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Science News for July 12, 2021


When a single tree makes a difference

A new study from American University found that individual trees can help mitigate urban heat, particularly in evening hours. The research showed that neighborhoods with at least half of the area covered by canopy were 1.4 degrees Celsius cooler than those with few trees.

SourceAmerican University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 12, 2021

Ecosystem destruction endangers local soy agriculture in Brazil

New research reveals that destroying tropical ecosystems leads to reduced soybean income by an average of US$100 per hectare per year due to increased extreme heat. Conservation of the Amazon and Cerrado biomes can prevent this damage, estimated to cost the sector US$3.55 billion annually.

SourceBurness·JournalWorld Development·DateJul 12, 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.

Transport in 2050: Safer, cleaner and cost efficient?

A Cornell University-led team projects that vehicle electrification, driverless cars, and ride sharing could prevent 5,500 premature deaths and save $58 billion annually in the US by 2050. The study also finds that vehicle electrification is the most important piece for carbon mitigations and health benefits.

SourceCornell University·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateJul 12, 2021

Hurley to receive funding for fellowship

Jessica Hurley, Assistant Professor at George Mason University, will research the impact of nuclearization on decolonization in India, South Africa, Oceania, and Native North America. Funding from the National Humanities Center will support her book project through September 2022.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateJul 12, 2021

The promise of inclusive sustainability

A new model of inclusive sustainability emphasizes researchers' life experiences as a source of unique perspectives on socioecological challenges. This approach seeks to address the limitations of traditional conservation methods and promote more effective solutions.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateJul 12, 2021

Genome editing for food: how do people react?

A study of online surveys from five countries reveals that genome editing is generally viewed as beneficial for crops but raises concerns about animal welfare. The research found four distinct groups: strong supporters, supporters, neutrals, and opponents, with 21% strongly supporting the technology.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalAgriculture and Human Values·DateJul 12, 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.

Songbirds like it sweet!

Researchers found that songbirds can sense sweetness regardless of their primary diets, with the ability emerging early within the songbird radiation. The team identified the molecular basis of this ability and found that it has been conserved in nearly half of all birds living today.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 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.

Having a nice glass of French wine?

A new study from the University of California, Davis, found that France's Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) system led to a significant increase in market value for French wines. The AOC system created production standards and mandatory tasting requirements, allowing wine growers to improve quality and be rewarded for it.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalEuropean Economic Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 12, 2021

Dysfunctional telomeres and intestinal inflammation

Research suggests that telomere shortening drives intestinal inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Telomere erosion is positively associated with disease severity and may underlie disease recurrence.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2021

MaxDIA -- taking proteomics to the next level

The new MaxDIA software provides a computational workflow for data-independent acquisition proteomics, combining library-based and library-free approaches. This enables highly sensitive and accurate data analysis for thousands of proteins, opening up new possibilities for medical applications in personalized medicine.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJul 12, 2021

Novel screening approach improves diagnosis of metabolic disorders in newborns

A novel screening method using untargeted metabolomics profiling can improve the diagnostic rate for inborn errors of metabolism in newborns, identifying many more disorders than traditional methods. This approach offers a faster, more efficient, and less expensive diagnostic journey for individuals with rare metabolic disorders.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 12, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Athletes may have more than twice the risk of irregular heart rhythm

Younger athletes are at greater risk of atrial fibrillation than older athletes, with a 3.6 times higher likelihood. Mixed sports athletes also have a higher risk compared to endurance sport athletes. The study suggests that athletes face significantly greater risk of developing atrial fibrillation.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateJul 12, 2021

COVID-19 News from Annals of Internal Medicine

A recent study in Annals of Internal Medicine suggests that mandatory COVID-19 vaccination for healthcare workers is strongly justified due to the higher mortality rate of SARS-CoV-2 compared to influenza. The authors propose strategies to increase employee acceptance and overcome vaccine hesitancy, emphasizing the importance of protec...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 12, 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.

