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Science News for August 4, 2021


Exotic property of ‘ambidextrous’ crystals points to new magnetic phenomena

Scientists at Skoltech and KTH Royal Institute of Technology predict the existence of antichiral ferromagnetism, a nontrivial property of some magnetic crystals. This phenomenon could lead to unique magnetic domains and skyrmions, distinct from conventional chiral textures.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalPhysical Review B·DateAug 4, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study finds improvement for those receiving medication for opioid use disorder with contingency management used

Contingency management has been shown to be efficacious in addressing key clinical problems among patients receiving medication for opioid use disorder. The study found that CM improved outcomes on psychomotor stimulant use, polysubstance use, illicit-opioid use, cigarette smoking, therapy attendance, and medication adherence.

SourceLarner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 4, 2021

Up in smoke

Researchers developed a method combining meteorological models with NASA satellite data to estimate smoke height and predict its downward spread. This can help forecasters issue accurate warnings for nearby residents, protecting those with lung and heart conditions.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Atmospheres·DateAug 4, 2021

Study links high lipid levels in early pregnancy with congenital heart disease in children

A study published in Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica found that pregnant women with elevated blood lipids, particularly triglycerides and Apolipoprotein-B, were more than twice as likely to deliver children with congenital heart disease. The research highlights the importance of maintaining good health during pregnancy an...

SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateAug 4, 2021

Enzyme from Amazon fungus could enhance efficiency of second-generation ethanol production

Researchers discovered an enzyme from Amazon fungus Trichoderma harzianum capable of breaking down diverse plant biomass sugars, enhancing the efficiency of second-generation ethanol production. The enzyme's industrial use is now viable at low cost due to genetic engineering techniques.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeNews article·DateAug 4, 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.

Researchers track how microbiome bacteria adapt to humans via transmission

A new study published in Genome Biology found that the ability of gut bacteria to produce spores is associated with their adaptation to humans. Bacteria that can produce spores have larger genomes and are less abundant in the gut, while those that cannot have smaller genomes and are more adapted to human hosts.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalGenome Biology·DateAug 4, 2021

New review finds non-invasive brain stimulation may reduce smoking

A systematic review found evidence that non-invasive brain stimulation can reduce smoking frequency in nicotine-dependent smokers. High-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) of the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex was associated with the greatest reduction in smoking frequency.

SourceSociety for the Study of Addiction·JournalAddiction·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 4, 2021

A new way to treat PTSD?

Researchers discovered a new way to treat PTSD by targeting epigenetic modifications. Combining two natural products, SAMe and vitamin A, reversed PTSD-like behaviors in animals. This approach offers hope for a non-toxic treatment that addresses the underlying genetic cause of the disease.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateAug 4, 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.

Researchers discover new strategy for developing human-integrated electronics

Scientists at the University of Chicago have developed a new approach called click-to-polymer (CLIP) to attach functional units to polymer semiconductors, overcoming limitations in their functionality. The CLIP method enables the creation of multifunctional conjugated polymers for human-integrated electronics, including disease detecto...

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021

When vibrations increase on cooling: Anti-freezing observed

Researchers have observed a unique phenomenon where vibrations in a nickel oxide material increase with cooling, leading to the formation of faster fluctuations and ordered regions. This behavior is unusual and differs from the expected trend, which is that less thermal energy leads to more fluctuations freezing and order growing.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 4, 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.

Do cancer survivors experience accelerated aging?

A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that cancer survivors, especially older individuals, are more likely to experience accelerated functional decline. Cancer survivors had lower physical performance scores, steeper declines in grip strength and gait speed compared to non-cancer survivors.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 4, 2021

UBC Okanagan researcher creates device that lessens hand tremors

A new wearable device developed by UBC Okanagan researchers reduces hand tremors in people with Parkinson's and essential tremors, allowing for smoother movements without restricting hand or finger mobility. The device uses a magnetic mechanism that counters involuntary motion without filtering out voluntary movement.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·DateAug 4, 2021

Physical activity jolts brain into action in the event of depression

A new study confirms physical activity's dual benefits in depression: reducing symptoms and increasing the brain's ability to change. The exercise programme promoted motivation, social togetherness, and improved neuroplasticity, leading to decreased depressive symptoms.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·DateAug 4, 2021

Study links metabolic syndrome to poor health outcomes in adults with kidney disease

A study published in Journal of Internal Medicine found that 64.3% of adults with moderate chronic kidney disease also had metabolic syndrome, increasing their risk of premature death and cardiovascular problems. Patients with metabolic syndrome had a 26% higher risk of dying and a 48% higher risk of experiencing cardiovascular events.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateAug 4, 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.

