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Science News for August 2, 2021


New method to detect impact of sea level rise

Researchers developed a simple and fast method to analyze sulfur isotopes, enabling the detection of seawater intrusion into freshwater systems. This method can help investigate chemical changes in environments affected by sea level rise.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalTalanta·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 2, 2021

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
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.

FSU researchers find oxygen spike coincided with ancient global extinction

Researchers found a sudden increase in ocean oxygen levels at the start of the Permian period's largest extinction event, marking a geologically rapid shift. This rapid fluctuation had a more significant impact than gradual decreases, highlighting its importance for modern-day life adapted to high oxygen levels.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateAug 2, 2021

Imagined music and silence trigger similar brain activity

Researchers used EEG to measure brain activity while musicians listened to or imagined Bach piano melodies. Brain activity during imagined music had the opposite polarity of actual listening, indicating prediction-driven responses. The study found that the brain continues to respond to music even when none is playing.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournalJNeurosci·DateAug 2, 2021

New material offers ecofriendly solution to converting waste heat into energy

Researchers have developed a high-performing thermoelectric material that converts heat to electricity with record-high efficiency, making it suitable for widespread industrial applications. The purified tin selenide in polycrystalline form overcomes earlier oxidation problems, enabling the production of low-cost and efficient devices.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021

Women are under-cited and men are over-cited in communication

A new study found that men are over-cited and women are under-cited in Communication journals, with papers authored by men showing a 14% overcitation rate compared to papers authored by women, who are under-cited by 20%. The researchers propose tools to help academics evaluate their citation practices and promote gender equality.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalAnnals of the International Communication Association·DateAug 2, 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.

New model shows how cities can safely lift COVID-19 restrictions

A new model developed by NYU Tandon School of Engineering researchers provides a data-centric approach to reopening towns and can serve as a blueprint for areas with low vaccine rates. The model shows that increasing access to social gatherings and public transportation at a certain rate supports a safe, rapid reopening.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalAdvanced Theory and Simulations·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 2, 2021

Hunting for TB's most vulnerable genes

Scientists at Rockefeller University have discovered that essential gene targets in TB bacteria can be ranked by their degree of vulnerability to antibiotics. The study found that ideal targets are highly susceptible to inhibition, while invulnerable genes can withstand nearly total inhibition. This research provides new insights into ...

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateAug 2, 2021

Study across 87 countries shows simple intervention helps build emotional resilience during COVID-19

Researchers found that reappraisal strategies consistently reduced negative emotions and increased positive emotions among participants from 87 countries. The study's findings demonstrate the viability of creating scalable, low-cost interventions to build resilience during the pandemic and beyond.

SourceHarvard Kennedy School·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Poor wellbeing at work in healthcare also affects patient satisfaction

A study by University of Jyväskylä researchers found that increased job demands in healthcare lead to employee exhaustion and lower customer satisfaction. The study also discovered that work community's shared experience of increased job planning demands contributes to greater exhaustion and lower customer satisfaction.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalJournal of Advanced Nursing·DateAug 2, 2021

Preoperative screening urinalysis is widely used—but usually unnecessary, study finds

A new study by researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that preoperative urinalysis screening for asymptomatic patients undergoing surgery has little or no benefit. However, the test may lead to unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions and exposure to potential harms, including Clostridium difficile infection.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 2, 2021

New Geology articles published online ahead of print in July

Researchers investigate how alluvial rivers shape the sedimentary record, revealing a range of channel patterns and paleocurrent directions. Additionally, studies examine the efficient release of bromine during super-eruptions and shed light on the complex geology of northern Iberia's crustal roots.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateAug 2, 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.

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia researchers identify approach for potential nontypeable haemophilus influenzae vaccine

Researchers identified two proteins, HMW1 and HMW2, that stimulate protective immunity against diverse NTHi strains. Immunization with these proteins provides protection against bacterial colonization by other strains, highlighting the vaccine potential for a nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae vaccine.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021

Story tips: Sensing oil leaks, 3D prints in space, more fuel from ethanol, Arctic modeling boost, making isotopes faster and nano-enabled microscopy

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are advancing various technologies to minimize oil leaks, enable 3D printing in space, and increase fuel efficiency from ethanol. They have developed a quantum sensing system to detect pipeline leaks more quickly, built a thermal protection shield for a capsule launched into space, and creat...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 2, 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.

