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Science News for June 11, 2021


Improving dialysis through design

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a new way to design grafts that decreases the risk of clotting in hemodialysis patients. By tailoring the angle of connection between the graft and vein, surgeons can reduce thrombosis rates substantially.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 11, 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.

New model accounts for the effect of behavior changes to predict COVID-19 cases

Researchers at Brown University developed a new modeling approach that captures the impact of behavioral components on infectious disease transmission. The model accurately reproduces case rates throughout the pandemic in the US and individual states, providing valuable insights for forecasting future trends and scenarios.

SourceBrown University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 11, 2021

Are we genetically 'grounded'?

A recent study by Hebrew University researchers identified molecular factors that allow birds to fly, differing from mammals and reptiles. The ephrin-B3 molecule plays a crucial role in coordinating wing movement, enabling birds to flap and take flight.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 11, 2021

Autopsy Study of Patients With/Without COVID-19

This autopsy study investigated skeletal muscle and myocardial inflammation in patients with COVID-19, compared to those dying from other causes. The findings suggest distinct inflammatory patterns in the two groups, which may help explain COVID-19 severity and mortality.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateJun 11, 2021

Rice lab peers inside 2D crystal synthesis

The Rice University engineers have unveiled the process of MoS2's synthesis in a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) furnace. Their simulations showed that it takes three steps to deposit an atomically thin lattice onto a surface, involving sublimation, reaction with sulfur atoms, and crystallization.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 11, 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.

Bionic reconstruction: New foot for 'Mia' the bearded vulture

Scientists at MedUni Vienna have successfully developed a bionic foot for a bearded vulture named Mia using osseointegration, a technique that directly attaches the prosthetic to the bone. The procedure has enabled Mia to regain her ability to land and walk with both feet, making her the first 'bionic bird'.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 11, 2021

Black holes help with star birth

Satellite galaxies that orbit massive central galaxies can form new stars due to active black holes clearing their path through intergalactic gas. Researchers used systematic observations and cosmological simulations to find this counter-intuitive effect.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateJun 11, 2021

Financial toxicity impacts nearly 50% of women with gynecologic cancer

A study found that nearly half of patients with gynecologic cancer experience financial toxicity, which can lead to worsening health outcomes. Younger patients are at a higher risk due to limited financial safety nets and ability to work.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalInternational Journal of Gynecological Cancer·DateJun 11, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

COVID-19 can cause severe inflammation in the brain

A study published in Immunity found that COVID-19 causes severe inflammation in the brain, involving microglial cells and T-cell interactions. The research reveals a unique inflammatory pattern compared to other brain diseases, suggesting a misdirected immune response contributing to symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalImmunity·DateJun 11, 2021

Improving bone marrow transplants in mice to help fight disease

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba developed a novel technique to generate BM chimeric mice without irradiation, promoting cost-effectiveness and animal safety. This approach enables scientists to study the immune system in both healthy and diseased states using culture-based enrichment of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 11, 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.

Why do we continue to see outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2 in care homes?

Care home residents over 70 have a delayed and weaker immune response to vaccines compared to younger individuals, making them more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infections. This phenomenon has been confirmed by researchers from Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateJun 11, 2021

Star's death will play a mean pinball with rhythmic planets

A study led by the University of Warwick predicts that four massive planets in a perfect rhythm will be destabilized and turned into a chaotic system when their sun becomes a white dwarf. The planets' movements will become highly uncertain, with even small changes having a significant impact on the outcome.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 11, 2021

Anticoagulation in patients hospitalized with COVID-19

This study examines the association of anticoagulation treatment with mortality rates in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, finding a significant link between anticoagulation and increased mortality. The study's findings suggest that anticoagulation therapy may not be beneficial for patients hospitalized with COVID-19.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 11, 2021

Vitamin D deficiency may increase risk for addiction to opioids and ultraviolet rays

A study published in Science Advances found that vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of opioid addiction and excessive sun-seeking behavior. Researchers discovered that modulating vitamin D levels can change addictive behaviors to both UV and opioids, and that patients with low vitamin D levels are more likely to use opioids.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 11, 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.

Black and white women have same mutations linked to breast cancer risk

A new study of nearly 30,000 patients found that Black and white women have the same prevalence of genetic mutations associated with breast cancer risk. Younger age and ER-negative breast cancer were identified as risk factors in genes including BRCA1 and BRCA2.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateJun 11, 2021

AI predicts how patients with viral infections, including COVID-19, will fare

A University of California, San Diego study uses AI to analyze gene expression patterns associated with pandemic viral infections. The analysis reveals two telltale signatures that help define patients' immune responses and measure disease severity. These findings provide a map for predicting patient outcomes and testing therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalEBioMedicine·DateJun 11, 2021

5th International Conference for Missing Children and Adults

The 5th International Conference for Missing Children and Adults brought together experts to discuss key findings on prevention, investigation, and support. The conference highlighted the importance of collaborative approaches and innovative strategies in addressing missing persons cases.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·DateJun 11, 2021

Comparing symptoms, RNA levels in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection

The study found a significant association between SARS-CoV-2 RNA levels and symptom severity in patients with the virus. Researchers discovered that higher RNA levels were linked to more severe symptoms, suggesting a possible correlation between viral load and disease progression.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJun 11, 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.

