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By river, ocean, or wind, rocks round the same way

A team of scientists has discovered that rocks round up in the same way regardless of their origin, with a common process guiding their shape evolution. By combining mathematical models and laboratory experiments, the researchers found that collisions between particles favor the chipping off of small sediment fragments.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 28, 2018

Blowin' in the wind -- A source of energy?

Scientists at Linköping University have developed a method to generate electricity from the natural fluctuations in temperature caused by sunlight and shade. By combining plasmonic antennas with pyroelectric materials, they can harness energy from light fluctuations. This innovative technology has the potential to be used in various ap...

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateMar 26, 2018
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.

The occurrence of magnetism in the universe

Scientists at HZDR aim to demonstrate that precession is sufficient to create a magnetic field using liquid sodium. The experiment could provide insights into the geodynamo and clarify the role of precession in generating the Earth's magnetic field.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 12, 2018

Army scientists help robots understand humans with board game idea

Researchers created a method to formulate a sequence of yes/no questions that rapidly achieves the best answer, enabling robots to maintain continuous conversation with humans. The study's findings have potential applications in machine-machine questioning and human-robot teaming.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalIEEE Transactions on Information Theory·DateMar 5, 2018

Precision cancer medicine are developed with artificial intelligence methods

Researchers at Åbo Akademi University and Moffitt Cancer Research Centre are developing AI-driven precision cancer medicine to identify effective multi-drug therapies for each patient. The project combines molecular data with network modelling to analyze interactions between drugs and inhibitors, reducing the risk of drug resistance.

SourceAbo Akademi University·DateFeb 28, 2018
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.

New insight into how magma feeds volcanic eruptions

Researchers created a scaled-down model of an active volcanic plumbing system to study magma flow through dykes. The novel experimental setup revealed the simultaneous measurement of fluid flow, sub-surface deformation during magma ascent, challenging existing thinking on magma flow.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalJournal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research·DateFeb 22, 2018

Animal diversity improves reproducibility of pre-clinical research

Researchers found that using more diverse study samples can significantly improve the reproducibility of experimental results in pre-clinical animal research. By combining data from multiple studies, they showed that multi-laboratory studies produce more consistent results than single-laboratory studies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 22, 2018
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.

New analytical method provides an insight into additional chromosomes

A new technique has been developed to analyze additional chromosomes, which are found in some species and can be associated with developmental abnormalities. The study identified specific regions of the genome present on these additional chromosomes, including genes related to cell cycle control and cytoskeleton structure.

SourceAKSON Russian Science Communication Association·JournalChromosoma·DateFeb 21, 2018

Rapid evolution of a calcareous microalgae

A team of scientists found that Emiliania huxleyi adapted rapidly to ocean acidification, with some lineages exhibiting extremely rapid changes in ecological fitness. However, the algae's ability to adapt did not translate to better survival in natural conditions.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 14, 2018

Brain sciences researcher pinpoints brain circuit that triggers fear relapse

A study by Steve Maren and his team identified a key brain circuit that triggers fear relapse. The research found that the hippocampus is connected to a specific type of cell in the prefrontal cortex, which plays a crucial role in relapse. This breakthrough could lead to more effective treatments for disorders like PTSD.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 13, 2018
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.

Recreating outer space in the lab

Researchers at Tohoku University successfully recreated conditions similar to those in space without an electric field-trapping boundary. The study shows the electron gas expands adiabatically when electric fields are removed, demonstrating the extension of classical thermodynamics to out-of-equilibrium systems.

SourceTohoku University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 13, 2018

More rice, please: 13 rice genomes reveal ways to keep up with ever-growing population

Researchers have sequenced the genomes of 13 wild and domesticated rice species, revealing valuable genetic information for developing new, efficient, and sustainable rice varieties. The newly created genetic resource provides insights into disease resistance genes, which could help reduce pesticide use and ensure reliable rice harvests.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 1, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Ocean acidification and coral skeletal density

Researchers developed a model to explore the effect of ocean acidification on coral skeletal growth, finding that acidification influences skeletal density but not extension. The simulation predicted an average decline of around 12.4% in Porites skeletal density across global reef sites by the end of the 21st century.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 29, 2018

Changing the color of 3-D printed objects

Researchers from MIT's CSAIL present ColorFab, a method for repeatedly changing the colors of 3-D printed objects after fabrication using custom ink and UV light. The system can recolor a multi-colored object in under 20 minutes, with the goal of reducing waste and increasing customization.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateJan 29, 2018
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.

Scale-eating fish adopt clever parasitic methods to survive

Researchers studied four species of scale-eating fish, finding that each employed distinct strategies to pry scales off prey. The study highlights the diversity of life on Earth and sheds light on the evolution and behavior of these unusual carnivorous grazers.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJan 17, 2018

The innate immune system can also be trained

Scientists discover that training precursor cells in the bone marrow with beta-glucan leads to a sustained positive response of the hematopoietic system. This effect could help accelerate the formation of new white blood cells, which are vital during chemotherapy.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalCell·DateJan 16, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A major step forward in organic electronics

Researchers at Linköping University developed the world's first complementary electrochemical logic circuits that function stably for long periods in water. This breakthrough has major consequences for many applications, including bioelectronics and printed electronics.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 11, 2018

Accessing your own genomic data is a civil right but requires strategies to manage safety

The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) created an individual access right to genomic data, but its implementation has been marred by controversy and conflicting regulations. Bioethicists and safety regulators have raised concerns about the misuse of genetic data, while lawmakers argue that GINA solves a non-existent problem.