Sea-level rise may worsen existing Bay Area inequities

Researchers found that coastal communities in San Mateo County are at risk of financial instability from flooding, with lower-income households disproportionately affected. The study's new methodology aims to provide a human-centered approach to risk assessment, focusing on the residents most likely to lose their livelihoods when water...

SourceStanford University·DateJul 12, 2021

Two-thirds of romantic couples start out as friends, study finds

A new study found that nearly 75 percent of research on relationship beginnings focused on romance between strangers, while only eight percent examined friendships-to-romance transitions. The study analyzed data from over 1,900 university students and crowdsourced adults, finding a strong correlation between friends-first initiation an...

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJul 12, 2021

Coastal ecosystems worldwide: Billion-dollar carbon reservoirs

Coastal ecosystems worldwide are estimated to have a significant impact on the global economy, with countries like Australia and Indonesia storing large amounts of carbon. The study found that these countries generate annual welfare gains of around $26.4 billion from reduced climate change costs, while other nations like India and Chin...

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 12, 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.

Promising new research on aggressive breast cancer

A new study published in PNAS has identified a protein called AXL as a crucial player in hypoxia, which promotes cancer progression and resistance to treatment. By blocking the action of this protein, researchers observed improved recovery of blood vessels and revitalization of the tumour's immune environment.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2021

Artificial intelligence could be new blueprint for precision drug discovery

Researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine developed a new AI methodology to hunt for disease targets and predict drug success. The approach, which uses machine learning to analyze big data, was tested in a Phase '0' clinical trial and showed high accuracy across diverse IBD patient cohorts.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2021

Demonstration of World Record: 319 Tb/s Transmission over 3,001 km with 4-core fiber

Researchers from NICT demonstrated a world record 319 Tb/s long-haul transmission of wideband S, C and L-bands signal using 552 PDM-16QAM channels in a 4-core optical fiber. The system enabled transmission distance over 3,001 km with both erbium and thulium doped-fiber amplifiers and distributed Raman amplification.

SourceNational Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT)·DateJul 12, 2021

Study sheds light on precise personalized hepatocellular carcinoma medicine

Researchers have identified distinct metabolic phenotypes in hepatocellular carcinoma subtypes, providing insights into precise personalized treatment options. The study revealed a poor prognosis subtype strongly correlated with immune pathway up-regulation and unsaturated fatty acid accumulation.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 12, 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.

A third of teens, young adults reported worsening mental health during pandemic

A third of teens and young adults reported worsening mental health during the pandemic, with disruptions in social connections a major factor. The study found that those with higher socioeconomic status, lower closeness to friends and family, or older age were more likely to experience worsened mood and anxiety.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJul 12, 2021

Teaching sound topological tricks

The study presents a phononic crystal that enables robust topological states at three dimensions, allowing for diverse wave steering applications. The researchers demonstrated the ability to engineer negative refraction of sound waves and utilize topological hinge states as transport channels.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateJul 12, 2021

India national school meal program linked to improved growth in children of beneficiaries

A new study by researchers at the International Food Policy Research Institute found that women who received free meals in primary school have children with improved linear growth. The Mid-Day Meal (MDM) scheme, the largest school feeding program in the world, has been shown to have long-term benefits on nutrition.

SourceInternational Food Policy Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 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.

Researchers: Let crop residues rot in the field -- it's a climate win

Agricultural crop residues play a crucial role in sequestering carbon, with plant material that rots in soil storing carbon for roughly four times longer than if it isn't added. This method has the potential to store between 0.8 and 1.5 gigatonnes of carbon annually, significantly aiding climate efforts.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2021

New study supports medical safety of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)

A new study published in The Lancet Psychiatry suggests that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a medically safe mental health intervention for individuals with severe depression. The research, which analyzed over 10,000 patients, found no clinically significant increased risk of serious medical events with ECT exposure.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateJul 12, 2021

Remarkable new insights into the pathology of Usher syndrome

Researchers have discovered that the Usher syndrome type 1G protein SANS plays a crucial role in regulating splicing process, leading to errors in related genes and disease progression. The study aims to elucidate molecular basis of blindness in Usher syndrome patients.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJul 12, 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.

