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Science News for December 21, 2021


Trees are important for cleaner air in cities

A new study led by researchers at the University of Gothenburg found that trees contribute to cleaner air in cities. The study measured pollutants in tree leaves and compared them with air pollution levels, showing a clear correlation between the two.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateDec 21, 2021

Honing in on shared network of cancer genes

A study published in Cell Reports reveals a set of critical gene interactions that are common across many cancers. By using network modeling, researchers have pinpointed functionally relevant gene networks that could offer new cancer therapies.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Star cells in the brain render memory flexible

Researchers found that astrocytes regulate cognitive flexibility by releasing D-serine and glutamate, which integrates synaptic plasticity. Heterosynaptic long-term depression is mediated by astrocytes, critical for memory modification.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Toshiba’s Transparent Cu2O Tandem Solar Top Cell Achieves 8.4% Efficiency

Toshiba has successfully raised the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of its transparent Cu2O solar cell to 8.4%, a world record for a reported Cu2O solar cell. The company estimates that an overall PCE of 27.4% can be achieved, notably above the 26.7% highest PCE reported for any standard silicon cell.

SourceToshiba Corporation·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateDec 21, 2021

Disaster relief could benefit from neural net combining multiple remote data sources

A new neural net technique combines optical imaging and synthetic-aperture radar to provide a single comprehensive data source, enhancing disaster response capabilities. The approach achieves up to a 96% accuracy rate in detecting objects and can be applied to various tasks such as crop health monitoring and building identification.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalSpace: Science & Technology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 21, 2021

Tsunamis’ magnetic fields are detectable before sea level change

A new study finds that the magnetic field generated by a tsunami can be detected a few minutes before changes in sea level, which could improve tsunami warning systems. The researchers used real-world data from two tsunamis to confirm this relationship and provide valuable insights for improving tsunami source models.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Solid Earth·DateDec 21, 2021

Swinging on the quantum level

Researchers from Münster, Bayreuth, and Berlin have proposed a new way of preparing quantum systems to generate single photon states. The proposed method uses a swing-up process in the quantum system to separate generated photons from exciting laser pulses, which is promising for applications.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalPRX Quantum·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 21, 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.

An ancient relative of Velociraptor is unearthed in Great Britain

The newly discovered dinosaur Vectiraptor greeni, from the Early Cretaceous period, was a large, heavily built relative of Velociraptor with powerful claws and serrated teeth. It is believed to have hunted larger prey, using its strength rather than speed.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalCretaceous Research·TypeObservational study·DateDec 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.

Mechanism for DNA invasion of adenoviral Covid-19 vaccines discovered

A new study reveals the sophisticated mechanism by which adenoviruses infect human cells and transfer foreign DNA into their nucleus. Protein V plays a crucial role in increasing the virus particle's stability and preventing premature DNA release, which triggers an anti-viral alarm system.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Quantum beam-applied liquid metal nanoparticularization for cancer optotheranostics

Scientists at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology developed a novel method to create liquid metal nanoparticles using biomolecules and quantum beam radiation. The resulting nanoparticles exhibited unique structural and physicochemical traits, enabling NIR bioimaging and photothermal activation for cancer treatment.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalApplied Materials Today·DateDec 21, 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.

Optics and photonics: Miniaturization of diffusers for new applications

Scientists have developed a novel optical component based on silicon nanoparticles, allowing for the specific control of light direction, color, and polarization. This technology has potential applications in transparent screens, augmented reality, and scientific research, enabling precise control over light behavior.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Autism-linked gene, if deleted, results in less myelin

Research by University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio scientists found that mice missing one copy of the Tbx1 gene exhibit slower cognitive processing. The gene's deletion led to diminished myelin insulation around nerves, impacting signal conduction between brain regions.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Fueling the future with new perovskite-related oxide-ion conductors

Researchers have developed a new hexagonal perovskite-related oxide with excellent ionic conduction at intermediate and low temperatures, paving the way for efficient solid oxide fuel cells. The material's stability and ion conduction remain dominant in reducing atmospheres.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Sensor based on quantum physics could detect SARS-CoV-2 virus

A novel quantum-based sensor has been developed to detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus with high accuracy and speed. The sensor uses nitrogen vacancy centers in diamond to detect minute perturbations in the presence of viral RNA, enabling fast and reliable detection.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 21, 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.

Double chalice breaks the blockade

Researchers at the University of Victoria have developed a novel broad-spectrum antidote for neuromuscular blockers, consisting of double calixarenes that bind to blocker rods with high selectivity. The 'double chalices' do not block acetylcholine and other physiologically important amines.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Where does the special scent of thyme and oregano come from?