Why a tiny worm’s brain development could shed light on human thinking

Scientists have discovered four basic patterns of how connections are made in the brain of a tiny worm, which could provide insights into human brain development. The researchers used electron microscopes to reconstruct the full brain of eight individuals and found that new connections are added as animals grow older.

SourceLunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 4, 2021

Debt crises: Politics determine how developing countries borrow

A new study by researchers at Princeton University found that developing countries tend to borrow in domestic currencies when issuing sovereign bonds, allowing them to act on their domestic policy preferences. This choice affects the types of pressures creditors put on governments and the ease or difficulty in paying off debts.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalInternational Organization·DateAug 4, 2021

A new tool assesses the real-world relevance of academic marketing articles

A new tool measures the relevance of academic marketing articles to marketing practice, highlighting a profound disconnect between scholars and practitioners. The R2M Index finds that only 24% of published articles are relevant to both academia and practice, with most articles focusing on topics of little interest to managers.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateAug 4, 2021

Pandemic job search anxiety is common; how you channel it may make the difference

Researchers found that job seekers who channel their anxiety through problem-solving pondering are more likely to exert effort in productive ways, such as focusing on reevaluating and improving their job search behaviors. In contrast, those who engage in affect-focused rumination, feeling afraid or upset about their job search, are les...

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateAug 4, 2021
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Older people reluctant to seek help for mental health concerns

A new study found that over 40% of older Australians with chronic diseases would be unlikely to seek mental health help even if needed. Internal beliefs about speaking with a doctor were the strongest predictor of seeking support.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalAustralian Journal of Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateAug 4, 2021

New AI-based image processing algorithm for accurate cervical cancer detection

Researchers from ETU LETI proposed an ensemble-based classification model using three Convolutional Neural Network architectures to detect cervical cancer. The model achieved high accuracy rates of up to 99.23% on publicly available benchmark datasets, outperforming state-of-the-art models.

SourceSaint Petersburg Electrotechnical University LETI·JournalScientific Reports·TypeNews article·DateAug 4, 2021

Space scientists reveal secret behind Jupiter’s ‘energy crisis’

Astronomers create most-detailed map yet of Jupiter's upper atmosphere, confirming aurorae as responsible for planet-wide heating. Researchers use data from the Keck Observatory to reveal unprecedented detail in temperature maps, shedding light on long-standing puzzle.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateAug 4, 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.

Study identifies DNA signatures linked to heart disease

Researchers analyzed data from five large heart cohort studies to identify epigenetic changes associated with cardiovascular disease. The study found 33 common methylation sites linked to heart disease across diverse populations, providing a potential target for prevention and intervention.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Cardiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 4, 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.

Promoting biodiversity-friendly landscapes - beyond organic farming

A landscape mosaic of natural habitats and small-scale cultivated areas can promote biodiversity on a large scale. Contrary to organic certification, diverse cultivation can double species numbers and improve biological pest control.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 4, 2021

A study reveals what triggers lung damage during COVID-19

A KAIST study found that specific macrophages play a key role in lung damage during COVID-19. The research provides new insights into dynamic immunological changes and could lead to more precise use of immunosuppressive agents.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 4, 2021

New study exposes big differences amongst Amazonian countries in their rates of forest recovery as well as deforestation

A new study reveals significant differences in forest recovery rates across Amazonian countries, with some experiencing little to no recovery even 20 years after deforestation. The research highlights the need for targeted interventions to protect and restore remaining forests.

SourceBangor University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 4, 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.

Observatories assemble: NASA's Juno spacecraft joins w. M. Keck observatory and Japan's Hisaki satellite to solve “energy crisis” on Jupiter

A team of scientists assembled observations from NASA's Juno spacecraft, W.M. Keck Observatory, and Japan's Hisaki satellite to discover the source of Jupiter's thermal boost. They found that Jupiter's intense aurora is responsible for heating the entire planet's upper atmosphere, contrary to previous models.

