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Science News for January 27, 2021


Ancient proteins help track early milk drinking in Africa

Researchers analyzed ancient dental calculus from 41 individuals and found milk proteins in 8 individuals, dating back to 4,000-3,200 years ago. The study suggests that early African pastoralists consumed dairy products without the genetic adaptation for lactase persistence, possibly through fermentation.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 27, 2021

Forests with diverse tree sizes and small clearings hinder wildland fire growth

A new study published in the International Journal of Wildland Fire found that forests with diverse tree sizes and small clearings slow down wildland fire growth. The research used a 3D analysis to examine how forest structure affects fire behavior and revealed that varying tree sizes and shapes can significantly impact fire spread.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalInternational Journal of Wildland Fire·DateJan 27, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Schizophrenia second only to age as greatest risk factor for COVID-19 death

A new study finds that people with schizophrenia are almost three times more likely to die from COVID-19 than those without the mental disorder. The study, led by researchers at NYU Langone Health, shows that schizophrenia is the biggest risk factor for death after age, with a 2.7-fold increased odds of dying.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJan 27, 2021

IU researchers discover how breast cancer cells hide from immune attack

Breast cancer cells can evade immune attacks by increasing the level of protein MAL2 on their surface, leading to enhanced tumor growth. Targeting this action could improve immunotherapy for patients. Researchers identified MAL2 as a key protein and found that inhibiting it can almost completely stop tumor growth.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 27, 2021

Pace of prehistoric human innovation could be revealed by 'linguistic thermometer'

Researchers developed a powerful tool to map language development and human innovation over thousands of years, including pre-history. The 'linguistic thermometer' uses statistical physics to analyze the evolutionary dynamics of language, revealing how languages change over time.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Mathematical Sciences Advances and Applications·DateJan 27, 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.

Ions in molten salts can go 'against the flow'

Researchers at Uppsala University used computer simulations to study ions in molten salts and found that they can interact and move in unexpected ways. The study's findings suggest that lighter anions like fluoride and chloride can be attracted to both lithium ions and the positive anode, leading to slower movement towards the cathode.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateJan 27, 2021

Children can bypass age verification procedures in popular social media apps

Researchers found that all ten apps permitted users under 16 to sign up if they provided an age of 16, highlighting the need for robust age verification mechanisms. The study recommends clarifying minimum age requirements, enabling restrictive privacy settings by default, and implementing ongoing age verification processes.

SourceLero·JournalIEEE Software·DateJan 27, 2021

Geological phenomenon widening the Atlantic Ocean

A team of seismologists has discovered a new mechanism driving the separation of the Atlantic plates, with evidence of an upwelling in the mantle from depths of over 600 km. This finding provides greater understanding of plate tectonics and its role in natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature·DateJan 27, 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.

Even machines need their greens

A team of engineers has created a new material by infusing 3D printer ink with chloroplasts from spinach. This living material can be strengthened up to six times its original strength through photosynthesis and exhibits self-repairing properties.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 27, 2021

Cell death shines a light on the origins of complex life

Researchers find that nuclei, chloroplasts, and pyrenoids can persist for weeks and months after cell death in eukaryotic cells, challenging previous assumptions about their decay rate. This discovery helps to narrow the age range of complex life on Earth, suggesting its emergence around 1,700 million years ago.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 27, 2021

Mammogram-based breast cancer risk model could lead to better screening guidelines

A new machine learning algorithm named Mirai estimates breast cancer risk in women more accurately than current models, identifying 41.5% of patients at risk within 5 years. The model was effective across various races and ethnicities, supporting its potential to inform screening guidelines for diverse populations.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 27, 2021

How blood stem cells maintain their lifelong potential for self-renewal

In mice, blood vessel cells produce factor that stimulates blood stem cells, maintaining their self-renewal capacity. However, production of this factor ceases with aging, leading to loss of self-renewal ability and weakening of the immune system.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 27, 2021

Challenges in COVID-19 vaccination

The German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina hosts an international virtual panel discussion on COVID-19 vaccination challenges. Experts will address issues like equitable global allocation and vaccine effectiveness. The event aims to promote scientific dialogue among the international community.

SourceLeopoldina·DateJan 27, 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.

