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Cooperation under pressure: Lessons from the COVID-19 swab crisis

A team from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center created all-new swabs for COVID-19 testing in just three weeks by leveraging open-source collaboration and 3D printing. The swab crisis highlighted the importance of cooperation, openness, and scalability in solving complex problems.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·DateAug 18, 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.

SARS-CoV-2 infection among maternal-infant pairs in Ontario, Canada

A recent study found SARS-CoV-2 infection among maternal-infant pairs to be extremely rare in early infancy. The findings suggest that while transmission is uncommon, continued monitoring and vaccination efforts are necessary to protect newborns from COVID-19 and its variants.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 9, 2021

Ancient herbal medicine may offer relief to veterans with Gulf War Illness

A study from the University of South Carolina's Environmental Health & Disease Laboratory found that andrographolide successfully restored bacteriomes and viromes, increasing beneficial bacteria and decreasing harmful bacteria. The treatment also decreased gut inflammation and neuroinflammation in veterans with Gulf War Illness.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalBrain Sciences·DateAug 5, 2021

Seeing (infra)red: Researchers develop software to enhance infrared imaging-based cancer diagnosis

A team of Beckman researchers developed software to boost infrared imaging-based cancer diagnosis, enhancing image resolution and accelerating recording speeds. The software integrates data analysis and reduces limitations associated with IR imaging, making it faster and more accurate.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalChemometrics and Intelligent Laboratory Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 5, 2021
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Synthetic hinge could hold key to revolutionary 'smart' insulin therapy

A synthetic hinge concept developed by Indiana University School of Medicine Professor Michael A. Weiss and his team could lead to a breakthrough in 'smart' insulin therapy. The invention exploits a natural mechanism that allows the insulin to adjust its activity based on blood glucose levels, which could transform diabetes care.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 2, 2021

Deep-sea research bolstered with $2 million grant

The project aims to identify potential environmental costs of deep-sea activities to inform responsible use. It will connect diverse science and policy experts in industry, academia, and private institutes to guide sustainable practices.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·DateJul 21, 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.

New material could mean lightweight armor, protective coatings

Researchers at the U.S. Army's Institute for Soldier Nanotechnologies identified a new material that absorbs impact more efficiently than steel, Kevlar, aluminum and other materials of comparable weight. The nanoarchitected material features impressive properties like exceptional lightness and resilience.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 19, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Staying on schedule

Researchers developed an optimized schedule for automated biology lab robots, maximizing experiments within time and resource constraints. The S-LAB framework accounts for time constraints and resource conflicts, improving efficiencies in life science experiments.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalSLAS TECHNOLOGY·DateJul 15, 2021

The rat's whiskers: multidisciplinary research reveals how we sense texture

Researchers have discovered that rat whiskers act like antennae to amplify tiny stick-slip motions caused by friction, enabling the brain to perceive surface textures. This breakthrough has far-reaching benefits for design of textured surfaces for visually impaired and robotic safety in low light environments.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 13, 2021

Haziness of exoplanet atmospheres depends on properties of aerosol particles

A laboratory study reveals that haze particles produced under different conditions have varying properties, determining the clarity of an exoplanet's atmosphere. Haze removal depends on surface energy, with particles having high surface energy being easily removed and resulting in clear skies.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJul 12, 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.

Study shows laboratory developed protein spikes consistent with COVID-19 virus

A new international study found that laboratory-developed protein spikes consistent with COVID-19 virus are highly similar, providing reassurance for vaccine design and antibody testing. The study used glycan coatings to mimic the infectious virus and showed consistent results across five laboratories worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalBiochemistry·DateJul 5, 2021

Melatonin in mice: there's more to this hormone than sleep

The study revealed that natural melatonin is linked to a pre-hibernation state that allows mice to slow down their metabolism and survive when food is scarce. Melatonin-producing female mice also enter a state called daily torpor, a low-power mode similar to hibernation that conserves energy.

SourceRIKEN·JournalJournal of Pineal Research·DateJun 23, 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.

Researchers develop more reliable rapid tests for COVID-19

Two new rapid diagnostic tests for COVID-19 have been developed, detecting the virus in as little as five minutes and showing high sensitivity even in low levels of infection. The tests use innovative techniques that improve accuracy and do not require advanced laboratory techniques.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalNature Protocols·DateJun 15, 2021

EMPOWER STEM program creates student pathways to jobs

The EMPOWER STEM program pairs University of Arizona students and researchers with Naval Research Laboratory scientists to learn about the latest technologies in the Department of Defense. The initiative aims to provide a route to government research jobs for students from diverse backgrounds, with a focus on student veterans.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateJun 11, 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.

A vital tool to study virus evolution in the test tube

Researchers have developed a technology to manipulate viruses synthetically, allowing for rapid analysis and mapping of new potential virus variants. This innovation enables scientists to mimic natural selection processes safely in a controlled laboratory environment.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 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.