A team of researchers has fully identified the production process of thymol and carvacrol in thyme and oregano, respectively. The findings could lead to improved plant breeding and the development of new antibacterial and anti-inflammatory substances.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Face detection in untrained deep neural networks​

A KAIST research team found that visual selectivity of facial images can arise spontaneously in completely untrained deep neural networks. This discovery reveals the emergence of primitive visual cognitive functions in biological and artificial neural networks, raising questions about the origin of early brain functions.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 21, 2021

Regulatory circuits involving bud dormancy factor PpeDAM6

The PpeDAM6 gene plays a crucial role in regulating plant bud dormancy, responding to environmental conditions and hormonal signals. The study reveals the interaction between PpeBPCs and PpeDAM6, highlighting the importance of epigenetic regulation in modulating cell growth and tolerance to abiotic stresses.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateDec 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.

An ancient relative of Velociraptor is unearthed in Great Britain

A new bird-like dinosaur, Vectiraptor greeni, has been found in England, dating back to the Early Cretaceous period. The fossilized remains suggest a large and powerful animal with massive bones, which would have used brute strength to overpower its prey.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalCretaceous Research·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 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.

Engineering high-dimensional quantum states

A team of researchers demonstrates an adaptive optimization protocol that can engineer arbitrary high-dimensional quantum states, overcoming limitations due to noise and experimental imperfections. The protocol uses measured agreement between produced and target state to tune experimental parameters.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

First large-scale study of adolescents during COVID-19 finds well-being tied to quality of relationships with adults

A large-scale study of over 14,000 middle and high school students in the US during COVID-19 found that parent supportiveness was a key factor in predicting depression. The quality of relationships with adults, both at home and at school, was also crucial in protecting against anxiety and other mental health issues.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalSocial Policy Report·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2021

Mystery of children’s ‘chalky teeth’ explained

Case studies show one in five children suffer from chalky tooth enamel, causing severe toothache and decay. Researchers from The D3 Group have found that albumin contamination blocks hardening of enamel on teeth growing inside the jaw, triggered by childhood illnesses.

SourceScience in Public·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 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.

Crows keep special tools extra safe

A new study reveals that New Caledonian crows prioritize the storage of complex and efficient foraging tools over basic ones. The research suggests that these birds have an understanding of the relative value of different tool types, similar to humans when handling valuable items.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournaleLife·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2021

Study: Move More Often Supports Better Long-term Weight Loss for Older Adults

A new study found that incorporating frequent periods of enjoyable movement into daily life leads to better short-term and long-term weight loss compared to structured exercise. The intervention, which encouraged participants to move more often throughout the day, resulted in similar weight loss and improved maintenance relative to a h...

SourceThe Obesity Society·JournalObesity·DateDec 21, 2021

Exquisitely preserved embryo found inside fossilized dinosaur egg

A 72-66-million-year-old dinosaur embryo discovered in a fossilized egg is found to have a bird-like posture, similar to modern bird embryos. The discovery suggests that these postures may be an evolutionary precursor to the tucking behavior seen in modern birds.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournaliScience·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 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.

Reduce frailty to lower dementia, study finds

A large-scale new study found that frailty was a strong risk factor for dementia, even among people at high genetic risk, and that it can be modified through a healthy lifestyle. Over 10 years, dementia was detected in 1,762 participants, with those who were frail before diagnosis having a much higher risk.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2021

Serosurvey in Sierra Leone points to underreporting of cases, risk of new variants

A COVID-19 antibody survey in Sierra Leone found significant underreporting of cases and low vaccination rates, posing a risk to populations with limited immunity. The study's findings call for rapid vaccine deployments and support for intellectual property waivers to address the pandemic's progression.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalBMJ Global Health·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2021

Researchers describe a mechanism that impairs cancer cell proliferation and induces death

Researchers discovered that ERK5 inhibitors activate endoplasmic reticulum stress and UPR in tumor cells, leading to a toxic form of autophagy that causes apoptosis, potentially improving cancer treatment. This finding opens a promising new line for the improvement of chemotherapy and more effective strategies against cancer.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalFrontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 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.