Seeing better by looking away

Researchers at University of Bonn found that fixing objects slightly away from the center of cone density improves overall vision. The observed image shift is due to the varying resolution across the human retina, with sharper areas in the fovea and less sharp areas in the periphery.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 2, 2021

New study points to toxic potential of hydroxychloroquine in mammalian cells

A new study published in DNA Repair shows that hydroxychloroquine exhibits DNA-damaging and mutagenic effects at a clinically achievable dose. The findings suggest the possibility of additional side effects, particularly in patient populations, and emphasize the need for careful risk assessment and informed consent.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalDNA Repair·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021

Rethinking remdesivir

Researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine modified remdesivir to create an oral version that can be taken earlier in COVID-19 diagnoses. The revised drug proved effective and safe in cell and animal studies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateAug 2, 2021

Exercise improves health through changes on DNA

Scientists at the University of Copenhagen have discovered that exercise can alter the structure of our DNA, specifically the enhancers that regulate gene expression. This epigenetic rewiring may be responsible for the beneficial effects of physical activity on human health.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalMolecular Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021

Is right-wing authoritarianism a cognitive conservatism?

A new study published in the Social Bulletin of Psychology found that right-wing authoritarianism is more closely tied to how people acquire positive attitudes than changing them. The researchers suggest that individuals with RWA tend to be more sensitive to negative information, leading them to stick to positive information and avoid ...

SourceThe Polish Association of Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological Bulletin·DateAug 2, 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.

Researchers uncover a way to harness the power of immunotherapy for advanced prostate cancer

Researchers have found a way to harness the power of immunotherapy for advanced prostate cancer by targeting a protein called PIKfyve. Blocking PIKfyve with the inhibitor ESK981 has been shown to increase tumor death and recruit immune T cells, offering new hope for patients with this challenging form of cancer.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021

Gene sequencing tools pinpoint origins of Bundibugyo virus disease outbreak

A new study published in Cell Reports Medicine reveals the origins of a 2012 Bundibugyo virus disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The analysis, conducted by an international team, used high-throughput sequencing to identify multiple virus 'spillover' events that contributed to the outbreak. This research highlights th...

SourceUS Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateAug 2, 2021

International project provides definitive data on how key cancer drugs work

Researchers analyzed patient specimens and clinical trial data from thousands of patients to assess the importance of immune cell molecules called Fc gamma receptors (FCGRs) in the therapeutic efficacy of two antibody drugs. High levels of FCGR2B on tumor cells were found to prevent rituximab efficacy, while obinutuzumab was not impact...

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalBlood Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 2, 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.

Pandemic may have increased older adults’ fall risk

The COVID-19 pandemic has likely led to an increase in falls among older adults due to decreased physical activity, worsened physical conditioning, and heightened fear of falling. This is a pressing concern as falls can result in significant injuries, particularly among this age group.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·TypeSurvey·DateAug 2, 2021

Birnessite study offers insights for electrochemistry, energy storage

Researchers at NC State re-examined birnessite's behavior, finding that nanoconfined interlayer structural water mitigates ion interactions, enabling an intermediate adsorption mechanism. This leads to capacitive behavior without significant structural change.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 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.

Rise in childhood short-sightedness may be linked to pandemic, suggests Hong Kong study

A Hong Kong study suggests a link between the COVID-19 pandemic and an increase in childhood short-sightedness, with children spending less time outdoors and more time on screens. The study found that around 1 in 5 children developed short-sightedness during the pandemic, compared to around 1 in 3 over three years.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 2, 2021

How do leaders and influencers emerge?

A computer simulation modelled by Associate Professor David Goldbaum suggests a leader emerges through a dynamic self-reinforcing social process, even with identical attributes among group members. The study finds that building up influence and gaining popularity is key to becoming a leader.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalEconomic Modelling·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 2, 2021

Young adults show serious complications from Type 2 diabetes

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that within 15 years of a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis, 60% of participants had at least one diabetes-related complication. Lifestyle modification and approved medications are not enough to manage the disease, emphasizing the need for expanded treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateAug 2, 2021

New model tracks carbon in agroecosystems

A new model integrates advanced models and observational data to track carbon cycles in agroecosystems, validating its performance and demonstrating its potential for estimating different carbon components. This solution has the potential to advance precision agriculture and inform sustainable farming practices.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalAgricultural and Forest Meteorology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 2, 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.

Why is this weird, metallic star hurtling out of the Milky Way?

Astronomers studied a piece of supernova shrapnel to understand how it ended up moving fast out of the galaxy. The metal-rich star's slow rotation rate suggests it survived a massive explosion, shedding light on the original two-star system.

