Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for June 15, 2021


Junk food diet may boost risk of dangerous driving among truck/lorry drivers

A junk food diet may increase the risk of dangerous driving among truck/lorry drivers by boosting fatigue. The study found that vegetable-rich and staple food diets were associated with safe driving behaviours, while animal protein and snack diets were linked to higher rates of errors and unsafe behaviour.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJun 15, 2021

EMBO Gold Medal 2021 awarded to Andrea Ablasser

Andrea Ablasser is awarded the EMBO Gold Medal 2021 for her groundbreaking research on how cells recognize double-stranded DNA as a danger signal. Her work may pave the way for therapeutic opportunities for inflammatory conditions and cancer treatment.

SourceEMBO·DateJun 15, 2021

Rapid exclusion of COVID-19 infection using AI, EKG technology

An AI-enhanced EKG can detect subtle electrical changes in the heart associated with COVID-19 infection, offering a potential rapid and reliable screening test. The technology achieved positive predictive values of up to 37% and negative predictive values of 99.2% in real-world populations.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateJun 15, 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.

Scientists discover unreported plant body part

Researchers from The Pennsylvania State University have discovered a previously unreported structure called the 'cantil' in wild-type Arabidopsis thaliana. Cantils are rare structures that develop under specific conditions and provide important clues for understanding plant growth and development.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDevelopment·DateJun 15, 2021

Plants use a blend of external influences to evolve defense mechanisms

A study published in eLife reveals how plants produce defence chemicals that vary across Europe due to genetic variation, environmental pressures, and geographical location. The research found that different regions have unique profiles of these chemical compounds, shaped by factors such as weather conditions and landscape features.

SourceeLife·DateJun 15, 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.

Brain cell membranes' lipids may play big role in Alzheimer's progression

A study by Aarhus University suggests that changes in lipid composition within the brain cell membrane can weaken the protective effect of a protein dimerization process, leading to increased release of toxic amyloid-beta peptides. The researchers propose targeting lipid modulation as a novel strategy for Alzheimer's disease therapeutics.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiointerphases·DateJun 15, 2021

New Web Tool Fights Antibacterial Resistance

A new web tool, webSalvador, offers more accurate methods for constructing confidence intervals and comparing mutation rates in bacteria mutation research. This tool eliminates the need for scientists to learn programming languages, increasing efficiency and efficacy of the Luria-Delbrück experiment.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateJun 15, 2021

Medication may help heavy-drinking smokers improve their health

A recent UCLA clinical trial has shown encouraging results in helping daily smokers who are also heavy drinkers quit smoking and cut down their alcohol intake. The study found that nearly 36% of participants had quit smoking, with varenicline alone showing a highly encouraging quit rate.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJun 15, 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.

How political bias impacts believing sexual assault victims

A study published in Violence Against Women found that political biases strongly influence attitudes towards sexual assault. Both Republicans and Democrats tend to blame victims more when strongly identifying with their party affiliation. The researchers also discovered that partisan identity often supersedes gender in shaping these at...

SourceSyracuse University·JournalViolence Against Women·DateJun 15, 2021

Receptor location plays a key role in their function

New study reveals that the location of beta1 and beta2 receptors on heart muscle cells determines their functional effects, with beta1 receptors triggering persistent changes and gene activation. This knowledge could lead to more targeted therapies for chronic heart failure.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 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.

Young adults' alcohol use increases when casually dating

A Washington State University study of over 700 young adults aged 18-25 found that those casually dating drank more than those in serious relationships or not interested in dating. This contrasts with previous research showing young adults in relationships tend to drink less.

SourceWashington State University·JournalSubstance Use & Misuse·DateJun 15, 2021

Fuel flow, heat fluctuations drive dangerous oscillations in rocket engines

Researchers have discovered that power source clusters near rocket engine fuel injectors can cause combustion oscillations, leading to structural damage and unsafe operating conditions. The study uses symbolic dynamics and complex networks to understand the feedback processes that give rise to these oscillations.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJun 15, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cancer cells fight for their footing by using an ageing gene

Researchers discovered that cancer cells hijack an ageing gene to block environmental factors and gain a competitive advantage over healthy stem cells. The study's findings suggest that blocking the function of this enzyme could lead to new therapies for patients predisposed to intestinal cancers.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature·DateJun 15, 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.

