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Science News for July 7, 2021


Quantum particles: Pulled and compressed

By briefly delocalizing particles over exponentially larger distances, researchers can harness the quantum nature of nanoparticles. This technique also enables highly sensitive instruments to determine forces such as gravity with high precision.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 7, 2021

Dancing with music can halt most debilitating symptoms of Parkinson's disease

A new study shows participating in weekly dance training with music can improve daily living and motor function for those with mild-to-moderate Parkinson's disease. The research found significant improvements in experiences of daily living, including cognitive impairment, hallucinations, depression, and anxious mood.

SourceYork University·JournalBrain Sciences·DateJul 7, 2021

A universal approach to tailoring soft robots

Researchers at Singapore University of Technology and Design developed a novel approach to tailoring soft robots' mechanical properties. By integrating design optimisation and fabrication, they created customised robots that outperformed traditionally casted counterparts in swimming performance.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateJul 7, 2021

Why insisting you're not racist may backfire

A new study by UC Berkeley Haas School of Business researchers found that white participants who claim to be non-prejudiced often convey the opposite message through their language. The study suggests that explicit egalitarianism can blind people to underlying prejudice and perpetuate prejudicial attitudes.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateJul 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.

Next generation cytogenetics is on its way

Optical Genome Mapping (OGM) detects abnormalities in chromosomes extremely quickly and accurately, potentially replacing traditional techniques. This new technology has been proven effective in detecting hereditary disorders and could significantly improve patient care.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 7, 2021

New approach will help identify drugs that can 'glue' proteins together

Researchers at the University of Birmingham have developed a new screening method to test therapeutic molecules designed to bind proteins together. The method uses mass spectrometry to measure the precise mass of proteins and their 'glue' compounds, identifying the strongest glue to treat diseases.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalChemical Science·DateJul 7, 2021

For neuroscientists and researchers in general, a checklist for eliminating gender bias

A comprehensive checklist for eliminating gender bias in academia is provided by researchers Anaïs Llorens and Athina Tzovara. The study highlights various forms of gender bias, including their impact on women's careers, work-life balance, and mental health. By implementing this checklist, individuals can remedy these biases and create...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNeuron·DateJul 7, 2021

Igniting plasmas in liquids

Researchers develop underwater plasmas using high-voltage pulses, creating extreme conditions with pressures and temperatures similar to the Pacific Ocean's deepest point. The ignition process challenges conventional theories and demonstrates the potential for re-oxidising catalytic surfaces in electrochemical cells.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJul 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.

Study reveals how our immune system reacts to COVID-19 variants

Australian scientists found that COVID-19 survivors produced sustained antibodies but they were less effective against contemporary variants. The study suggests vaccination is more effective than the body's natural response and highlights the need for new vaccine designs to keep pace with emerging variants.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 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.

Arctic seabirds are less heat tolerant, more vulnerable to climate change

A study published in Journal of Experimental Biology found that Arctic seabirds are poorly adapted to cope with rising temperatures, leading to increased mortality rates. The researchers discovered that murres have an extremely poor ability to dissipate heat, making them more vulnerable to heat stress.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJul 7, 2021

Scientists use artificial intelligence to detect gravitational waves

A team of researchers has developed a new AI framework that allows for accelerated and scalable detection of gravitational waves. The framework, built using NVIDIA GPUs, can process large datasets in real-time, enabling the detection of four binary black hole mergers in under seven minutes.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJul 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.

Striking absence of flu and other "usual suspects" during COVID-19 pandemic

Cases of flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) plummeted during the COVID-19 pandemic due to social distancing, school closures, and mask use. The study suggests that infection with COVID-19 may have provided protection against other respiratory viruses through viral interference.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 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.