SourceBoston University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateAug 2, 2021

Large catheters, small veins, increase blood clot risk for cancer patients

A world-first study found that cancer patients receiving chemotherapy intravenously have more than double the risk of developing a blood clot or thrombosis if the vein is too small and the catheter occupies more than 45% of the vein. Researchers identified specific limits on catheter-to-vein ratios to reduce risks for cancer patients.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalBMJ Open·TypeCase study·DateAug 2, 2021

Manganese could make luminescent materials and the conversion of sunlight more sustainable

Researchers at the University of Basel have developed new luminescent manganese complexes with promising properties, including improved efficiency and stability. These findings offer a potential solution for more sustainable energy production and could lead to the creation of water-soluble variants for medical applications.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 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.

Princess Margaret Cancer Centre researchers discover key stem cell dormancy mechanism which could help unlock future cancer treatments

Scientists at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre have made a breakthrough discovery in understanding how dormant hematopoietic stem cells are activated, which could lead to new therapeutic targets for various cancers. The team found that lysosomes act as key signaling hubs regulating long-term hematopoietic stem cells.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateAug 2, 2021

Determining ‘vascular age’ best predictor of cardiovascular risk with hormone therapy, according to study by OU College of Medicine researcher

Researchers determined that a woman's 'vascular age' is a better indicator for cardiovascular disease risk than her chronological age or years since menopause. Hormone therapy brings increased risk of cardiovascular disease, but 'vascular age' provides a clearer answer for physicians making decisions about hormone therapy.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalMenopause·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 2, 2021

Plastic creates 'evolutionary trap' for young sea turtles

A new study found that plastic pollution is ingested by juvenile sea turtles, leading them to accumulate in highly polluted areas like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. The research team examined 121 sea turtles from five species and found that 86% of loggerheads and 83% of greens contained plastic.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·TypeObservational study·DateAug 2, 2021

Suicide-risk warning on anti-seizure medications lacks evidence

Researchers found no evidence of increased suicide risk among patients taking recently developed antiseizure medications. The study suggests that the FDA's blanket warning on anti-seizure medications may not be justified, highlighting concerns about its impact on patient treatment and trial results.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateAug 2, 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.

Study shows common insecticide is harmful in any amount

A recent UC Riverside study reveals that neonicotinoids, commonly used in commercial plant nurseries, are deadly to bees regardless of watering levels. The research found a 90% decrease in bee reproduction with both high and low irrigation levels, highlighting the need for alternative management practices to reduce harm to pollinators.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021

Nanomaterials to decontaminate water

Researchers at INRS and Université de Montréal are developing new electrodes based on nanostructured materials to degrade chemical compounds, including persistent organic pollutants (POPs) like PFAS. The project aims to create innovative solutions to decontaminate waters containing harmful chemicals.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateAug 2, 2021

More to pictures than meets the eye: New study

A new study by UBC researchers found that people perceived as being less real and having 'less mind' when appearing within a photo. This discovery has implications for digital communication, particularly in online trials, healthcare, and education, where the perception of a person's mind can influence moral judgement.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 2, 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.

Thawing permafrost releases greenhouse gas from depth

A new study suggests that thawing permafrost in Siberia may release large amounts of methane gas from limestone formations, posing a significant threat to global warming. Elevated methane concentrations were detected in two areas with limestone bedrock, indicating that fracture systems in these formations became permeable upon warming.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 2, 2021

Ferrucci earns GSA’s 2021 Donald P. Kent Award

Luigi Ferrucci, MD, PhD, FGSA, has been awarded the 2021 Donald P. Kent Award by the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) for his outstanding professional leadership in gerontology through teaching, service, and public interpretation.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateAug 2, 2021

Siddha Pimputkar recognized for early-career success in crystal growth

Siddha Pimputkar, an assistant professor at Lehigh University, has received the American Association for Crystal Growth (AACG) Young Scientist Award for his outstanding contributions to crystal growth. His research focuses on synthesizing bulk and thin-film single-crystal nitrogen-containing materials.

SourceLehigh University·DateAug 2, 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.

Drug-resistant germ packs punch to US travelers

Researchers found that over 60% of US residents infected with antibiotic-resistant salmonella Kentucky while abroad were resistant to fluoroquinolones. The bacteria is more likely to cause disease and evade antibiotics when acquired in Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa.

SourceWashington State University·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Food Systems·TypeObservational study·DateAug 2, 2021

Researchers investigate the productivity of kelp forests, sans the iconic kelp

A study by UC Santa Barbara's Marine Science Institute found that understory algae can't compensate for the lost productivity of giant kelp in kelp forests. The researchers discovered a gradual reduction in canopy productivity and an exponential increase in understory algae productivity over 10 years.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalEcology Letters·DateAug 2, 2021

Text reminders boost vaccine appointments

Researchers found that text messages with ownership language increased appointment rates by 84.33% and accelerated vaccination schedules at UCLA Health. The study involved two randomized controlled trials with over 87,000 participants and demonstrated the effectiveness of text reminders in overcoming barriers to vaccine scheduling.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNature·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 2, 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.