Anxiety in children and adolescents could lead to young adult psychosis

A new study found that children and adolescents with persistent high levels of anxiety are more likely to develop psychosis in their early 20s. Treating early anxiety by targeting stress hormones and non-resolving inflammation during childhood and teenage years could help prevent young adults from developing psychosis.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 21, 2021

BU study suggests replacing the term ‘race’ with underlying factors that increase risk for heart attacks, strokes, in Blacks compared to whites

Researchers found that for 20% of risk factor combinations, Black-white differences in predicted risk can result in different treatment decisions. They also observed large differences in predicted risk, with Blacks being prescribed statins more often due to perceived higher risk.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 21, 2021

Study: Brain mechanisms involved in learning also drive social conformity

Researchers found that the same brain systems involved in learning from trial and error are also engaged when people conform to social norms. The study used electroencephalograms to track brain activity and showed that participants' behavior was influenced by their peers' actions, leading to changes in generosity and selfishness.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPsychophysiology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Newly identified mediator of inflammation resolution stimulates tissue regeneration and controls granuloma formation

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital discovered a new mediator, 4S, 5S-epoxy-resolvin, that resolves acute inflammation and stimulates tissue regeneration. The study found that this mediator also controls granuloma formation in human leukocytes.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 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.

Toxoplasma parasites manipulate brain cells to survive

Researchers have discovered how dormant Toxoplasma parasites in the brain manipulate host cells to survive. The parasites release proteins called Inhibitor of STAT1 transcription (IST) to suppress immune signals, allowing them to evade detection and cause disease.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Your seat on public transportation determines level of exposure to exhaled droplets

A model analyzed air and droplet dynamics, heat transfer, and ventilation in public transportation vehicles. It found that droplets from window seats rose more and invaded other passengers' space after exhalation, while those from aisle seats contaminated aisle passengers more due to downward flow of personal ventilation.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateDec 21, 2021

Novel biosensors set to revolutionise brain-controlled robotics

A novel carbon-based biosensor developed at the University of Technology Sydney detects electrical signals sent by the brain, translating them into commands for autonomous robotic systems. The biosensor overcomes three major challenges in graphene-based biosensing: corrosion, durability, and skin-contact resistance.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 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.

Could EKGs help doctors use AI to detect pulmonary embolisms?

A pilot study suggests that machine learning algorithms combining EKG and electronic health record data can more effectively screen for pulmonary embolisms than current tests. The fusion model was found to be 15-30% more effective at accurately identifying cases, especially severe ones.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalEuropean Heart Journal - Digital Health·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Walking in a 360° video with foot vibrations for seated observers

Researchers developed a virtual walking system that uses 360° videos and scene-congruent foot vibrations to improve sensations of walking and perception of ground materials. The system was found to enhance walking-related sensations and telepresence, particularly in indoor corridors and snowy ground scenes.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalIEEE Access·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 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.

Creating invisibility with superconducting materials

Researchers have discovered a new material, α-MoO3, that can be used to create invisibility concentrators with improved performance and lower production costs. The study suggests the use of α-MoO3 to control energy flow and scatter light, enabling the creation of devices with near-perfect invisibility.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalNanophotonics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 21, 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.

New Alzheimer’s prevention trial in young people

A new clinical trial is enrolling young people with rare genetic mutations that cause early-onset Alzheimer's disease. The study will test gantenerumab to prevent the buildup of toxic protein amyloid beta, which can slow or stop the disease.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateDec 21, 2021

Microplastic discovered in ‘pristine’ Pyrenees mountain air

A recent study has discovered microplastic in the high-altitude air surrounding Pic du Midi Observatory, located in the Pyrenees mountains. The researchers analyzed 10,000 cubic meters of air and found a concentration of approximately one particle per 4 cubic meters. This finding indicates intercontinental atmospheric transport of micr...

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 21, 2021

Slowness of gait can predict risk of frailty in older people

Researchers found that slowness of gait alone can predict loss of capacity to perform basic and instrumental activities of daily living (BADL and IADL) in older adults. The study analyzed data from over 3,000 people aged 60 and over, concluding that measuring gait speed is sufficient for efficient prediction of functional disability.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Cachexia Sarcopenia and Muscle·DateDec 21, 2021

Lifesaving device providing breath of hope

A team of researchers from Georgia Tech developed a 3D-printed tracheal replacement splint to treat Ramiah, a 4-year-old girl with tracheal agenesis. The Airway Support Device was used in her successful surgery and has improved her breathing capabilities.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalJTCVS Techniques·TypeCase study·DateDec 21, 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.