Human-driven habitat change leads to physical, behavioral change in mosquitofish

A study from North Carolina State University found that Bahamian mosquitofish in fragmented habitats are more exploratory but also more stressed and have smaller brain regions associated with fear response. The research cautions against damaging adapted populations in environmental restoration projects.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateJul 7, 2021

Newly diagnosed HIV infection in an 83-year-old man--research highlights older populations still at risk

An 83-year-old man was diagnosed with HIV after experiencing fever and weight loss. He was treated with antiretroviral therapy and achieved an undetectable viral load. The case highlights the importance of targeting older adults for HIV testing, as they are often diagnosed late and at higher risk of death.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 7, 2021

Faulty memories of our past whereabouts: The fallacy of an airtight alibi

A study examined how humans remember past locations using GPS tracking and sound recordings. Participants' memories were often incorrect, especially when events were similar or involved similar sounds/movements, highlighting the fallacy of an airtight alibi. The findings have implications for alibi generation and investigation strategies.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 7, 2021

New insights into Salmonella's survival strategies

Researchers identified 421 previously unknown interactions between Salmonella proteins and host cell proteins, including those involved in cholesterol trafficking. This approach sheds light on how Salmonella survives inside host cells by manipulating protein machineries and pathways.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJul 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.

Wild birds learn to avoid distasteful prey by watching others

A team of researchers found that wild birds can learn to avoid distasteful prey by observing what others eat, resolving a long-standing evolutionary problem. This breakthrough highlights the critical role of social information transmission in predator-prey dynamics and eco-evo processes.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 7, 2021

The Obesity Society issues new position statement:

The Obesity Society's new position statement confirms COVID-19 vaccines are highly efficacious in individuals with and without obesity. Trials demonstrate similar vaccine efficacy in both groups against COVID-19-associated hospitalization and death.

SourceThe Obesity Society·JournalObesity·DateJul 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.

CWRU receives $1.2M W.M. Keck Foundation grant to determine ecological factors affect the evolution of our ancestors

A global team led by Case Western Reserve University's Beverly Saylor will investigate how ecological factors influenced the evolution of early human ancestors using advanced technology. The project aims to gain a more granular understanding of two fossil sites in Ethiopia and their distinct records of the human genus' early predecessors.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateJul 7, 2021

Atmospheric acidity impacts oceanic ecology

New research reveals that increased atmospheric acidity is disrupting the ecological balance of oceans by altering nutrient transport and productivity. The study found that atmospheric acidity affects the quantity and distribution of nutrients delivered to the ocean, leading to a direct fertilizing effect on marine phytoplankton.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 7, 2021

Could ketogenic diet be helpful with brain cancer?

A modified ketogenic diet was found to be safe and feasible for people with brain tumors called astrocytomas. The diet led to changes in metabolism in the body and brain, including decreased hemoglobin A1c levels, increased lean body mass, and alterations in brain metabolites.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJul 7, 2021

Energycane produces more biodiesel than soybean at a lower cost

Researchers developed chemical-free pretreatment methods and high-throughput phenotyping techniques for producing fuel from energycane. The studies found that energycane can produce up to 7.5 barrels of diesel per acre, surpassing soybean production, with lower costs and environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateJul 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.

Study: Hospitals not adequately prepared for next pandemic

A new study from the University of Maryland School of Medicine found hospitals are not adequately prepared for the next pandemic. The Hospital Medical Surge Preparedness Index (HMSPI) tool assesses a hospital's ability to handle sudden influxes in patients due to mass shootings, infectious disease outbreaks, or pandemics.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Healthcare Management·DateJul 7, 2021

International team aims to make musculoskeletal health a global priority

An international research team has mapped the current global landscape for musculoskeletal health and developed an action plan to address the growing global burden of disability. The blueprint prioritizes eight key areas, including community education, leadership, and research, to guide health systems reform and promote integrated care.