Malicious content exploits pathways between platforms to thrive online, subvert moderation

A new study by George Washington University researchers has mapped online hate clusters across six major social media platforms, revealing how malicious content exploits pathways between platforms to spread. The team suggests several strategies for social media companies to slow or block online hate content, including artificially leng...

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 15, 2021

Those breakfast foods are fortified for a reason

A new study suggests that skipping breakfast leads to a nutritional gap, with adults who skip morning meals likely missing out on calcium, vitamin C, and fiber. The research analyzed data from over 30,000 American adults and found that those who skipped breakfast had lower intakes of essential nutrients for the entire day.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of The Nutrition Society·DateJun 15, 2021

Researchers 3D print rotating microfilter for lab-on-a-chip applications

The researchers developed a filter that can freely switch between modes such as selective filtering and passing, expanding the usefulness of microfluidic devices. The magnetic material was used with a precise 3D printing technique to create the tiny turning filter, which can be remotely manipulated on demand.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateJun 15, 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.

Use of PFAS in cosmetics 'widespread,' new study finds

A new study from the University of Notre Dame reveals that many cosmetics sold in the US and Canada contain high levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), linked to serious health conditions. The research found 56% of foundations and eye products, as well as lip products and mascaras, contained high fluorine levels.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJun 15, 2021

Seeking a faster pathway to synthetic data

The 'SynRap' project aims to accelerate the production of large amounts of synthetic data by a factor of one thousand using machine learning algorithms. The project will assess the quality of generated data sets in high energy density physics and high energy physics research areas.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·DateJun 15, 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.

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.

Microscopic CCTV reveals secrets of malaria invasion

Using lattice light sheet microscopy, researchers captured high-resolution videos of individual malaria parasites invading red blood cells, revealing key steps in the parasite life cycle. The study's findings may lead to new antimalarial therapies by targeting specific components of the parasite, potentially bypassing drug resistance.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 15, 2021

Scientists explain the crucial role of motor proteins in cell division

Researchers at Ruđer Bošković Institute discovered the exact molecular mechanism of bridging microtubules sliding and its role in proper distribution of genetic material during cell division. The study found that two mechanistically distinct sliding modules powered by kinesin motor proteins drive spindle elongation.

SourceRuđer Bošković Institute·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJun 15, 2021

Healthy fat impacted by change in diet and circadian clock, study finds

A study published in Nature found that altering eating habits or disrupting the circadian clock can lead to depletion of healthy fat cells, causing defects in fat storage and excess lipid spilling into organs. This disruption may be difficult to reverse, increasing the risk of Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalNature·DateJun 15, 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.

EHRs not meeting the challenges of primary care according to new study

A new study by Regenstrief Institute researchers found that electronic health records (EHRs) are not designed to meet the specific needs of primary care physicians. The study recommends implementing a human factor approach for EHR user interface design to improve patient care and reduce information overload.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·DateJun 15, 2021

Eco-friendly smart farms based on nutrient solution recirculation

A new study proposes a method to stabilize microbial populations in recirculating hydroponic cultivation systems, reducing environmental pollution. The system uses UV sterilization to minimize fertilizer use and water consumption, making it an affordable option for farmers.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateJun 15, 2021

Common cold combats COVID-19

A study by Yale researchers found that the common cold virus can trigger an immune response that halts replication of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Exposure to rhinovirus was shown to protect against COVID-19 infection, with the immune system responding rapidly to the threat.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJun 15, 2021

PSMA-targeted radiotracer pinpoints metastatic prostate cancer across anatomic regions

A phase III clinical trial validates the effectiveness of 18F-DCFPyL in detecting and localizing recurrent prostate cancer, achieving high positive predictive values across various regions. The study's results support the use of PSMA-targeted radiotracers as the most sensitive and accurate agents for imaging prostate cancer.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 15, 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.

Understanding and mitigating user biases in online information searching

Researchers aim to improve search results by accounting for users' systematic biases, which can lead to misleading information and poor decision-making. The project seeks to build bias-aware prediction models and promote informed, unbiased decision-making through proactively capturing bias-related search problems.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateJun 15, 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.