Progress towards new treatments for tuberculosis

Researchers have discovered a new approach to treating tuberculosis by boosting the body's immune system and targeting cell death pathways. The study found that using preclinical models, infected cells can be killed by drugs called IAP inhibitors, significantly reducing disease severity.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalImmunity·DateJul 12, 2021

Immune system 'clock' predicts illness and mortality

The study found that a single-number quantitative measure, the inflammatory-age score, tracks well with a person's immunological response and the likelihood of incurring aging-related diseases. Blood levels of CXCL9, a cytokine secreted by certain immune cells, contribute more powerfully than any other clock component to the inflammato...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Aging·DateJul 12, 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.

Haziness of exoplanet atmospheres depends on properties of aerosol particles

A laboratory study reveals that haze particles produced under different conditions have varying properties, determining the clarity of an exoplanet's atmosphere. Haze removal depends on surface energy, with particles having high surface energy being easily removed and resulting in clear skies.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJul 12, 2021

DNA barcoding of animal tool materials

Researchers employed DNA barcoding techniques to identify plant species used by wild New Caledonian crows to fashion complex hooked stick tools. The study found that Mimusops elengi was the primary raw material used, providing insights into variation in crows' preferences and plant availability.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2021

Living standards and contraceptive effect of breastfeeding

Improved living standards and factors like reduced physical labor and increased food intake may have decreased breastfeeding's contraceptive effect. This is evident in low-income and middle-income countries where access to electricity and water has become more prevalent.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 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.

Shape-memory alloys might help airplanes land without a peep

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a shape-memory alloy filler that can be inserted into airplane wings to reduce noise during landing. The material can deploy itself into the perfect position, eliminating air circulation and jarring sounds.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Aircraft·DateJul 12, 2021

Giving a "tandem" boost to solar-powered water splitting

Researchers at Nagoya Institute of Technology have developed a highly durable and efficient water splitting cell using titanium oxide and p-type cubic SiC photocatalysts in a tandem structure. The study achieved a maximum solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency of 0.74% and demonstrated durability of over 100 days.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·JournalSolar Energy Materials and Solar Cells·DateJul 12, 2021

Lead exposure and adult personality

Researchers surveyed over 1.5 million adults across Europe and the US to examine potential links between childhood lead exposure and adult personality traits. The study found that those with higher childhood lead levels were less agreeable and more neurotic, while those from areas with cleaner air were more conscientious.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 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.

Training an AI eye on the moon

Researchers have created an AI-powered method to automate the identification of promising lunar landing and exploration areas. The technique uses machine learning and deep learning frameworks to accurately detect craters and rilles with precision rates as high as 83.7%, outperforming existing state-of-the-art methods.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalApplied Energy·DateJul 12, 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.

Abiotic source of phosphine on Venus

Researchers suggest that volcanic eruptions comparable to Krakatau on Earth could be responsible for the presence of phosphine in Venus' atmosphere. The study models calculate that small amounts of phosphides from deep mantle sources could react with sulfuric acid to form phosphine.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2021

'Tuning' for brain scanners

The SCAIFIELD project aims to develop measuring protocols and procedures for maximizing the use of existing MRI technology. This will enable finer details of the human brain to be visualized, leading to better detection of pathological changes in neurodegenerative diseases such as spinocerebellar ataxias.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·DateJul 12, 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.

Brain injury lab receives additional federal funding to boost research

Researchers at UC Riverside's Brain Injury Lab have received significant federal funding to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic epilepsy. Two graduate students, Laura Dovek and Susan Nguyen, have each won prestigious fellowships to study the role of immune receptors in the developme...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJul 12, 2021

Common-pool resource management

A collection of articles shows community monitoring can provide information about resource conditions and counter overuse, but may require compensation to be effective. Training and incentivizing community members to patrol forests has been successful in some cases.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2021

A redundant modular network supports proper brain communication

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine found that a modular network organization is critical for persistent neural activity in the brain. The study revealed that each hemisphere makes its own copy of information and coordinates with the other hemisphere to ensure coherent information during working memory.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell·DateJul 12, 2021

New research suggests explosive volcanic activity on Venus

Scientists from Cornell University have found evidence of explosive volcanic activity on Venus, using phosphine gas as a geological signature. This discovery supports the idea that volcanism is responsible for phosphine's presence in the planet's upper atmosphere.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 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.

