farther from streams in search of food.

SourceDuke University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 5, 2021

Putting a protein into overdrive to heal spinal cord injuries

Scientists discovered a way to reprogram scar-forming cells in mouse spinal cords to produce new nerve cells, improving recovery after spinal cord injury. The breakthrough could lead to the development of safe and effective treatments for the hundreds of thousands of people worldwide who suffer from spinal cord injuries.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMar 5, 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.

Species traded legally through Hong Kong with inadequate traceability

Research reveals that legal wildlife trade averages $220 billion per year, but lacks adequate traceability, leading to unnoticed over-exploitation of common species. The study suggests refining the HS Code system to improve tracking of wildlife trade and protect biodiversity.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalGlobal Ecology and Conservation·DateMar 5, 2021

Vision impairment is associated with mortality

A meta-analysis of 48,000 people found that vision impairment is associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality compared to normal vision or mild vision impairment. The risk increases significantly among those with severe vision impairment.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateMar 5, 2021

'Fungal ghosts' protect skin, fabric from toxins, radiation

Researchers at Northwestern University created a new form of synthetic melanin that mimics the properties of fungal melanin, which can protect against environmental stressors. The material, called 'fungal ghosts,' is selectively porous, allowing it to store and capture molecules while letting good stuff through.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 5, 2021