SourceCurtin University·DateJul 7, 2021

Study: Impulsiveness tied to faster eating in children, can lead to obesity

A new study by the University at Buffalo and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that children who eat faster are more likely to be impulsive and experience frustration. The research also suggests that kids who respond well to food cues exhibit more self-control and a lower risk of obesity.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPediatric Obesity·DateJul 7, 2021

Discovery shows how tuning the immune system may enhance vaccines and ease disease

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital identified a metabolic control pathway that regulates T follicular helper cells, offering targets for drugs to stimulate the adaptive immune response and treat autoimmune diseases such as lupus. The finding holds promise for developing new vaccines and treatments.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature·DateJul 7, 2021

Greater investment and innovation in educating children about environmental issues needed to help future generations respond to the climate emergency, experts urge

Environmental education provision needs significant support and investment to address the complex issues of the climate emergency. Experts argue that governments must direct more funding to education innovation, making environmental education a cornerstone for social and environmental changes.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironmental Education Research·DateJul 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.

Like a molten pancake

A new model simulates tortuous magma pathways feeding eruptions, identifying three forces: hotspot rise, volcanic rock weight, and buoyancy. This understanding lays foundations for predicting fissure eruptions and reducing dangers.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 7, 2021

Quantum laser turns energy loss into gain?

Scientists at KAIST developed a laser system generating highly interactive quantum particles at room temperature, which can recycle lost energy to achieve lower threshold energy levels. The system exploits parity-time reversal symmetry, allowing energy loss to be used as gain for high-efficiency and low-threshold lasers.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Photonics·DateJul 7, 2021

Most common joint procedures not backed by high quality evidence

Despite widespread use, many common joint procedures like hip replacements and shoulder repair surgery have limited high-quality evidence to support their clinical effectiveness. The analysis highlights the urgent need for research and definitive trials to evaluate these interventions.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJul 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.

Harnessing AI to discover new drugs

Researchers at ETH Zurich used AI to identify target molecules of natural substances, paving the way for a new class of pharmaceutical agents. The algorithm successfully predicted human receptors and enzymes that interact with natural compounds, leading to the discovery of simpler, cheaper alternatives.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 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.

Scientists home in on recipe for entirely renewable energy

Researchers from Trinity College Dublin have made significant progress in developing a recipe for entirely renewable energy by splitting water to produce green hydrogen. The team has identified nine earth-abundant metal combinations as highly promising leads for experimental investigation, with chromium, manganese, and iron standing ou...

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateJul 7, 2021

Mapping urban greenspace use with cellphone GPS data

A study published in PLOS ONE found that urban greenspace use is correlated with demographics, with women, older adults, and ethnic minority groups spending more time outdoors. The authors used GPS data from cell phone apps to track users' visits to local green spaces, revealing significant effects on trip duration and distance.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 7, 2021

Machine-learning improves the prediction of stroke recovery

Researchers developed a predictive tool using machine learning and connectome analysis to identify neuronal network patterns and predict individual recovery outcomes. The study analyzed 92 patients' brain structural connectomes, tracking changes in connection patterns during recovery.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalBrain·DateJul 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.

Cutting through noise for better solar cells

Researchers use cross-correlation noise spectroscopy to identify crucial electrical noise signals in silicon solar cells, pinpointing physical processes causing energy loss and lower efficiency. The technique allows for precise measurement of noise and removal of detector noise, enabling the detection of smaller noise signals.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 7, 2021

For female vampire bats, an equal chance to rule the roost

Researchers observed an egalitarian community among female vampire bats, with no specific quality predicting dominance. The study found that adult females had an equal opportunity to rank high or low in a dominance scale, and young males were subordinate to adults.

SourceOhio State University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJul 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.

Slow music in tunnels can keep drivers focused and safe

A virtual reality study found that slow music played as background throughout the tunnel reduces drivers' nervousness and fatigue, while sirens are most effective when played at entry points and during emergencies. The combination of slow music with occasional sirens is proposed as a best solution to improve road safety.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJul 7, 2021

Young South Asian heart attack patients more likely to be obese, use tobacco

A new study found that young South Asian heart attack patients are more likely to be obese and use tobacco products. The study also revealed a higher prevalence of family history of heart disease and abnormal lipids in this patient population. Targeting modifiable risk factors, creating awareness, and decreasing system delays can help ...