Genetic analysis to help predict sunflower oil properties

Researchers identified genetic markers to control fatty acid content in sunflower oil, a key source of vegetable fats. The study used genomic selection to create new crop varieties with tailored properties suitable for different uses.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalBMC Genomics·DateJul 12, 2021

Just 25 mega-cities produce 52% of the world's urban greenhouse gas emissions

A new study reveals that 25 megacities globally produce over half of the world's urban greenhouse gas emissions. Cities in developed countries like Europe, US, and Australia have significantly higher per capita emissions than those in developing areas. The majority of emissions come from stationary energy and transportation sectors.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Cities·DateJul 12, 2021

Fear of rejection vs. joy of inclusion: Faith communities from LGBTQ+ perspectives

A study by West Virginia University researchers found that LGBTQ+ people can benefit from faith communities, experiencing a sense of indescribable joy and relief from inclusion. However, the fear of rejection poses significant psychological stress, leading to 'minority stress' with detrimental effects on physical and mental health.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalSpirituality in Clinical Practice·DateJul 12, 2021

Sussex mathematicians develop ground-breaking modelling toolkit to predict local COVID-19 impact

A new modelling toolkit predicts local COVID-19 impact with unprecedented accuracy, using local hospital data to inform healthcare demand and capacity planning. The Halogen toolkit is available for other local authorities to use, enhancing their ability to predict infection levels and guide public health decisions.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateJul 12, 2021

New technique reduces nicotine levels, harmful compounds simultaneously in tobacco

Researchers at North Carolina State University developed a new technique to alter plant metabolism, reducing harmful chemical compounds, including nicotine and carcinogenic N-nitrosonornicotine (NNN), while promoting beneficial traits like antioxidant-rich anthocyanins. The findings could be used to improve the health benefits of crops.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Advanced Research·DateJul 12, 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.

New electronic paper displays brilliant colors

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology developed a new type of reflective screen that offers optimal color display while using ambient light to keep energy consumption low. The new design allows for more accurate color reproduction and reduces eye strain compared to traditional digital screens.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 12, 2021

Protein appears to prevent tumor cells from spreading via blood vessels

Researchers identified a specialized protein called TRPM7 that regulates the key step in cancer metastasis by sensing fluid flow and stopping cells from entering the bloodstream. Artificially increasing TRPM7 expression in tumor cells may help stop intravasation and ultimately metastasis.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 12, 2021

Hijacked immune activator promotes growth and spread of colorectal cancer

Researchers discovered that colorectal cancer cells exploit an innate immune system activator to fuel their own growth and eliminate surrounding healthy cells. This feedback loop disrupts the balance of cell growth and differentiation, allowing tumors to expand and spread.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJul 12, 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.

Individual privacy and big data uses in public health

A study by Texas A&M University suggests that current US laws do not align with the American public's preferences for using big data in public health. The public prefers big data to be used for common good over individual or self-serving interests.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateJul 12, 2021

Mapping extreme snowmelt and its potential dangers

Researchers mapped extreme snowmelt events across the US over 30 years, finding that unusually warm temperatures drive most cases. Machine learning revealed regional differences in moisture transport, with Pacific Northwest and northeastern US experiencing rain-driven extreme snowmelt.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateJul 12, 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.

Economic impacts of sea level rise protection

A study using San Francisco Bay models found that protective coastal structures can exacerbate flooding along other parts of the shoreline. The analysis estimated significant regional increases in economic damage, up to $723 million, under certain sea-level rise scenarios.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2021

Smarter by the minute: Myriad of applications unlocked by artificial intelligence

AI is transforming various aspects of life, such as road safety with EEG-based driver state estimation techniques and automatic image captioning for indexing large datasets. It also enhances surveillance tasks with cognitive memory-augmented networks, improving accuracy and reliability.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateJul 12, 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.

