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Science News for May 6, 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.

Not so wicked after all?

A new study challenges the long-held notion that stepparents are responsible for negative outcomes in stepchildren. The research found that parental mortality has a negative impact on children under 18, especially for infants losing a mother, but does not affect stepchild mortality rates.

SourceEast Carolina University·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateMay 6, 2021

Better healthcare guidance needed for trans people

A review of international clinical practice guidelines found significant gaps in the physical and mental health needs of gender minority and trans people. Researchers highlight the need for better research to improve healthcare guidance, including addressing mortality and quality of life.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalBMJ Open·DateMay 6, 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.

Greater effectiveness in the treatment of arrhythmia with radio frequency energy and catheterization

Researchers have developed a new, high-power short-duration (HPSD) protocol for treating cardiac arrhythmias using radiofrequency energy and catheterization. The study shows this protocol is more effective than conventional ones in achieving shallower but extensive lesions, minimizing clinical complications.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalInternational Journal of Hyperthermia·DateMay 6, 2021

Blocking viruses' exit strategy

Researchers develop a novel antiviral targeting Marburg virus, blocking its departure from infected cells. Preliminary results also show potential against SARS-CoV-2, with ongoing studies underway.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateMay 6, 2021

Online learning doesn't improve student sleep habits, research suggests

Research from Simon Fraser University suggests that remote learning leads to delayed sleep timing without increased overall sleep duration. Students slept later but did not sleep more, contrary to assumptions that would suggest better time management would lead to improved sleep habits.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 6, 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 find the secret behind maintaining a healthy weight loss

A new study by University of Copenhagen researchers reveals the key to maintaining long-term weight loss in people with obesity. Combining moderate-intensity exercise with appetite-inhibiting medication yields significant health benefits, including reduced blood sugar levels, improved fitness ratings, and muscle mass preservation.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 6, 2021

Ice core data show why, despite lower sulfur emissions in US and Western Europe, air pollution is dropping more slowly

Researchers analyzed ice core data from Greenland to understand the relationship between sulfur dioxide emissions and sulfate aerosols. They found that sulfate levels have declined more slowly than sulfur dioxide emissions, especially in wintertime, due to a reaction that partially mitigates reductions.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 6, 2021

NIST team directs and measures quantum drum duet

Researchers at NIST successfully entangled two small aluminum drums, measuring the subtle statistical relationships between their motions. They analyzed radar-like signals to verify the fragile entanglement, demonstrating a new capability in large-scale quantum networks.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience·DateMay 6, 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.

New boost in quantum technologies

Researchers at the University of Stuttgart have successfully identified promising quantum bits in two-dimensional materials. The discovery enables robust generation, reading out, and control of quantum bits, paving the way for a new boost in quantum technologies.

SourceUniversitaet Stuttgart·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 6, 2021

Significant progress in lithium-air battery development

Research from the University of Liverpool and Loughborough University has developed electrolyte formulations for lithium-oxygen batteries, significantly improving cycle stability. The technology could provide greater energy storage than conventional lithium-ion batteries.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMay 6, 2021

Zero to hero: Overlooked material could help reduce our carbon footprint

Scientists from Okayama University have discovered a high-performance CO2 adsorption material in zeolites at room temperature. The discovery, reported in the Journal of Materials Chemistry A, opens up new possibilities for efficient air purification, including applications in space shuttles and concert halls.

SourceOkayama University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMay 6, 2021

FAST detects 3D spin-velocity alignment in a pulsar

A recent study published in Nature Astronomy has found evidence for three-dimensional (3D) spin-velocity alignment in pulsars. The research, conducted using the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope (FAST), reveals new insights into the origins of these rapidly rotating neutron stars.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Astronomy·DateMay 6, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New evidence links gut bacteria and neurodegenerative conditions

Researchers found a link between specific gut bacteria species and physical manifestations of neurodegenerative diseases. The study showed that introducing certain bacteria into worms caused protein aggregation, a common symptom of these conditions. This finding may help explain the connection between gut bacteria and neurodegeneration.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMay 6, 2021

To be or not to be: An organoid

Researchers from Utrecht University publish a consensus on what constitutes an organoid, highlighting the importance of using primary cells for personalized therapies. The new system categorizes organoids into three types based on defining characteristics, providing clarity for future research and clinical applications.

