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Science News for December 7, 2021


Infection plus vaccination yields better antibodies against COVID-19 variants

Researchers report that combining infection and vaccination produces high-quality antibodies effective against COVID-19 variants. The study found that prior-infected individuals who received a vaccine had potent antibodies against new variants, contrary to previous findings suggesting reduced potency.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 2021

Seizures and memory problems in epilepsy may have a common cause

Researchers found damage to a brain part that regulates hyperactivity contributes to both memory issues and seizures in the most common form of epilepsy. This discovery may lead to earlier diagnosis and new treatments for epilepsy and related disorders.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Time of day matters in antibody response to COVID-19 vaccine

A study published in Journal of Biological Rhythms found that antibody levels are higher when healthcare workers received the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine in the afternoon. The study suggests that circadian rhythms may play a role in regulating immune responses to COVID-19 vaccination.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Biological Rhythms·DateDec 7, 2021

Study links overactive bladder to increased falling risk in older adults

Researchers found that urinary incontinence can distract from balance and stability, increasing the risk of falling in older adults. The study showed that the feeling of having to pee acts as a distracting factor, leading to changes in gait patterns similar to those caused by other distracting tasks.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 7, 2021

Falls in care homes can be significantly reduced with intervention, says new study

A new approach to fall prevention in care homes, called the 'Guide to Action to prevent Falls in Care Home' programme, has been shown to significantly reduce falls among residents. The study found that this intervention reduced falls by over 43%, while also being cost-effective and improving quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 2021

Danforth Center scientists develop an unprecedented three-dimensional X-ray microscope methodology to image plants at cellular resolution

Plant scientists can now image above and below-ground structures with unprecedented clarity, revealing new insights into biological processes. The development of three-dimensional X-ray microscopy enables the observation of microscopic molecular and cellular processes driving plant phenotypes.

SourceDonald Danforth Plant Science Center·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateDec 7, 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.

Changes in cases of new-onset anorexia nervosa during pandemic

Cases of new-onset anorexia nervosa among children and adolescents in Canada increased significantly during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The study found a notable rise in hospitalizations for newly-diagnosed anorexia nervosa or atypical anorexia nervosa.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 7, 2021

Leveraging machine learning to rapidly discover novel beneficial microbes

A recent study uses machine learning to rapidly discover bacterial isolates with antifungal properties, identifying promising new compounds for crop protection. The approach analyzes thousands of microbial genomes at once, allowing researchers to identify novel beneficial microbes and bypass traditional screening tactics.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 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.

Connecting the dots to find new treatments for breast cancer

Researchers used mathematical models and genetic analysis to identify key gene regulators that can switch aggressive basal-like breast cancer into less dangerous luminal-A. This approach could lead to novel therapeutic targets for treating many other types of cancer.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalCancer Research·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 7, 2021

New protein fragment could improve cartilage regeneration

Researchers at the University of Oklahoma have discovered a new protein fragment that could improve cartilage regeneration and reduce the need for osteoarthritis treatments. The protein fragment, developed by Handan Acar and Amgad Haleem, aims to help the body heal itself by elicititing a response from stem cells.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateDec 7, 2021

A new strategy to transform liver cancer immunotherapy

Researchers at University of California San Diego found a way to boost innate immunity in liver cancer, making tumors highly responsive to immunotherapy. The combination of anti-PD-L1 antibody and polyIC molecule showed remarkable synergistic effects in liver tumor inhibition.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalHepatology·DateDec 7, 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.

Cochlear implants linked to new bone formation, increased hearing loss

Researchers used ultra-high-resolution CT to assess new bone formation in 123 patients with cochlear implants. New bone formation was detected in 83% of patients and correlated with long-term residual hearing loss. The findings highlight the need for improved detection and monitoring methods.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateDec 7, 2021

New Drexel data shows public health benefit to closing indoor dining

Researchers at Drexel University found a 61% decline in new COVID-19 cases after closing indoor dining during the first two waves of the pandemic. Closing indoor dining could be a tool to curb the spread of new variants globally, alongside other measures such as vaccination and social distancing.