Unlabeled PFAS chemicals detected in makeup

A new study found high fluorine levels in most waterproof mascara, liquid lipsticks, and foundations tested, indicating probable presence of PFAS. Many products with confirmed PFAS had no PFAS listed on the label, making it impossible for consumers to avoid these chemicals through labeling.

SourceGreen Science Policy Institute·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJun 15, 2021

Liver cancer call for help

Research reveals liver cancer incidence is 2.6 times higher in Indigenous Australians compared to non-Indigenous patients. Mobile liver clinics and regular ultrasound surveillance can help prevent the disease, according to expert calls for action.

SourceFlinders University·DateJun 15, 2021

Predicting the evolution of a pandemic

A new mathematical model developed by KAUST and KCST improves pandemic prediction accuracy by incorporating biological uncertainty and latest case data. The model, which uses an ensemble approach and data assimilation process, provides reliable forecasts for up to 14 days in advance.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalMathematics·DateJun 15, 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.

Drone footage reveals social secrets of killer whales

A new study using drone footage reveals that killer whales have complex social structures, favoring interactions with specific individuals of the same sex and similar age. Younger whales and females play a central role in these groups, while older whales become less socially connected.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateJun 15, 2021

Sequencing of wastewater can help monitor SARS-COV-2 variants

A new study reveals that wastewater sequencing can detect emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants like B.1.1.7 up to 8 weeks before they become prevalent in clinical cases. This early warning system provides a more accurate picture of virus circulation among humans, including asymptomatic individuals.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSystems·DateJun 15, 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.

Obesity and hypertension: Researchers discover novel mechanisms

New research reveals that obese mice do not increase the density of blood vessels in the hypothalamus when leptin is absent. However, increasing leptin levels promotes vessel growth via astrocyte activity. This study provides a paradigm shift in understanding how the hypothalamus controls blood pressure in obesity.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 15, 2021

Can encroachment benefit hotel franchisees?

Researchers found that adding a new outlet can modestly benefit existing locations in markets with few same-brand outlets, leading to increased revenues and profits. The study's findings suggest prioritizing markets with few same-brand outlets, newer brands, cross-brands, and online travel agency sales channels for expansion.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJun 15, 2021

Infrared imaging by ultrathin nanocrystal layers

Researchers demonstrate conversion of infrared images to visible using ultrathin and transparent semiconductor nanocrystals. The proposed metasurface-based IR imaging approach offers novel opportunities for compact night vision instruments and sensor devices.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJun 15, 2021

Keeping the peace

A new study suggests that peacekeeping patrols can increase individuals' optimism about cooperation with outgroups, making them more willing to engage in intergroup cooperation. This cooperation limits communal violence, promotes economic development, and bolsters social trust. The research, conducted by William Nomikos, found that UN ...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalThe Journal of Politics·DateJun 15, 2021

Heat from below: How the ocean is wearing down the Arctic sea ice

Researchers found that warm Atlantic water masses are responsible for slowed or prevented ice growth in the Barents and Kara Seas. Long-term data and simulations revealed that this phenomenon can lead to thinner and more fragile Arctic sea ice, potentially affecting regions further east.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalJournal of Climate·DateJun 15, 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.

Human-driven climate change only half the picture for krill

Researchers used climate models to demonstrate that climate change can alter Antarctic marine ecosystems, but natural variability can mask human-driven trends. Understanding both is crucial for planning and managing krill harvest limits.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateJun 15, 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.

The most ancient ice in the Alps will be preserved in Antarctica

Scientists extracted two deep ice cores over 80m long from Colle Gnifetti, containing information on the climate and environment of ten thousand years ago. The ice cores will be stored in Antarctica for decades and centuries to come, providing valuable data for scientific advances and political decisions.

SourceUniversità Ca' Foscari Venezia·DateJun 15, 2021

Inducing and tuning spin interactions in layered material

A Chinese-Australia collaboration successfully induced Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interactions (DMI) in TaS2 by intercalating iron atoms, which can be further tuned by gate-induced proton intercalation. This enables electrical control of chiral spin textures and potential applications in energy-efficient spintronic devices.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 15, 2021

AASM congratulates 2021 Trainee Investigator Award recipients

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine congratulates Dr. Omonigho Bubu and three others on their 2021 Trainee Investigator Awards for outstanding research presentations at SLEEP 2021. Their studies focus on sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, and its association with Alzheimer's disease.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·DateJun 15, 2021

Researchers develop more reliable rapid tests for COVID-19

Two new rapid diagnostic tests for COVID-19 have been developed, detecting the virus in as little as five minutes and showing high sensitivity even in low levels of infection. The tests use innovative techniques that improve accuracy and do not require advanced laboratory techniques.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalNature Protocols·DateJun 15, 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.