SourceUtrecht University·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMay 6, 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.

Hollings researchers study SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in asymptomatic & symptomatic individuals

Researchers screened over 60,000 blood samples from asymptomatic individuals for IgG antibody to the viral spike protein, finding strong correlations between high anti-S IgG levels and neutralizing activity. The study also showed age-related differences in antibody responses and a higher prevalence of COVID-19 among African Americans.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournaliScience·DateMay 6, 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.

The COVID-19 pandemic: Even mild disease impacts mental health

Significant levels of depressive, anxiety and post-traumatic stress symptoms were reported by 26%, 22% and 17% respectively among patients with mild COVID-19 disease. These findings highlight the need for early mental health intervention to prevent incident mental health problems.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalProgress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry·DateMay 6, 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.

Inner ear biology reveals the origin of birdlike features in dinosaurs

Researchers analyzed inner ear anatomy in extinct and living species to understand dinosaur sensory biology and behavior. The studies found clear patterns relating the shape of the semi-circular canal and cochlea to movement ability and hearing high-frequency sound.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 6, 2021

How we created the 'perfect storm' for pandemics

The world's vast population of people, pets, and livestock has created an ideal environment for the evolution and transmission of zoonotic infectious diseases. To mitigate this threat, experts recommend using vaccination passports, maximizing genetic variation in livestock, and reducing animal protein consumption.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalVirulence·DateMay 6, 2021

Defective epithelial barriers linked to two billion chronic diseases

Damage to the epithelial barrier is responsible for a wide range of chronic diseases, including allergies, autoimmune disorders, and neurodegenerative conditions. Research suggests that environmental toxins and pollutants play a significant role in causing these disruptions, emphasizing the need for prevention and intervention strategies.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Reviews Immunology·DateMay 6, 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.

The effects of eliminating race-based adjustments in estimates of kidney function

Eliminating race-based adjustments in equations to estimate kidney function may lead to significant changes in medication prescribing practices for Black adults, according to a new study. The findings suggest that this change could result in lower eGFR values and potentially impact treatment outcomes for diabetic patients.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 6, 2021

Ben-Gurion U. and Arizona State U. Consortium awarded Energy Cyber Center grant

A winning consortium led by Ben-Gurion University and Arizona State University will receive up to $6 million under a U.S.-Israel Energy Center research funding grant. The project aims to develop technologies to mitigate cyberattacks on energy infrastructure using data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·DateMay 6, 2021

2D materials offer unique stretching properties

Three carbon-based materials have been predicted to exhibit omnidirectional auxetic behavior due to their negative Poisson's ratio. The findings suggest that these materials could be useful in photovoltaic devices or as light-powered catalysts.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateMay 6, 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.

Realization of the highest laser intensity ever reached

Researchers at CoReLS have realized the highest laser intensity ever reached, exceeding 1023 W/cm2. This achievement allows for the exploration of extreme physical conditions and novel physical phenomena, such as Compton scattering and photon-photon scattering in nonlinear regimes.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalOptica·DateMay 6, 2021

Researchers develop mathematical model predicting disease spread patterns

A team of environmental engineers has presented a model that predicts where a disease will spread from an outbreak, in what patterns and how quickly. The model, based on data from county health agencies, shows similar patterns across regions, including urban and rural areas.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 6, 2021

UChicago Medicine's ED maintains HIV screening despite pandemic interruptions

The University of Chicago Medicine's emergency department continued routine HIV screening alongside COVID-19 testing during the pandemic. The number of HIV tests remained at pre-pandemic levels, while the rate of acute HIV diagnoses rose. This successful implementation is attributed to targeted efforts and a strong partnership between ...

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 6, 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.

Open source tool can help identify gerrymandering in voting maps

A research team at Washington State University has developed an improved computational method to detect improper gerrymandering using the open source tool GerryChain. The tool creates a pool of alternate maps that meet legal voting criteria, allowing observers to detect extreme outliers and identify potential partisan goals.

