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Science News for June 16, 2021


Children with asymptomatic malaria a 'hidden risk' to disease control efforts

A study in Uganda reveals that school-aged children with asymptomatic malaria are a significant source of mosquito infections, driving the spread of the disease. Targeting these children for control interventions could help sustain malaria gains and prevent resurgences.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateJun 16, 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.

Sudden cardiac death more likely to fell persons with HIV infection

A new study by UC San Francisco finds that individuals with HIV are more than twice as likely to die from sudden cardiac death due to fibrosis in the heart. The study also reveals that one-third of sudden deaths initially attributed to cardiac causes were actually caused by drug overdoses.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 16, 2021

Scientists demonstrate promising new approach for treating cystic fibrosis

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine developed an improved oligonucleotide therapy strategy that can correct gene defects underlying cystic fibrosis. The approach has shown promising results in both human cells and mice, with potential applications for treating other pulmonary diseases.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJun 16, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How should governments offer subsidies for clean-energy heating?

A new study from Aalto University recommends that government subsidies for clean-energy heating be allocated to areas where homeowners can least afford the upfront cost, namely those with lower housing prices. This approach aims to promote energy-efficient heat pumps and reduce carbon emissions in Finland's residential buildings.

SourceAalto University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 16, 2021

Underwater robot offers new insight into mid-ocean "twilight zone"

Mesobot, a versatile underwater robot, provides unprecedented insight into the mid-ocean twilight zone. The robot tracks and records high-resolution images of zooplankton, gelatinous animals, and particles, greatly expanding scientists' ability to observe creatures in their mesopelagic habitat with minimal disturbance.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalScience Robotics·DateJun 16, 2021

Alternate-day intermittent fasting leads to less fat loss than traditional daily energy restriction

A new study suggests that alternate-day intermittent fasting may offer no unique health benefits over a standard daily diet. In contrast, traditional daily energy restriction resulted in greater weight and fat loss. The researchers note that longer studies with larger groups are needed to confirm these findings.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 16, 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.

Electrohydraulic arachno-bot a fascinating lightweight

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute have developed a new type of joint inspired by spiders' hydraulic actuation mechanisms. The joints use electrohydraulic forces to enable robots to move rapidly and interact with various environments, making them ideal for small-scale robotic systems.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJun 16, 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.

Mystery solved: Dust cloud led to Betelgeuse's 'Great Dimming'

Astronomers have explained Betelgeuse's sudden dimming by a cloud of dust formed from stardust, which temporarily blocked the star's light. The discovery was made using new images taken with the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalNature·DateJun 16, 2021

Sweeping analysis concludes there's no cheating old age

Researchers found that human life expectancy increase is not due to slowing aging but rather improved survival rates among children and young adults, supporting the 'invariant rate of ageing' hypothesis which suggests a relatively fixed rate of ageing across species.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 16, 2021

How do we know where things are?

Researchers at Dartmouth College discovered that the brain uses a 'steadycam' strategy to stabilize visual experience, perceiving frames as stationary even when they're clearly moving. This 'paradoxical stabilization' effect creates the illusion of stable images, similar to how our brains discount motion in everyday life.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 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.

Most rivers run dry -- now and then

A new study found that between 51-60% of the world's rivers stop flowing periodically, highlighting the need for a paradigm shift in river science and management. Non-perennial rivers provide critical water sources and support biological diversity, but are often overlooked and mismanaged.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature·DateJun 16, 2021

P-glycoprotein removes Alzheimer's-associated toxin from the brain

Researchers at Southern Methodist University have found that P-glycoprotein can transport amyloid-β proteins out of the brain, which are associated with Alzheimer's disease. This discovery could lead to new treatments for the disease affecting nearly 6 million Americans.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 16, 2021

Defining the Hund physics landscape of two-orbital systems

International collaboration identifies four correlated metals in two-orbital systems, including a Hund's metal that can give rise to superconductivity. The discovery overturns conventional wisdom and opens up new avenues for understanding strongly correlated materials.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·DateJun 16, 2021

Over-the-counter fungicide can disrupt hormones

A recent study by the National Food Institute found that clotrimazole, an over-the-counter fungicide, can significantly alter sex hormones in pregnant rats and their developing fetuses. This exposure was observed at concentrations comparable to those experienced by human mothers taking clotrimazole to treat vaginal thrush. The research...

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalToxicology and Applied Pharmacology·DateJun 16, 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.