SourceDrexel University·JournalEpidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 7, 2021

Researchers develop a world-first antibody-drug delivery system

The new method can boost the potency of drugs reaching their target, increasing the effectiveness of treatments and reducing side effects. With the potential to personalize treatment and optimize doses, this technology may eventually change the current dosage needed for patients.

SourceMonash University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021

The state of video-based telemedicine for kidney disease care

A scoping review highlights the evolution of video-based telemedicine for chronic kidney disease management, showing improved clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. However, access to broadband internet and technology literacy remain significant barriers.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 7, 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.

Research finds potential mechanism linking autism, intestinal inflammation

Studies in mouse models found that maternal immune activation can alter brain development and lead to autism-like behavioral symptoms. The research also revealed a link between maternal microbiome changes and offspring's susceptibility to intestinal inflammation, with increased IL-17a production by T cells.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021

Denisovans or Homo sapiens: Who were the first to settle (permanently) on the Tibetan Plateau?

A new study suggests that Denisovans arrived on the Tibetan Plateau around 160,000 years ago and contributed to the adaptation of modern humans to high altitudes. Genetic analysis reveals that Denisovans passed on genes such as EPAS1, which improves oxygen transport in the blood, to modern Tibetans.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 7, 2021

Researchers identify significant differences in tumor characteristics between younger and older cancer patients

Investigators at Weill Cornell Medicine identified significant age-related differences in tumor characteristics across various cancers, suggesting potential for personalized treatment approaches. They found that tumors from younger patients showed advanced signs of aging and more mutations associated with aggressive disease.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 7, 2021

Large field hospital study shows rapid Covid-19 test compares solidly with PCR detection

A large field hospital study shows that a rapid Covid-19 test is as accurate as PCR detection, with high sensitivity rates for both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. The rapid antigen test's ease of use, time savings, and cost effectiveness make it an ideal solution to reduce testing disparities in medically underserved communities.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·DateDec 7, 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.

College-in-prison program found to reduce recidivism significantly

A new study found that a college-in-prison program significantly reduced recidivism rates among participants, with rates falling by 38% across racial groups. Higher levels of program participation correlated closely with lower rates of recidivism, addressing racial inequality in prison populations.

SourceCrime and Justice Research Alliance·JournalJustice Quarterly·DateDec 7, 2021

New study shows novel way to prevent postoperative complication after pancreatic surgery

Scientists at Tokyo University of Science have developed a novel polymer-based hydrogel that can prevent postoperative pancreatic fistulae, a frequent complication of pancreatic surgery. The Exceval hydrogel shows great promise for clinical applications due to its adjustable properties and high absorption abilities.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalPolymers for Advanced Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021

Flu vaccine rates lowest for people without regular healthcare provider

The study found that flu vaccination rates are significantly lower among individuals without regular healthcare providers compared to those with a provider. Vaccination rates increased with age and were higher among those with more medical conditions.

SourceASHP (American Society of Health-System Pharmacists)·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 7, 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.

A picture worth a thousand words: Identifying landscape preferences using social media algorithms

A recent study used computer vision algorithms to analyze nearly 9,400 Flickr photos taken along Colorado's Front Range, identifying preferred outdoor landscapes with moderate accuracy. The algorithm performed well for images of water, structures, and agricultural lands, but struggled with forests. Combining social media data with on-s...

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalLandscape and Urban Planning·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 7, 2021

VLA reveals double-helix structure in massive galaxy's jet

Astronomers used the VLA to reveal a double helix structure in the magnetic field of M87's jet, tracing material out to nearly 3,300 light-years. The findings suggest that instabilities in the flow of material within the jet could produce the observed double-helix structure.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 2021

Association of food insecurity, adverse effects among older adults

A recent study, published in JAMA Network Open, investigated the relationship between food insecurity and allostatic overload in older adults. Researchers found that food insecurity is associated with increased allostatic overload, which can have negative effects on health outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 7, 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.