SourceWashington State University·JournalHarvard Data Science Review·DateMay 6, 2021

New research finds rise of frequent cannabis vaping among US high school seniors

Research reveals a significant rise in frequent cannabis vaping among US high school seniors between 2018 and 2019. The study found that frequent use increased by 131.4%, with notable increases among female students, those 18 years or older, and students who used other drugs within the past year.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateMay 6, 2021

Obesity may be a more significant risk factor for death from COVID-19 for men than women

A recent study found that obesity, particularly class II and III, is associated with a higher risk of death, severe pneumonia, and intubation in both men and women with COVID-19. However, the association was stronger in men than women, suggesting that obesity may be a more significant risk factor for death from COVID-19 in men.

SourceSpringer·JournalEuropean Journal of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases·DateMay 6, 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.

Supernovae twins open up new possibilities for precision cosmology

Cosmologists have found a way to double the accuracy of measuring distances to supernova explosions, enabling precise study of dark energy. The Nearby Supernova Factory collaboration has developed a new method that quadruples the number of supernovae used, allowing for more accurate measurements and reducing biases.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateMay 6, 2021

What can a dinosaur's inner ear tell us? Just listen

A new study from Yale University reveals that the shape of a dinosaur's inner ear can provide reliable signs about its behavior, including flying ability, movement, and parenting. The research found clusters of species with similar inner ear traits corresponding to their behaviors.

SourceYale University·JournalScience·DateMay 6, 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.

Engineers and biologists join forces to reveal how seals evolved to swim

A Monash University-led study combines computer simulations with live seal footage to explain the origins of efficient swimming in seals. The research reveals that different swimming styles evolved within the same seal group, with some species using wing-like front flippers for speed and agility.

SourceMonash University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 6, 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.

AI is not perfect -- Domain knowledge is a key in engineering

A research team at KICT has developed a fully-automated peak-picking method for extracting modal frequencies in stay-cables without prior setting or human manipulation. The method utilizes domain knowledge based on the physical characteristics of stay-cables, outperforming state-of-the-art methods in terms of accuracy and robustness.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalAutomation in Construction·DateMay 6, 2021

Transforming atmospheric carbon into industrially useful materials

Scientists at Salk Institute successfully transformed tobacco and corn husks into silicon carbide (SiC) while sequestering up to 50,000-fold more carbon from seed to lab-grown plant. The process retains about 14 percent of the plant-captured carbon, offering a potential solution for climate change mitigation.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalRSC Advances·DateMay 6, 2021

Health care use after COVID-19 diagnosis, home monitoring

Researchers found that COVID-19 patients enrolled in home monitoring programs had significantly lower healthcare use compared to those not enrolled. This suggests that home monitoring can help reduce unnecessary healthcare utilization, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateMay 6, 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.

Towards 2D memory technology by magnetic graphene

Researchers have experimentally confirmed that magnetic graphene can generate large spin signals and transfer spin information over long distances. This discovery paves the way for the development of ultra-compact 2D spin-logic devices with strong spin-polarization, promising high-speed and energy-saving electronics.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 6, 2021

PCB contamination in Icelandic orcas: a matter of diet

A new study found significant variation in PCB concentrations among Icelandic orcas, with those eating mixed diets having up to 9 times higher levels. This contradicts earlier research and highlights the need for individualized assessments of health risks in killer whale populations.

SourceMcGill University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 6, 2021

Skin and immune cells coordinate defenses against assault

A new study reveals that skin's epidermis layer is comprised of an army of immune cells that station themselves at regular intervals across the skin. When necessary, these cells reposition themselves to protect vulnerable areas, forming a dynamic surveillance system.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMay 6, 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.

Story tip from Johns Hopkins experts on COVID-19

Researchers developed the COVID Control app, which predicts COVID-19 outbreaks using user-reported symptoms and correlates with increased coronavirus prevalence in Baltimore City. The study showed that new loss of taste or smell was a strong predictor of confirmed cases, averaging five days before an outbreak.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 6, 2021

Discovery of genetic drivers linked to progression in Parkinson's disease

A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital has uncovered five genetic locations associated with progression in Parkinson's disease, identifying potential new targets for treatment. The research also developed a risk score to predict progression to dementia, a key factor in quality of life.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 6, 2021

Direct observation and measurement of quantum entanglement at macroscopic scale

Researchers have successfully demonstrated direct observation and measurement of quantum entanglement at a macroscopic scale using vibrating membranes. This breakthrough enables the extension of measurements to larger systems, with potential implications for quantum computing and fundamental physics research.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 6, 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.

