News on research labs and their facilities. Covers lunar research sites, national-lab partnerships, obesity classification, and cloud-lab funding.
The MDI Biological Laboratory will collaborate with the Maine CDC to test 500 wells from student households in Maine, focusing on arsenic mitigation and data literacy. The grant aims to reduce environmental health hazards and develop tools for effective program evaluation.
The new journal Current Applied Materials publishes original research articles and reviews on materials science in China and globally, with a focus on interdisciplinary topics. Honorary advisors include Nobel laureates Dr. Ferid Murad and Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman.
Researchers studied over 10,000 U.S. Air Force basic trainees to identify COVID-19 transmission risk factors in a congregate setting. The study found that symptoms and laboratory results on the first day of diagnosis were associated with case clusters.
Army researchers developed a new class of 2D polymers with tremendous potential for military applications. The breakthrough was made possible through a collaborative program between the US Army Research Laboratory and Northeastern University.
Scientists have mapped the structure of neuropil, a fundamental type of brain tissue organization, in C. elegans using innovative melding of network analysis and imaging strategies. The study revealed four layers with distinct domains for processing sensory information and motor behaviors, providing insights into how the brain integrat...
A new strain of the coronavirus in Southern California, CAL.20C, is rapidly spreading across the country and around the world, accounting for nearly half of current COVID-19 cases in the region. The strain has been detected in 19 US states and six foreign countries, suggesting travelers are carrying it to these destinations.
The generation of dissipative solitons and coherent frequency combs in a photonic dimer made of two microresonators enables real-time tuning of the soliton-based frequency comb. Soliton hopping, a phenomenon not present at the single-particle level, can be used for generating configurable combs in the radio-frequency domain.
Researchers from HKU have discovered evidence of a reduced atmosphere on ancient Mars, dating back 3.5 billion years. The team used infrared remote sensing and spectroscopy to analyze mineralogy and geochemistry of ancient rocks, revealing weathered conditions indicative of a reducing environment.
Researchers at Uppsala University have developed a new method to produce sustainable hydrogen using composite polymer nanoparticles. The 'polymer dots' showed promising performance and stability in laboratory tests, with a 7% efficiency rate at 600 nanometres.
The CONCERT project aims to develop novel configurable robot platforms for various tasks in unstructured workspaces. Researchers will create powerful collaborative robots that can operate alongside human workers, adapting to their environment and executing high-level commands.
Scientists have successfully demonstrated a quantum advantage by performing a verification task in seconds using a quantum machine, whereas the same task would take centuries for a conventional computer. The experiment used a complex algorithm and simple experimental photonics system, showcasing the potential of quantum computing.
Scientists identify a unique voice prosody pattern associated with honest speech, recognized across languages and influencing memory recall. The study, published in Nature Communications, reveals how brain automatically processes this characteristic sound to convey truth-value or certainty.
Researchers have developed a new method to detect axions, which are thought to make up 26% of the universe's energy content. The BASE collaboration used ultra-sensitive detectors in Penning trap experiments to set new limits on axion-photon coupling.
The Rydberg sensor can analyze the full spectrum of radio frequency signals and detect AM and FM radio, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and other communication signals. It offers unparalleled sensitivity and accuracy to detect a wide range of mission-critical signals, enabling new capabilities for soldier communications and electronic warfare.
Researchers from the University of Nottingham have demonstrated that backreaction can be simulated in a laboratory experiment using a specially designed water tank. The study found that waves sent into an analogue black hole significantly changed its properties, with effects visible to the eye.
Archaeological grape seeds from excavations in Troyes and Reims provide insights into the history of Champagne wine growing. Wild vines were cultivated throughout the period studied, with domestic varieties emerging as early as the 1st century AD.
Engineers at MIT and Imperial College London created living materials by combining bacteria and yeast to produce cellulose embedded with enzymes that can perform various functions. These materials have potential applications in microbial fuel cells, sense and respond systems, and self-repairing materials for the US Army.
A team led by Dr. Julian Packheiser recorded brain activity of romantic couples while cuddling, kissing, or discussing happy memories at home. Positive emotions were mainly processed in the left half of the brain, confirming the valence model of emotional lateralisation.
Triumphs in achieving first beam delivery for ARIEL's CANREB facility, enhancing TRIUMF's nuclear physics program and global leadership in isotope production. The milestone ushers in a new era of scientific advancements and real-world impact for Canadians and the world.