A light in the dark tissue: Switchable proteins for biomedical imaging

Researchers developed photoswitchable label proteins to visualize small numbers of cells in live organisms, enabling improved understanding of diseases like the immune system or tumor development. They also created sensors for optoacoustic and super-resolution imaging to visualize small molecules or ions at nanometer resolution.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateDec 7, 2021

Regular exercise reduces the risk of and death from pneumonia, study suggests

A large-scale study found that regular physical activity significantly reduces the risk of developing pneumonia and dying from it. The research, led by the University of Bristol, analyzed data from over 1 million participants and showed a strong association between exercise and reduced risk of pneumonia-related death.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalGeroScience·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 7, 2021

Parents can influence children's choice and success in STEM major, PSU study finds

A PSU study reveals that parents' STEM backgrounds significantly impact their children's likelihood of majoring and persisting in STEM fields. Researchers identify STEM-specific cultural capital as a key factor, highlighting the importance of parental involvement in fostering STEM values and habits.

SourcePortland State University·JournalSocial Science Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 7, 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.

Elacestrant may improve outcomes for patients whose metastatic breast cancers progressed on prior endocrine therapy

In a phase III trial, elacestrant showed significant benefits in decreasing death or disease progression and increasing progression-free survival compared to standard of care. The treatment was well-tolerated with manageable side effects, offering hope for patients with ER-positive/HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateDec 7, 2021

United Nations sea treaty should help protect penguins, researchers say

Researchers analyzed 131 scientific papers on penguin movement at sea to highlight the need for conservation and restoration of marine biodiversity. Penguins' use of areas beyond national jurisdiction varies by species, with some undertaking spectacular migrations.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalMarine Policy·DateDec 7, 2021

A daily dose of yoghurt could be the go-to food to manage high blood pressure

A daily dose of yoghurt has been found to be associated with lower blood pressure in individuals with hypertension. The study, conducted on 915 community-dwelling adults, found that even small amounts of yoghurt were linked to significant reductions in blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalInternational Dairy Journal·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 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.

Revealed: How SARS-CoV-2 evades our immune system

Researchers at Hokkaido University and Texas A¼M University identified a key mechanism used by SARS-CoV-2 to evade host immune systems, targeting the MHC class I pathway. The study found that the virus suppresses the activation of this pathway using the ORF6 protein, allowing it to persist in the body and infect others.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 7, 2021

UConn study: Improved parenting reduced youth suicide risk by combating negative self-views in bereaved children

A UConn study found that supporting surviving parents can reduce youth suicide risk by combating negative self-views in bereaved children. The Family Bereavement Program improved parenting skills and needs, leading to reduced aversive self-views and increased child positive connectedness.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalDevelopment and Psychopathology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 7, 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.

Melting glaciers may produce thousands of kilometers of new Pacific salmon habitat

A study predicts that 6,150 km of new Pacific salmon habitat will emerge in the Pacific mountains by 2100, with most occurring in Alaska and the transboundary region. This newly formed habitat can support rapid colonization by salmon populations, offering local opportunities for some species but posing challenges under climate change.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 7, 2021

Stem cell study paves way for manufacturing cultured meat

Researchers have successfully derived stem cells from pigs, sheep, and cattle embryos grown under chemically defined conditions, paving the way for the mass production of cell-cultured meat. This breakthrough enables the creation of lab-grown food products with improved consistency and safety.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalDevelopment·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021

Study shows that consumption of a pro-inflammatory diet is associated with increased odds of frailty onset in middle-aged and older adults

A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming a pro-inflammatory diet is associated with a higher risk of developing frailty in middle-aged and older adults. Regularly eating anti-inflammatory foods such as fiber and antioxidants may help prevent frailty, according to researchers.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 7, 2021

CityU physicists discovered special transverse sound wave

Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have discovered a new type of sound wave that vibrates transversely and carries both spin and orbital angular momentum like light. This finding provides new degrees of freedom for sound manipulations, enabling unprecedented acoustic communications and sensing capabilities.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 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.