Small apoptotic bodies: Nirvana, birth and death

Scientists have discovered nano-scaled apoptotic bodies as a new brain-targeting drug carrier, overcoming the blood-brain barrier challenge. The small apoptotic bodies (sABs) are stable in serum, have a long circulating time, and high drug loading efficiency, making them a promising candidate for drug delivery.

SourceNanjing University School of Life Sciences·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMay 6, 2021

Diversity and universality of jamming

The study reveals that random close packing of spheres exhibits common universal critical properties, despite the diversity of its details. The researchers showed that jammed states are marginally stable and can be described under a unified framework.

SourceOsaka University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 6, 2021

Dinosaurs that hunted in the dark

A new study found that the tiny desert-living dinosaur Shuvuuia had extraordinary vision and owl-like hearing for nocturnal life in the Mongolian desert. The team measured the size of the eyes and inner ears of over 100 bird and dinosaur species, revealing that Shuvuuia's lagena was almost identical in relative size to today's barn owl.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalScience·DateMay 6, 2021

Insulin regulates body fat independent of dietary carbohydrates

Recent studies refute the theory that excessive carbohydrate consumption leads to insulin-driven weight gain. Instead, basal insulin levels in response to energy balance are key to regulating weight gain, suggesting alternative models for body fat regulation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 6, 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.

Tropical ginger treatment for blocking inflammation

A study published in International Immunology found that a tropical ginger-derived compound, ACA, attenuates mitochondrial damage and reduces inflammation by blocking the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. This suggests ACA may be a promising therapeutic strategy for diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalInternational Immunology·DateMay 6, 2021

Protected by nanobrushes

Researchers developed nanosized cargo packages that can deliver water-soluble proteins into cancer cells while keeping them intact. The 'nanobrushes' use polymer strands with antibodies on the outside and protected proteins within.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 6, 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.

Homing in on the smallest possible laser

Scientists have successfully generated a Bose-Einstein Condensate out of exciton-polaritons, enabling the creation of the smallest possible solid-state lasers. This phenomenon holds promise for technological advancements in optoelectronic circuits.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 6, 2021

Novavax COVID-19 vaccine trial results show efficacy against the B.1.351 variant in SA study

The Novavax Covid-19 vaccine demonstrated an overall efficacy of 49% in the initial analysis and 60% among healthy adults without HIV, providing protection against mild disease caused by the B.1.351 variant prevalent in South Africa. The updated analysis showed 100% protection against severe Covid-19 due to the B.1.351 variant.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 6, 2021

Scrap for cash before coins

Researchers found evidence of bronze scrap being used as cash in Europe during the late Bronze Age (1350-800 BC), challenging traditional notions of money's emergence. This practice spread across Western Eurasia, paving the way for a global market.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateMay 6, 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.

In the Alps, climate change affects biodiversity

A recent review analyzed over 2,000 species in the Alps, finding that many have shifted their life cycles earlier and are moving higher up the elevational gradient as climate change intensifies. This shift is often lagging behind the rate of climate change, with some species experiencing little or no elevation change.

SourceCNRS·JournalBiological Reviews·DateMay 6, 2021

Swiping, swabbing elevates processing plant food safety

Researchers developed a rapid-testing method to check cleaning protocols in commercial food processing plants. The ATP swab test detected microorganisms on surfaces, improving environmental hygiene and product quality. The study showed that targeted cleaning can reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.

SourceCornell University·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateMay 6, 2021

New method boosts syngas generation from biopolyols

Researchers developed a new method to generate syngas from biopolyols using photocatalytic biomass conversion at room temperature, exhibiting high efficiency and selectivity. The catalyst featuring surface sulfate ions increased electron-proton transfer, promoting syngas production with 9-fold higher CO generation rate.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 6, 2021

By age 10, retinoblastoma patients' learning and life skills rebound

Researchers found that retinoblastoma survivors who received treatment began to recover their early learning and life skills by age 10. The study highlights the importance of early intervention to promote growth and development in young children with retinoblastoma.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMay 6, 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.

