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Science News for May 26, 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.

Quantification of the internal OH- effects in upconversion nanocrystals

Scientists have developed a method to quantify internal OH- impurities in upconversion nanocrystals, revealing an exponential relation between luminescence intensity and OH- content. This discovery enriches our understanding of the quenching mechanism and paves the way for highly efficient lanthanide-doped materials.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMay 26, 2021

A new 'gold standard' compound for generating electricity from heat

Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a single compound that functions as an efficient thermoelectric generator, producing power from waste heat. The compound's unique property allows it to carry both positive and negative charges independently, generating electricity without moving parts.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateMay 26, 2021

Better understanding membranes

Experts from the University of Goettingen and Hereon have developed new research strategies for polymer membranes, promising relatively inexpensive production and strong separation selectivity. Computer simulations will play a crucial role in understanding these systems.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalChemical Reviews·DateMay 26, 2021

Studies reveal that social isolation and quarantine throughout the COVID-19 pandemic may have a detrimental impact on physical and mental health of people living with pre-existing conditions

Two studies found that social isolation and quarantine can cause significant psychological and/or physical distress on individuals with diabetes and hypocortisolism. These effects include increased anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, weight gain, and decreased physical activity.

SourceEuropean Society of Endocrinology·DateMay 26, 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.

Mobility data reveals universal law of visitation in cities

Scientists discovered a scaling law governing urban visitor numbers based on travel distance and frequency, with surprising implications for city planning and pandemic prevention. The law predicts equal energy allocation to travel regardless of distance or frequency, optimizing trip choices.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalNature·DateMay 26, 2021

Keeping more ammonium in soil could decrease pollution, boost crops

A new study published in PNAS proposes using a blend of nitrate and ammonium to reduce nitrogen pollution and increase food production. The researchers argue that this approach can bind to soil, reducing the risk of leaching into waterways and minimize greenhouse gas emissions.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 26, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Finnish biodiversity information management inspires globally

The Finnish Biodiversity Information Facility (FinBIF) is a unique, one-stop-shop for all types of biodiversity data, serving cutting-edge research, public administration, business, and civil society. FinBIF has over 39 million observations of 40,000 species in its portal.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScientific Data·DateMay 26, 2021

Mitigating emissions in the livestock production sector

A new study finds that emission intensity per unit of animal protein produced from the livestock sector has decreased globally over the past two decades due to greater production efficiency. However, regional differences in emission intensities remain and are influenced by factors such as diet, grazing intensity, climate, and manure ma...

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalAGU Advances·DateMay 26, 2021

Memory details fade over time, with only the main gist preserved

Researchers found that memories become less vivid with age, but retain meaningful semantic elements. Frequent recalling boosts 'gistification' of memories, making them more concept-based. The study has implications for understanding post-traumatic stress disorder and eyewitness testimony.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 26, 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.

Amazon indigenous group's lifestyle may hold a key to slowing down aging

A study found that the Tsimane indigenous people have slower brain atrophy than Westerners, suggesting their physically active lifestyle and high-fiber diet may hold the key to slowing down aging. The researchers enrolled 746 Tsimane adults in their study and compared their brain volumes with those in three industrialized populations.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateMay 26, 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.

Good bacteria can temper chemotherapy side effects

A Northwestern University study found that specific types of gut bacteria can protect other good bacteria from cancer treatments. By metabolizing chemotherapy drugs, these protective bacteria can temper short- and long-term side effects of treatment, potentially leading to new dietary supplements or probiotics.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalmSphere·DateMay 26, 2021

Widespread coral-algae symbioses endured historical climate changes

Researchers found that coral species Pocillopora maintain close relationships with specific algae genera Cladocopium despite intense climate fluctuations over the last 1.5 million years. This resilience may enable them to adapt to modern ocean warming, at least in the coming decades.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateMay 26, 2021

Oncotarget: Creation of a new class of radiosensitizers for glioblastoma

Researchers identify a new class of mibefradil-based DNA repair inhibitors, which could be further advanced into pre-clinical testing and eventually clinical trials for glioblastoma radiosensitization. The compounds retain potency as DNA repair inhibitors while demonstrating reduced hERG and CYP450 enzyme inhibition.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateMay 26, 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.