Genome-editing tool TALEN outperforms CRISPR-Cas9 in tightly packed DNA

Researchers have discovered that TALEN is up to five times more efficient than CRISPR-Cas9 in targeting densely packed DNA regions, including those causing fragile X syndrome and sickle cell anemia. This breakthrough adds to the need for a broader selection of genome-editing tools to target all parts of the genome.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 27, 2021

Healthy lifespan analysis using nematodes

Researchers at Kumamoto University created a new system to assess healthy lifespans in nematodes, which may help develop drugs and find foods that extend human lifespans. The system, C-LAS, uses images of living and dead nematodes to classify their health and longevity.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Sciences·DateJan 27, 2021

New Tel Aviv University study reveals 'Achilles' heel' of cancer cells

Researchers discovered that aneuploid cancer cells demonstrate heightened sensitivity to damage to the mitotic checkpoint, making them more susceptible to treatment. The study's findings suggest that using aneuploidy as a biological marker could help identify patients who will respond better to certain drugs.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature·DateJan 27, 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.

Humanizing yeast ORC sheds light on cancer therapy and human development

Researchers have discovered a 19-amino acid insertion helix in the Orc4 subunit of yeast ORC that enables human-like DNA binding, transforming yeast into a humanized ORC. This finding provides new insights for cancer therapy and human development, including potential targets for anti-cancer drug screening.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 27, 2021

New study: Which beverages burst with umami potential?

A new study from University of Copenhagen researchers found that sake has the most umami flavor, followed by champagne and wine. The study also showed that pairing certain beverages with specific foods can enhance the umami flavor.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalFood Chemistry·DateJan 27, 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.

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.

Germline whole exome sequencing reveals the potential role of hereditary predisposition and therapeutic implications in small cell lung cancer, a tobacco-related cancer

The study identified 42 deleterious variants in 35 genes among patients with small cell lung cancer, including MLH1, BRCA2, and MUTYH germline mutations. These variants were associated with increased risk of first-degree relatives with cancer or lung cancer and longer recurrence-free survival following platinum-based chemotherapy.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 27, 2021

Women's menstrual cycles temporarily synchronize with Moon cycles

Researchers found that most women's menstrual cycles aligned with synodic months at certain intervals, while also showing synchronization with tropical months in younger women, suggesting a stronger effect on menstrual cycles during long winter nights when exposed to moonlight.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 27, 2021

Findings may help close door on COVID-19

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have discovered the coronavirus's 'Achilles' heel', a proofreading enzyme called nsp14-ExoN. This enzyme regulates RNA recombination and can be targeted to block viral replication, potentially leading to new treatments for COVID-19.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJan 27, 2021

COVID-19 increases mortality rate among pregnant women

A new study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that COVID-19 mortality rates were significantly higher among pregnant mothers than similarly aged individuals, with a 3.5 times higher hospitalization rate for pregnant women with COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 27, 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.

A new study reveals an "Achilles heel" of cancer cells

Researchers discovered that cancer cells with an abnormal number of chromosomes (aneuploidy) are more sensitive to inhibition of the mitotic checkpoint, a cellular mechanism that ensures proper chromosome separation during cell division. This finding has important implications for personalized cancer medicine and drug discovery.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 27, 2021

Juicing technique could influence healthfulness of fresh-squeezed juice

Researchers found that different juicing techniques can alter the levels of health-promoting phytochemicals and antioxidants in raw vegetables. Low-speed juicing produced more diverse metabolites, while high-speed centrifugal juicers resulted in thicker juices with less pulp and fiber.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Food Science & Technology·DateJan 27, 2021

New NCAR-Wyoming supercomputer to accelerate scientific discovery

The new HPE-Cray EX supercomputer will be a 19.87-petaflops system, 3.5 times faster than the existing Cheyenne supercomputer, and will enable researchers to conduct advanced studies on climate change, severe weather, and other Earth system processes.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateJan 27, 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.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Using wearable tech to keep babies, pregnant women healthy

Researchers used wearable technology to track the heart rate variability of women trying to conceive, finding that overall, they were in better shape after giving birth than before. The study suggests that physiologic markers show fitness gains occur during pregnancy, and may help obstetricians encourage pregnant patients.

SourceWest Virginia University·DateJan 27, 2021

Mira's last journey: Exploring the dark universe

The Last Journey simulation, performed on Argonne's supercomputer Mira, studied the distribution of mass across the universe over time. The team used a workflow combining HACC and CosmoTools to analyze and record relevant information during the simulation.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series·DateJan 27, 2021

In a tight spot

Researchers at Max-Planck-Gesellschaft found a neural circuit in zebrafish that enables them to focus on one stimulus over others, allowing for escape from predators. The circuit involves the tectum and nucleus isthmi brain regions.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNeuron·DateJan 27, 2021

When is dead really dead?