Tennessee AgrAbility continues to help farmers, ranchers

The Tennessee AgrAbility Project has received new funding from the USDA, bolstering its impact and success into 2022. The program, a collaboration between the University of Tennessee Extension and NIFA, assists farmers and farm workers with disabilities by providing support, resources, and equipment to enhance their quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateDec 21, 2021

Switching in the brain: A fresh perspective

A transdisciplinary research team at Göttingen Campus has found a new perspective on the rhythmic processes in the brain. They discovered that adapting interneurons can switch between very slow rhythms and fast rhythms, challenging previous assumptions about their function.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Another step forward in the fight against lower back pain: Integrating experiments and computational methods

Researchers have developed a new methodology combining in vitro experiments with mathematical and computational methods to understand complex regulations in intervertebral discs. This approach aims to slow down or deactivate degenerative processes, increasing understanding of lower back pain treatment options.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateDec 21, 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.

Bringing cells closer to form new tissues

Scientists from Tokyo Medical and Dental University create polyrotaxane-based biomaterials that improve epithelial cell-cell adhesion, enabling the repair of damaged tissues. The study suggests a potential application in clinical dentistry for treating periodontal disease.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalBiomaterials Science·DateDec 21, 2021

Arctic birds connect the world: Biologging tech tracking of nearctic seabirds surprise scientists with diverse migratory paths from shared breeding site

Scientists used biologging tech to track three seabird species taking different migration routes from a shared Canadian Arctic nesting location. The study adds evidence linking marine biodiversity in the Arctic region to high seas conservation efforts. Local coastal communities are connected through these Arctic seabirds' migrations.

SourceSmithsonian National Zoological Park·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2021

A robot assisting elderlies in standing up, walking, and sitting down

A robot has been developed to assist elderly users with daily actions like standing up, walking, and sitting down. The robot estimates the user's state using a small number of sensors, including calculating center of gravity candidates, to provide necessary assistance and prevent accidents.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalIEEE Access·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 21, 2021

A new post-surgery approach for treating HPV-related throat cancer uses less radiation safely and spares the majority of patients from chemotherapy

A new post-surgery approach for treating HPV-related throat cancer uses low-dose radiation and spares the majority of patients from chemotherapy. The trial found high survival rates and quality of life in patients at medium risk for recurrence.

SourceECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 21, 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.

China-wide study will boost understanding of fatal surgical complication

A recent China-wide study investigated the effect of general versus regional anesthesia on post-operative delirium in older adults undergoing hip fracture surgery. The results showed no significant difference in delirium incidence between the two groups, contradicting previous assumptions.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJAMA·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 21, 2021

Trapping vortices in thin superfluid films

Physicists at the University of Queensland have developed a comprehensive understanding of vortex pinning and unpinning in two-dimensional superfluids. The study reveals four regimes governing these interactions, including a 'pair creation' regime where vortices are pinned to defects.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 21, 2021

Target identified to improve immunotherapy against solid tumors: the transcription factor Blimp1

Scientists have identified the transcription factor Blimp1 as a new critical regulator of tumor-infiltrating regulatory T cells. Disrupting Blimp1 in these cells remodels the tumor microenvironment and augments the response to immunotherapy, promoting improved tumor control and anti-tumor immunity.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalMolecular Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Wise old elephants keep the young calm

A study by the University of Exeter found that older male elephants help keep younger, more aggressive males calm by policing their behavior. Without these older bulls, adolescent elephants become more fearful and aggressive towards non-elephant targets, posing a threat to humans.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 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.

Robotic manipulators inspired by nature

Researchers developed soft manipulators based on pneu-nets, mimicking biological systems like elephant trunks and octopus tentacles. These structures can grasp and manipulate soft objects with increased flexibility.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateDec 21, 2021

Plants as cold specialists from the Ice Age

A team of evolutionary biologists and botanists found that the spoonweed genus, which emerged as a cold specialist during the Ice Age, repeatedly adapted to rapidly alternating cold and warm periods. The researchers identified physiological adaptations to drought and salt stress that helped the plants develop high tolerance to cold.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournaleLife·DateDec 21, 2021

Outpatient management of patients with post-prematurity respiratory disease

A multidisciplinary panel of experts developed guidelines for outpatient management of patients with post-prematurity respiratory disease (PPRD), regardless of prematurity or disease severity. The recommendations address diagnostic testing and clinical management, aiming to improve outcomes for premature infants born prematurely.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 21, 2021

Over half of people with multiple long-term conditions experience chronic pain

A recent study found that over half (53.8%) of people with two or three long-term conditions and around 75% of those with four or more report at least one site of chronic pain. Chronic pain is a significant concern for individuals with multiple long-term conditions, highlighting the need for improved management and treatments.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Multimorbidity and Comorbidity·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 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.