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateJul 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.

NUS researchers bring attack-proof quantum communication two steps forward

Researchers from NUS have developed two methods to ensure QKD communications cannot be attacked using side-channel attacks. The first is an ultra-secure cryptography protocol that can be deployed in any communication network, and the second is a device that defends against bright light pulse attacks by creating a power threshold.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalPRX Quantum·DateJul 7, 2021

Muscle relaxants largely ineffective for low back pain

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that muscle relaxants have a small effect on reducing pain intensity in the short term, but this effect is not clinically meaningful. The use of muscle relaxants may also increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness and nausea.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJul 7, 2021

Ancient Islamic tombs cluster like galaxies

A study published in PLOS ONE reveals that ancient Islamic tombs in Sudan are distributed according to large-scale environmental factors and small-scale social factors. The tombs cluster around central 'parent' points, likely representing older tombs of importance, with smaller scale distribution influenced by nearby older structures.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 7, 2021

Researchers identify ultrastable single atom magnet

Researchers at Ewha Womans University have created ultra-stable single-atom magnets that can maintain their magnetic state over days. Using Scanning Tunneling Microscopy, the team achieved atomic-scale control of magnetic fields within quantum architectures.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 7, 2021

Plant patch enables continuous monitoring for crop diseases

Researchers from North Carolina State University have developed a wearable sensor that monitors plant stress and disease in a noninvasive way by measuring volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by plants. The system can alert users to specific problems, allowing growers to identify issues quickly and limit the spread of diseases.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMatter·DateJul 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.

Tiny tools: Controlling individual water droplets as biochemical reactors

Researchers at Ritsumeikan University have developed a novel technique to individually select and control tiny water droplets in lab-on-a-chip applications. The method uses electrowetting-on-dielectric technology to make individual droplets stand taller, allowing for selective contact and transfer of chemicals or cells.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 7, 2021

Mapping dengue hot spots pinpoints risk for Zika and chikungunya

A study maps dengue fever hot spots to predict future outbreaks of Zika and chikungunya, revealing a 62% overlap between dengue and Zika hot spots. Targeted indoor residual spraying is shown to be effective in controlling Aedes-borne diseases.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateJul 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.

A biological fireworks show 300 million years in the making

The study reveals that frog eggs release zinc and manganese sparks after fertilization, indicating a shared biology between humans and frogs. The research has implications for understanding the interplay of dietary zinc status and human fertility.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJul 7, 2021

Diversification in supply chain crucial to avoid 'food shock' in cities

A team of researchers from Penn State and Northern Arizona University developed a statistical risk model linking supply chain diversity to the probability of a city experiencing food shocks. The study found that higher diversity in the supply chain leads to lower probabilities of food shock, highlighting the importance of diversifying ...

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateJul 7, 2021

Mucus and mucins may become the medicine of the future

Scientists have found a way to artificially produce healthy mucus, which could lead to new medical treatments and therapies. The discovery is particularly promising for the treatment of diseases related to intestinal flora, such as infections and eye infections.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 7, 2021

Small amount of lithium production in classical nova

A new study found a low rate of lithium production in a classical nova, indicating diversity within these events. This discovery suggests that other objects, such as supernovae, may also contribute to lithium production in the Universe.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·DateJul 7, 2021

Engineered protein inspired by nature may help plastic plague

Researchers have engineered an enzyme to bind to and degrade plastic particles, potentially helping to resolve the issue of complete recycling of PET in industry. The enzyme, called PET2, was found to accelerate the reaction between PET's chemical components and water when positive charges were introduced on its surface.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalACS Catalysis·DateJul 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.