Aquaculture turns biodiversity into uniformity along the coast of China

A new study found that aquaculture and fisheries have led to the loss of biodiversity along China's 18,000 km long coastline, with commercially exploited species dominating all regions. The study discovered that the uniformity of bivalve species is largely due to human activities, including intensive fishing practices.

SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateMay 26, 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.

HKUST's meta-analysis shows SARS-CoV-2 variants unlikely to affect T cell responses

A recent study by HKUST scientists analyzed data from over 850 recovered COVID-19 patients and found that most T cell epitopes targeted upon natural infection are unaffected by current SARS-CoV-2 variants. This suggests that T cell responses may be relatively robust, assuming vaccine responses mimic those of natural infection.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateMay 26, 2021

How independent were the US and British vaccine advisory committees?

A recent investigation by The BMJ found that vaccine advisory committees in the US and UK have different disclosure standards, leaving the public uncertain about experts' industry ties. Experts on these committees rarely disclose conflicts of interest, despite significant financial payments from pharmaceutical companies.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 26, 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.

Research identifies climate-change refugia in dry-forest region

Researchers have identified climate-change refugia in a dry-forest region of Brazil's Peruaçu Caves National Park. The study used tree ring analysis and satellite images to confirm the existence of these areas, which are relatively buffered from climate change, offering high probability of conservation success.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateMay 26, 2021

Why a vacation seems like it will end as soon as it begins

Researchers found that people anticipate positive events, such as vacations, as being both farther away and shorter in duration than negative or neutral events. This phenomenon can lead to a feeling that the vacation will end as soon as it begins, making people less likely to plan specific events during their time off.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateMay 26, 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.

New findings on benign adrenal tumors could improve care

Researchers have identified specific cortisol production levels linked to increased mortality risk in patients with benign adrenal tumors. This breakthrough enables healthcare providers to concentrate efforts on high-risk patients and optimize public healthcare resources.

SourceLund University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 26, 2021

Wireless broadband connectivity enhanced by a new communication design

Researchers have developed a new communication design that improves broadband wireless connectivity in the terahertz band, mitigating signal delay and achieving multi-Gbps speeds over short distances. The design uses multiple antennas and beamforming techniques to compensate for propagation losses and accurately estimate channels.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalIEEE Journal on Selected Areas in Communications·DateMay 26, 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.

To sting or not to sting?

Researchers study individual bees' decision to sting based on alarm pheromone concentration, revealing a 'stopping effect' at high concentrations. The study suggests environmental factors drove the evolution of pheromone-based communication in honeybees' defensive behaviour.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalBMC Biology·DateMay 26, 2021

Dive bombing killer flies are so fast they lose steering control

Researchers at University of Cambridge found that Killer flies can reach accelerations of over 3g when diving to catch prey, but struggle to correct course due to high speeds. The study reveals the unique flight dynamics of these insects, which beat their wings like powered flight to achieve impressive aerobatic maneuvers.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateMay 26, 2021

Similar states of activity identified in supermassive and stellar mass black holes

The study reveals that supermassive black holes exhibit accretion states similar to those seen in stellar mass black holes, with properties including thermal emission by the plasma disc and intense radio emission. This new understanding helps clarify the activity cycles of supermassive black holes in galaxy centers.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMay 26, 2021

Unveiling what governs crystal growth

Researchers from Argonne National Laboratory and universities reveal alternating step kinetics during gallium nitride crystal growth, challenging conventional wisdom. The study uses advanced X-ray scattering techniques to monitor the rate of growth on the crystal surface steps.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 26, 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.

Warm ice may fracture differently than cold ice

Researchers at Aalto University discovered that warm ice behaves differently than previously studied cold ice, with no significant viscoelastic recovery. The team's findings suggest that warmer conditions are increasingly expected to affect infrastructure engineering in frigid regions.