Old protein – new function: tBID can directly trigger cell death

Researchers discover tBID can induce programmed cell death through mitochondrial damage, revealing a new function for a previously thought signal transducer protein. This finding has implications for treating malignant cells and combating infections like Shigella.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Botox injections may reduce anxiety

Researchers found that Botox-treated patients reported anxiety significantly less often than those undergoing different treatments for similar conditions. The data used was from the FDA's Adverse Effect Reporting System and showed a 22-72% lower risk of anxiety for four out of eight conditions and injection sites.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 21, 2021

Antibiotic management of septic bursitis without aspiration provides relief in ED patients

A study found that 88% of ED patients with suspected septic olecranon bursitis who received empiric antibiotics without aspiration resolved without needing further treatment. Conservative management may be a reasonable approach for select patients, potentially streamlining care and reducing complications.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2021

NTU Singapore scientists invent a protein-rich product made from plants that could replace dairy and eggs in certain foods

A team of scientists from NTU Singapore has developed a plant-based emulsifier that is rich in protein and antioxidants, allowing it to replace eggs or dairy in food staples. The emulsifier is made by fermenting brewers' spent grain and can help cut down on food waste, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalFood Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 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.

Study shows Kihon Checklist as useful tool in assessing frailty pre-heart valve surgery

A study by Osaka City University found that the Kihon Checklist is a useful tool in assessing frailty in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement. The checklist, originally developed for Japan's long-term care insurance system, correlated with clinical scores to identify patients at high risk of mortality.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalJournal of Cardiology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 21, 2021

First model to predict lifetime risk of heart failure

A new Northwestern University study has derived and validated the first set of risk prediction models for lifetime risk of heart failure. The models can identify individuals at greatest risk, especially among young adults, allowing physicians to start prevention measures sooner.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCirculation Research·DateDec 21, 2021

3D-bioprinted tissues can now be stored in the freezer until needed

Researchers have developed a method to store 3D-bioprinted tissues in a frozen state, allowing for long-term preservation and rapid thawing. The technique, known as cryobioprinting, has been shown to retain tissue functionality, enabling potential applications in drug testing and tissue replacement.

SourceCell Press·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 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.

Measures to improve gender balance are working

A long-term study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology shows that active recruitment efforts can lead to a better gender balance in technology fields. The measures not only benefit women but also create a more attractive environment for male students.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEuropean Journal of Engineering Education·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 21, 2021

Is shaming kids effective? The answer depends on parents' religiosity level, Hebrew University study finds

A Hebrew University study found that parents' religiosity level impacts their child's behavior. In secular Jewish families, psychological control was linked to reduced helpfulness, while in religious Jewish and Muslim families, it showed the opposite effect. The research suggests that parenting style is culturally context-dependent.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalChild Development·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

No returning to climate of the past even with CO2 reduction

A recent study suggests that climate change in some regions is unavoidable even if CO2 levels are reduced. The intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) shifts southwards when CO2 decreases, triggering persistent El Niño conditions and regional climate changes.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Climate Change·DateDec 21, 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.

Children, as well as adults, are more lenient towards “lies of omission”

Research by Kobe University's Graduate School of Human Development and Environment found that children and adults alike show a tendency to morally judge lies of omission more leniently than lies of commission. This study highlights the importance of considering 'lies of omission' in guidance to improve children's morality.

SourceKobe University·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Genes are switched on in the human embryo from the get-go

Researchers found hundreds of genes awaken in human one-cell embryos, remaining active until the four-to-eight cell stage. The study's findings could illuminate events that initiate cancer and provide new diagnostic opportunities.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateDec 21, 2021

A new platform for controlled design of printed electronics with 2D materials

Researchers have developed a new platform to design printed electronics with 2D materials, enabling the creation of high-performance flexible devices. The study identified key properties that need to be tweaked to control electronic charge transport, opening up possibilities for wearable devices, bio-implantable electronics and more.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Electronics·DateDec 21, 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.

Form, function and a deadly fungus

Researchers at Michigan Medicine have developed a new genetic tool to study Candida auris, revealing key factors behind its shape-shifting abilities and drug resistance. The study could aid in understanding the fungus's transmission on hospital surfaces.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

The hitchhiker’s guide to the soil

Researchers have discovered a novel mechanism of viral transport by bacterial shuttles traveling along fungal hyphae. This process allows bacteria to benefit from taking viruses on their conquest of new habitats. The study also highlights the potential influence of viruses on nutrient and carbon cycles in soil ecosystems.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalThe ISME Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Alternative statistical method could improve clinical trials

Researchers have developed a new statistical toolkit using the fragility index to determine if clinical trial results are strong and reliable. The new method has been shown to be more flexible than previous versions, allowing researchers to test assumptions and consider implications of a wider range of outcomes.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 2021