Urban areas with high levels of air pollution may increase risk of childhood obesity

A study of over 2,000 children in Barcelona found that living in urban areas with high levels of air pollution, noise, and traffic was associated with higher body mass index and a higher likelihood of being overweight or obese. The researchers proposed several mechanisms, including air pollution's potential to disrupt molecular mechani...

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironment International·DateJul 12, 2021

Naturally abundant venom peptide from ants can activate a pseudo allergic pathway unravelling a novel immunomodulatory pathway of MRGPRX2

A research team has identified a naturally abundant venom peptide from ants that can initiate an immune response via a pseudo-allergic receptor MRGPRX2. The study reveals a novel pathway for this receptor, showing P17 induces infiltration of monocytes at the injected site by activating MRGPRX2.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJul 12, 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.

A common ancestor for cells involved in hearing and touch

A new study from USC Stem Cell scientists reveals striking similarities between sensory cells in the inner ear and Merkel cells in the skin. The research identifies a shared mechanism involved in gene regulation or epigenetics that enables differentiation into specialized hair cells and Merkel cells.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2021

AAN issues ethical guidance for dementia diagnosis and care

The American Academy of Neurology provides ethical guidance for neurologists caring for people with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. The position statement emphasizes the importance of respecting patient autonomy, involving families in care decisions, and addressing ethnic disparities in dementia diagnosis and treatment.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJul 12, 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.

People given 'friendly' bacteria in nose drops protected against meningitis

Researchers have successfully used nose drops containing genetically modified friendly bacteria to protect against meningitis, showing strong and long-lasting immune responses. The new method, which exploits the natural presence of non-pathogenic Neisseria lactamica in the nose, has potential applications beyond meningitis prevention.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 12, 2021

Gene therapy offers long-awaited hope for children with rare, incurable disorder

A gene therapy trial has shown significant improvements in children with primary AADC deficiency, a devastating genetic disorder characterized by severe motor disability and developmental delay. The treatment targets neurons that produce dopamine, resulting in improved motor function, better mood, and longer sleep.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2021

The fine nose of storks

Researchers discovered that storks are attracted to the smell of freshly cut grass, using their sense of smell to locate food sources. This finding suggests that the sense of smell may play a greater role in other birds than previously thought, contradicting previous assumptions about bird behavior.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 12, 2021

A Trojan horse could help get drugs past our brain's tough border patrol

A study by University of Copenhagen researchers reveals that nanoparticles can target venules, not capillaries, to deliver drugs to the brain. The breakthrough allows for more efficient and safer therapeutic approaches to treat neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2021

Sensing "junk" RNA after chemotherapy enhances blood regeneration

Hematopoietic stem cells use RNA from junk DNA to enhance activation after chemotherapy, leading to increased inflammatory signaling and faster blood cell production. This mechanism helps improve blood regeneration after chemotherapy.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJul 12, 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.

BU researchers develop novel, woman controlled contraceptive product

Researchers have developed an anti-sperm monoclonal antibody that shows potent sperm agglutination and immobilization activity, making it a safe and effective method of birth control. The Human Contraception Antibody (HCA) is being tested in a Phase I Clinical Trial and could address current gaps in the contraception field.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalEBioMedicine·DateJul 12, 2021

Danish student solves how the Universe is reflected near black holes

A Danish student has solved the mathematical expression behind black hole image distortions, revealing a key factor of 500 times. The result provides new opportunities to test gravity and understanding of black holes, particularly in rotating cases.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 12, 2021

Teardrop star reveals hidden supernova doom

Astronomers have discovered a rare binary star system, HD265435, which is spiralling towards a Type Ia supernova. The white dwarf companion will go supernova in around 70 million years, providing valuable insights into the expansion of the universe.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJul 12, 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.