SourceW. M. Keck Observatory·JournalNature·DateAug 4, 2021

Flexible, wearable X-ray detector doesn’t require heavy metals

Researchers have developed a flexible and wearable X-ray detector using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) that don't contain harmful heavy metals. The device shows high-sensitivity sensing and imaging capabilities, making it suitable for various radiation monitoring and medical imaging applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 4, 2021

Study reveals how smell receptors work

Olfactory receptors respond to a variety of odors by binding to large numbers of different molecules, rather than specific chemical features. The team discovered that the amino acids lining the pocket don't form strong chemical bonds with odorants, but instead recognize their general chemical nature.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateAug 4, 2021

New therapeutic target discovered for a number of aggressive cancers

Researchers have identified a promising therapeutic target, METTL1, to treat aggressive cancers by inhibiting an RNA-modifying protein. The study found that targeting METTL1 effectively destroys cancer cells in laboratory models and mice while leaving healthy cells unharmed.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalMolecular Cell·DateAug 4, 2021

Visualizing stress in plastics

A research team led by Prof. Dr. Michael Sommer has developed a new dye molecule that can visualize stress in plastics by changing color, allowing for the differentiation between stresses of different magnitude. This technology has great advantages for monitoring material integrity and could lead to improved mechanical properties.

SourceChemnitz University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 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.

The waste product which could help mitigate climate change

A new study found that biochar can increase crop yields by up to 42% and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Biochar also improves soil fertility, resistance to diseases, and tolerance to toxic metals, making it a promising tool for climate change mitigation in poor soils.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalGCB Bioenergy·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 4, 2021

Scientists show a single catalyst can perform the first step of turning CO2 into fuel in two very different ways

Researchers at Stanford University and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have created a new catalyst that accelerates the first step in turning carbon dioxide into fuel in two different ways: with heat and electricity. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and sustainable production of chemicals and fuels by reducing greenh...

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

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

Unraveling the mechanisms that control parental care in birds

Researchers from Chapman University discover that non-reproductive birds' brains mimic changes in female mice post-partum when induced to become parents. This finding opens new avenues for understanding the regulation of parental care across vertebrates.

SourceChapman University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021

Scientists discovered the rarity of boulders on Mercury

Researchers analyzed images of Mercury's surface and found only 14 boulders, compared to the Moon's 30 times more frequent presence. Factors such as micrometeorite bombardment, thicker regolith, and extreme temperature fluctuations contribute to the rarity of boulders on Mercury.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalIcarus·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 4, 2021

Tiny protein ‘squeezes’ cells like balloon animals

Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered a protein called 'curly' that can bend the cytoskeleton of cells, twisting them into different shapes. This finding opens up new possibilities for engineering cells and understanding how they replicate.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·DateAug 4, 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.

Increase in extreme precipitation in the northeast caused by Atlantic variability and climate change

A recent study found that greenhouse gases from human activity and warmer North Atlantic Ocean temperatures contributed to the Northeast's increased extreme precipitation since 1996. The research used global climate model simulations and statistical methods to isolate the causes of the increase.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalWeather and Climate Extremes·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 4, 2021

’Til the cows come home

New research reveals Bronze Age farmers in China prioritized cattle for their diets, utilizing byproducts like millet stalks for feed. This approach differs from other regions, where cows were raised closer to human settlements.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021

Researchers link neurodegenerative disease protein to defective cholesterol metabolism

A recent study discovered that brain cells cannot maintain the myelin sheath in the absence of the TDP-43 protein. Restoring cholesterol levels has been proposed as a potential therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases associated with TDP-43. The research found that oligodendrocytes, responsible for producing myelin, have def...

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 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.

Study links economic mobility to racial mortality gaps

A recent study by the American Cancer Society found a strong association between economic mobility and racial disparities in mortality in the US. The study suggests that structural racism has persisted with similar magnitude across generations, leading to increased death rates among Black individuals compared to their White counterparts.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalCancer Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 4, 2021

Unique device for human physiology research

Researchers at Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University LETI developed a high-precision instrumental method to measure rapid temperature fluctuations of human skin. This allows for non-invasive monitoring of blood flow and assessment of microcirculation disorders.