Study reveals bycatch risk for dolphins and porpoises in global small-scale fisheries

A new study by Newcastle University highlights the risk of dolphins and porpoises being caught in small-scale (artisanal) fisheries, particularly in low- and middle-income regions around the tropics and sub-tropics. The study's findings emphasize the need for international collaboration and cooperation to address this threat and balanc...

SourceNewcastle University·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateJun 15, 2021

Computers predict people's tastes in art

A new study by California Institute of Technology researchers found that a computer program can accurately predict which paintings a person will like, using low-level visual attributes such as contrast, saturation, and hue. The program achieved similar accuracy to deep convolutional neural networks in predicting art preferences.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJun 15, 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.

Accomplished University of Ottawa professors earn Canada Research Chairs

The University of Ottawa has been awarded four new Canada Research Chairs in artificial intelligence, health, and law. Carole Yauk's research addresses toxicological risk assessment of environmental chemicals, while Emmanuelle Bernheim focuses on improving access to justice for those with mental health issues.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·DateJun 15, 2021

The electron merry-go-round

Researchers at the University of Freiburg have detected a previously unknown quantum effect in metal clusters, where electrons exhibit behavior similar to classical particles. The team's findings contradict previous predictions and suggest that decoherence suppresses interferences, leading to almost classical distributions.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 15, 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.

Balanced rocks set design ground motion values for New Zealand dam

Researchers used gravity-defying rock formations to determine the peak ground accelerations that could topple them, setting new design ground motion values for the Clyde Dam. The new values are similar to those used when the dam was built in the 1980s, but with a reduced risk due to modern regulations.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateJun 15, 2021

Teenagers at greatest risk of self-harming could be identified almost a decade earlier

Researchers found two subgroups of adolescents who self-harm, one with emotional and behavioral difficulties, and a second group without those difficulties but with different risk factors. The study suggests that it may be possible to predict which individuals are most at risk of self-harm up to a decade ahead of time.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJun 15, 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.

Cosmic rays: Coronal mass ejections and cosmic ray observations at Syowa Station in the Antarctic

Researchers at Shinshu University and the National Polar Research Institute found a Forbush decrease in cosmic ray counts during a CME event, but the CR density exceeded its original level before exiting the Magnetic Flux Rope. The high-speed solar wind caused this unusual enhancement of CR density through local compression of the MFR.

SourceShinshu University·JournalJournal of Space Weather and Space Climate·DateJun 15, 2021

Air pollution exposure during pregnancy may boost babies' obesity risk

Research suggests that exposure to air pollution during pregnancy may increase a baby's risk of obesity and related diseases. Hispanic mothers who lived in areas with high levels of pollutants had babies who grew unusually fast, gaining excess fat that puts them at risk of obesity later in life.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateJun 15, 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.

At underwater site, research team finds 9,000-year-old stone artifacts

Researchers discover 9,000-year-old obsidian flakes in Lake Huron, originating from an obsidian quarry over 2,000 miles away, representing the oldest and farthest east confirmed specimens of western obsidian in the continental US. The find sheds light on social connections across North America 9,000 years ago.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 15, 2021

From symmetry to asymmetry: The two sides of life

The study uses innovative imaging techniques to demonstrate the role of symmetric cell nucleus alignment in left-right asymmetric development. Collective nuclear behavior and proper nuclear positioning are found to be responsible for subsequent LR-asymmetric development of the midgut.

SourceOsaka University·JournalDevelopment·DateJun 15, 2021

What makes us sneeze?

A study published in Cell identified specific nerve cells and proteins that trigger the sneeze reflex, which may lead to new treatments for infectious respiratory diseases. The researchers found that stimulating these cells with a molecule called neuromedin B could induce sneezing, even without exposure to allergens or viruses.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·DateJun 15, 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.