A long day for microbes, and the rise of oxygen on Earth

Researchers found that the oxygen produced by photosynthesis is limited by the time available during shorter days, as late-rising cyanobacteria need a few hours to photosynthesize and produce oxygen. This discovery suggests that changes in day length may have impacted global oxygen levels over Earth's history.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 2, 2021

Generous with individuals and selfish to the masses

A recent study found that people willingly share monetary gains with others and dislike inequality, yet behave selfishly in large group decisions. In the Big Robber Game, over half of participants took the maximum amount from their group, while displaying prosocial behavior in small, bilateral games.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021

Cell-to-cell contacts control liver regeneration

Researchers found a regulatory cell type, mesenchymal cells, control liver regeneration through cell-to-cell contacts. The study suggests that the wrong number of contacts between populations can lead to cancer or chronic liver diseases.

SourceWellcome Trust/ Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021

Neanderthals indeed painted Andalusia’s Cueva de Ardales

A team of scientists found that Neanderthals intentionally applied red ochre pigment to the cave's flowstone formation, dating back 65,000 years. The analysis revealed variations in pigment composition corresponding to different dates of application, indicating a tradition passed down through generations.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 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.

Researchers develop machine learning methods to accurately identify, characterize metabolism-disrupting chemicals

Researchers developed machine learning methods to accurately identify and characterize metabolism-disrupting chemicals, also known as obesogens. A high-throughput chemical screening approach combined with a machine learning approach was used to profile over 60 chemicals with known effects and predict their metabolism-disrupting potential.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021

Measuring happiness for reconnecting residents with forests

A Japanese research team found that residents who engage in activities like camping and hiking experience increased happiness, while ownership has no effect. The study suggests better policies for enhancing forest relationships and measuring happiness based on the types of forest happiness.

SourceResearch Institute for Humanity and Nature·JournalJournal of the Japanese Forest Society·DateAug 2, 2021

Updated: Cutting 200 calories daily and exercising may improve heart health in obese older adults

A recent study published in the American Heart Association's Circulation Journal found that combining aerobic exercise with moderate calorie restriction resulted in greater improvements in aortic stiffness compared to exercise alone or exercise plus a more restrictive diet. The study, which included 160 sedentary adults aged 65-79 year...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateAug 2, 2021

City of Hope researchers develop miniature brain models to study the causes of Alzheimer’s disease and to test drugs in development

Researchers at City of Hope developed a powerful miniature brain platform to study the causes of Alzheimer's disease and test dementia drugs in development. They used human stem cell technology to model sporadic Alzheimer's disease, finding that exposure to serum from blood can induce multiple symptoms.

SourceCity of Hope·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021

Finding the cause of a fatal problem in rocket engine combustors

Researchers found significant periodic flow velocity fluctuations in fuel injector ignite combustion oscillations, leading to high mechanical stress on the combustion chamber. The findings provide a reasonable answer for why these oscillations occur and have significant implications for preventing fatal damage in critical engines.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalPhysics of Fluids·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 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.

Lifestyle adjustments can boost vascular health in seniors with obesity

A recent study published in Circulation found that eliminating 200 calories and exercising four days a week significantly improved aortic stiffness in older adults with obesity. The results suggest that moderate caloric reduction and aerobic activity are more effective than restrictive dieting for improving vascular health.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalCirculation·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 2, 2021

Egypt could face extreme water scarcity within the decade due to population and economic growth

A new study from MIT reveals Egypt will import more virtual water than the Nile can provide if current trends continue, threatening the country's water security. The research proposes shifting production to lower-water crops and improving irrigation methods to sustainably manage resources.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateAug 2, 2021

Like matryoshka dolls: One insect species introduced decades ago to a small island had an effect on several insect populations

A single butterfly species introduced to an island in the 1990s had a significant impact on several insect populations, leading to genetic decline and high extinction risk for some species. The parasitoid wasp's mobility and symbiotic bacterial relationships played key roles in shaping this outcome.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateAug 2, 2021

Bird and mammal diversity is declining with biological invasions

Research reveals that biological invasions are threatening the evolutionary history and ecological strategies of birds and mammals. The study found that 11% of their phylogenetic diversity is at risk, with a greater impact on bird species due to their vulnerability to invasive species.

SourceCNRS·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateAug 2, 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.