Study reveals ways to preserve employee morale during cost-cutting

Research from Washington State University finds that layoffs and cost-cutting measures can affect employee morale for up to two years after the event, with investments in workers leading to lasting improvements in job attitudes. Employers can mitigate negative effects by prioritizing worker investments and company culture.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Organizational Behavior·DateJul 12, 2021

NASA Lucy mission's message to the future

The Lucy spacecraft is carrying a time-capsule plaque featuring messages from prominent individuals to humanity's descendants. The plaque contains words of advice, wisdom, joy, and inspiration from Nobel Laureates, United States Poet Laureates, and other inspirational figures.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 12, 2021

The Equalizer: An engineered circuit for uniform gene expression

Researchers have engineered a new genetic circuit called Equalizers to buffer protein output from variations in gene dosage. This allows for consistent protein expression, crucial for studying proteins and understanding their functions. The innovation combines two types of gene dosage compensation circuits, improving overall performanc...

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 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.

Near the toys and the candy bars

A recent study by Dr. Yael Bar-Zeev at Hebrew University of Jerusalem found that tobacco companies are exploiting loopholes to market IQOS products near toys, candy, and schools, targeting young consumers. The audit revealed that 70% of stores selling IQOS were within 300 meters of high schools.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateJul 12, 2021

Crystal clear: Lepidopterans have many ways of being transparent

A comprehensive study of Lepidoptera's transparent wings reveals multiple approaches to achieve transparency, including the absence of scales and varying scale densities. The research suggests that transparency acts as ultimate camouflage, making butterflies less visible to predators.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcological Monographs·DateJul 12, 2021

Officers' tone of voice reflects racial disparities in policing

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that police officers' tone of voice conveys less warmth, respect, and ease when speaking to Black male drivers during routine traffic stops. This subtle negativity contributes to a downward cycle of distrust between police and the Black community. The researchers suggest...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJul 12, 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.

Sweet success: CABBI demonstrates first precision breeding of sugarcane with CRISPR-Cas9

Recent innovations by University of Florida researchers at CABBI demonstrate the first successful precision breeding of sugarcane using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. This technique allows for precise changes in genes and introduces superior versions, potentially increasing productivity and sustainability.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalFrontiers in Genome Editing·DateJul 12, 2021

Teardrop star reveals hidden supernova doom

Astronomers have discovered a rare teardrop-shaped star system that will eventually become a Type Ia supernova. The system, HD265435, is comprised of a hot subdwarf and a white dwarf star orbiting each other closely, with the white dwarf being as heavy as our Sun but slightly smaller than Earth's radius.

SourceW. M. Keck Observatory·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJul 12, 2021

Study shows forests play greater role in depositing toxic mercury across the globe

Researchers found that 76% of mercury deposition in a Massachusetts forest comes from atmospheric sources, with plants dominating as a source of mercury on land. The study suggests that forests worldwide may be a larger global absorber and collector of gaseous mercury than previously assumed.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2021

Human environmental genome recovered in the absence of skeletal remains

Researchers successfully recovered a human environmental genome from the BIII layer of the cave of Satsurblia, dated 25,000 years ago, without skeletal remains. The analysis revealed genetic similarities with nearby cave of Dzudzuana and confirmed extinct lineage contributions to present-day West-Eurasian populations.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 12, 2021

Awareness and use of sick leave

Approximately 8 million US employees used FFCRA emergency sick leave within the first 6-8 months. Unmet sick leave needs tripled during the pandemic, with women exhibiting a higher risk, and college graduates, Asian-Americans, and native-born employees being more likely to know about and use the benefit.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2021

Preventing oxygen release leads to safer high-energy-density batteries

Researchers from Tohoku University discovered that preventing oxygen release in lithium-ion batteries can prevent thermal runaway, a critical issue in high-energy-density batteries. The study found that stabilizing transition metals reduces oxygen release, leading to safer battery performance.