Hippos and anthrax

A team of researchers tracked the movements of hippos in Ruaha National Park, Tanzania, to better understand how anthrax outbreaks spread. They found that infected individuals roamed just as much as healthy hippos, highlighting the importance of wildlife movement in disease transmission.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalEcosphere·DateJun 15, 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.

Two COVID-19 vaccines show safety, strong immunity in infant model

Researchers have developed two COVID-19 vaccines that elicited durable neutralizing antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 in pre-clinical research. The Moderna mRNA vaccine and a protein-based vaccine candidate showed strong immunity in infant rhesus macaques, with no adverse effects.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalScience Immunology·DateJun 15, 2021

NIH study offers new evidence of early SARS-CoV-2 infections in US

Researchers analyzed 24,000 blood samples and multiple antibody testing platforms to discover SARS-CoV-2 infections in five states earlier than reported. The findings expand on previous studies suggesting the virus was present in the US as early as December 2019.

SourceNIH/All of Us Research Program·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateJun 15, 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.

Novel calibration procedure for super-resolution brain imaging

A novel calibration procedure developed by scientists enables precise super-resolution brain imaging at greater depth. The method corrects spherical aberration of the depletion beam, allowing for high-quality images of biological tissue.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateJun 15, 2021

Chatbots for dementia patients and caregivers need more work

A systematic review of 501 chatbot apps found that none performed well on all testing criteria, with linguistic biases and usability challenges. The apps' limited program content made it hard to have extended or varied conversations between users and chatbots.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateJun 15, 2021

Rarest bee genus in North America is not so rare after all

A Canadian researcher has reclassified a rare bee thought to be one of the rarest in the world, discovering it is an unusual specimen of a widespread species. The discovery was made using DNA barcoding and morphological analysis, confirming that the bee is part of the California digger-cuckoo bee genus.

SourceCanadian Museum of Nature·JournalEuropean Journal of Taxonomy·DateJun 15, 2021

Investigating carbonate mineral chemical variations to improve oil recovery

Researcher Dr. Igor Ivanishin is investigating the impact of varying calcium contents on dolomite and calcite mineral stability, which can lead to improved well stimulation operations. His findings suggest that injected acids may unevenly dissolve rock in carbonate reservoirs, leaving some areas untouched.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Petroleum Science and Engineering·DateJun 15, 2021

Teens experienced helplessness when exposed to secondhand racism

A qualitative study found that adolescents feel helpless when exposed to secondhand racism online, with many describing it as a constant force. However, participating in activism is seen as a way to cope with vicarious racism, and may even mitigate negative emotions.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 15, 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.

New treatment stops progression of Alzheimer's disease in monkey brains

A new therapy has been shown to reduce amyloid beta plaque deposits and toxic tau levels in elderly monkeys' brains, slowing neurodegeneration. The treatment also improved cognitive function in the monkeys, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic approach for Alzheimer's disease.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalBrain·DateJun 15, 2021

Analysis: Chile's transition to democracy slow, incomplete, fueled by social movements

A new article analyzes Chile's transition from dictatorship to democracy between 1990 and 2019, highlighting the role of social movements in expanding democracy. The authors argue that Chile's political system became illegitimate, providing space for various social movements, including feminist, student, and indigenous rights movements.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalThe Latin Americanist·DateJun 15, 2021

Enormous flock of declining shorebird discovered in South Carolina

A massive flock of over 20,000 whimbrel has been discovered on Deveaux Bank in South Carolina, marking the world's largest known night roost for the declining shorebird species. The discovery provides critical hope for protecting this rare bird and highlights the importance of coastal habitat conservation.

SourceSouth Carolina Department of Natural Resources·JournalWader Study·DateJun 15, 2021

The long view

Researchers at UCSB's LTER sites investigate the impact of climate change on diverse ecosystems, including kelp forests and coral reefs. Their findings highlight the importance of long-term research in understanding complex relationships between environmental drivers and ecosystem responses.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalEcosphere·DateJun 15, 2021

Quality supervision, coworker support key to child welfare caseworker retention

A recent study by Oregon State University researchers found that quality supervisory support and strong relationships with coworkers are crucial for child welfare caseworkers' job satisfaction. The study also highlighted the importance of adequate technology and equipment in managing workload effectively.

SourceOregon State University·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·DateJun 15, 2021