SourceAalto University·JournalThe Cryosphere·DateMay 26, 2021

Immediate skin-to-skin contact after birth improves survival of pre-term babies

A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that immediate skin-to-skin contact after birth significantly improves survival rates for pre-term babies with a very low birth weight. Continuous Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) reduced mortality by 25% and lowered the risk of low body temperature or bacterial blood poisoning.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 26, 2021

Transforming our understanding of deep learning

A team of UK scientists aims to improve understanding of Deep Learning algorithms' decision-making process, making them more trustworthy. The project will combine theory, modeling, data, and computation to unlock the next generation of deep learning.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateMay 26, 2021

Can racial identity protect black teens from racism-related stress? It's complicated

A recent study found that racial identity can influence the way Black adolescents experience anticipatory stress about racism. While high private regard was associated with less psychological stress, high centrality scores were linked to worse anticipatory stress across the board. The researchers also discovered that higher public rega...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Orthopsychiatry·DateMay 26, 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.

Global cardiovascular organizations release joint opinion on achieving the 'tobacco endgame'

Four leading cardiovascular organizations urge governments to implement the World Health Organization's MPOWER framework to reduce tobacco use. The joint opinion outlines comprehensive strategies, including lowering nicotine concentrations in combustible tobacco products and enforcing strong systems and premarket assessments of all tob...

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 26, 2021

Conquering COVID-19 with antivirals

Creating an oral antiviral has the potential to fully eradicate COVID-19 by allowing early treatment, preventing hospitalizations and fatalities. However, progress in antiviral development has been slow compared to vaccine development, highlighting the need for continued research.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMay 26, 2021

Opiate overdoses linked to poor mental health

A national study by University of Cincinnati researchers has identified 25 geographic hot spots for fatal opioid overdoses and linked them to poor mental health. White males aged 25-29 are most at risk, followed by white males aged 30-34, with a correlation between fatal overdoses and mental distress increasing the relative risk by 39%

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 26, 2021

People who eat a plant-based dinner could reduce their risk of heart disease by ten percent

A nationwide study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that eating a plant-based dinner can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. The study, which analyzed data from over 27,000 U.S. adults, discovered that individuals who consumed more whole carbohydrates and unsaturated ...

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMay 26, 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.

Even among the insured, cost may delay follow up care for cancer survivors

Even among insured individuals, up to 10% of cancer survivors delayed follow-up care due to financial constraints. Financial stress and anxiety hinder timely survivorship care, particularly among vulnerable populations such as racial minorities, women, and those with lower incomes.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalCancer Medicine·DateMay 26, 2021

New methods proposed to characterize polymer lamellar crystals

Researchers developed new methodologies to analyze evanescent wave-induced scattering in transmission SAXS for semi-crystalline polymers. The methods provided information on lamellar thickness and long period of lamellar stacks.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalIUCrJ·DateMay 26, 2021

Raised buildings may help reduce malaria transmission in Africa

Researchers found that houses with higher floors had significantly fewer female Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes, with a 84% reduction at 3m. This could lead to comparable reductions in malaria transmission. The study suggests elevating homes may be an effective intervention in sub-Saharan Africa.

SourceDurham University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateMay 26, 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.

Neotropical river otters in Brazil communicate in a rich vocal range

Researchers discovered six clearly distinguishable call types among neotropical river otters in Brazil, ranging from high-frequency 'chirps' to low-pitch 'growls'. This vocal complexity is intermediate between solitary and highly social otter species, providing new insights into their conservation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 26, 2021

Infrared imaging to detect lymphatic filariasis

Researchers developed an infrared thermal imaging camera to assess filarial lymphoedema status. The tool helps monitor disease progression and detect sub-clinical cases, improving diagnosis and care for those affected by this devastating tropical disease.

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Medicine·DateMay 26, 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.