Preformed gel particles tested for enhanced oil recovery

Experts from Kazan Federal University and partners have tested novel gel particles to improve oil recovery in high-temperature and mineralized reservoirs. The new technique showed a significant increase in recovery, up to 100 thousand tons, and proved the efficiency of reagents under harsh conditions.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalJournal of Petroleum Science and Engineering·DateJun 16, 2021

EU provides 15 million euros of funding for Arctic project

The EU is funding a 15 million euro project to develop an integrated 'pan-Arctic Observing System of Systems' (pan-AOSS) via international collaboration. The project aims to improve the situation by expanding and coordinating Arctic Earth observation capacity, including measurements from Indigenous communities.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·DateJun 16, 2021

How a supermassive black hole originates

A team of researchers has proposed a new explanation for the origin of supermassive black holes, suggesting that they are formed through the collapse of a massive seed black hole produced by the gravitational instability of a dark matter halo. This process, known as gravothermal collapse, can lead to the creation of a seed black hole w...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJun 16, 2021

Ozone pollution has increased in Antarctica

Researchers analyzed 25 years of Antarctic data, finding that ozone levels near the ground have risen by up to 0.14 ppb per year, primarily driven by natural and human sources. This increase can have negative impacts on the region in the future due to ozone's ability to trap heat near Earth's surface.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 16, 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.

Model helps analyze decision-making on adopting Type 2 diabetes medical guidelines

A new computational framework simulates the dissemination of Type 2 diabetes guidelines, highlighting the impact of sociocultural context and complex social interactions. The Culturally Infused Agent Based Model (CI-ABM) improves analysis and prediction of guideline-dissemination behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalIEEE Journal of Biomedical and Health Informatics·DateJun 16, 2021

How sex trafficking trauma affects the way its survivors parent

A study found that sex trafficking survivors' trauma affects their parenting, causing them to be overly protective and emotionally withdrawn. Despite this, they cope by finding meaning in motherhood and social support, and often experience strong connections with their children. The research highlights the need for policies and program...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 16, 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.

Study finds "serious problems with privacy" in mobile health apps

The study found that 88% of mobile health apps can access and potentially share personal data, including advert identifiers, email addresses, and geolocation information. Clinicians are advised to inform patients about potential privacy risks before installing and using these apps.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJun 16, 2021

National Geographic Society grant to fund research into Easter Island

Anthropologists at Binghamton University have received a grant from the National Geographic Society to study ancient Rapa Nui communities' water management techniques. Their research will focus on coastal seeps and inland resources, shedding light on how past populations dealt with freshwater scarcity.

SourceBinghamton University·DateJun 16, 2021

Scientists unravel the function of a sight-saving growth factor

Researchers have determined how peptides derived from PEDF protect neuronal cells in the retina layer, which could lead to treatments for degenerative retinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration. The study found that these peptides work by binding to a protein receptor and processing omega-3 fatty acids like DHA.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalJournal of Neurochemistry·DateJun 16, 2021

Researchers identify new gene that may increase risk of ALS

Researchers identified a new gene, TP73, associated with an increased risk of sporadic ALS. Mutations in this gene have been found to interfere with nerve cell health and lead to abnormal cell differentiation and increased cell death. This discovery provides a potential target for therapy development.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJun 16, 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.

The vision: Tailored optical stimulation for the blind

Researchers design new stimulation protocol for optic nerve stimulation to produce consistent and meaningful visual sensations. They use machine learning approaches to optimize protocols, which have shown promising results in artificial neural networks and psychophysical tests.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateJun 16, 2021

A distinctive inflammatory signature found in a genetic form of ALS

A distinctive inflammatory signature has been found in C90RF72 ALS patients, characterized by an increase in pro-inflammatory molecules in serum and cerebrospinal fluid. This finding informs the development of targeted anti-inflammatory therapies for this subgroup of ALS patients.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalAmyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Degeneration·DateJun 16, 2021

Induced hypothermia after cardiac arrest did not improve survival

A large international randomised clinical trial found that induced hypothermia in unconscious cardiac arrest patients did not reduce mortality. The study included 1900 adult patients and showed a slightly increased risk of impact on blood circulation and cardiac arrhythmia in the group treated with hypothermia.

SourceLund University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 16, 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.