New record-breaking thermoelectric material

Seoul National University researchers have created a new record-breaking thermoelectric material using tin and selenium elements, overcoming previous limitations with high performance and toxicity concerns. The material achieves a thermoelectric figure of merit greater than 3.1 and power generation efficiency exceeding 20% in bulk form.

SourceSeoul National University·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 2, 2021

New solid-state thermal diode developed with better rectification performance

Researchers from Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, have developed a novel thermal diode with improved rectification performance. The new device exhibits excellent thermal rectification performance, with a maximum coefficient of 1.51, and requires less temperature bias than other reported thermal diodes.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateAug 2, 2021

New study: Adolescent diets that include potatoes are associated with better diet quality

A new study published in Nutrients found that U.S. adolescents who eat potatoes have higher quality diets than those who do not consume potatoes, regardless of how they are processed or prepared. Potatoes were associated with improved intake of key shortfall nutrients, including dietary fiber and potassium.

SourceThe Alliance for Potato Research and Education (APRE)·JournalNutrients·TypeObservational study·DateAug 2, 2021

Baby marine turtles’ stomachs are full of harmful plastic debris, suggests new study

A new study published in Frontiers in Marine Science reveals that small juvenile marine turtles from the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean have a high incidence of plastic ingestion. Plastic ingestion is suspected to lead to mortality, malnutrition, and chemical contamination. The types of plastic ingested vary between the two study sites...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 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.

Sea levels influence eruptions on volcanic island

Researchers found a 40-meter fall in sea level increases eruption likelihood at Santorini and possibly other volcanoes worldwide. Climate change impacts volcanic activity, particularly as ice sheets retreat and global sea levels rise.

SourceOxford Brookes University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateAug 2, 2021

Using virtual reality to help students understand the brain's complex systems, NYUAD researchers demonstrate effectiveness of 3D visualization as a learning tool

Researchers from NYUAD and University of Wisconsin-Madison develop interactive 3D diagrams to teach functional neuroanatomy. The study shows that VR exceeded PC viewing for experience-based learning outcomes, making it an enjoyable and easier learning tool.

SourceNew York University·JournalTranslational Issues in Psychological Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021

Pulsed lasers in liquids speed up hunt for effective catalysts

Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a new method using pulsed lasers in liquids to create nanoparticles that can be easily tested for use as catalysts. This technique accelerates the process of discovering effective catalysts, which is crucial for producing essential materials and clean fuels.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalChemical Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 2, 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.

New app helps relieve back pain

A new app called selfBACK has been developed to help people deal with back pain in a better way. The app uses artificial intelligence and draws on other people's experiences with back pain to provide tailored advice and feedback.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 2, 2021

Diabetes: Study of satiety mechanism yields new knowledge

Scientists discovered impaired leptin transport to the brain via LepR receptors leads to pre-diabetic state and exhausted insulin secretion. Reintroducing leptin restores pancreatic function-promoting action, suggesting a crucial brain role in type 2 diabetes management.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021

One of world’s rarest chameleons found clinging to survival

Chapman's Pygmy Chameleon, one of the world's rarest chameleons, has been found in surviving patches of forest in Malawi. The species was feared extinct due to forest loss and habitat fragmentation, leading to reduced genetic diversity and increased extinction risk.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalOryx·TypeSurvey·DateAug 2, 2021

Where you live may affect your long term survival after heart attack

A Kaiser Permanente study of over 31,000 heart attack patients in Southern California revealed significant racial disparities in long-term survival. Black patients from lower-resourced neighborhoods were more likely to die within 5 years after a heart attack compared to white patients, regardless of healthcare access.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 2, 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.

Stinkweed could make a cleaner bio-jet fuel, study finds

A new study suggests that growing stinkweed as a crop could produce cleaner jet fuel with fewer environmental impacts than other biofuels. The study found that stinkweed requires less fertilizer and pesticides, resulting in lower carbon dioxide emissions and air pollution.

SourceOhio State University·JournalApplied Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 2, 2021

Cancer vaccine improves outcomes in Lynch syndrome model

A new cancer vaccine strategy showed promise in a proof-of-concept study, reducing tumor burden and improving overall survival in an animal model of Lynch syndrome. The vaccine targets specific neoantigens produced by cancer cells, stimulating a robust immune response.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalGastroenterology·DateAug 2, 2021

How headless hydra feel, react to prodding

Researchers at Rice University have developed a model of how internal states and external stimuli shape the behavior of hydra, a tiny, jellyfish-like creature. By studying their neural networks, scientists can gain insights into fundamental principles that may apply to more complex animals.

SourceRice University·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021