A new international study documents the physiology of dying and confirms that death is an irreversible process. The DePPaRT study found that cardiac activity often stops and restarts several times during the dying process, but no one regained sustained circulation or consciousness. This provides evidence to support the current standard...

SourceChildren's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 27, 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.

Is there a link between cashless payments and unhealthy consumption?

Research finds cashless payments increase spending on unhealthy food as lower arousal directs attention away from decision risks. Participants with higher education were more willing to pay for desserts under cashless payment conditions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of the Association for Consumer Research·DateJan 27, 2021

Oregon State receives grant to spur aquaculture investment in Oregon

Oregon State University has received a nearly $700,000 grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to provide software tools for investors interested in starting aquaculture businesses in Oregon. The new funding will help advance the rate of aquaculture investment in the state and serve as a model for other states.

SourceOregon State University·DateJan 27, 2021

'Virtual anatomy' imaging yields new insight into ancient platypus fish

A team of scientists used virtual anatomy techniques to examine a 400-million-year-old fossil, discovering an unexpectedly modern inner ear structure that challenges previous assumptions about placoderm evolution. The findings suggest a possible link between ancient platypus fish and modern jawed vertebrates.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 27, 2021

Carbon-chomping soil bacteria may pose hidden climate risk

Researchers discovered that certain soil bacteria can break down large carbon-based molecules using enzymes, potentially leading to rapid release of CO2 from soil. This finding challenges current models of carbon storage in soil and highlights a key role for biology in climate change.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 27, 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.

'Smart' cartilage cells programmed to release drugs when stressed

Cartilage cells engineered to respond to mechanical stress can produce an anti-inflammatory drug to reduce joint pain and limit arthritis-related damage. The technology could lead to more effective treatments for osteoarthritis by delivering drugs in response to specific movements or weight-bearing.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 27, 2021

Fields of breeders' dreams: A team effort toward targeted crop improvements

Researchers have produced a high-quality reference sequence of the complex switchgrass genome using samples from 10 experimental gardens across eight states. This allows breeders to test what genes affect the plant's adaptability to various environmental conditions and associate climate adaptations with switchgrass biology.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJan 27, 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.

Alcohol causes immediate effects linked to heart malady

A UCSF clinical study found that alcohol has an immediate effect on the heart in patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib), reducing the time needed for certain heart muscle cells to recover. The study suggests that moderate drinking may help prevent AFib, a condition affecting 12 million Americans and leading to 158,000 deaths annually.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateJan 27, 2021

History of the Champagne vineyards revealed

Archaeological grape seeds from excavations in Troyes and Reims provide insights into the history of Champagne wine growing. Wild vines were cultivated throughout the period studied, with domestic varieties emerging as early as the 1st century AD.

SourceCNRS·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 27, 2021

Detecting trace amounts of multiple classes of antibiotics in foods

Researchers have developed a method to simultaneously measure 77 antibiotics in various foods, including meat, eggs, milk, cereals, vegetables, and fruits. The new approach allows for the detection of multiple classes of antibiotics at trace amounts, which can contribute to increased antibiotic resistance and gut microbiome imbalance.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJan 27, 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.

Scientists discover a new promising target for diabetes treatment

Researchers have discovered a novel and druggable insulin inhibitory receptor named inceptor. Blocking its function leads to increased sensitisation of the insulin signalling pathway in pancreatic beta cells, allowing for potential protection and regeneration of beta cells for diabetes remission.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature·DateJan 27, 2021

Adults with cognitive disabilities more than twice as likely to use e-cigarettes

A recent study published in Disability and Health Journal found that adults with cognitive disabilities were more than twice as likely to use e-cigarettes, highlighting a high-risk group for adverse health outcomes. The study also showed that men, young adults, and adults with COPD or depression were more likely to use e-cigarettes.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalDisability and Health Journal·DateJan 27, 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.