UCLA receives $4.8M to improve genetic disease risk estimates in diverse populations

The National Institutes of Health is funding a research consortium to develop methods for calculating polygenic risk scores (PRS) in people from different ancestries, particularly those with admixed ancestry. Researchers at UCLA will focus on incorporating genetic diversity into PRS to yield accurate and equitable predictions.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateJun 16, 2021

Hydrophobic copper catalyst to mitigate electrolyte flooding

Scientists developed a new copper catalyst with sharp needle structures, enhancing CO2 reduction reaction efficiency by mitigating electrolyte flooding and increasing selectivity. The study published in Journal of the American Chemical Society showcases the stability and productivity of the hierarchical Cu electrode.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 16, 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.

Researchers translate a bird's brain activity into song

A study from University of California San Diego demonstrates the possibility of re-creating a bird's song by reading its brain activity, laying the foundation for building vocal prostheses for humans. The approach uses machine learning algorithms to map neural patterns to mathematical equations modeling the physical changes in the bird...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 16, 2021

Stem cells may hold a key to developing new vaccines against COVID-19

Researchers discovered a stem cell-mediated defense mechanism that reactivates dormant tuberculosis in mice infected with SARS-CoV-2, suggesting potential for new vaccines and avoiding global TB pandemic. This discovery may help develop novel therapeutic approaches against COVID-19 and target antiviral activities.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateJun 16, 2021

ALMA discovers earliest gigantic black hole storm

Researchers used ALMA to detect a galactic wind driven by a supermassive black hole 13.1 billion years ago, pushing back the start of galaxy-growth interactions by 100 million years. The observation reveals coevolution between supermassive black holes and galaxies since less than a billion years after the Universe's birth.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateJun 16, 2021

Pandemic-era crowdfunding more common, successful in affluent communities

Researchers found that COVID-19-related crowdfunding campaigns were more successful in affluent communities, where people had more resources to donate. Despite the challenges of online crowdfunding, the study highlights existing socioeconomic divides and suggests that it can exacerbate inequality.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateJun 16, 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.

New in Ethics & Human Research, May-June 2021

A new study reveals that American Indian and Alaska Native individuals are underrepresented in clinical studies, with only 1% of participants from these groups. The authors call for further research to improve ethical inclusion in clinical research.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalEthics & Human Research·DateJun 16, 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.

Early lung cancer coopts immune cell into helping tumors invade the lungs

Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital discovered that early-stage lung cancer tumors hijack immune cells called tissue-resident macrophages to facilitate their invasion of lung tissue. This process allows the tumor to evade the immune system and grow into more deadly stages of cancer.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateJun 16, 2021

New super-resolution microscopy method approaches the atomic scale

Scientists at Weill Cornell Medicine developed a computational technique that greatly increases the resolution of atomic force microscopy, revealing atomic-level details on proteins and biological structures. The new method allows researchers to study biological molecules under physiologically relevant conditions, providing high-resolu...

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature·DateJun 16, 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.

Heat spells doom for Aussie marsupials

Researchers from Australian National University warn that climate change may be causing more deaths among Australian marsupials, including the greater glider, due to heat-induced eating habits. The study highlights the importance of protecting food sources and restoring nutrient-rich forests to help these animals survive.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·DateJun 16, 2021

OU professor receives Council on Foreign Relations fellowship

Samer Shehata, a University of Oklahoma professor, has received the International Affairs Fellowship from the Council on Foreign Relations. The fellowship will allow him to analyze U.S. foreign policy toward the Middle East and observe how autocratic regimes cooperate and maintain power.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateJun 16, 2021

Intermittent fasting 'no magic bullet for weight loss' says new study

A new study published in Science Translational Medicine found that intermittent fasting diets are not the most effective way to lose weight. Participants who followed a traditional diet with reduced calorie intake lost more weight and fat mass compared to those who fasted on alternate days.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 16, 2021

How long-known genes continue to surprise researchers

Researchers have discovered a huge diversity of alternative splicing combinations in the human brain, allowing for adaptation to specific requirements. New glutamate receptor variants, some with potential new functions, were identified using bioinformatic methods.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCellular and Molecular Life Sciences·DateJun 16, 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.

How a bath sponge becomes a bio-based industrial filter

Researchers at TU Freiberg create new composite material from marine bath sponges that can be used as a bi-based filter for wastewater treatment or pollutant removal, and can be reused multiple times without losing its properties.

SourceUniversity of Freiberg / TU Bergakademie Freiberg·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 16, 2021

Algorithm reveals the mysterious foraging habits of narwhals

A team of researchers developed an algorithm that can predict when narwhals hunt, opening up new insights into their life and behavior. The algorithm uses acoustic data from clicks and buzzing sounds to map the whales' movement patterns and identify hunting areas.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalEcological Informatics·DateJun 16, 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.