Why wild African fruits can supplement low protein staple foods

Research from University of Johannesburg uncovers essential amino acids in wild African fruits. The study reveals several species exceed daily nutritional values recommended by WHO. The white olive and jacket plum are good candidates to boost immune function against viruses due to high lysine content.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalPlants·DateJul 7, 2021

Molecular imaging improves staging and treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas

The study found that 68Ga-FAPI PET/CT imaging can improve restaging of disease in more than half of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas, particularly those with local recurrence. This new imaging modality may help detect new or clarify inconclusive results obtained by standard CT imaging.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJul 7, 2021

Wolbachia and the paradox of growth regulation

Researchers discovered that Wolbachia's growth affects its cost for the host and its transmission efficiency. The team found that protection against viruses depends on the amount of Wolbachia at the moment of infection, while longevity relates to its speed of growth in adult hosts.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJul 7, 2021

More EVs could reduce CO2 emissions in Hawaii by 93% in less than 30 years

Faster EV adoption and renewable energy generation will significantly reduce CO2 emissions in Hawaii, with a potential decrease of up to 93% by 2050. This is made possible through mathematical models created by University of Hawaii at Manoa faculty member Katherine McKenzie.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalWorld Electric Vehicle Journal·DateJul 7, 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 clues to why there's so little antimatter in the universe

Physicists at MIT have successfully measured a neutron's tiny effect in a radioactive molecule, revealing small nuclear effects and providing a chance to search for subtle symmetry violations related to dark matter and the Big Bang. The team used heavy radioactive molecules with extreme sensitivity to nuclear phenomena.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 7, 2021

McMaster researchers identify how VITT happens

Researchers discovered the molecular mechanism behind vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), a rare but fatal blood clotting disorder. The findings will enable the development of rapid diagnostic tests and new strategies to prevent VITT, making vaccines safer.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNature·DateJul 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.

Tool helps predicts who will respond best to targeted prostate cancer therapy

A new 'nomogram' helps predict which men with advanced metastatic prostate cancer will respond favorably to LuPSMA, a targeted therapy. The tool analyzes imaging and clinical data to stratify patients into high-risk or low-risk groups, enabling more personalized treatments.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateJul 7, 2021

Not only humans got talent, dogs got it too!

A new study published in Scientific Reports found that a handful of dogs learn multiple toy names effortlessly, despite struggling with object labels. The research suggests that talent in a specific field may not be exclusively human, with gifted word learner dogs displaying exceptional learning capacity.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 7, 2021

Open-source software to help cities plant in pursuit of clean air

A new open-source software, GI4RAQ Platform, enables practitioners to estimate pollutant concentration changes resulting from different planting schemes in streets. It focuses on key pollutants from road transport and provides a detailed analysis of the urban form and planting specified by users.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalForests·DateJul 7, 2021

Personalized tumor vaccines may solve tumor recurrence and metastasis challenges

Researchers developed hybrid membrane nanovaccines that educate patients' immune systems to distinguish tumor components as 'non-self', preventing recurrence and metastasis. The vaccines induce robust innate and adaptive immune responses, offering a new opportunity for individualized cancer vaccines.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 7, 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.

New type of massive explosion explains mystery star

Researchers have found evidence of a 'magneto-rotational hypernova', a previously unknown type of cataclysm that could explain the presence of high amounts of uranium and zinc in ancient stars. The discovery, published in Nature, reveals a new pathway for the formation of heavy elements in the infant universe.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for All Sky Astrophysics in 3D (ASTRO 3D)·JournalNature·DateJul 7, 2021

The reproductive advantages of large male fish

Researchers found that larger male mosquitofish are preferred by females and produce more sperm. They also excel at driving off rivals and using forced mating strategies due to their small size and agility. The study analyzed 36 studies and provided new insights into the relationship between body size and reproductive success in fish.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateJul 7, 2021

New study shows mathematical models helped reduce the spread of COVID-19

A new study published in Emerging Infectious Diseases found that mathematical models informed early statewide policies in Colorado, avoiding 97% of potential hospitalizations. The modeling team developed a SEIR model calibrated to Colorado COVID-19 data and provided real-time estimates to policymakers.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateJul 7, 2021

Malaria and dengue predicted to affect billions more people

A new study predicts that climate change could increase the global population at risk of malaria and dengue by up to 4.7 billion people by 2100, particularly in lowlands and urban areas. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions could prevent millions from contracting these diseases.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateJul 7, 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.