Optical scanner design for adaptive driving beam systems can lead to safer night driving

Researchers developed a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) optical scanner that enables better road safety by adjusting the driver's visibility based on speed and traffic environment. The system provides improved visibility, especially for pedestrians, and reduces glare from oncoming vehicles.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateJan 27, 2021

Working memory can help tailor educational development

Researchers found that younger children have limited working memory, making it harder to remember tasks after interruptions. This study suggests providing structure and helping parents support their child's online learning. The findings provide a first step toward creating educational materials tailored to individual developmental levels.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateJan 27, 2021

Support for self isolation must be a top priority, say experts

Experts argue that UK government should focus on supporting people in high-risk occupations and living conditions with free accommodation, income protection, and job security. A lack of resources and fear of financial consequences are major barriers to self-isolation, leading to low adherence rates among certain groups.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 27, 2021

Association of psychiatric disorders with mortality among patients with COVID-19

A recent observational study of 7,300 adults with COVID-19 found that individuals with a schizophrenia spectrum diagnosis had an increased risk of death, while mood and anxiety disorders were not associated with higher mortality rates. The study suggests that psychiatric disorders may be linked to poorer outcomes in patients with COVID-19

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJan 27, 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.

Social support may not ease menopause symptoms

A study of over 2,700 women found that social support does not moderate the impact of stressful events on menopause symptoms. Women who experienced stressful events had a significant increase in symptoms, regardless of their level of social support.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 27, 2021

Well connected through amides

Researchers have developed a new reaction, called ASHA ligation, for efficiently forming amide bonds under mild aqueous conditions. This method is fast, chemoselective, and broadly applicable, opening pathways to new approaches in medicinal chemistry and chemical biology.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 27, 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.

New study identifies bird species that could spread ticks and Lyme disease

A new study identified bird species with the potential to transmit Lyme disease bacterium to feeding ticks, flagging 21 new species for surveillance. Bird traits such as diet composition, migration distance, and life history features were used to predict competence in spreading Lyme.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateJan 27, 2021

Focusing on field analysis

Researchers developed a low-cost, portable microscopy system using transparent microspheres and affordable objective lenses to detect pathogens in water sources. The assembly can be customized for various applications, including on-site antibiotic testing.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateJan 27, 2021

Offer COVID-19 vaccines to pregnant or breastfeeding people

Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should be offered COVID-19 vaccines based on ethical principles, considering individual autonomy and risk of severe illness. Although no adverse effects have been observed in vaccinated participants, those at high risk of severe COVID-19 should prioritize vaccination to protect themselves and others.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 27, 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.

Making wheat and peanuts less allergenic

Researchers are using plant breeding and genetic engineering to develop less allergenic varieties of wheat and peanuts. They focus on reducing gluten content in wheat and one specific protein that regulates gluten production, aiming to increase food options for people with allergies.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·DateJan 27, 2021

How does the immune system keep tabs on the brain?

The immune system surveils the brain from a distance and only enters when it finds a problem. This finding explains why the brain was thought to be immunoprivileged. Targeting immune cells at surveillance sites may lead to new treatments for conditions driven by brain inflammation, such as multiple sclerosis.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·DateJan 27, 2021

Elvira Mass receives 2021 Paul Ehrlich Prize for Young Researchers

Elvira Mass has made a significant contribution to understanding the role of yolk sac-derived macrophages in maintaining healthy organs. Her research found that these cells can self-maintain for a lifetime, producing bioactive molecules and growth factors essential for tissue development.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·DateJan 27, 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.

Antibiotic may improve outcomes for depression in people with low level inflammation

A recent study found that minocycline, an antibiotic with anti-inflammatory properties, significantly improved depressive symptoms in patients with treatment-resistant depression and low-grade peripheral inflammation. The trial showed that patients with higher C-reactive protein levels responded better to minocycline treatment.

SourceNIHR Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateJan 27, 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.

Melatonin produced in the lungs prevents infection by novel coronavirus

Researchers found that melatonin synthesized in the lungs acts as a barrier against SARS-CoV-2, preventing expression of genes that encode proteins in cells serving as viral entry points. The hormone also inhibits immune response to allow virus to remain in respiratory tract for a few days.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMelatonin Research·DateJan 27, 2021

New study points to better diagnostics for cancer

Researchers have developed a new method, Cell Heterogeneity-Adjusted cLonal Methylation (CHALM), that improves the prediction of gene expression from DNA methylation data. This method has been shown to identify more reliable biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, potentially leading to better early detection.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 27, 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.

Antibody highs and lows in survivors of Ebola

A study found that over half of Ebola survivors experienced a rapid increase in antibody levels around 200 days after recovery, followed by decline, indicating potential long-term virus persistence.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature·DateJan 27, 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.