Using machine learning and radar to better understand storm surge risk

A team of researchers at the University of Texas at Austin has applied a machine learning algorithm to analyze Synthetic Aperture Radar images and create detailed maps of land types. This new approach can help predict storm surge risk and inform mitigation strategies, such as building 'green walls' to protect inland areas.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalIEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing·DateJun 11, 2021

Big data: IPK researchers double accuracy in predicting wheat yields

A team of researchers from IPK used large-scale data to develop predictive models for yield stability in hybrid varieties of wheat. By analyzing over 13,000 genotypes and 125,000 yield plots, they were able to double the accuracy of their predictions.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 11, 2021

How electrons behave in quantum critical ferromagnets?

Heavy fermion systems like CeRh6Ge4 display a 'strange metal' phase with linear resistivity and logarithmic specific heat coefficient upon pressure application. This behavior is similar to cuprate superconductors, indicating an unconventional quantum critical point.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateJun 11, 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.

EMPOWER STEM program creates student pathways to jobs

The EMPOWER STEM program pairs University of Arizona students and researchers with Naval Research Laboratory scientists to learn about the latest technologies in the Department of Defense. The initiative aims to provide a route to government research jobs for students from diverse backgrounds, with a focus on student veterans.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateJun 11, 2021

HPV vaccine has a significant impact even if all girls and boys are not vaccinated

Two studies demonstrate the impact of gender-neutral HPV vaccination on overall protection against HRHPV infections, even with low vaccination coverage. In Finland, communities with both boys and girls vaccinated saw a significant decrease in cervical HPV16/18 infections, including among unvaccinated women due to the herd effect.

SourceTampere University·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 11, 2021

Novel magnet design with magic mirror-like properties

Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a new magnet design that changes brightness based on viewing angle, utilizing chiral organic molecules in layered crystal structures. The material exhibits magic mirror characteristics and can be switched by low magnetic fields.

SourceTohoku University·DateJun 11, 2021

Designing public institutions that foster cooperation

Researchers at Penn develop a framework for designing public institutions that promote cooperation regardless of social norms, exploring indirect reciprocity and reputation monitoring systems. The model finds cooperation can flourish under various social norms and institutions adhere to assessments by social contagion, holding potentia...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 11, 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.

Astronomers spot a 'blinking giant' near the centre of the Galaxy

Researchers have discovered a unique 'blinking giant' binary star system, where a giant star is eclipsed by an unseen orbital companion every few decades. The system has been spotted near the centre of the Milky Way, more than 25,000 light years away.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 11, 2021

New gene therapy uses Tylenol to combat genetic diseases

Researchers developed a novel gene therapy approach that utilizes acetaminophen to correct disease-causing mutations and make liver cells immune to its toxic effects. This allows treated cells to multiply and reduces the need for liver transplants in treating genetic disorders.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 11, 2021

COVID-19 PCR tests can be freeze dried

Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered a method to make commercially available PCR tests shelf-stable for up to 30 days by freeze-drying the reagents with a standard preservative. This breakthrough could enable widespread COVID-19 testing in low-resource settings and reduce logistical challenges.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalBiotechnology Journal·DateJun 11, 2021

Novel fast-beam-switching transceiver takes 5G to the next level

Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology and NEC Corporation have developed a novel 28-GHz phased-array transceiver that supports efficient and reliable 5G communications. The proposed transceiver features fast beam switching and leakage cancellation mechanism, leading to improved MIMO efficiency and lower latency.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·DateJun 11, 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.

How firms can navigate competitors' pitfalls without being 'tarred by the same brush'

Researchers found that firms with a larger advertising share of voice have lower stock price synchronicity, indicating reduced risk of being 'tarred by the same brush' as competitors. Advertising can also provide firm-specific information to investors, reducing information asymmetry and increasing investor willingness to provide capital.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJun 11, 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.

Irish potato famine pathogen stoked outbreaks on six continents

Researchers found that a specific strain of Phytophthora infestans, known as FAM-1, was responsible for the Irish potato famine and spread to six continents. The pathogen caused massive outbreaks in Europe, leading to widespread starvation and migration.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 11, 2021

From milk protein, a plastic foam that gets better in a tough environment

Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology developed a high-performance plastic foam from whey proteins that can withstand extreme temperatures. The material, which improves its mechanical performance after days of exposure to high temperatures, has potential applications in filtration, thermal insulation, and fluid absorption.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Sustainable Systems·DateJun 11, 2021

The sun's clock

Researchers propose comprehensive explanation of sun cycles based on planetary attractive forces, reproducing known solar activity fluctuations. However, long-term forecasts become impossible due to chaotic process in activity over thousands of years.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalSolar Physics·DateJun 11, 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.