Factors associated with deaths in US ICE detention facilities

A study examining US ICE detention facility deaths from 2011 to 2018 found that inadequate healthcare, poor living conditions, and mental health issues were key factors contributing to these deaths. The study highlights the need for improved healthcare and living conditions in ICE facilities to prevent unnecessary deaths.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 7, 2021

Researchers clarify reasons for low rate of employment among people with disabilities

A study of 3,013 participants found that people with disabilities cite concerns about medical conditions, functional limitations, and workplace culture as major barriers to employment. The research highlights the importance of addressing negative perceptions to develop effective return-to-work or employment interventions.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalRehabilitation Counseling Bulletin·DateJul 7, 2021

When taste and healthfulness compete, taste has a hidden advantage

A study by Nicolette Sullivan and Scott Huettel found that the brain processes taste information first, followed by health information, leading to unhealthy snack choices. Slowing down the decision-making process can help individuals make healthier options.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJul 7, 2021

Anti-coagulant drug could treat COVID-19's emerging variants

Researchers identified a novel binding site on the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein's N-terminal domain, which is targeted by heparan sulphate and its mimetics. This finding suggests that anti-coagulant drugs like heparin could be repurposed as potential antiviral treatments for COVID-19 variants.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalComputational and Structural Biotechnology Journal·DateJul 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.

How plants compensate symbiotic microbes

Researchers found that plants don't quite achieve 'equal pay' for microbes, instead allocating resources based on the quality of service. The plant-microbe exchanges follow a square-root model, where low-performing microbes receive more resources than expected.

SourceStanford University·DateJul 7, 2021

Gender pay gap means fewer female candidates on the ballot

A new study finds that electoral districts with a larger gender pay gap tend to have fewer female candidates, as voters' biases against women candidates can lead to lower vote shares. The Parity Law has had limited impact in reducing this disparity, with parties strategically allocating female candidates to less competitive districts.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of the European Economic Association·DateJul 7, 2021

New AI tech for early detection of prostate cancer

A new AI-powered diagnostic tool can spot asymptomatic prostate cancer in routine CT scans, allowing for earlier diagnosis and improved treatment outcomes. The technology, developed at RMIT University, has been shown to perform better than human radiologists in detecting cancerous growths.

SourceRMIT University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 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.

Wastewater did not significantly alter seismic stress direction in southern Kansas

A new study concludes that wastewater disposal has not significantly altered the orientation of stress in the Earth's crust in southern Kansas. The researchers analyzed shear wave splitting data and found no evidence for a significant rotation in the fast direction, contradicting previous estimates.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateJul 7, 2021

Research paves the way to early diagnosis of diabetic neuropathy

Researchers found diabetics use half as much force to hold objects, unlike those with other neurological diseases. The study developed a new methodology to measure grip force, providing potential for quick and easy diagnosis of diabetic neuropathy.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalHuman Movement Science·DateJul 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.

Soft shell makes hard ceramic less likely to shatter

Researchers at Rice University have created a coating made of soft polymer that can help keep knotty ceramic structures from shattering. The coating was tested on complex lattices called schwarzites, which were found to be up to 4.5 times more resistant to catastrophic fractures.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 7, 2021

Researchers detail the most ancient bat fossil ever discovered in Asia

Researchers have discovered two ancient bat fossil teeth in Asia, dating back to the Eocene epoch and pushing the evolutionary record for bats on that continent back by 55 million years. The findings suggest that bats may have originated in Asia before spreading globally, but the exact characteristics of these early bats remain unclear.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalBiology Letters·DateJul 7, 2021

Protein's 'silent code' affects how cells move

A University of Pennsylvania-led study found that protein actin's nucleotide sequences, not amino acid sequences, govern its functions in cells. The faster translation rate of beta-actin mRNA causes it to attach to substrates more strongly, slowing down cell movement.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·DateJul 7, 2021

Reducing the melting of the Greenland ice cap using solar geoengineering?