Cells are more resilient to environmental changes than previously thought

A study by Toronto researchers found that Baker's yeast cells employ a consistent network of gene interactions to coordinate growth in response to various environments. The majority of genetic interactions remained present across different conditions, revealing the stability of the cellular genetic program.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalScience·DateMay 6, 2021

Unusual semimetal shows evidence of unique surface conduction states

Scientists experimentally verify exotic surface conduction states in topological semimetals, materials that conduct on the surface but insulate inside. A new study reveals a coupled pair of electronic Weyl orbits under a magnetic field, opening doors to controlling these phenomena via external fields and interface engineering.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 6, 2021

Novel tool could fast-track cell discoveries

A new protein analysis tool, called BGIS, can quickly assess protein function with no special equipment needed. This breakthrough could accelerate basic science and medical discoveries by identifying proteins' functions and regulating their activities.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalFEBS Letters·DateMay 6, 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.

ORNL's Sergei Kalinin elected Fellow of the Microscopy Society of America

Sergei Kalinin, a senior distinguished member at the Microscopy Society of America, has been elected as a Fellow. He is recognized for his pioneering work in quantitative scanning probe and scanning transmission electron microscopy. His research focuses on applying artificial intelligence to advanced electron and scanning probe microsc...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateMay 6, 2021

Phonon imaging in 3D with a fiber probe

A team of scientists has developed a phonon probe that uses optical fibers to create high-resolution 3D images of biological cells and tissue. The device achieves lateral resolution of 2.5 μm and can measure object height with 45 nm precision, opening up new possibilities for non-destructive diagnostics.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMay 6, 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.

In graphene process, resistance is useful

Researchers adapted their laser-induced graphene technique to create fine patterns of graphene in photoresist polymers for use in consumer electronics and other applications. The new process allows for the production of high-resolution, micron-scale lines of conductive graphene, comparable to those achieved by more cumbersome processes.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateMay 6, 2021

We need to build more EV fast-charging stations, researchers say

A study of charging patterns on a University of California San Diego campus found that DC fast chargers were less affected by the pandemic, with usage returning to near-normal levels. The researchers recommend deploying additional DCFCs on campus and beyond to support growing EV adoption.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateMay 6, 2021

Researchers unveil roadmap to expand NY solar energy, meet green goals

To reach its goal of 70% renewable energy generation by 2030, New York state will need to utilize lower-grade agricultural land and dual-use (agrivoltaics) options for solar energy development. This approach can help alleviate public concerns and mitigate negative economic activity in rural communities.

SourceCornell University·JournalRenewable Energy·DateMay 6, 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.

Have high blood pressure? You may want to check your meds

A new study reveals that nearly 1 in 5 adults with high blood pressure are taking medications that could elevate their blood pressure. Researchers identified three common culprits: antidepressants, NSAIDs, and oral steroids, which were reported by 9%, 7%, and 2% of participants, respectively.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMay 6, 2021

Surprising sand fly find yields new species of bacteria

Researchers discovered a new species of bacteria, Sphingobacterium phlebotomi, in sand fly rearing substrates that attracts pregnant females, offering a potential tool for reducing sand fly populations and preventing diseases like Leishmaniasis. The bacterium's volatile chemicals can be used to create ecologically safe baits or traps.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·DateMay 6, 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.

Just a few atoms thick: New functional materials developed

Researchers have designed new materials with tailored properties by combining different components, offering targeted design options for future functional materials. They discovered a physical effect that enables tuning the color of lighting technologies in a simple way.

SourceUniversität Paderborn·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 6, 2021

The origin of reproductive organs

A new study led by Kotaro Sasaki elucidates the early biological processes involved in the development of ovaries and testes in human embryos. Researchers analyzed single-cell transcriptome data to understand gene expression at each developmental stage, providing insights into typical and atypical gonadal development.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 6, 2021

India's polio vaccination provides valuable insights for mass vaccination campaigns

A study on India's successful polio vaccination program reveals that managerial strategies, including bundling healthcare services, engaging stakeholders, and implementing accountability mechanisms, were crucial to its success. The findings highlight the importance of addressing social trust and political vulnerability in mass vaccinat...

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateMay 6, 2021

Evading the uncertainty principle in quantum physics

Researchers at Aalto University have successfully evaded the uncertainty principle by measuring the position and momentum of vibrating drumheads. This experiment allows for the characterization of extremely weak forces and provides evidence of quantum entanglement in macroscopic objects.