Concordia researchers break down the COVID-19 diagnostic arsenal

A team of Concordia researchers categorized and evaluated over 600 COVID-19 detection tools and technologies, identifying strengths and weaknesses. They hope their study will guide researchers toward ideal devices that can be used by anyone at a low cost.

SourceConcordia University·JournalClinical Microbiology Reviews·DateJun 16, 2021

Graphene 'camera' captures real-time electrical activity of beating heart

Researchers developed a graphene-based sensor to record real-time electrical activity of a beating heart, offering high sensitivity and parallel detection. The 'graphene camera' allows for imaging entire networks of cells simultaneously, enabling new studies on neural networks.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 16, 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.

When small epigenomic signals matter

Researchers analyzed epigenomic signals in human and primate cell lines, revealing weak signals linked to brain functions. The findings provide insights into the evolution of human biology and offer a new model for studying regulatory elements.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 16, 2021

Seabird eggs contaminated with cocktail of plastic additives

A new study by the University of Exeter and Queensland has found that herring gull eggs contain up to six types of phthalate, potentially causing oxidative stress in chicks. The research suggests that mothers pass on phthalates and products of lipid damage through their eggs.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateJun 16, 2021

Racism and racial trauma as barriers to breastfeeding

African American mothers face significant barriers to breastfeeding due to racism and lack of economic support. The authors identify three forms of institutionalized racism that perpetuate this disparity, including the exploitation of Black women's labor and lack of employer-based support.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·DateJun 16, 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.

Subterranean investigations

Researchers have developed a fast and controllable soft robot that can burrow through sand with minimal resistance. The robot's design is inspired by plants and animals that navigate subterranean spaces, enabling new applications for underwater exploration and potentially paving the way for future space missions.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience Robotics·DateJun 16, 2021

Like your olives bitter? Molecular breeding can make them even better!

Scientists assembled a high-quality genome of a European olive species, identifying genes involved in oleuropein biosynthesis. The study revealed 202 genes related to oleuropein, twice as many as previously known, and found olives genetically closest to the oleaster plant.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateJun 16, 2021

CNIO researchers find molecular switch that allows organisms to adapt to fasting conditions

Researchers at CNIO have identified RagA as a molecular switch that allows cells to adapt to low nutrient levels, enabling an 'energy-saving mode' similar to what occurs in yeasts. This discovery has significant implications for understanding metabolic regulation and potential strategies to fight obesity and related diseases.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 16, 2021

Lies to hide doping in professional sport

A study by University of Göttingen sports sociologist Dr. Marcel Reinold analyzes autobiographies of professional cyclists, revealing they use complex techniques to manipulate information and conceal doping. The results show athletes play down the extent of the doping problem and portray themselves as victims to avoid suspicion.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalEuropean Journal for Sport and Society·DateJun 16, 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.

Convergent mechanism of aging discovered

Researchers have discovered folate metabolism as a common mechanism underlying aging and lifespan extension across different species. The study found that altering folate metabolism increases lifespan in worms and mice by up to 30 percent, suggesting a potential new approach to improving human health during aging.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 16, 2021

We cannot cheat ageing and death

A new study led by Fernando Colchero reveals a strong link between human life expectancy and lifespan equality. Researchers analyzed data from nine human populations and 30 non-human primate populations, including gorillas, chimpanzees, and baboons, to explore the invariant rate of ageing hypothesis.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 16, 2021

Natural killers: Using the body's cells to target breast cancer

Researchers at Clemson University developed a bifunctional protein that links natural killer cells to breast cancer tumor cells, triggering the killing of cancer cells. The approach has potential as a new treatment option for triple-negative breast cancer, which is often lethal due to its high heterogeneity and lack of efficient treatm...

SourceClemson University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 16, 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.

Fossil research shows woodlice cousins roamed Ireland 360 million years ago

A new fossil analysis published in Biology Letters reveals that woodlice cousins, Oxyuropoda, existed on Irish land 360 million years ago. The study uses modern imaging technology to recreate the image of this ancient creature, providing insight into the evolution of crustaceans and their colonization of land.