Mathematical model developed to prevent botulism

A new mathematical model predicts Clostridium botulinum growth and toxin production in chilled food products, reducing the need for costly laboratory experiments. The model's comprehensive approach considers multiple factors, including storage temperature, pH, salt, and preservatives, to ensure food safety.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalInternational Journal of Food Microbiology·DateMay 27, 2021

Mixtures of two herbicides have less environmental impact when mixed in laboratories

A University of Córdoba study found that mixing two herbicides in laboratories results in a more effective and environmentally friendly method for controlling difficult-to-control weeds. The commercial mixture was shown to have a lower environmental impact than manual mixing, reducing risks and boosting effectiveness by 10-20%.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateMay 27, 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.

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

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

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
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.

Mechanics of the infinitely small: NanoGear, towards a molecular gear

Researchers at the University of Bologna developed NanoGear, a device consisting of interlocked molecular components that function as a gear. The device exhibits unusual properties, such as 'specific lubrication' in different solvents, which could lead to radical technological innovations.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalChem·DateMay 17, 2021

Worldwide network develops SARS-CoV-2 protocols for research laboratories

A global network of researchers has developed protocols for producing large quantities of SARS-CoV-2 proteins in high purity and stability. This allows laboratories to quickly and reproducibly study the virus and its mutants, facilitating research into potential treatments and vaccines.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Biosciences·DateMay 10, 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.

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 process breaks down biodegradable plastics faster

Scientists have invented a way to break down compostable plastics into small molecules within weeks using just heat and water. The new process involves embedding polyester-eating enzymes in the plastic, which then degrade it into lactic acid that can feed soil microbes.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalNature·DateApr 21, 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.

Transparent nanolayers for more solar power

Researchers at Forschungszentrum Jülich developed a nanostructured, transparent material for the front of solar cells, achieving efficiencies of up to 23.99%, surpassing crystalline silicon cells. The new design offers passivation, transparency, and high electrical conductivity, paving the way for large-scale industrial production.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Energy·DateApr 15, 2021

The ACMG Foundation presents 2021 Pfizer/ACMG Foundation Next Generation Fellowship Awards

Christina Tise, MD, PhD, and Daniel Pomerantz, MD, have been selected as recipients of the 2021 Pfizer/ACMG Foundation Next Generation Fellowship Awards to pursue postgraduate training in clinical laboratory biochemical genetics and medical biochemical genetics. The awards support their one-year fellowships at Stanford University and C...

SourceAmerican College of Medical Genetics and Genomics·DateApr 14, 2021

Living fossils: Microbe discovered in evolutionary stasis for millions of years

A group of microbes that feed on chemical reactions triggered by radioactivity have been found to be at an evolutionary standstill for millions of years. Their identical genetic makeup suggests they have not changed since their physical locations separated during the breakup of supercontinent Pangaea.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateApr 8, 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.

Understanding why people engage in 'extreme' drinking

Experts at the University of Missouri are gathering data on extreme drinking behaviors to inform future public health interventions. The five-year grant will provide accurate information on factors influencing drinking habits, including biological and environmental factors.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateApr 7, 2021

Studies of U.S. national parks focused on popular parks, trending down

Research on US national parks has seen a decline in publications since 2013, with popular parks like Yellowstone receiving most attention. The study found that more than half of all studies focused on five national parks, highlighting the need for future research to address gaps and improve management.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalConservation Science and Practice·DateMar 31, 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.

IFCC-IOF study investigates harmonization of assays for ß-CTX

The IFCC-IOF Committee for Bone Metabolism found significant within- and between-assay variation for ß-CTX measurement, calling for harmonization and the use of EDTA plasma for precise results. The study's recommendations aim to improve bone health globally through standardized assays.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalCalcified Tissue International·DateMar 24, 2021

Tiny currents may impact vital ocean food source

Researchers from Bigelow Laboratory discovered that copepods gather around small vortexes in the ocean, affecting the food web. These tiny vortexes have significant implications for understanding copepod behavior and their impact on marine ecosystems.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateMar 24, 2021

Group testing method developed for COVID-19

Researchers have proposed a new group testing method for COVID-19 that allows for 13 times faster results than individual testing. The method involves grouping swabs together and testing them, then using transposition-based replication to further reduce the number of tests.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 24, 2021

Machine learning shows potential to enhance quantum information transfer

Researchers from Louisiana State University demonstrated a machine learning approach that corrects distorted quantum information in photon systems. This method outperforms traditional protocols, showcasing the potential for machine learning to enhance quantum sensing and communications technologies on the battlefield.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Quantum Technologies·DateMar 22, 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.

Four UNIST laboratories, selected as excellent safety management laboratories!

Four UNIST Central Research Facilities laboratories received 'Excellent Safety Management Laboratory' certification from the Ministry of Science and ICT. The certificate system aims to establish autonomous safety culture and standard model in university labs, following comprehensive evaluation based on 29 items.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateMar 20, 2021

Researchers design a biological device capable of computing by printing cells on paper

A team of researchers from Pompeu Fabra University has developed a new technology to print cellular devices on paper that can be used outside the laboratory. These devices can detect multiple markers and generate complex responses, making them useful for applications such as detecting mercury, cholera, or preeclampsia.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 19, 2021

Laser-driven experiments provide insights into the formation of the universe

Researchers have captured the time history of magnetic field growth in a lab setting using laser-driven experiments. The findings suggest that turbulent dynamo mechanism amplifies magnetic fields rapidly, exceeding theoretical expectations and potentially explaining the origin of large-scale fields in galaxy clusters.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 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.