SourceCell Press·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 4, 2018

Traditional secrets to keeping cool: Investigating Okinawan textiles

Researchers analyzed Okinawan textile Basho-fu using Scanning Electron Microscopes and X-ray diffraction to compare traditional and laboratory production processes. They found that traditional degumming is milder than laboratory methods, retaining more air voids and breathability.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalJournal of Fiber Science and Technology·DateDec 26, 2017
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.

Testing the accuracy of FDA-approved and lab-developed cancer genetics tests

A new study published in JAMA Oncology analyzed data from almost 7,000 tests and found that both FDA-approved companion diagnostics and laboratory-developed tests demonstrated excellent performance on proficiency testing, exceeding 97% accuracy combined across three cancer genes. Most laboratories purchasing in vitro diagnostics for FD...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateDec 14, 2017

MIT scientists prove tailgating doesn't get you there faster

Researchers from MIT's CSAIL team show that keeping an equal distance between cars reduces traffic jams, enabling drivers to reach their destinations almost twice as quickly. The approach, known as bilateral control, could be achieved through software and hardware updates, without requiring extensive infrastructure changes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·DateDec 14, 2017
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.

Does Chagas disease present a health risk to Canadians?

A new case study reveals the potential for Chagas disease transmission among individuals with family ties to Central and South American nations. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious long-term effects such as heart failure.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 13, 2017

Vehicles could get 'nerves' that sense damage with new research

Researchers at Clemson University are developing a new type of smart material that can detect damage in vehicles, such as impacts and cracking. This technology has the potential to reduce maintenance costs and improve safety by enabling vehicles to perform self-diagnostic checks and avoid accidents.

SourceClemson University·DateDec 13, 2017

Foreign investments crucial for positive return on exports

Experts at HSE found that foreign direct investment (FDI) can facilitate the success of export-oriented strategies by increasing diversification of funding sources, participation in global value chains, and access to cheaper credit resources. This can offset poor corporate governance and lack of institutional development.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalBaltic Journal of Management·DateDec 7, 2017
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.

Army researcher earns best paper award at internet conference

A US Army Research Laboratory researcher has won a best paper award at an internet conference in Thailand for his work on NDN fuzzy interest forwarding. The technique enables discovery and retrieval of data using approximate knowledge of the data namespace, alleviating the need for exacting name matching.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·DateDec 6, 2017

Diagnosing jaundice in resource-limited settings

Researchers developed a point-of-care device to diagnose and monitor neonatal jaundice in low-resource settings. The device, using disposable lateral flow cards, measures total serum bilirubin levels with high accuracy, suggesting a potential solution for resource-limited settings.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2017

How bat brain tracks prey

Neural recordings of wild bats reveal a layered structure in the superior colliculus facilitating rapid tracking and capturing of prey through echolocation. The study contributes to understanding of SC function during naturalistic behaviors, finding both sensory and motor neurons throughout the midbrain region.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateNov 27, 2017
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.

Dog ownership linked to lower mortality

A Swedish study of over 3.4 million individuals found that dog owners had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and death. Dog ownership was particularly protective for singles, with a 33% reduced risk of death and 11% reduced risk of myocardial infarction.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 17, 2017

Researchers tunnel to a new light source

Researchers at Ohio State University describe a new semiconductor LED made with GaN-based materials that could enhance LED solid state lighting without significant changes to manufacturing facilities. The breakthrough uses quantum-mechanical tunneling to create 'holes' for radiative recombination, reducing energy losses and self-heating.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateNov 17, 2017
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.

Our body clocks cause wounds sustained at night to heal more slowly

A new study discovered how our body clocks impact wound healing, with wounds sustained at night taking up to 60% longer to heal compared to daytime injuries. The research found that skin cells move to the wound site faster during daylight hours, leading to increased collagen deposition and improved healing.

SourceMedical Research Council·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 8, 2017
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.

What mitigates the consequences of recession for companies?

A recent study found that foreign direct investments reduce the negative impact of recessions on Russian companies. The research analyzed over 1,000 public companies and discovered that linkages with foreign partners alleviate the effects of economic downturns.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalJournal of Economics and Business·DateNov 2, 2017
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.

Gut bacteria from wild mice boost health in lab mice

Researchers found that introducing wild mouse gut bacteria to laboratory mice improved their survival rate against the flu virus and reduced tumor growth. The study suggests using natural microbiota in lab mice could improve disease modeling and lead to new therapeutic approaches.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateOct 19, 2017

Researchers 'drug the undruggable' through unique collaboration

A multidisciplinary research collaboration has found a way to target key cancer-linked proteins by exploiting a unique binding site in an enzyme. The approach could lead to the development of new drugs that control tumour growth and promote normal cell control mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature·DateOct 19, 2017
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.

Gravitational waves shed first light on mergers of neutron stars

The LIGO-Virgo Collaboration observed the merger of two neutron stars, producing gravitational waves and a gamma-ray burst, marking the birth of multi-messenger astronomy. This discovery confirms kilonova formation, providing insight into the universe's heaviest elements.

SourceCNRS·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 16, 2017
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.

Teleoperating robots with virtual reality

The CSAIL team developed a VR system that lets users teleoperate robots using an Oculus Rift headset. The system mimics the user's movements to complete various tasks, making it feel like they are inside the robot's head. This technology could enable blue-collar workers to telecommute and benefit from the IT revolution.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateOct 4, 2017

Global research team fills language gap in plant science

A global research team of 22 scientists has created a comprehensive glossary of terms to describe cellular processes in plants, aiming to clarify confusion among experts. The lexicon covers key structures and processes involved in cytokinesis, a crucial phase of cell division that could accelerate breeding for sustainable materials.

SourceWashington State University·JournalTrends in Cell Biology·DateOct 3, 2017