Which personality traits can be improved without personal motivation? Research says 'it depends'

Research by Southern Methodist University professor Nathan Hudson found that conscientiousness can be improved through tasks, even if participants are not motivated. However, emotional stability requires active participation and investment to change. The study suggests that schools and companies can use interventions to improve employe...

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalJournal of Research in Personality·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 7, 2021

Using genomics to match treatments improved outcomes for certain patients with metastatic breast cancer

The study used multigene sequencing to identify genomic alterations in patients with metastatic breast cancer. Patients with genomic alterations ranked as ESCAT I/II saw improved progression-free survival with targeted therapies matched to their genomic changes, while those without these alterations did not benefit from the treatment.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateDec 7, 2021

Early warning signals could help monitor disease outbreaks

Researchers developed a novel sequential analysis method to detect EWSs in daily COVID-19 case data across 24 countries, finding warnings were regularly detectable prior to exponential cases changes. The reliability of these signals depended on the time between successive waves and mathematical likelihood of critical transition.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBiology Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 7, 2021

New project to help scientists mitigate risks of environmental pollutants

A new project led by University of Illinois researchers will develop machine learning models to predict the reactivity of thousands of organic contaminants in engineered and natural environments. This will help scientists better model pollutant fate and transport, leading to more accurate contaminant risk assessments.

SourceUniversity of Illinois School of Information Sciences·DateDec 7, 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.

Efficient coding: How the brain optimizes allocation of resources

A study published in eLife found that rats exhibit efficient coding processes for visual stimuli, similar to those observed in humans. This suggests a universal principle in vision, where the brain adapts to its environment by specializing in the recognition of informative signals, thereby conserving computational resources and energy.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021

Which factors determine whether a person decides to get vaccinated?

A survey of 9 European countries and the US found significant differences in vaccine skepticism, with Russia having the lowest percentage at 62% and the UK the highest at 93.9%. Factors such as media use, mental health, and government communication played a role in shaping attitudes towards vaccination.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateDec 7, 2021

Novel chemical design makes hard crystals stretchy

Researchers have designed porous, carbon-based crystals that can stretch to more than twice their length, making them suitable for nanofiltration and pollutant removal. By adding 'soft joints' into the crystal's scaffold, they can be disrupted by specific chemicals, causing the crystal to expand and contract rapidly.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalChem·DateDec 7, 2021

Scientists discover triboionization in discontinuous atmospheric pressure inlet for miniature ion trap mass spectrometer

Researchers from Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics discovered triboionization in a discontinuous atmospheric pressure interface, enabling analytes to be detected without an extra ionization source. By adjusting the pinch valve frequency, signal intensity was improved by nearly 20 times.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 7, 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.

Smart transformable nanoparticles promise advances in tumor diagnoses, treatment

Researchers have developed smart transformable nanoparticles that can alter their size and shape in response to physiological conditions, improving particle circulation, biodistribution, and targeted therapy for cancer theranostics. These particles promise enhanced tumor diagnoses and treatment by adapting to the physiology of tumors.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021

In breast cancer, the best defense is a strong offense

Researchers discovered that pregnancy triggers the activation of Natural Killer T (NKT) cells to prevent breast cancer. After pregnancy, breast epithelial cells produce a specific protein called CD1d, which attracts NKT cells to monitor and eliminate potential cancer cells.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 7, 2021

Early COVID-19 can be mistaken as vaccine side-effects, warn researchers

Researchers analyzed data from 362,770 UK users to find that traditional machine learning models struggled to distinguish between COVID-19 symptoms and post-vaccination side effects. Unless tested, there was no way to tell if symptoms were due to early COVID-19 or vaccine side-effects.

SourceKing's College London·JournalEClinicalMedicine·DateDec 7, 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.