Young adults with schizophrenia have highest suicide risk

A new study from Columbia University found that young adults with schizophrenia have the highest suicide risk and those aged 65 and older have the lowest. People with schizophrenia overall have a 4.5-fold increased risk of dying from suicide.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMay 26, 2021

The first blood biomarker to distinguish between myocarditis and acute myocardial infarction

Researchers at CNIC have discovered a specific blood marker for myocarditis, allowing clinicians to distinguish the disease from other cardiomyopathies. The biomarker, miR-721, was validated in numerous hospitals and has high sensitivity and specificity (>90%) for myocarditis diagnosis.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 26, 2021

Scientists find a way to detect the spectral signals of amyloid fibrils

Researchers at St. Petersburg State University have created a new theory and experimental methods to separate spectral signals from amyloid fibrils, overcoming obstacles faced by previous studies. This breakthrough may aid in the development of new drugs for neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMay 26, 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.

Accessibility, usability of state health department COVID-19 vaccine websites

Researchers analyzed state health department COVID-19 vaccine website accessibility and usability, finding challenges that create frustration and contribute to ineffective vaccination efforts. The study highlights the need for improved accessibility and usability in healthcare websites to promote equitable health outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 26, 2021

A comprehensive profile of California's 'homegrown' coronavirus

Researchers analyzed COVID-19 swab samples from California counties and found the new variant was more transmissible, infecting people who already had COVID-19. Vaccines showed higher neutralization rates against the variant than antibodies from previously infected patients.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell·DateMay 26, 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.

Primates change their 'accent' to avoid conflict

Researchers discovered that one species of tamarin adopts another's call patterns to communicate and avoid conflict in the Brazilian Amazon. The study found that red-handed tamarins adopt pied tamarins' long calls when entering their territory, potentially to identify each other more easily and avoid territorial disputes.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateMay 26, 2021

Technology to monitor mental wellbeing might be right at your fingertips

Researchers developed a smart electronic platform to monitor mental wellbeing between doctor visits, using facial cues, voice patterns, and vital signs sensors. The technology provides continuous access to patient variables and status, enabling care teams to reach out to patients in need.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Practice·DateMay 26, 2021

Rare mineral from rocks found in mollusk teeth

Researchers discovered a rare iron mineral in the teeth of a large mollusk called chiton. The finding helps understand how the tooth is designed to endure chewing on rocks, and inspired the development of a bio-inspired ink for 3D printing.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 26, 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.

Real-world flight data shows continued need for social distancing

A study using real-world air traffic control data found that vaccination programs alone may not stop the ongoing second wave of COVID-19 infections in the US. Strict social distancing measures remain necessary to prevent a new wave, according to researchers.

SourceReykjavik University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 26, 2021

Additional genetic risk variants behind bipolar disorder have emerged

Researchers from iPSYCH have identified 33 new genetic variants associated with bipolar disorder, more than doubling the number of known genetic risk factors. These variants play a role in brain functions and signalling between nerve cells, providing potential ideas for new treatments.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 26, 2021

What causes the deep Earth's most mysterious earthquakes?

A team of scientists has found that fluids play a key role in deep-focus earthquakes, which occur between 300 and 700 kilometers below the planet's surface. The research suggests that water carried down from oceanic plates was instrumental in creating these mysterious events.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalAGU Advances·DateMay 26, 2021

Synthetic breakthrough for controlling functional group assembly over chaotic mixing

A research team has developed a new synthetic approach for controlling functional group assemblies in porous solids by using cage-based framework, metal-organic polyhedra. This method yields identical functional groups on each cage unit and offers improved solvatochromic behavior compared to traditional mixing strategies.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalMatter·DateMay 26, 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.

Recent warming weakens global dust storm activity

Recent warming leads to a weakening of global dust storm activity, according to researchers from Tianjin University. The study found that changes in wind patterns and atmospheric stability are responsible for the decrease in dust storm frequency and intensity.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateMay 26, 2021

Ionophobic electrode boosts energy storage performance

A new strategy using massive molecular dynamics simulations has been proposed to improve the energy density and power density of EDLCs with ILs. By introducing ionophobicity, the researchers found a significant enhancement in overall performance, particularly with an extremely ionophobic electrode.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMay 26, 2021

Scientists use weather forecasts to direct conservation of elephants

Researchers will use accurate weather forecasts to anticipate food shortages, poaching, and other threats to elephants, allowing conservation groups to take action weeks or months in advance. The project aims to reduce human-elephant conflict and help at-risk species withstand climate change.