SourceSaint Petersburg Electrotechnical University LETI·JournalSensors·TypeNews article·DateAug 4, 2021

Fine particulate air pollution associated with higher risk of dementia

Researchers from the University of Washington identified a strong link between fine particulate air pollution and an increased risk of dementia. A 1 microgram per cubic meter difference in PM2.5 pollution was associated with a 16% greater incidence of dementia, highlighting the potential neurodegenerative effects of air pollution.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 4, 2021

Arctic narwhals and beluga whales can be detected and monitored from space, using satellite orbiting 617km high

Researchers successfully detected and monitored Arctic narwhals and beluga whales using satellite orbiting 617km high, a breakthrough in cetacean tracking. This achievement demonstrates the potential of space-based monitoring for conservation efforts, providing valuable insights into these endangered species' habitats and behaviors.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 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.

“Where does it hurt?” predicts chronic pain outcomes, study shows

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that analyzing pain distribution can predict chronic pain outcomes. Researchers identified 9 distinct groupings of pain distribution, which varied significantly across subgroups in terms of demographic and medical characteristics, pain intensity, impact, and neuropathic pain quality. The study...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateAug 4, 2021

Oncotarget: Prokineticin-1 in colorectal cancer

Prokineticin-1 is a lymphangiogenic factor involved in human colorectal cancer's lymph node metastasis and lymph vessel formation. High PROK1 expression was found to significantly increase the rate of lymph node metastasis.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateAug 4, 2021

Built-in vibration control may help soundproof spaces

Researchers at Ohio State University developed built-in resonators that can be cut into walls or vehicle material to suppress vibrations and reduce noise. The design has potential applications in soundproofing walls and building airplane frames that minimize sound intrusion.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThin-Walled Structures·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

137 human genomes from the Middle East fill gaps in human history

A new study generated 137 whole-genome sequences from eight Middle Eastern populations, filling a major gap in international genomic projects. The researchers found 4.8 million previously undiscovered genetic variants, which could hold medical relevance.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·TypeObservational study·DateAug 4, 2021

Crawling important step in development of risk perception

A University of Otago study found that crawling experience significantly influences a baby's ability to avoid falling into water. The research, published in Infancy and Developmental Psychobiology, suggests that caregivers should promote crawling opportunities for their infants to develop safe perception and behavior.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalInfancy·DateAug 4, 2021

New study shows diabetes is associated with a significant increase in the risk of hospitalisation and mortality caused by infections

A new study found that individuals with diabetes are significantly more likely to be hospitalized and have a greater risk of dying from infections. The research showed that the risk was more pronounced in younger adults with diabetes and black people, with an increased likelihood of both common and rare infections. This association bet...

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetologia·DateAug 4, 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.

Reducing antibiotic use in primary care may be insufficient alone to curtail antimicrobial resistance

Strategies to reduce antibiotic prescribing in primary care have been found to be insufficient on their own to tackle the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance. Despite a modest reduction in antibiotic-resistant infections from E. coli, the study highlights the need for a multi-sectoral approach to address this substantial health ...

SourceImperial College London·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateAug 4, 2021

Scaling the model of care for patients with opioid use disorder

Research from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing documents essential components of hospital care models for patients with opioid use disorder. The review found that addiction medicine consult services facilitate connection to post-discharge care and improve outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalSubstance Abuse·DateAug 4, 2021

Low glycaemic diet shows meaningful improvements for people with diabetes

A low glycaemic diet has been shown to produce small but meaningful improvements in blood sugar levels, cholesterol, weight, and other risk factors in people with diabetes. The findings are based on a systematic review of 27 randomised controlled trials involving 1,617 participants with type 1 or 2 diabetes.

SourceBMJ Group·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 4, 2021

NASA model describes nearby star which resembles ours in its youth

A NASA model describes Kappa 1 Ceti, a 30-light-year-away star with similar mass and surface temperature to our young Sun. The study sheds light on what allowed our Sun to foster life on nearby planets, including Earth's atmosphere and the development of biological molecules.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateAug 4, 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.

Artificial pancreas trialled for outpatients with type 2 diabetes for first time

A new artificial pancreas has been successfully trialled in outpatients with type 2 diabetes, showing improved blood sugar control and reduced risk of low blood sugar levels. The device can automate insulin delivery using digital technology, allowing for more effective management of the condition.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021

Building blocks: New evidence-based system predicts element combination forming high entropy alloy

Researchers developed a novel evidence-based material recommender system that predicts high entropy alloy formation without data descriptors, overcomes data bias and poor availability. The method recommends an FeMnCoNi alloy as the most probable HEA and successfully synthesizes it, confirming its validity.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalNature Computational Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021

Muscle protein that makes vertebrates more fit linked to limited lifespan

A recent study found that a muscle protein called CaMKII improves strength, endurance, and fitness in young animals, but also contributes to an evolutionary tradeoff: increased susceptibility to age-related diseases. The research suggests that future therapies targeting CaMKII could stave off diseases of old age.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 4, 2021

Illuminating tissue formation

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a multi-component molecule that interacts with collagen, allowing for the visualization of new tissue growth in the body. This breakthrough could have applications in oncology and wound healing, enabling surgeons to more accurately remove tumors and investigate tissue formation.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateAug 4, 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.

