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Science News for July 9, 2021


Evolution in real time

The study reveals that Chlamydomonas reinhardtii undergoes mutations leading to the emergence of multicellular life. The experiment confirms a theory on the origin of multicellularity, where cell groups are better at reproduction and more likely to survive than single cells.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 9, 2021

Turn off the blue light!

Researchers from University of Tsukuba discovered that exposure to organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) before sleep reduces negative health effects on energy metabolism. OLEDs emit less blue light, leading to decreased energy expenditure and core body temperature during sleep.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 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.

Changes in care delivery during COVID-19

Researchers characterized clinical content of ambulatory care among office-based and telemedicine visits before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study found significant changes in care delivery, with a shift towards telemedicine visits during the pandemic.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateJul 9, 2021

The giant panda's mystery revealed

The giant panda's temporomandibular joint and premolar teeth evolved to facilitate sideways movement of the jaw, allowing for efficient peeling of bamboo. This adaptation enabled pandas to access an endless source of nutrition in the early Pleistocene.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 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.

Seeing with radio waves

Scientists from the University of Tsukuba used radio-frequency imaging to detect nitrogen-vacancy defects in diamond with improved resolution. The technique, called spin-locking, enhances accuracy and sensitivity by shielding electron spin from random noise.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalJapanese Journal of Applied Physics·DateJul 9, 2021

Virtual learning may help NICU nurses recognize baby pain

A virtual learning program improved NICU nurses' knowledge and scoring skills for measuring neonatal pain. The study suggests that e-learning can be a useful tool for nurses to attain knowledge and skills for managing neonatal pain.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalAdvances in Neonatal Care·DateJul 9, 2021

Quadriceps tendon autograft has lower MRI signal

Researchers found that quadriceps tendon autografts had a lower MRI signal at 12 months compared to hamstring tendon autografts, indicating quicker graft maturation and improved structural integrity. This suggests that quadriceps tendon autografts may have a superior rate of incorporation and synovialization.

SourceAmerican Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine·DateJul 9, 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.

UTIA researchers target food loss and waste reduction

Researchers at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture are investigating consumer and retailer attitudes toward food loss and waste reduction programs. The study aims to provide recommendations for future voluntary food loss and waste reduction programs, which could help reduce US food waste by 50% by 2030.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateJul 9, 2021

With $3M grant, UArizona-led center to advance at-home health care technology

A multi-institution team led by University of Arizona is developing clinically validated wearable technologies to remotely monitor patient health, enabling 'care in place' and improving healthcare delivery. The center aims to create devices that can efficiently collect information while ensuring patient data privacy.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateJul 9, 2021

Combining gamification, cash incentive increases veterans' exercise

Researchers found that combining personalized goals with a game and financial incentives increased veterans' daily step counts by an average of 1,224. However, progress was short-lived, as neither group sustained their gains after the intervention period ended.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 9, 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.

Oncotarget: Urine RNA reveal tumor markers for human bladder cancer

This study suggests exploiting urine RNAs as diagnostic markers for bladder cancer, identifying novel marker candidates and validated amplicons. Deep transcriptome analysis of urine RNA revealed coding sequences, non-coding sequences, and circular RNAs, providing promising insights into bladder cancer diagnosis.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJul 9, 2021

Remote control for plants

Researchers at the University of Würzburg have successfully introduced a light-sensitive switch into tobacco plants' guard cells, enabling remote control over stomatal movements. This technology has enormous potential for improving plant drought resistance and water conservation.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 9, 2021

Computer-assisted biology: Decoding noisy data to predict cell growth

Scientists developed a machine learning algorithm that uses artificial neural networks to accurately forecast cell size as it grows and divides. By recognizing patterns in the data, the computer can make more complex predictions than conventional methods, which rely on simplifying assumptions.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateJul 9, 2021

NIST uses method to understand the molecular underpinnings of a disease affecting corals

Researchers at NIST used an emerging molecular profiling method to analyze a type of tumor-like disease called growth anomalies in corals. The study identified 18 small molecules that promise to help better understand the series of molecular reactions leading to the disease, which affects coral skeletons and soft tissues.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalCoral Reefs·DateJul 9, 2021

Study model explores impact of police action on population health

A new study developed a conceptual model to understand the relationship between policing and population health, highlighting factors like community characteristics and policy that affect health outcomes. The research suggests that policing practices can have far-reaching impacts on mental, physical, social, and structural wellbeing.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateJul 9, 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.