SourceUniversity of Reading·DateMay 26, 2021

AI with swarm intelligence

Researchers have developed a novel AI technology, Swarm Learning, to analyze big data in decentralized fashion, enabling private and collaborative analysis of scientific data. The approach combines machine learning with blockchain technology, allowing for secure information exchange and optimized parameters.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalNature·DateMay 26, 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.

Targeting plasmacytoid dendritic cells can reduce cutaneous lupus symptoms

A monoclonal antibody targeting plasmacytoid dendritic cells has shown promise in reducing cutaneous lupus symptoms. The treatment, VIB7734, significantly reduced pDC frequencies and type 1 interferon activity in patients with autoimmune diseases.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 26, 2021

New research deepens mystery about evolution of bees' social behavior

A new study analyzing nearly 300 morphological traits in bees reveals strong evidence that complex social behavior developed just once in pollen-carrying bees, rather than multiple times. The research suggests a single evolutionary branch for honey bees and stingless bees, contradicting previous molecular genetic analysis.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalInsect Systematics and Diversity·DateMay 26, 2021

Electric fish -- and humans -- pause before communicating key points

Research from Washington University in St. Louis found that electric fish pause before sharing important information to increase listener response. The study reveals an underlying mechanism for how pauses allow neurons to recover from stimulation, making the following message clearer for the listener.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 26, 2021

Geological riddle solved: Roof of the World has gotten higher

New research from the University of Copenhagen reveals that the Tibetan plateau has increased in height over the past 15-18 million years due to a slow collision between the India and Eurasia tectonic plates. This finding sheds new light on Earth's evolution and provides a more accurate understanding of Tibet's geological history.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalGeophysical Journal International·DateMay 26, 2021

Significant otter helps couples communicate from the heart

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed an app called Significant Otter, which sends animated otters representing emotions and activities based on a person's heartrate. The app allows couples to communicate more authentically and easily during physical distancing.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateMay 26, 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.

Non-parents expand 'facial dexterity' in caring for infants among primates

A study published in Evolution found that non-relatives can decipher facial expressions and be attuned to emotional states in infants across multiple primate species. Facial dexterity is positively correlated with the frequency of infant care by non-parents, suggesting a co-evolutionary relationship.

SourceNew York University·JournalEvolution·DateMay 26, 2021

Better peatland management could cut half a billion tons of carbon

Researchers estimate that restoring all global agricultural peatlands could cut 500 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to one per cent of global GHG emissions. Raising peatland water levels could allow farmers to reduce climate impact while extending soil usage.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalNature·DateMay 26, 2021

Study reveals a universal travel pattern across four continents

Researchers found an inverse relationship between distance and frequency of visits, with people visiting closer places more often. The study, which analyzed cellphone data from over 4 million people in four continents, suggests that urban planning can benefit from understanding this pattern.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateMay 26, 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.

Suppressing meta-holographic artifacts by laser coherence tuning

A team of scientists has developed an efficient method to suppress meta-holographic artifacts while maintaining image quality. By fine-tuning the coherence of illumination using a degenerate cavity laser, they can reduce coherent artifacts and improve the spatial resolution of holographic images.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMay 26, 2021

This brain circuit signals when to stop eating; could regulating it help with obesity

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have discovered a novel brain circuit that regulates satiation response in mice, suggesting potential for weight control. The circuit connects dopamine-producing neurons with downstream neurons, suppressing food intake and triggering meal termination.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Mathematical Sciences Advances and Applications·DateMay 26, 2021

Engineering researcher receives $450K grant

Marianna Maiaru, a mechanical engineering assistant professor at UMass Lowell, has received a $450,000 grant from the Air Force to advance the development and processing of high-strength, high-temperature structural materials. Her project focuses on ceramic matrix composite (CMC) materials used in aerospace applications.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateMay 26, 2021

New paper establishes context for myopia control axial length targets

A new study compares axial elongation among children with untreated myopia progression, treated myopes, and emmetropes, revealing that normal eye growth continues as the child ages. The analysis suggests that myopic axial elongation may be superimposed on underlying physiological axial elongation.