SRC-2 is at the center of survival adaptations to food shortages

A recent study published in Cell Reports reveals that SRC-2 is essential for coordinating biological responses to food scarcity, including modifying metabolism and behaviors to ensure survival. Additionally, SRC-2 is also involved in weight gain when food is abundant, leading to obesity.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021

Better understanding impact of shame on HIV patients can help improve healthcare, study argues

A recent study published in lambda nordica suggests that recognizing the psychological, social, and physical effects of shame on HIV patients is crucial for enhancing their medical treatment. The research argues that healthcare workers should be more aware of how shame contributes to poor health outcomes, particularly in individuals wi...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·Journallambda nordica·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 2021

Hybrid strategy captures a larger picture of wild mandrills

Researchers at Kyoto University used a hybrid strategy to study wild mandrill movement patterns, combining direct tracking with camera trap data. The findings show that mandrill groups change their travel speed during the day and exhibit flexible dietary and ranging behaviors influenced by seasonality.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Mammalogy·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 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.

Guidelines may promote over-diagnosis of cow’s milk allergy in infants

A University of Bristol-led study found that three-quarters of infants experience two or more symptoms associated with cow's milk allergy, yet the condition only affects one in 100. These symptoms are often common and normal in healthy infants, suggesting guidelines may unintentionally medicalize normal infant symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 7, 2021

Unique look at the self-destruction of a star is presented in 3D

Researchers have captured a 1,000-year-old supernova in 3D images, revealing unprecedented details about the elements ejected during a star's explosion. The study provides a three-dimensional map of these elements, shedding light on the conditions at the time of the explosion and the importance of asymmetries in supernovae.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 7, 2021

Gas bubbles in rock pores – a nursery for life on Early Earth

Researchers at LMU and MPI-CBG demonstrate that gas bubbles within heated rock pores can facilitate the growth and division of membraneless coacervate microdroplets, potentially driving the evolution of life on Early Earth. The study suggests that these conditions could have led to the emergence of protocells, which are precursors to m...

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Chemistry·DateDec 7, 2021

UTAComNav program selected to assist veteran and military spouse businesses

The UTAComNav Program will provide veteran and military spouse businesses with entrepreneurship education, small business technical assistance, loan preparation, and access to capital. Ashten Simmons, a military spouse, will lead the program, aiming to reach underserved veteran entrepreneur communities and provide tailored support.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateDec 7, 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.

How do phytohormones regulate nitrate transport in apple?

Research found that ABA inhibits nitrate transport from roots to shoots in apple by reducing the transcription of MdNRT1.5. The transcription factor MdABI5 mediates this process. Overexpression of MdABI5 inhibited ABA-mediated nitrate transport.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateDec 7, 2021

LSU Health New Orleans study finds dramatic drop in opioid rx after state legislation enacted

A LSU Health New Orleans study reports a nearly 70% decrease in morphine milligram equivalent (MME) per discharge opioid prescriptions for patients who underwent common lower extremity surgical procedures. The study also found a significant decline in new opioid prescriptions, from 50% in 2013 to 19.3% in 2018.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 7, 2021

Anthrax arms race helped Europeans evolve against disease

Humans developed natural genetic resistance to anthrax by having a diet of more ruminants and experiencing agricultural practices, leading to fewer anthrax receptors. European populations showed an even greater reduction in anthrax receptor expression compared to other human populations.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 7, 2021

Microfountain pen draws minute patterns for live cells, circuits

A flexible and easy-to-use micropen setup is capable of directly writing on surfaces to a microprecise level. The device allows for the printing of microarrays, lines, curves, and other structures in real-time using biomaterial or conductive ink.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 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.

Urbanization improves out-group trust

Research conducted in rural and urban Chinese villages found that residents of Jincheng gave more tokens to strangers than those from Liangang, suggesting increased trust in out-group members. Effective governance was also linked to higher levels of out-group trust, contradicting concerns about urbanization eroding community bonds.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalJournal of Economic Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021

Tourist selfies risk passing deadly viruses onto Critically Endangered orangutans

A team of researchers found that tourists in Indonesia's Gunung Leuser National Park were breaking rules to maintain a 10-meter distance from orangutans, exposing them to human diseases. The study highlights the need for increased awareness and compliance with safety guidelines among visitors.

