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How Bali could teach the world to manage its limited resources

Researchers applied a physics method to Balinese rice irrigation practices, finding that a balance between water stress and pest stress is crucial for equilibrium. The traditional method, which involves synchronized flooding, can help maintain social harmony and prevent chaos in water schedules.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 20, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rise of the war machines: Identifying key drivers of the evolution of military technology in pre-industrial societies

A new analysis spanning 10,000 years of history and ten major world regions found that world population size, major technological advances, and geographical connectivity are key drivers of military technology evolution. The study's methodology employed a resource called Seshat: Global History Databank to empirically test prior hypotheses.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 20, 2021

New model points to solution to global blood shortage

A new mathematical model suggests that patients with anemia can be effectively treated with transfusions of blood substitutes, which are more readily available than real blood. This approach could reduce the negative effects of blood transfusion and lower costs.

SourceStanford University·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 19, 2021

Researchers find novel means of flagging inpatient pharmacy orders for intervention

A team of researchers has developed a novel machine learning model that can identify medication orders requiring pharmacy intervention using provider behavior and contextual features. This approach reduces the risk of exposing sensitive patient data, while alleviating the workload of pharmacists and increasing patient safety.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalJAMIA Open·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 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.

Even college campuses with 100% vaccine rates need COVID-19 tests

A study of 5,000 simulated undergraduates found that weekly surveillance testing was associated with a substantial reduction in infections. Even at low vaccine effectiveness rates, quarantine protocols were effective in reducing infections by up to 93.6%.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJAMA Health Forum·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 18, 2021

Using quantum Parrondo’s random walks for encryption

Assistant Professor Kang Hao Cheong and his team discovered that chaotic switching for quantum coin Parrondo's games has similar underlying ideas to encryption. They found that using pre-generated chaotic sequences enhances the work, making it easier to invert the encrypted message to obtain the original state.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateOct 15, 2021

Snakes diversified explosively after the dinosaurs were wiped out

A study found that snakes rapidly diversified their diets following the K-Pg mass extinction event, incorporating birds, fish, and small mammals into their diet. This diversification was triggered by ecological opportunities presented by the extinction, with some lineages experiencing further bursts of adaptive evolution.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 14, 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.

Expansion of wind and solar power too slow to stop climate change

Researchers find that most countries are not growing wind and solar power fast enough to meet global warming targets of 1.5°C or 2°C. The study analyzes data from 60 countries and finds that only a few countries, like Portugal and Ireland, have seen rapid growth in onshore wind and solar power.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 14, 2021

Toward accurate modeling of power MOSFET electrical characteristics

A team of scientists at NAIST successfully used automatic differentiation to accelerate calculations of model parameter extraction, reducing computation time by 3.5 times compared to conventional methods. This breakthrough enables the design of more efficient power converters with increased performance and reduced energy consumption.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Power Electronics·DateOct 12, 2021

The curious task of watching liquid marbles dry

Liquid marbles' unique hydrophobic outer layer allows for faster evaporation than bare water droplets due to particle-particle and liquid-particle interactions. The team's mathematical model accurately predicts evaporation behavior, providing insights into these tiny biological structures.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalSoft Matter·TypeObservational study·DateOct 12, 2021

How apples get their shapes

Using observations, lab experiments, theory, and computation, researchers have developed a simple theory to explain the form and growth of apples' cusp-like features. The team found that mechanical instability and underlying fruit anatomy play joint roles in giving rise to multiple cusps in fruits.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 4, 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.

Study suggests R rate for tracking pandemic should be dropped in favour of ‘nowcasts’

A new study by University of Cambridge researchers proposes abandoning the R rate for tracking pandemics in favor of nowcasts, which forecast daily new cases and deaths based on growth rates. The Harvey-Kattuman model has already proved accurate and effective in predicting COVID-19 waves and spikes worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 28, 2021

Mathematical constructions of COVID virus activity could provide new insight for vaccines, treatment

Researchers developed a mathematical model to study the action of SARS-CoV-2, enabling the examination of individual virus particles and their spikes. This analysis can help fine-tune prevention and treatment by providing insights into viral load, spike distribution, and cell infection potential.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Mathematical Analysis and Applications·DateSep 23, 2021

Contact-tracing apps could improve vaccination strategies

Mathematical modeling suggests that contact-tracing apps can help achieve herd immunity by identifying individuals with greater exposure to others and targeting them for vaccination. The approach, known as 'hot-spotting,' could reduce the number of vaccine doses needed by up to half.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 22, 2021

Grant backs effort to build useful bacterial colonies

Researchers at Rice University have been awarded a four-year, $1.2 million National Institutes of Health grant to advance the art and science of creating custom-designed microbial colonies. The grant will enable the development of technologies like synthetic tissues that enhance soils or gut microbiomes.