Beta (South Africa) variant may increase risk for COVID-19 hospitalization and death, large-scale South African study suggests

A large-scale study from South Africa found that the Beta variant increased COVID-19 hospitalization and death risks compared to previous waves. The study suggested a higher case fatality risk of 26.9% during the second wave, highlighting the need for continued vigilance.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateJul 9, 2021

Red Dead Redemption 2 teaches players about wildlife

A new study found that Red Dead Redemption 2 players were able to identify 10 of 15 American animals in a multiple-choice quiz, with those who completed the game's main storyline performing best. The game's high level of detail and realistic animal behavior also taught players about animal behaviour and ecology.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPeople and Nature·DateJul 9, 2021

Thyroid cancer now diagnosed with machine learning-powered photoacoustic/ultrasound imaging

Researchers have developed a non-invasive method to diagnose thyroid cancer using photoacoustic and ultrasound image technology combined with artificial intelligence. The technique accurately classifies malignant nodules with high sensitivity and specificity, reducing unnecessary biopsies and medical costs.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalCancer Research·DateJul 9, 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.

New guidance for mental health

Low-intensity cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) has been found to be effective in reducing anxiety and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. A new consumer guide aims to help people navigate the system and find targeted services.

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternational Journal of Eating Disorders·DateJul 9, 2021

Interactive police line-ups improve eyewitness accuracy - study

A team of researchers at the University of Birmingham developed an interactive lineup software that enables witnesses to rotate and view lineup faces from different angles. This improvement in discrimination accuracy is crucial for more reliably identifying criminals, as misidentification is a leading cause of wrongful convictions.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 2021

Anti-tumor agent from the intestine

Scientists have found that short-chain fatty acids can increase the efficiency of tumor therapies by boosting the activity of killer cells. The researchers identified pentanoate, produced by Megasphaera massiliensis bacteria, as a key player in this process.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 9, 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.

Gender pay gap means fewer female candidates on the ballot

Researchers at Bocconi University analyzed data from France and found that districts with larger gender pay gaps had fewer female candidates and lower votes for women. The study suggests that voters' biases against female politicians limit the effectiveness of quota rules in allocating female candidates to contested districts.

SourceBocconi University·JournalJournal of the European Economic Association·DateJul 9, 2021

The fracking boom helps to rose crime rates in rural American states

A study by economists from Ural Federal University and Shippensburg University found that the fracking boom led to increased burglaries and violent crimes in rural US states. The increase in violent crime rates was attributed to factors such as low-skilled temporary jobs, income inequality, and environmental disamenities.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalThe Extractive Industries and Society·DateJul 9, 2021

Highly mutated SARS-CoV-2 emerged from someone living with advanced HIV who could not clear SARS-CoV-2 until their HIV infection was suppressed with effective antiretroviral therapy

A study reveals that highly mutated SARS-CoV-2 can emerge in people living with advanced HIV if they cannot clear the virus through effective antiretroviral therapy. This increases the risk of severe disease and potentially more potent variants.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 9, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers examine burden of electronic health record on primary care clinicians

Researchers found that general internal medicine and family medicine clinicians spent an average of two hours actively using the EHR each day, while pediatricians spent around one hour and a half. The study suggests improvements in messaging and placing orders could reduce burnout among primary care clinicians.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 9, 2021

Huge volcanic eruption disrupted climate but not human evolution

A massive volcanic eruption in Indonesia about 74,000 years ago likely caused severe climate disruption globally, but early human populations were relatively unaffected. The study suggests that regional variation in climate impacts occurred, with the Northern Hemisphere experiencing cooling of at least 4°C.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 9, 2021