Research may lead to new insights on the genetics of height

A recent study published in Journal of Bone and Mineral Research has identified genes and gene pathways that influence the genetic regulation of human height. The research examined genome-wide association studies and assessed the expression of these genetic regions in different layers of the growth plate during childhood.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateAug 4, 2021

Researchers reveal quality control mechanism of cell renewal

Researchers discovered a novel centromeric functional protein, Apolo1, which regulates PLK1 kinase activity and ensures accurate chromosome segregation. This discovery provides insights into maintaining genomic stability and stem cell proliferation.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 4, 2021

Religious, spiritual beliefs and end-of-life care preferences

A survey study found that adults who place importance on religious or spiritual beliefs tend to make more advance care planning choices, such as specifying life-sustaining treatments. The study suggests that these beliefs may play a significant role in shaping end-of-life care preferences.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 4, 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.

Graphic warning labels on cigarette packaging changes perceptions

A randomized clinical trial found that graphic warning labels on cigarette packaging changed the perception of US smokers, making them more likely to recognize the negative consequences of tobacco use and consider quitting. However, it did not significantly increase quit attempts or reduce nicotine addiction.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJAMA·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 4, 2021

Manipulating magnetic domain dynamics in ultrathin multi-layered materials

Scientists have demonstrated a new way to control magnetic domain wall motions in thin film materials by combining two magnetic effects. This breakthrough could lead to the development of ultrafast, ultrasmall, and power-efficient devices using spintronics.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021

New study: Flu shot protects against severe effects of COVID-19

A large retrospective cohort analysis of 74,754 patients found that flu vaccination significantly reduces the risk of stroke, sepsis, and DVT in patients with COVID-19. Patients who received the flu shot were less likely to visit the emergency department and be admitted to ICU.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 4, 2021

FAU team discovers microplastics in Arctic ecosystem

A recent study by a FAU team has discovered microplastics in every single mollusc examined from the Svalbard archipelago, including up to 184 particles of eight different types of plastic. The impact on the Arctic ecosystem is still unknown, but laboratory studies suggest that microplastics can cause inflammation in molluscs.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 4, 2021

CHOP researchers develop coating for endotracheal tubes that releases antimicrobial peptides

Researchers created a polymer coating that releases Lasioglossin-III, an AMP with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, targeting specific infectious bacteria and preventing airway complications. The coating demonstrated significant antibacterial activity and prevented bacterial adherence to the tube.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalThe Laryngoscope·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 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.

Breakthrough in understanding genesis of fibroids

Researchers at the University of Helsinki have made a significant advance in fibroids research by identifying a new mechanism of tumorigenesis. Multiple tumors carried mutations in genes involved in histone trafficking, which affected gene expression levels and led to hereditary predisposition to the disease.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature·DateAug 4, 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.

Can AI make democracy fairer?

A team of computer scientists has developed an assembly selection process that balances representation and fairness in citizens' assemblies. By using a machine learning-based algorithm, the researchers ensure that all volunteers have an equal chance of being chosen, regardless of demographic quotas or education level.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature·DateAug 4, 2021

A novel fruit ‘netted-cracking’ (FNC) phenotype was discovered in tomato

Researchers cloned a novel gene, FNC, in tomato and found it causes the fruit to develop a 'netted-cracking' phenotype. The study provides genetic insights into this disorder and offers potential for molecular improvement of cracking-resistant varieties.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021

New 10-year patient safety analysis highlights areas for improvement in acute medical units

A new study analyzes 377 severe harm and death incidents in acute medical units across England and Wales between 2005-2015. The most common incident types were diagnostic errors, medication-related errors, and failures in monitoring patients. Implementing electronic prescribing systems and checklists can reduce diagnostic errors, while...

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 4, 2021