SourceMcDougall Communications·JournalOphthalmic and Physiological Optics·DateMay 26, 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.

Biosystems engineering professor named fellow

Professor Doug Hayes has been recognized for his contributions to biocatalysis and biodegradable agricultural plastics. He is a renowned expert in molecular understanding of chemical and biochemical processes at interfaces, particularly involving bioplastics and surfactant-water-oil systems.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateMay 26, 2021

How antibiotic-filled poop helps 'bessbug' beetles stay healthy

Researchers found that horned passalus beetles, known as bessbugs, have frass teeming with antibiotic and antifungal compounds produced by actinomycetes beneficial bacteria. This discovery could help speed the search for new antibiotics and improve strategies to prevent antibiotic-resistant infections.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateMay 26, 2021

Hidden genes discovered in bovine genome

A research team at ETH Zurich has created a comprehensive bovine genome reference by integrating data from six breeds, revealing numerous new genes and functionalities. These newly discovered sequences show connections to immune functions and may provide insights into genetic variants lost during domestication.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 26, 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.

Large amounts of mercury released under southwest Greenland ice sheet

Researchers found significant amounts of mercury in meltwater rivers from Greenland's glaciers, with concentrations comparable to industrial China. The discovery highlights the need for rethinking conservation measures and management strategies to address mercury pollution.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 26, 2021

Dry metastable olivine and slab deformation in a wet subducting slab

Researchers found that even in hydrated subducting slabs, dry olivine can exist, resolving a long-standing paradox. This discovery suggests hydrous minerals play crucial roles in the Earth's interior water cycle and contribute to deep-focus earthquakes and large plate deformations.

SourceCenter for High Pressure Science & Technology Advanced Research·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 26, 2021

NUCLEUS - 2021

The NUCLEUS-2021 conference will cover various topics in nuclear physics, including atomic nuclei, nuclear reactions, modern methods and technologies, relativistic nuclear physics, and more. The results of the conference will be published in two Springer journals.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·DateMay 26, 2021

Stormwater could be a large source of microplastics and rubber fragments to waterways

Researchers found that stormwater can carry high concentrations of microplastic particles, including microscopic fibers and black rubbery fragments, into water bodies. A proof-of-concept experiment showed that a rain garden can capture up to 98% of these microparticles, suggesting a potential solution to reduce microplastic pollution i...

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS ES&T Water·DateMay 26, 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.

Embryos of many species use sound to prepare for the outside world

Researchers have discovered that embryos across various animal groups rely on acoustic signals to inform their development and adapt to environmental conditions. This phenomenon, known as acoustic developmental programming, suggests that sound plays a crucial role in shaping the lives of animals from the moment of birth.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 26, 2021

Planetary scientist receives NASA's Early Career Award

Astronomer Alicia Rutledge has been awarded a $200,000 NASA Planetary Science Early Career Award to support the development of a field-portable laboratory for her research on cold-climate alteration processes. The award will enable her to conduct analog fieldwork and train next-generation scientists in planetary analog science.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·DateMay 26, 2021

eDNA analysis could contribute towards more effective pest control

Researchers detected Argentine ant eDNA in surface soil samples from Kyoto and Kobe, indicating habitat distribution and hotspots for invasive species. This method could contribute to targeted measures and successful elimination results by combining with pest control plans.