A super new theory

A researcher at the University of Tsukuba introduces a new theoretical model of high-temperature superconductivity based on the calculation of the Berry connection. This model helps explain experimental results better than the current theory and may enable lossless energy transmission.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalJournal of Superconductivity and Novel Magnetism·DateJul 9, 2021

How robots and brain-computer interfaces could transform stroke patients' recovery

Researchers are developing a stroke rehabilitation robot using brain-inspired intelligent technology to improve outcomes for patients. The robot will analyze movement intentions and respond with precision, aiming to recognize eight hand movements with an accuracy rate of 90% and response time of 300ms within five years.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalBrain Hemorrhages·DateJul 9, 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.

Corona gets us tired

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon develop a novel model to quantify social phenomena during the Corona pandemic. The study reveals that social cohesion plays a crucial role in explaining regional mortality rates and behavioral changes.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 2021

MRI can cut overdiagnoses in prostate-cancer screening by half

A new study suggests that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based screening can reduce unnecessary biopsies and detect clinically significant tumours while halving overdiagnoses. The results come from a randomized study conducted at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 9, 2021

How sweet it is: Study finds songbirds CAN taste sugar

A recent study published in Science found that songbirds can indeed taste sugar, contrary to long-held assumptions. The researchers' findings suggest that songbirds evolved to sense sweetness approximately 30 million years ago, possibly due to the availability of sugary food sources.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2021

Scientists solve 40-year mystery over Jupiter's X-ray aurora

Researchers have solved a decades-old mystery as to how Jupiter produces spectacular bursts of X-rays every few minutes. The X-rays are triggered by periodic vibrations of Jupiter's magnetic field lines, creating waves of plasma that send charged particles towards the planet's atmosphere.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 9, 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.

Powerhouse of the cell has self-preservation mechanism

Researchers found that spontaneous transient depolarization decreases reactive oxygen species production by inhibiting sustained matrix pH elevation. The study proposes a model where increased matrix pH facilitates moving more protons from outside the matrix into the matrix, controlling oxidative stress in cells.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology·DateJul 9, 2021

Disparities in vaccine acceptance among adults in China

A survey study examined COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and approaches to improve vaccination rates among Chinese adults. The study found significant disparities in vaccine uptake, with regional differences in attitudes towards vaccination.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateJul 9, 2021

Study of antibodies produced in saliva after Pfizer COVID vaccine shows both importance of second vaccine dose and updating vaccines to combat new variants of concern

Researchers found that vaccination significantly increases neutralizing antibodies in saliva, reducing transmission risk. The study also shows the importance of receiving a second vaccine dose for maximum protection against evolving virus strains.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 9, 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.

Common prescription drugs (not themselves antibiotics) may increase risk of developing antibiotic resistance

Research suggests that common prescription drugs like proton pump inhibitors, beta-blockers, and antimetabolites can increase the risk of developing antibiotic-resistant infections. These non-antibiotic medications are commonly used to treat various conditions but can also contribute to drug resistance.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 9, 2021

Efficient genetic engineering platform established in methylotrophic yeast

A new genetic engineering platform has been established in methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris, enhancing homologous recombination rates and genome editing efficiency. This breakthrough can enable the stable loading of over 100 exogenous genes and precise regulating of gene expression.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJul 9, 2021

Hitting the right note

Research reveals that even professional female sopranos tend to be inaccurate in self-assessing their own singing abilities. However, those with higher singing competence are better at evaluating themselves. The study's findings suggest that self-evaluation plays a crucial role in developing exceptional musical skills.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Voice·DateJul 9, 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.