A study published in PNAS found that RESTV infects pigs and causes severe respiratory disease, shedding the virus from their upper respiratory tract. The researchers also identified RESTV sequences in pigs in China, highlighting the potential for widespread transmission.
Researchers have invented a hinge that allows large Army quadrotors to climb higher in seconds, improving agility and control authority. The innovation reduces thrust response time by 30%, enabling quadtors to reach the rooftop of a two-story building in as little as two seconds.
West Virginia University and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources have teamed up to create a new testing laboratory at the Health Sciences Center. The lab will provide faster results, reduce costs, and support the demands of the state and university community.
Researchers created a trajectory planner that enables drones to quickly switch between hover and forward flight, reducing transition time by half. The system uses aerodynamic models to optimize flight movements, allowing for more agile maneuvers in dense or urban areas.
Researchers developed a new analysis tool called TRAST to predict whirl flutter behavior in tiltrotors. The team will test the TiltRotor Aeroelastic Stability Testbed in a massive wind tunnel to gauge its effectiveness in predicting stability models.
Kyoto University researchers highlight the need for targeted conservation efforts due to 90% extinction risk for Japanese bat species. The study reveals poor alignment between conservation needs and research resource allocation, with many threats understudied.
Researchers have created a new method to reduce noise emissions from small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) without compromising their flight range or endurance. The method uses high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics codes to obtain information about airfoil boundary layers, enabling the development of quieter air vehicles.
Researchers analyzed octopus arm movements, discovering all eight arms can perform diverse movements such as bending, twisting and elongating. This flexibility could inspire the creation of next-generation soft robots with greater agility and sensing capability.
Researchers at TU Graz are developing new technologies to integrate passive electronic components into three dimensions while ensuring safe multifunctionality. The goal is to create highly integrated components with combined filter and antenna functions for various applications, including 5G systems.
Jefferson Science Associates has awarded ten graduate fellowships to doctoral students for the 2020-2021 academic year. The fellowships will support students' advanced studies and research at the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility.
The UC2 system allows users to produce a high-quality microscope at low cost, making it suitable for areas where conventional microscopes are not feasible. The open-source tool also enables researchers to share their knowledge and incorporate it into their work, promoting open science.
Researchers at MLU discovered that special activity trackers can accurately measure respiratory rates while sleeping, offering a new diagnostic tool. The study showed that minimal arm movements can provide more precise conclusions about breathing than standard ECGs.
Researchers at Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology have proposed a way to obtain arbitrarily sized quantum dots using chemical aging. The process involves introducing oleic acid and oleylamine into the solution, causing the sulfur and lead atoms to retreat back into the solution, gradually reducing dot size.
Scientists from the US Army and MIT's Center for Bits and Atoms created a new way to link materials with unique mechanical properties, enabling the design of modular materials with tailored properties. This could lead to dynamic structures that can reconfigure on their own, such as swarms of robots forming bridges.
A new multiplex real-time RT-PCR assay has been developed as a simpler, more cost-effective alternative to existing SARS-CoV-2 testing methods. The assay performs comparably to the modified CDC test while allowing for increased patient throughput and reduced reagent consumption.
Researchers at TU Graz's new Christian Doppler Laboratory aim to develop solid-state batteries with reduced interface resistances, enabling safer electric vehicles and high-energy applications. The lab focuses on improving lithium transport properties, surface modifications, and material combinations to overcome current limitations.
A report by the Academy of Medical Sciences highlights the need for improved UK COVID-19 testing services to combat future health challenges. The experts propose investment in innovative testing methods, including pooling multiple samples and adopting a more flexible approach to regulation, as well as ensuring a sustainable workforce.
Researchers created a Hostile Bias Modification Training protocol to reduce anger and aggression in ambiguous social conflict situations. The study, published in Cognitive Therapy and Research, found that the training was effective in reducing hostile attribution bias, anger, and reactive aggression.
Integrating HIV self-testing into Canada's health system could lead to better HIV detection and management, especially for underdiagnosed populations. The authors propose four factors for successful introduction, including rapid approval of WHO-approved tests and cost-effectiveness studies.
An observational study found associations between sociodemographic features, laboratory values, and comorbidities with severe illness and mortality in hospitalized COVID patients. The study's findings suggest that these factors can predict a worse course of illness for hospitalized patients with COVID-19.