SourceAalto University·JournalScience·DateMay 6, 2021

Flooding might triple in the mountains of Asia due to global warming

The study reveals that glacial lake outburst floods in the Himalayan region and Tibetan plateau could triple in the coming decades, posing a significant threat to communities and infrastructure. The risk of transboundary disasters will also increase, with new hotspots emerging in regions like the Western Himalaya and Pamir.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 6, 2021

'Natural disasters' increase triggers for violence against women and girls

A global review of natural disasters reveals a significant increase in violence against women and girls, with stressors like trauma and financial insecurity emerging as key triggers. The study emphasizes the need for gender-sensitive policies and inclusion of women in disaster management to prevent such violence.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateMay 6, 2021

Kidney cancer risks higher for Hispanic, Native Americans in Arizona

Advanced-stage kidney cancer is more common among Hispanic Americans and Native Americans than non-Hispanic whites in Arizona. The study found that Arizona's Hispanic Americans have a two times higher risk of advanced-stage kidney cancer, while Native Americans face a 30% increased risk.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalCancers·DateMay 6, 2021

The natural brightness of the night sky

Researchers develop first complete reference method to measure natural brightness of night sky, revealing complex factors affecting glow in upper layers of atmosphere. The study uses network of low-cost photometers to analyze data from 44 darkest places worldwide.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·DateMay 6, 2021

New study tracked large sharks during hurricanes

A new study tracked large sharks in Miami and The Bahamas to understand their responses to major storms like hurricanes. Researchers found that different shark species behaved differently by species and location, with some evacuating shallow waters while others remained or even increased in numbers after the storm passed.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateMay 6, 2021

Slender-snouted Besanosaurus was an 8 m long marine snapper

Researchers have identified five additional specimens of a 240-million-year-old ichthyosaur, named Besanosaurus leptorhynchus, providing new information on its anatomy, diet, and exceptionally large adult size. The species is the earliest large-sized marine diapsid with a long and narrow snout.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateMay 6, 2021

Space weather and solar blobs

Researchers at DOE's Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory receive $2 million in funding to investigate magnetic reconnection and plasma blobs that can disrupt communications satellites. They aim to recreate conditions in the magnetosphere using a device resembling an enormous silvery barrel tipped on its side.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·DateMay 6, 2021

Epilepsy research reveals why sleep increases risk of sudden death

New research from the University of Virginia School of Medicine reveals that sleep can increase the risk of sudden death in people with epilepsy. Seizures disrupt the body's natural regulation of sleep-related changes, leading to a slower heart rate and potentially deadly consequences.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalEpilepsia·DateMay 6, 2021

Review: Most human origins stories are not compatible with known fossils

Most human origins stories are incompatible with the fossils found today, according to a new review that argues for the importance of fossil apes in understanding human evolution. The study examines the major discoveries in hominin origins since Darwin's time and finds that relying on living apes alone is insufficient.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalScience·DateMay 6, 2021

Feeling younger buffers older adults from stress, protects against health decline

A study by the American Psychological Association found that people who feel younger have better cognitive functioning, lower inflammation, and a lower risk of hospitalization compared to those who feel older. The researchers suggest that feeling younger could help buffer middle-aged and older adults against stress's negative effects.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateMay 6, 2021

Patient support program for painful conditions may reduce opioid use

A patient support program for people with autoimmune diseases and complex medication regimens can help them avoid using opioids or reduce their use. The study found that patients in the program were 13% less likely to start taking opioid pain medications and 26% less likely to fill two or more opioid prescriptions.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalRheumatology and Therapy·DateMay 6, 2021

5:2 diet helps reduce skin symptoms in Psoriasis patients

A modified 5:2 diet has shown promising results in reducing scaling and thickness of skin symptoms in psoriasis patients. The study found a significant reduction in Psoriasis severity after following the MIF diet, with 30% of patients reporting a decrease in itching.