Trions exhibit novel characteristics in moiré superlattices

The study reveals the existence of moiré trions, confined electronic excited states that exhibit novel characteristics and differ from conventional trions. Moiré trions can emit single photons, making them a feasible optical source for quantum information technology.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature·DateJun 11, 2021

Study finds links between Whites having Black neighbors and party affiliation

A Harvard study found that white men having a Black neighbor as children are more likely to be Democrats and less likely to be Republicans. The analysis linked historical data from the 1940 US Census with contemporary voter files, revealing correlations between early-life exposure and long-term political views.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 11, 2021

Scientists recommend proactive response to the shifting range of plant invaders

Researchers identified 22 invasive plants threatening native species in New England, while 16 also impact agriculture, human health, or the economy. Home gardeners' access to these high-risk species can accelerate their introduction, highlighting the need for proactive management and regulation.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·DateJun 11, 2021

An omega-3 that's poison for tumors

Researchers at Université catholique de Louvain discovered that DHA slows the development of tumors by poisoning cancer cells through a phenomenon called ferroptosis. This mechanism is triggered when acidotic tumor cells absorb excessive amounts of unsaturated fatty acids, leading to cell death.

SourceUniversité catholique de Louvain·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 11, 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.

F1 tech put to use in Leicester's hospitals

University of Leicester academics developed a pioneering device to help doctors and nurses communicate clearly whilst wearing PPE. The MedicCom uses a throat microphone to amplify sound, enabling patients to better hear medical staff caring for them.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateJun 11, 2021

Data from community science is underutilized; new study aims to change that

A new framework for using community science data to monitor global biodiversity change has been developed by California Academy of Sciences researchers. The framework shows that community science data is not only useful, but necessary for uncovering real-time impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss.

SourceCalifornia Academy of Sciences·JournalOikos·DateJun 11, 2021

Examining Diversity of Editors at Leading Medical, Scientific Journals

A survey study examined the diversity of editors at leading medical and scientific journals, finding significant disparities in gender, race, and ethnicity. The study also investigated the representation of sexual orientation among editors, highlighting a need for increased diversity and inclusion in the editorial process.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 11, 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.

International medical graduate physician deaths from COVID-19 in US

A new study by Stanford University researchers reports that international medical graduates are disproportionately affected by COVID-19-related deaths in the US. The study found that these physicians were more likely to contract and die from the virus due to factors such as underemployment and lack of resources.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 11, 2021

Effects of 'Fenton-like' reactions of ferric oxalate on atmospheric oxidation processes and radiative forcing

Research investigates ferric oxalate's role in atmospheric oxidation, revealing its contribution to the formation of secondary organic aerosols (SOA) and affecting radiative forcing. The study highlights the significance of superoxide radicals in oxidizing organic compounds.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 11, 2021

Oncotarget: Prostate cancer and a possible link with schizophrenia

A recent study has found a possible link between prostate cancer and schizophrenia, with certain gene polymorphisms correlated to disease prognosis. Polymorphisms in genes controlling neurotransmitter metabolism were studied in patients with prostate cancer, revealing a potential protective effect against schizophrenia-like symptoms.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJun 11, 2021

Meteorologists improve multivariable integrated evaluation method for climate model

Researchers developed a simple-to-use Multivariable Integrated Evaluation Tool (MVIETool) to facilitate climate model evaluation and models inter-comparison. The improved MVIE method provides a more comprehensive and precise evaluation of climate model performance, including accurate evaluation results for spatial fields.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalGeoscientific Model Development·DateJun 11, 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.

Physical activity may curb health care worker burnout

A new study from the University of Georgia found that investing in more physical activity programming could help curb healthcare worker burnout and improve their mental and emotional health. The research also showed that leisure-time physical activity can help exit the stress cycle, but only when done correctly.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Promotion·DateJun 11, 2021

What happens in brain cells affected by Alzheimer's disease?

The study identifies a correlation between the progression of Alzheimer's disease and nuclear aggregates in brain cells. The findings suggest that these aggregates have a function in manipulating gene expression and may be part of AD pathology.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalActa Neuropathologica Communications·DateJun 11, 2021

Lazy, hazy days no more: A call-to-action to better understand air pollution mechanisms

Scientists have made significant progress in understanding the atmospheric oxidation capacity, which is crucial for reducing smog and haze formation. Researchers have developed indexes to characterize this capacity in Beijing and plan to apply them in other highly polluted regions of China.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 11, 2021

Opto-mechanical non-reciprocity in fiber

Researchers discovered non-reciprocal propagation in polarization-maintaining optical fibers due to ultrasound interaction. This phenomenon enhances sensing measurements and signal processing beyond the fiber's boundaries, opening new possibilities for advanced sensor networks.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJun 11, 2021

Children of well-educated people have higher survival rates

A systematic review of 300 studies found that children of well-educated parents have a significantly lower risk of dying before age five. The study highlights the importance of mothers' and fathers' education in reducing child mortality, with one year of extra education for mothers associated with a 3% reduction in mortality rates.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 11, 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.

Promising ovarian cancer treatment proves effective and efficient

A new radiopharmaceutical has been developed to treat ovarian cancer, dramatically limiting tumor growth and decreasing tumor mass. The treatment, which can be produced in just 25 minutes at low cost, shows promise as an efficient alternative to existing methods.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 11, 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.