SourceRice University·DateSep 20, 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.

Model to predict the angle of repose of sand hills developed

Researchers developed a mathematical model to predict the angle of repose of sand hills, which is influenced by particle size and gravity. The model was validated using simulations and has potential applications in space exploration, additive manufacturing, and planetary science.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 14, 2021

Species in polar regions hard hit by climate change

A mathematical model developed at Linköping University predicts that many species in polar regions will become extinct due to global warming, with ecosystems already showing signs of strain. The model simulates the impact of climate change on species interactions and diversity, highlighting the importance of considering ecological proc...

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 14, 2021

UMass Amherst infectious disease forecaster gets renewed funding

The UMass Amherst Reich Lab, led by biostatistician Nicholas Reich, will continue to advance real-time forecasting methods during infectious disease outbreaks thanks to a five-year NIH grant renewal. The lab's flu forecasting collaborative has been designated as one of two national Influenza Forecasting Centers of Excellence.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateSep 13, 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.

Meat-heavy diets restricted hunter-gatherer population sizes

A new study by the ICTA-UAB establishes that populations of hunter-gatherer groups with strong seasonal dependence on meat had fewer people per square kilometer than those relying on abundant plant foods. This result is based on a complex set of calculations showing how diet composition influenced population density.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 10, 2021

Math researchers find new ways to improve the science of ‘trade-offs’

QUT researchers developed a new mathematical model to enable faster solutions for complicated problems in agriculture, ecology and medicine. The method improves how to determine the 'best' intervention strategies, balancing benefits and side effects, and can be applied to farming practices and chemotherapy.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 9, 2021

Museum collections predict species abundance in the wild

Researchers analyzed 1.4 million field observations and 73,000 museum records to find a strong correlation between species abundance in nature and their presence in museum collections. This method enables scientists to study species decline and estimate past abundances, providing insights into conservation efforts.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 8, 2021

The first cells might have used temperature to divide

A new study proposes that protocells, the putative ancestors of modern living cells, used temperature differences to divide. This simple mechanism could underlie the growth and self-replication of these early cells.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 3, 2021

These geckos crash-land on rainforest trees but don't fall, thanks to their tails

Scientists have discovered that geckos use their tails to recover from head-first crashes into rainforest trees, with implications for the design of agile robots. This versatile behavior allows geckos to stabilize themselves after impact and maintain control during gliding maneuvers.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 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.

Mathematical model reveals possible role of drug-eluting stents in artery re-closure

Researchers develop novel models to investigate the impact of drug-eluting stents on arterial tissue permeability and blood flow. The study identifies key factors contributing to restenosis near stent edges, highlighting potential avenues for design improvements.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 1, 2021

Brazilian physicists create a model to predict mutations in SARS-CoV-2

Researchers created a model to estimate viral population variability using epidemiological data, predicting the emergence of novel variants. The study suggests that lack of vaccination increases mutation frequency and spread.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 26, 2021

Marine ecosystem models may greatly underestimate future climate change impacts

A new study found that global marine ecosystem models differ widely in their representation of key processes, leading to underestimation of climate change impacts. Marine ecosystem models generally agree on biomass decline but disagree on magnitude and location across the world's oceans through the 21st century.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalProgress In Oceanography·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 25, 2021

Stem cells and mathematical models: The future of medical research

Researchers at Masonic Medical Research Institute are using human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) to create scientific models for studying cardiac arrhythmias and testing therapeutics. The integration of mathematical modeling tools enables the prediction of drug efficacy with minimal adverse effects.

SourceMasonic Medical Research Institute·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateAug 25, 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.

Researchers aim to optimize disease prevention in prison populations with rapid testing

Researchers explored optimizing disease control in prisons using rapid tests, identifying the optimal strategy to minimize costs and reduce infection. The study found that switching between full and no testing depends on various parameters, including contagion rates and test sensitivity.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Control and Optimization·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 24, 2021

Researchers developing new cancer treatments with high-intensity focused ultrasound

High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) technology is being explored for its potential to destroy cancerous tumours while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. Researchers at the University of Waterloo have made significant progress in understanding how HIFU works on a cellular level, paving the way for future clinical trials.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalBulletin of Mathematical Biology·DateAug 24, 2021

Mathematical model predicts best way to build muscle

A mathematical model developed by researchers at the University of Cambridge can predict the optimum exercise regime for building muscle. The model takes into account individual physiology and optimizes exercise regimes based on user input, promising to maximize athletes' potential.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBiophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 23, 2021

Groundbreaking visualization of atomic movements

A novel method for imaging vibrations and movements of atoms in catalysts has been developed by a collaboration of internationally leading researchers. The new analytical method reveals a dynamic behavior of the atoms, contrary to the long-held expectation that atoms in nanoparticles are static during observations.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 19, 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.