SourceOxford Brookes University·JournalFolia Primatologica·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 2021

NSF grant supports study of cells’ early decisions

Researchers will investigate how cells collect and interpret signals to make differentiation decisions, using live cell imaging and mathematical frameworks. The goal is to reveal the mechanisms behind cells' earliest decisions and improve stem cell fate prediction.

SourceRice University·DateDec 7, 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.

Research reveals serious threat to dairy industry and human life from parasite

A collaborative research study found Cryptosporidium prevalence to be 20-25% across Belgium, France, and the Netherlands, posing a serious threat to dairy cattle and human life. The parasite is concerning due to its ability to become infectious in chlorine, increasing the risk of infection through traditional methods.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalMicroorganisms·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 2021

Impact of obesity and metabolic disorders on severity of COVID-19 and vaccine-breakthrough infections

A study found that obesity is associated with severe COVID-19 outcomes, including hospital admission or death. Additionally, accelerated immunosenescence may be a key mechanism explaining the relationship between obesity and T2DM in severe COVID-19. Vaccination effectiveness may also be impacted by metabolic disorders.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalNature Reviews Endocrinology·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 7, 2021

Face masks help jurors tell lies from truth

Researchers from University of Portsmouth and John Jay College of Criminal Justice found that face masks do not hamper a jury's decision making. Instead, they improve the ability to differentiate between truth and lies by reducing non-verbal behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalJournal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 7, 2021

Digital pill system tracks HIV prevention pill adherence with 98 percent accuracy

A digital pill system has been found to be a feasible and accurate intervention for tracking HIV prevention pill adherence, with 98% accuracy. The system uses radiofrequency transmitters and wearable reader devices to track pill ingestion, providing a novel solution for individuals with low compliance.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes & Human Retrovirology·DateDec 7, 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.

Ferocious fungus

Scientists at the University of Utah studied the defense mechanism of Armillaria ostoyae, a parasitic fungus that infects and kills over 600 types of woody plants. They found that the fungus's outer layer has a strong protective role, containing calcium to protect itself from chemicals and insects.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 2021

Development of a transparent and flexible ultra-thin memory device

Researchers created a transparent and flexible ultra-thin memory device using zero-dimensional quantum dots sandwiched between hexagonal boron nitride structures. The device retains above 80% transparency and memory function even when bent, making it a promising next-generation memory candidate.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalComposites Part B Engineering·DateDec 7, 2021

Racial trends in prescription opioid use reflect disparities, undertreatment

A new study by NYU School of Global Public Health found racial disparities in opioid prescribing, with Blacks and Hispanics less likely to be prescribed opioids in the late 1990s. By the mid 2000s, prescription opioid use among Blacks matched that of whites, despite the focus on white populations during the opioid crisis.

SourceNew York University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateDec 7, 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.

A new drug target for kidney disease

A new study led by Prof. Motoko Yanagita found that the suppression of two molecules, CD153 and CD30, expressed on immune cells mitigates the progression of kidney disease in aged kidneys. This discovery identifies a promising therapeutic target for kidney treatment in the elderly.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021

Severe COVID could reduce male fertility

A recent study suggests that severe COVID-19 may cause long-term damage to the testes, leading to reduced sperm count and quality. The virus's interaction with testicular cells and potential effects on fertility are being explored through an experimental framework.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalNature Reviews Urology·DateDec 7, 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.

Miniature llama antibodies could help fight SARS-CoV-2 variants

Researchers have discovered miniature antibodies derived from llamas that can neutralize SARS-CoV-2 and its variants, including Delta and Omicron. The nanobodies' small size allows them to access hard-to-reach spots on the virus, making them a potential treatment against future variants.

SourceRockefeller University·JournaleLife·DateDec 7, 2021