SourceTohoku University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateJul 12, 2021

New research reveals how the impact of ENSO on Asian-Western Pacific climate would change under global warming

A new study published in the Journal of Climate found that about 23% of uncertainty in WNPAC projection is attributed to El Nino amplitude change, while 77% comes from non-amplitude change related to El Nino decaying pace. The research highlights the importance of considering other El Nino characteristics in climate system projections.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Climate·DateJul 12, 2021

Gut microbiome changes and celiac disease

A longitudinal study of infants at risk of developing celiac disease found increased microbial strains and metabolites associated with autoimmune conditions, while decreased protective effects were observed. These preclinical gut microbiome changes may serve as early markers of disease progression.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2021

Humans can learn from animals and insects about impact of climate change

A group of researchers studied how animals modify their habitats in response to climate change and found that understanding these modifications can improve predictions of climate change's effects on species. The study highlights the importance of understanding how animals adapt to changing environments, which can inform strategies for ...

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 12, 2021

Harnessing the dark side

Researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have developed a technique to control and shape optical singularities, opening up possibilities for wide-ranging fields including super-resolution microscopy techniques and new atomic particle traps.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2021

Selective, toxin-bearing antibodies could help treat liver fibrosis

Researchers at University of California San Diego have found that immunotoxins targeting mesothelin can prevent liver cells from producing collagen, a precursor to fibrosis and cirrhosis. In mouse models, these antibodies killed 60-100% of human mesothelin-producing cells, reducing collagen deposition.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2021

Symbionts sans frontieres: Bacterial partners travel the world

A new study reveals that some bacterial symbionts of bivalves have traveled the globe and established partnerships with host species across diverse habitats. This finding challenges previous concepts of symbiont acquisition and highlights the remarkable flexibility in this partnership, which benefits both hosts and symbionts.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2021

Do more visits with kidney specialists improve dialysis patient-reported outcomes?

A recent study published in CJASN found that patients with kidney failure did not report better experiences with care from more frequent face-to-face visits with kidney specialists. In fact, more frequent visits were linked to slightly lower patient-reported experiences with kidney-related care.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 12, 2021

Sea-level rise solutions

The study reveals that seawalls can increase flooding and incur significant damages, while strategic flooding areas can absorb increased water and avoid damage. Bay Area communities need to coordinate their approaches to sea-level rise adaptation to find solutions that benefit the whole bay.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2021

How learning Braille changes brain structure over time

A new study reveals that learning Braille changes the brain's white matter, with somatosensory and visual cortices strengthening connections at varied rates. The research found that white matter in both regions underwent significant reorganization, with notable differences in timing and extent.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJul 12, 2021

New study may offer treatment guidance for MIS-C

A new study has found that treating children and adolescents with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) with intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) and glucocorticoids reduces the risk of serious short-term outcomes, including cardiovascular dysfunction. The study analyzed data from over 596 patients and showed a significan...

SourceRutgers University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 12, 2021

USC researchers discover better way to identify DNA variants

Researchers at USC have discovered a better way to identify elusive DNA variants that affect cell functions and diseases. The new method uses computational biology tools to detect variations in repetitive DNA sequences, known as VNTRs, which govern gene expression.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2021

Childhood lead exposure may adversely affect adults' personalities

A new study by researchers at the University of Texas at Austin found that childhood lead exposure may lead to less mature and less healthy personalities in adulthood. Adults who grew up in areas with higher levels of atmospheric lead had lower levels of conscientiousness and agreeableness, and higher levels of neuroticism.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2021

Rise in Southeast Asia forest clearance increasing greenhouse gases

Forest clearance in Southeast Asia has accelerated, with over 400 million metric tons of carbon released into the atmosphere each year. The region's mountain forests are being cleared at increasingly higher altitudes and on steeper slopes for agricultural intensification, posing a significant threat to biodiversity and climate change.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJul 12, 2021

Magnetic field from MRI affects focused-ultrasound-mediated blood-brain barrier

Research found that MRI's static magnetic field decreases blood-brain barrier opening volume and microbubble cavitation activity, leading to reduced drug delivery efficiency. The study suggests considering the impact of the magnetic field in clinical applications of focused ultrasound for brain disease treatment.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalRadiology·DateJul 12, 2021