Climatologists tested a solar geoengineering scenario using the MAR climate model to reduce Greenland's mass loss by 6% locally. However, the researchers warn that this approach is not sufficient to stabilize the ice cap by the end of the century and poses risks to the ozone layer and water cycles.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalThe Cryosphere·DateJul 7, 2021

Metabolic enzyme promotes neuroblastoma aggressiveness

Research reveals that elevated DLST expression predicts poor patient outcomes and disease aggression in human neuroblastoma. Conversely, reducing DLST levels impairs tumor initiation and suppresses aggression.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalCancer Research·DateJul 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.

Changes in Earth's orbit enabled the emergence of complex life

Scientists discovered that changes in Earth's orbit allowed for ice-free regions to develop on 'Snowball Earth', enabling periodic survival of animal life. The research found evidence of iron-rich sedimentary rocks forming in the icy ocean near colossal ice sheets, providing a sanctuary for complex multicellular life.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 7, 2021

Machine learning tool sorts the nuances of quantum data

A Cornell University-led team developed a machine learning tool called Correlation Convolutional Neural Networks (CCNN) to parse quantum matter and make distinctions in the data. CCNN can identify relationships among microscopic properties that are impossible to determine at the scale of quantum systems.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 7, 2021

5 million deaths a year caused by global climate related abnormal temps

A global study found that abnormal hot and cold temperatures cause over 9.43% of global deaths, with most deaths caused by cold exposure. The study revealed geographic differences in temperature-related mortality, with Eastern Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa having the highest heat and cold-related excess death rates.

SourceMonash University·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateJul 7, 2021

How seeds know it's a good time to germinate

Researchers found a protein called FLOE1 that allows seeds to directly perceive their hydration state and act upon it. This discovery has major implications for understanding plant ecology and designing drought-resistant crops to combat climate change.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalCell·DateJul 7, 2021

Microscopy technique makes finer images of deeper tissue, more quickly

A team of MIT and Harvard University researchers has developed a modified version of two-photon imaging that can image deeper within tissue and perform the imaging much more quickly than what was previously possible. This technique allows for high-resolution images of structures such as blood vessels and individual neurons within the b...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 7, 2021

For many students, double-dose algebra leads to college attainment

A new study found that double-dose algebra significantly increased semesters of college attended and college degree attainment among median-skill students. Implementing the policy in schools with lower-skilled students led to no impact, highlighting the need for more intensive math interventions.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 7, 2021

Climate change will increase temperature-attributable mortality

A new study predicts that global warming will lead to a sharp increase in heat-related deaths, outstripping the decline in cold-related mortality, unless strong mitigation measures are taken immediately. The Mediterranean Basin is expected to be disproportionately affected due to its greater vulnerability to heat.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateJul 7, 2021

Banishing cigarettes into history's ashcan

A new grant is expanding a Texas tobacco program to target substance use patients in rural communities. The program aims to reduce smoking rates among individuals with psychiatric disorders and substance dependencies.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateJul 7, 2021

Anti-androgen therapy can fuel spread of bone tumours in advanced prostate cancer

Researchers developed a miniature 3D bone-like tissue model to investigate the effects of anti-androgen therapies on prostate cancer bone tumours. The study found that traditional therapy had limited effect, with interactions between cancer cells and the bone microenvironment significantly impacting disease progress.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 7, 2021

AI predicts diabetes risk by measuring fat around the heart

A new AI tool automatically measures fat around the heart from MRI scan images, linking it to increased diabetes risk. The tool was tested on over 45,000 people and accurately calculated their risk of developing diabetes.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalFrontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine·DateJul 7, 2021