Wash your hands for 20 seconds: Physics shows why

A physics model simulates hand-washing to estimate the time scales on which particles like viruses and bacteria are removed from hands. The study finds that vigorous movement for about 20 seconds is necessary to dislodge these particles, consistent with traditional guidelines.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateAug 17, 2021

Beating the curse of dimensionality

A KAUST-led research team has developed a prediction scheme that can more reliably forecast future environmental trajectories by integrating information from past complete and partial data. This approach, called partial functional prediction (PFP), captures both long-term trends and well-matched partial trajectories to achieve improved...

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of the American Statistical Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 16, 2021

A mobility-based approach to optimize pandemic lockdown strategies

A new approach to modeling COVID-19 spread incorporates real-time data on people's movements, showing promise for optimal lockdown policies. The study suggests a balance between controlling the pandemic and minimizing economic costs can be achieved through mathematical models and Google mobility data.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 12, 2021

Birds that disperse more types of seed have better evolutionary chances

A study at the University of São Paulo found that bird species interacting with more plant species have higher evolutionary stability. This is because they occupy central positions in seed dispersal networks, leading to longer lifespans and increased species accumulation.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScience·DateAug 11, 2021

A robotic fish tail and an elegant math ratio could inform the design of next- generation underwater drones

University of Virginia researchers design a simple way to implement a tunable stiffness strategy in robots, enabling efficient swimming at varying speeds. The approach, inspired by the natural adaptability of fish, uses a programmable artificial tendon to adjust tail stiffness in real-time.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 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.

Mathematical model of thermoplastic composite helps design and certify highly reliable structures

Researchers at Skoltech developed a mathematical model for thermoplastic composite materials, reducing conservatism in strength calculations. The model allows for virtual testing of structures, minimizing manufacturing costs while ensuring safety and quality requirements.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalInternational Journal of Pressure Vessels and Piping·DateAug 10, 2021

“Triple contagion”: How fears influence coronavirus transmission

A new model incorporates human behavior and fears to predict multiple waves of COVID-19 infections. The 'Triple Contagion' model shows how fear can drive disease resurgence, as people may abandon protective measures prematurely or avoid vaccines due to misinformation.

SourceNew York University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 3, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Mixing precision for model acceleration

A KAUST-led research team has developed an approach to mix high-precision calculations with lower precision for large geospatial datasets, significantly speeding up modeling without overall precision loss. The technique, implemented on high-performance computing systems, will enable larger datasets to be analyzed in shorter timeframes.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Parallel and Distributed Systems·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 27, 2021

A new mathematical model assesses ICU patients' mortality risk

A new machine learning-based model predicts ICU patients' mortality risk based on characteristics such as demographics, comorbidities, and APACHE II score. The model overcomes traditional approaches' weak points, offering a better alternative for personalized medical predictions.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalArtificial Intelligence in Medicine·DateJul 23, 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.

The mathematics of repulsion for new graphene catalysts

Scientists at Tohoku University have developed a new mathematical model to predict the properties of carbon-based materials. The Standard Realization with Repulsive Interaction (SRRI) model abstracts key effects and reveals relationships between changes and resulting properties.

SourceTohoku University·JournalCarbon·DateJul 19, 2021

Sussex mathematicians develop ground-breaking modelling toolkit to predict local COVID-19 impact

A new modelling toolkit predicts local COVID-19 impact with unprecedented accuracy, using local hospital data to inform healthcare demand and capacity planning. The Halogen toolkit is available for other local authorities to use, enhancing their ability to predict infection levels and guide public health decisions.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateJul 12, 2021

New study shows mathematical models helped reduce the spread of COVID-19

A new study published in Emerging Infectious Diseases found that mathematical models informed early statewide policies in Colorado, avoiding 97% of potential hospitalizations. The modeling team developed a SEIR model calibrated to Colorado COVID-19 data and provided real-time estimates to policymakers.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateJul 7, 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.

Mathematics could provide solution to holding large events safely

Researchers from University of Bath's Institute for Mathematical Innovation offer free virtual workshop to solve challenges posed by holding large events safely. The three-day event will bring together mathematical scientists and other disciplines to model transmission rates, queuing risks, and physical interventions.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateJun 29, 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.

Rubisco proton production can enhance CO2 acquisition

Researchers have found that Rubisco proton production can enhance CO2 acquisition, allowing plants to fix more carbon dioxide and produce more sugar. This discovery could lead to improved crop yields and increased food security.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 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.