SourceUniversity College Cork·JournalBiology Letters·DateJun 16, 2021

Advocating reimbursement parity for nurse practitioners

The University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing argues that nurse practitioners should receive 100% reimbursement for services comparable to physicians. This increase in reimbursement rate would incentivize NPs to practice in primary care settings where there is a shortage, leading to better patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalOJIN The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing·DateJun 16, 2021

'Unshackled' palm-destroying beetles could soon invade Australia

Researchers warn that biological controls have failed to stop the spread of coconut rhinoceros beetles in Pacific islands, putting Australian gardens and industry at risk. The beetles' population genetics reveal multiple virus variations, complicating control efforts and highlighting the need for urgent research.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalCurrent Research in Insect Science·DateJun 16, 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.

New material could remove respiratory droplets from air

Researchers developed a new transparent material that captures and removes droplets and aerosols from indoor air, effectively eliminating potential sources of transmission. The coating can be applied to various surfaces and is compatible with antiviral materials.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalChem·DateJun 16, 2021

Research study suggests BAT's Modern Oral products have similar toxicant profile to NRT

A recent study published in Drug and Chemical Toxicology found that BAT's modern oral nicotine pouches have a comparable toxicant profile to NRTs, with significantly lower levels of toxicants than traditional oral snus. The study suggests that MO products should be placed close to NRTs on the reduced-risk product continuum.

SourceR&D at British American Tobacco·JournalDrug and Chemical Toxicology·DateJun 16, 2021

Measuring the elimination of plastic particles from the body in mice

A study published in Scientific Reports demonstrates the use of positron emission tomography (PET) imaging to track the elimination of plastic particles from the bodies of mice. The research reveals that most small plastic particles are eliminated within two days, with smaller particles cleared faster than larger ones.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 16, 2021

Study reveals recipe for even more powerful COVID-19 vaccines

A new study reveals that current vaccines may lack essential viral material to trigger a holistic immune response in humans. The researchers identified 25% of viral protein fragments that trigger the immune system, which could lead to more effective and powerful vaccines.

SourceBoston University·JournalCell·DateJun 16, 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.

Survival among adults with early-onset colorectal cancer

A recent study found that adults with early-onset colorectal cancer (diagnosed before age 50) have significantly better survival rates than those diagnosed later in life. The research used data from the National Cancer Database and found a significant difference in survival rates between the two groups.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 16, 2021

Smartphone bans in the workplace

A field experiment involving 100 students showed that soft smartphone bans can increase efficiency for standard routine tasks, but have no notable impact on more complex tasks. The success of soft bans also depends on employees' perceptions of social norms and freedom of choice.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalExperimental Economics·DateJun 16, 2021

Finding pathways for sustainable development in Africa

A new project will develop novel tools and capacities to understand and manage interlinkages between the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), supporting sustainable development pathways for African countries. The project will analyze multi-level governance structures and path dependencies to identify impediments and enablers to sustai...

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·DateJun 16, 2021

Having a strong life purpose eases loneliness of COVID-19 isolation

Researchers found that individuals with a strong sense of purpose in life were less lonely and more willing to engage in COVID-19 protective behaviors. Despite feelings of loneliness, those with a higher sense of purpose expressed stronger beliefs in the effectiveness of prevention measures.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateJun 16, 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.

New research finds ways to improve accuracy of Lateral Flow Tests

Researchers from King's College London have identified potential modifications to Lateral Flow Devices that can improve their sensitivity and accuracy. The study found that the technology behind the devices is highly accurate but faces limitations in read-out technology.

SourceKing's College London·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 16, 2021

Particles with 'eyes' allow a closer look at rotational dynamics

A team of researchers created particles with an off-center core that can be tracked under a microscope to study rotational dynamics. Their findings show that neighboring spheres rotate coupled and move in opposite directions, like meshed gears, and that there is a relationship between local crystallinity and rotational diffusivity.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review X·DateJun 16, 2021

Several persistent chemicals were found in fetal organs

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered industrial chemicals in the organs of fetuses conceived decades after many countries banned the substances. The study found that 15 out of 22 persistent organic pollutants were present in every organ, with four chemicals detected in all tissues in all fetuses.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalChemosphere·DateJun 16, 2021

Using microorganisms to monitor water quality within minutes

SUTD researchers have developed a technology that tracks the impact of pollutants on aquatic microorganisms, measuring their swimming speed and movement within minutes. This method allows for rapid assessment of water quality and drinkability, making it suitable for underdeveloped regions without specialized equipment or chemicals.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 16, 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.