A rapid and affordable molecular assay using high-resolution melting technology accurately identifies antimicrobial resistant determinants in Neisseria gonorrhoeae, enabling real-time surveillance to control the spread of drug-resistant gonorrhea.
Researchers propose new method to verify star and planet formation theory by simulating the Princeton Magnetorotational Instability (MRI) Experiment. The study finds that instabilities can be seen before the upper limit of experimental rotation rate is reached, shedding light on the growth of celestial bodies.
Researchers at Samara Polytech develop cost-effective, portable analyzers for quick analysis of objects under study. The devices require no sampling and use light to illuminate the object, detecting signals through a light-guide cable.
The MDI Biological Laboratory has received a grant to develop artificial kidney tissue to replace human kidney tissue lost due to disease or injury. The project aims to create a three-dimensional mini-organ called an organoid that can be transplanted into a host and potentially scaled to create an artificial human kidney.
Research suggests that people do not trust health content on crowdsourced sites, even with expert curation, due to concerns about misinformation and manipulation. However, interactive features such as editing functions can increase perceived credibility.
The rehoming process involved months of basic pet dog skills training and outdoor acclimation. Some dogs experienced separation anxiety, highlighting the need for improved facility design and socialisation strategies.
Researchers found that iodic acid triggers new aerosol particle formation events, leading to cloud condensation nuclei and potentially altering clouds' radiative properties. The team's findings provide greater insight into biogeochemical processes for cloud formation over the Arctic pack ice.
Researchers at UIC will develop specialized sensors to enable drones to adapt to various fuel types, expanding their range and capabilities. The funding will also support the education of students in combustion, sensing, and optimization.
Physicists have directly observed nutation in magnetic spins, a phenomenon 1000 times faster than precession. This discovery has significant implications for data centers and digital storage, paving the way for more efficient technologies.
Researchers created a novel Drosophila-based disease model for Pitt-Hopkins syndrome (PTHS), which is caused by mutations in the TCF4 gene. The model reveals that certain substances can enhance learning and locomotor abilities in PTHS patients, suggesting potential therapeutic options.
Researchers found that domesticating Penicillium camemberti from a wild mould resulted in beneficial characteristics for cheese production, including whiteness and increased growth rates. The study may impact the selection of moulds for cheese production.
The US Army Research Laboratory teamed up with Italian Institute of Technology, Harvard Medical School, and University of California, Irvine to study the complexities of the human brain. Researchers used transcranial magnetic stimulation and fMRI to track neural changes after inhibiting a specific part of the brain.
The October issue of SLAS Technology features a cover article on the role of digital microfluidics in enabling access to laboratory automation and making biology programmable. The article discusses the challenges faced by scientists, including costs and late-stage risk, and explores how digital microfluidics can overcome these challenges.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new material that can detect toxic gases with high sensitivity. The single-atom thin platinum layer interacts significantly with its chemical environment, making it suitable for ultra-sensitive detection.
Researchers detected significant amounts of NETs in Covid-19 patients' lungs, contributing to severe disease complications. NET-targeting pharmacological approaches may improve patient conditions, while understanding the mechanisms behind these toxins is crucial for preventing further complications.
Researchers discovered how the brain processes bright and contrasting light, enabling robots to team with humans. The study's findings reveal principles that can guide modeling toward correct mechanisms for reconstructing 3D shape in real-world luminance.
The NIH is awarding contracts to nine companies for technologies that include portable point-of-care tests and high-throughput laboratories. These tests aim to provide rapid results and expand national testing in regions of need.
A team at the University of Colorado Boulder developed a possible fix for the problem of spring cleaning on the moon: using an electron beam to zap away dust. The technology has shown promise in removing fine dust particles from surfaces, with an average cleaning power of 75-85%.
Researchers have developed a rapid and accurate diagnostic test for COVID-19 that delivers results in under 40 minutes. The new test, called CRISPR-COVID, uses CRISPR-based technology to detect the virus, offering a cost-effective alternative to existing methods.
Scientists successfully combined high pressures, magnetic fields, and ultra-low temperatures to study cer-rhodium-indium-five metal's conducting properties. The resulting phase diagram reveals exciting insights into the mysterious superconductivity of this metal.
A new study by ARUP Laboratories and University of Utah Health found that self-collected saliva and deep nasal swabs are equally effective in detecting SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19. This discovery has important implications for patients and providers, offering a less invasive testing option.