Harvard-led physicists take big step in race to quantum computing

Researchers have developed a programmable quantum simulator capable of operating with 256 qubits, a significant advancement in the field of quantum computing. The system enables the study of complex quantum processes and has already allowed for the observation of exotic quantum states of matter.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2021

Using mice to open the way to prevent blocked arteries

A new study has identified key pathways linking high-fat diets to atherosclerosis in mice, shedding light on the role of neutrophils and citrullination in inflammation. Researchers found that blocking this process could lead to reduced neutrophil adhesion and potentially prevent blocked arteries.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·DateJul 9, 2021

RIXS demonstrates magnetic behaviour in nickelate superconductors

Researchers at Diamond Light Source used Resonant Inelastic X-ray Scattering (RIXS) to study the magnetic properties of nickelate superconductors. The study revealed that these materials exhibit similar magnetic behavior to cuprates, bringing scientists closer to understanding how high-temperature superconductivity arises.

SourceDiamond Light Source·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2021

Trial shows that the antibiotic azithromycin does not prevent mild COVID-19 cases progressing to hospitalization or death

A recent trial by the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases found that azithromycin does not prevent mild COVID-19 cases from progressing to hospitalization or death. The study showed no difference in the risk of progression between those treated with azithromycin and those who received standard care alone.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateJul 9, 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.

Immune cells assemble - boosting the effects of chemotherapy in pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have discovered that immune cells can be stimulated to assemble into special structures within pancreatic cancer, improving the efficacy of chemotherapy. The findings suggest a potential therapeutic strategy for promoting an anti-tumour immune response in patients.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJul 9, 2021

How otters' muscles enable their cold, aquatic life

Texas A&M researchers found that sea otters' muscles use thermogenic leak to generate heat, allowing them to thrive in cold water. This finding explains how otters maintain their high metabolic rate and survive in marine environments.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 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.

Programmable structures from the printer

Scientists have created movable, self-adjusting materials systems with complex shape changes that can be triggered by moisture. These systems mimic the movement mechanisms of the air potato plant and have produced their first prototype: a forearm brace that adapts to the wearer.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 9, 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.

Major revamp of SNAP could eliminate food insecurity in the US

A new study proposes restructuring SNAP into a Universal Basic Income (UBI) program to eliminate food insecurity. The plan would significantly reduce food insecurity rates, especially among vulnerable groups, and could be funded through targeted tax increases.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalFood Policy·DateJul 9, 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.

Discovery of a mechanism for efficient autophagosome formation

Lipidated Atg8 has been found to exhibit membrane transforming activity, interacting with the membrane via two aromatic amino acids. This interaction promotes autophagosome formation by perturbing and transforming membranes.

SourceJapan Science and Technology Agency·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJul 9, 2021

The 'hijab effect': Feminist backlash to Muslim immigrants in Germany

Research finds discrimination against Muslim women eliminated when they signal shared progressive views on women's rights. German women's receptivity to messages about the immigrant woman's attitude toward gender equality eliminates anti-Muslim bias.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateJul 9, 2021

Testosterone therapy reduces heart attack and stroke

A new study found that supplementing testosterone significantly reduces heart attacks and strokes in men with unnaturally low hormone levels. The 10-year study involved over 800 men from Germany and Qatar, showing a 25% reduction in risk for those under 55 and a 15% reduction for those over 60.

SourceEuropean Association of Urology·DateJul 9, 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.

Study shows that poorer people less likely to be tested for SARS-CoV-2, and more likely to be hospitalised, enter ICU and die

A study in Switzerland found that people living in poorer neighborhoods were less likely to be tested for COVID-19, but more likely to test positive, be hospitalized, or die compared to those in wealthier areas. The study also found stronger associations between neighborhood socioeconomic position and outcomes in younger age groups.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateJul 9, 2021

Vocal music boosts the recovery of language functions after stroke

Researchers found that listening to vocal music improves language recovery in stroke patients by enhancing structural connectivity and functional plasticity of the language network. This discovery expands our understanding of music-based neurological rehabilitation methods.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournaleNeuro·DateJul 9, 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.

Passing the ball: Shifting responsibility for care coordination from patient to provider

A new study from the US Department of Veterans Affairs, Regenstrief Institute, IUPUI, and Mount Sinai researchers reports that primary care physicians recognize the need for improved care coordination. They welcome electronic health information exchange (HIE) event notifications as a means to enhance patient care.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateJul 9, 2021