SourceSay Communications·DateMay 6, 2021

Children likely to be pleading guilty when innocent, study argues

A recent study published in the Journal of Law and Society suggests that children are more prone to pleading guilty even when innocent due to their brain development and information processing abilities. The researchers argue that this can lead to inaccurate convictions and recommend tailored protection for young defendants.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Law and Society·DateMay 6, 2021

Cell cytoskeleton as target for new active agents

A team of scientists at the Paul Scherrer Institute has discovered 27 binding sites on tubulin, a critical protein in the cell cytoskeleton. Eleven of these sites were previously unknown and hold promise for developing new cancer-fighting agents.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 6, 2021

New indicator for oxygen levels in early oceans developed

Researchers have discovered a new method to track oxygen levels in the ancient oceans by analyzing tungsten isotopes. This breakthrough may provide valuable insights into the evolution of life on Earth and its ability to thrive under various environmental conditions.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 6, 2021

Pandemic-driven telehealth proves popular at safety net health system

A new study by UCSF found that 9 out of 10 clinicians support using telehealth for outpatient care, despite concerns about diagnostic accuracy. Clinicians reported challenges with speech, hearing, and cognitive barriers, as well as limited internet access and language barriers.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved·DateMay 6, 2021

Rooted tree key to understanding bacterial evolution, new study suggests

A recent study uses phylogenetic methods to integrate vertical and horizontal gene transmission, revealing that genes travel vertically two-thirds of the time. This analysis predicts a root between two major clades, Terrabacteria and Gracilicutes, shedding light on early bacterial evolution.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScience·DateMay 6, 2021

Exercise aids the cognitive development of children born preterm

A study by the University of Basel found that exercise training helps improve motor skills in children born prematurely, leading to better impulse control and reduced behavioral problems. This targeted training may also reduce cognitive limitations, providing essential support for these children as they grow into teenagers.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalDevelopmental Cognitive Neuroscience·DateMay 6, 2021

Research breakthrough in the fight against cancer

A UMass Amherst research team has engineered a nanoparticle that can deliver cancer-fighting drugs to specific cells, reducing side effects. The innovation combines biologics and antibody-drug conjugates, enabling safer treatments for various genetic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMay 6, 2021

Eating sardines regularly helps prevent type 2 diabetes

A study found that consuming two cans of sardines a week reduced the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 31% in elderly patients with prediabetes. The nutrient-rich fish helped lower insulin resistance, increase HDL cholesterol and improve glucose metabolism.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalClinical Nutrition·DateMay 6, 2021

JAMA Health Forum now peer-reviewed journal

The JAMA Health Forum has transitioned from an online health policy channel to a peer-reviewed, open-access online journal. The journal is focused on health policy, health care systems, and global and public health, with an editorial team led by John Z. Ayanian and Melinda B. Buntin.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateMay 6, 2021

Temperature explains why aquatic life more diverse near equator

Research from University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Yale University suggests that temperature explains why tropical waters have a higher biodiversity. However, global warming could reduce this diversity as temperatures rise, potentially leading to extinctions.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 6, 2021

Physicists describe new type of aurora

Researchers have found a new feature in the diffuse aurora, where sections of the background-like glow disappear and then reappear after a short period. This phenomenon, dubbed 'diffuse auroral erasers,' has never been mentioned in scientific literature and raises questions about its frequency and potential impact on Earth's climate.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·DateMay 6, 2021

Researchers speed identification of DNA regions that regulate gene expression

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital scientists have developed an integrated system to better understand and possibly manipulate gene expression for treatment of disorders like sickle cell disease and beta thalassemia. The new method identified dozens of DNA regulatory elements that orchestrate fetal-to-adult hemoglobin switch, offeri...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 6, 2021

Only 41% of people would sign up for COVID-19 trials says new report

A new report by the University of Birmingham reveals that only 41.4% of respondents in a UK-wide survey expressed interest in participating in COVID-19 vaccine trials. The study found that male graduates, those aged 40-49 and 50-59, and individuals with no health issues were more likely to be interested, while Black Asian Minority Ethn...

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalTrials·DateMay 6, 2021

Sharks use Earth's magnetic fields to guide them like a map

Researchers found that sharks rely on magnetic fields to guide them during long-distance migrations. Bonnethead sharks were used in experiments, which showed that they orient themselves based on the magnetic field, even when exposed to fields outside their natural range.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 6, 2021

Cancer patients lonely and depressed during COVID

A new UCSF study reports that cancer patients experience a deep sense of loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 53% of participants classified as lonely. The study also found higher levels of depression, fatigue, and sleep disturbance among lonely patients.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCancer·DateMay 6, 2021