Micro-brewing goes more micro

A PhD student has discovered a way to conduct micro-brewing experiments using only a single barley seed in a 1.5 millilitre tube, reducing the need for large-scale brewing operations. This method could speed up the quality testing of newly-bred barley varieties and potentially lead to new styles of beer.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 27, 2021

A little soap simplifies making 2D nanoflakes

Researchers found a way to process hexagonal boron nitride into high-quality 2D nanosheets using surfactants and water. The findings could lead to the development of antibacterial films and heat-resistant materials.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateJan 27, 2021

Historically redlined neighborhoods are more likely to lack greenspace today

Neighborhoods historically redlined by racist mortgage practices in the 1930s are more likely to have limited green spaces. This is associated with elevated air pollution, higher rates of poverty, and worse health outcomes for residents. The study highlights the persistent effects of redlining policies on urban neighborhoods.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJan 27, 2021

Detecting ADHD with near perfect accuracy

Researchers have identified a stable biomarker for ADHD in brain connectivity, allowing for near-perfect detection of the disorder. A machine learning model achieved 99% accuracy in identifying adults diagnosed with ADHD as children.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateJan 27, 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.

Secrets of traumatic stress hidden in the brain are exposed

A recent study using Cereset's HIRREM technology found significant effects on brain network connectivity in military personnel with traumatic stress. The results support the bihemispheric autonomic management model and suggest that regulated connections between hemispheres are associated with improved health and wellbeing.

SourceCereset·JournalJournal of Neuroimaging·DateJan 27, 2021

How COVID-19 tested and transformed science

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated scientific innovation, with scientists working at record speed to develop vaccines, diagnose, and treat the virus. Despite these advances, the pandemic has also raised concerns about public trust in science, exacerbated by mixed messaging and politicization.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 27, 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.

Consuming omega-3 fatty acids could prevent asthma

A new study suggests that consuming long chain omega-3 fatty acids in childhood can reduce the risk of developing asthma, but only in children with a specific genetic make-up. The research found a significant association between higher intake of long chain omega-3 fatty acids and lower risk of asthma.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateJan 27, 2021

A metalens for virtual and augmented reality

A team of researchers at Harvard University has developed a two-millimeter achromatic metalens that can focus RGB colors without aberrations, opening a path to new virtual reality platforms. The lens uses nanostructures to focus light and is the largest RGB-achromatic metalens to date.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 27, 2021

Hormonal IUDs are a viable and underutilized method for emergency contraception

Researchers at University of Utah Health found hormonal IUDs comparable to copper IUDs for emergency contraception, offering a safe alternative to current options. The study also suggests that hormonal IUDs can provide highly effective contraception for up to seven years, reducing the risk of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 27, 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.

Study shows racial disparities in elementary school disciplinary actions

A new study using a nationwide self-reported dataset found that elementary school-age Black children are 3.5 times more likely to be suspended or placed in detention than their white peers, despite controlling for socioeconomic factors. The researchers believe systemic racism and unconscious bias may contribute to the disparities.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJan 27, 2021

New malaria mosquito is emerging in African cities

A new malaria mosquito species, Anopheles stephensi, has been found in cities and towns in urban settings in Ethiopia, Sudan, and Djibouti. The invading mosquito is highly susceptible to local malaria strains, increasing the risk of urban malaria in Africa.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateJan 27, 2021

People with severe atopic eczema may have increased risk of death from several causes

A new study found that people with severe atopic eczema have a higher risk of dying from health issues like infections, lung problems, and kidney or bladder disorders. The absolute risk of death was modest, but the findings suggest that those with severe or more active forms of the disease face a higher risk.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJan 27, 2021

Putting bugs on the menu, safely

Researchers have identified 20 proteins found in cricket food products that could cause serious allergic reactions in individuals with shellfish allergies. The study aims to provide a framework for detecting and labelling insect-derived allergens in food products, ensuring safe consumption by those with allergies.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalFood Chemistry·DateJan 27, 2021

Global analysis suggests COVID-19 is seasonal

COVID-19 cases and mortality rates are significantly correlated with temperature and latitude across 221 countries, according to a new study. The research suggests the disease may be seasonal, like the flu, and could help inform pandemic strategies.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEvolutionary Bioinformatics·DateJan 27, 2021