SourceKobe University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 26, 2021

UCSF improves fetal heart defect detection using machine learning

Researchers at UCSF have developed a method to detect complex fetal heart defects in utero, improving detection rates from 30-50% to 95%. The technique combines routine ultrasound imaging with machine learning computer tools to mimic clinicians' tasks.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 26, 2021

Scent trails could boost elephant conservation

Wild African elephants highly attend to scent trails of dung and urine left by other elephants. Artificial elephant trails could divert them away from farms and villages, reducing conflicts with humans. The study's findings suggest an important role of smell in long-distance navigation for these animals.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateMay 26, 2021

Deep oceans dissolve the rocky shell of water-ice planets

New experiments show that water selectively leaches magnesium from typical rock minerals under extreme pressure and temperature conditions. This process could produce chemical gradients in the early history of water-rich sub-Neptune exo-planets, potentially preserving tracks of initial interactions between water and rocky material.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalNature Astronomy·DateMay 26, 2021

The path to more human-like robot object manipulation skills

According to a review article in Science Robotics, researchers are making progress in learned robot manipulation, which enables robots to adapt to changing stimuli. The authors propose nine promising areas for future exploration, including representation learning, modular design, and task/skill customization.

SourceLehigh University·JournalScience Robotics·DateMay 26, 2021

Identifying new, non-opioid based target for treating chronic pain

Researchers at Medical College of Wisconsin discovered a non-opioid based target to alleviate chronic touch pain and spontaneous pain in mice. The target, TRPC5, is expressed in both mouse and human neurons that send pain signals to the spinal cord.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 26, 2021

Disease of the smallest heart blood vessels is important global health problem

A global health problem has been identified as microvascular angina, a disease affecting the smallest heart blood vessels. The study found that patients with MVA experience chest pains similar to those of a heart attack, yet are often misdiagnosed due to the lack of definitive diagnostic criteria.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMay 26, 2021

Researchers examine record-shattering 2020 trans-Atlantic dust storm

A massive Saharan African dust plume traveled across the Atlantic in June 2020, affecting Caribbean and Gulf Coast states. Researchers used satellite data to understand the mechanism behind the phenomenon, which could occur more frequently due to climate change, posing health risks and disrupting transportation systems.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateMay 26, 2021

What is the true cost to companies of IT security?

Researchers at the University of Göttingen are developing a method to assess IT security measures and their costs for businesses. The ProBITS project aims to evaluate the business process effects of IT security measures, taking into account operational impacts on employee productivity and flexibility.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·DateMay 26, 2021

Coronavirus testing made quick and easy

The new test combines electrochemical biosensors with engineered protein constructs to detect coronaviruses with high precision. It can be used on unprocessed blood or saliva samples, making it a game-changer for containing the COVID-19 pandemic.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateMay 26, 2021

Hundreds of antibiotic resistant genes found in the gastrointestinal tracts of Danish infants

A new study from the University of Copenhagen reveals that Danish one-year-olds carry several hundred antibiotic resistant genes in their bacterial gut flora. The presence of these genes is partly attributable to antibiotic use among mothers during pregnancy, and well-developed gut flora may reduce the incidence of resistant bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalCell·DateMay 26, 2021

Study of promising photovoltaic material leads to discovery of a new state of matter

Researchers at McGill University have gained new insight into the workings of perovskites, a semiconductor material that shows great promise for making high-efficiency, low-cost solar cells. They discovered a phenomenon known as quantum confinement occurs within bulk perovskite crystals, leading to the formation of 'quantum drops', whi...

SourceMcGill University·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateMay 26, 2021

Otago study aids understanding of invisible but mighty particles

Tiny charged electrons and protons have been studied by University of Otago scientists in a Geophysical Research Letters publication. By analyzing data from GPS satellites, the researchers found that EMIC waves can cause changes in the number of particles in Earth's radiation belts, affecting satellite orbits and atmospheric chemistry.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 26, 2021

Resetting the biological clock by flipping a switch

Researchers from the University of Groningen and Nagoya University developed a compound that can elongate the 24-hour cycle and be activated or deactivated using light. The study shows that it is possible to change the 24-hour cycle in cells or tissues to a 28-hour cycle, providing a new approach to analyzing the circadian clock system.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 26, 2021