Size of helium nucleus measured more precisely than ever before

Researchers at PSI have measured the helium nucleus radius five times more precisely than before, allowing for better understanding of fundamental physics and natural constants. The new method uses low-energy muons to create exotic atoms, enabling precise measurements of atomic properties.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature·DateJan 27, 2021

Pitt researcher receives ARPA-E grant to 'innervate' pipelines

Researchers aim to create an 'intelligent' pipeline that can detect defects through acoustic and vibrational signatures, enabling targeted in-situ repairs with reduced downtime and costs. The project also plans to develop economic models and regulatory modifications for commercialization.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateJan 27, 2021

Important climate change mystery solved by scientists

Scientists have resolved a key climate change mystery, showing that annual global temperature today is the warmest of the past 10,000 years. The study, led by Rutgers University, challenges long-held views on Holocene era temperatures and confirms greenhouse gases drove recent millennia warming.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature·DateJan 27, 2021

Can Minnesota support a sustainable aquaculture industry?

A new three-year project led by the University of Minnesota Sea Grant aims to determine the potential for a sustainable food-fish aquaculture industry in Minnesota. The study will assess production costs, consumer demand, and market priorities to help producers estimate profit margins.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·DateJan 27, 2021

Key switchgrass genes identified, which could mean better biofuels ahead

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have identified three distinct populations of switchgrass with unique adaptations to climate, paving the way for breeding high-yielding varieties matched to specific climates. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and sustainable biofuel production.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature·DateJan 27, 2021

Why people overuse antibiotics

A Rutgers study reveals widespread antibiotic overuse due to misconceptions and pressure from patients, leading to drug-resistant bacteria and harm to the microbiome. The study also finds that older physicians are more likely to prescribe antibiotics, while misinformation among the public perpetuates unnecessary use of antibiotics.

SourceRutgers University·JournalBioEssays·DateJan 27, 2021

When simpler is harder

Researchers measured brain activity in Hindi speakers describing different images to study sentence planning before speaking. They found that having fewer grammatical distinctions makes planning particularly demanding for the brain and requires more neural activity.

SourceNCCR Evolving Language (National Centre of Competence in Research)·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 27, 2021

Growth of northern Tibet proved the key to East Asian biodiversity

A joint research team revealed that the growth of northern Tibet drastically altered climate and vegetation patterns in East Asia. The study found that increased rainfall allowed unique plants and animal species to evolve in vast numbers, creating a biodiversity hotspot.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 27, 2021

A vacuum-ultraviolet laser with submicrometer spot for spatially resolved photoemission spectroscopy

Researchers have developed a VUV laser system with a focal spot of <1 μm, enabling high-energy resolution (~0.3 meV) and sub-micron spatial resolution for angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES). This improvement allows for better visualization of electronic structures in novel quantum materials.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJan 27, 2021

Culture shapes willingness to share personal data to reduce COVID-19 spread

A new study finds that people's willingness to share personal location information to reduce COVID-19 transmission is influenced by cultural context. Researchers found that South Koreans are more accepting of COVID-19 mitigation efforts involving data sharing due to their collectivist culture and lower privacy concerns.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalISPRS International Journal of Geo-Information·DateJan 27, 2021

Scientists jump-start two people's brains after coma

Researchers report two more patients in minimally conscious states show significant improvement after receiving low-intensity focused ultrasound treatment. One patient demonstrated ability to respond to commands and communicate with family members, while another showed recognition of objects and understanding of speech.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalBrain Stimulation·DateJan 27, 2021

Controlling pain after surgery doesn't have to mean opioids, study shows

A study of 620 patients who had surgery found that those counseled to use opioids only as backup experienced less pain and similar patient satisfaction compared to standard care. The approach took a middle ground between controlling pain and reducing the risk of long-term opioid use or addiction.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateJan 27, 2021

Trying to beat a coke habit with cannabis? Not so fast !

A study by Université de Montréal psychiatry professor Didier Jutras-Aswad and his team found that cannabidiol is not an effective treatment for cocaine use disorder. The 78-participant clinical trial showed no reduction in craving or relapse risk with cannabidiol, contrary to its growing popularity as a potential addiction treatment.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalAddiction·DateJan 27, 2021

In tune with the moon

A team of scientists led by Charlotte Förster discovered a correlation between moon phases and women's menstrual cycles. The researchers found that the strength of the moon's light-dark cycle contributes to synchronizing menstruation in women, while gravity also plays a role.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 27, 2021