Pandemic planning: Government should embrace uncertainty rather than confront it or shy away from it

New research suggests the UK's pandemic planning was limited by an outdated modelling structure, highlighting the need for a more holistic approach to decision-making. Professor Ashraf Labib proposes a hybrid model combining resilience triangle and bowtie modelling with five guiding principles to enhance public policy decisions.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalSafety Science·DateJun 16, 2021

US sex trafficking survivors face challenges as mothers

US sex trafficking survivors experience difficulties building parenting confidence and exhibiting emotional withdrawal, impacting their ability to be protective parents. The study highlights the need for targeted support to help these individuals overcome challenges in motherhood.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 16, 2021

Bruisable artificial skin could help prosthetics, robots sense injuries

Researchers have developed an artificial skin that senses force through ionic signals and changes color from yellow to purple when damaged, mimicking human bruising. This innovation opens up new opportunities for detecting damage in prosthetic devices and robotics.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 16, 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.

'Wonder material' can be used to detect COVID-19 quickly, accurately

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have developed a graphene-based sensor that can detect SARS-CoV-2 virus in laboratory experiments. The sensor uses atomic-level vibrations to identify COVID-positive samples, with results evident in under five minutes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 16, 2021

Association of cannabis use during adolescence with neurodevelopment

A recent study found that cannabis use during adolescence is associated with reduced thickness in certain brain areas, according to researchers at the University of Vermont. The study used magnetic resonance imaging to measure brain structure and suggest a possible link between early cannabis use and neurodevelopmental changes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJun 16, 2021

Keeping strawberries fresh using bioactive packaging

A new bioactive packaging film made of chitosan, essential oils and nanoparticles can keep strawberries fresh for up to 12 days. The film has been tested against several types of pathogens, including Aspergillus niger, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella Typhimurium.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalFood Hydrocolloids·DateJun 16, 2021

Can biodegradable polymers live up to the hype?

Key findings suggest PHA's rapid biodegradability is overstated in real-world conditions, but it remains a better alternative to non-biodegradable plastics. Several companies are planning to switch their packaging to PHA-based materials soon.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJun 16, 2021

Ocean circulation is key to understanding uncertainties in climate change predictions

Thirty state-of-the-art IPCC-climate models predict varying climates for Europe due to differing simulations of North Atlantic ocean currents. The analysis highlights the importance of incorporating ocean circulation into climate models, suggesting that uncertainties in predictions may be largely dependent on changes to this circulation.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 16, 2021

Online mental health therapy significantly aids the isolated, immunosuppressed in pandemic

Researchers found that online mental health intervention improved anxiety and depression in people with scleroderma, a disease causing skin and connective tissue tightening. The four-week program offered group mental health intervention from trained peer support leaders, resulting in significant improvements six weeks later.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Lancet Rheumatology·DateJun 16, 2021

Anna M. Sawka, MD, Ph.D. appointed incoming Editor-in-Chief of Thyroid®

Dr. Anna M. Sawka, a renowned Clinician Scientist and Endocrinologist, has been appointed the next Editor-in-Chief of Thyroid, the Official Journal of the American Thyroid Association. She will lead the journal in advancing scientific publication in the field of Thyroidology.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThyroid·DateJun 16, 2021

Quantum-nonlocality at all speeds

Quantum nonlocality is a universal property that prevails regardless of particle speed or indeterminacy. Researchers designed an experiment to test this phenomenon, using the principle of physical phenomena being independent of frame of reference, to prove nonlocality for any quantum particle.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 16, 2021

How do immune cells get activated?

Researchers at Université de Genève and University of Basel study the structure of cellular receptors and molecules that activate immune cells. They discovered a 'lock and key' mechanism involving specific amino acids in chemokine structures, allowing for fine-tuning of immune system activation.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 16, 2021

Space scientists solve a decades-long gamma-ray burst puzzle

A team of UK scientists has confirmed a decades-long theoretical prediction about gamma-ray bursts. They measured the magnetic field in a far-off Gamma-Ray Burst and found it was scrambled after the ejected material crashed into, and shocked, the surrounding medium. This discovery sheds new light on these extreme cosmic blasts.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 16, 2021

Icebergs drifting from Canada to southern Florida

Researchers found evidence of massive icebergs drifting from Northeast Canada to southern Florida using high-resolution seafloor mapping and radiocarbon dating. The discovery provides insight into the interactions between icebergs/glaciers and climate, shedding light on how past changes in freshwater forcing influenced shifts in climate.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 16, 2021

Public concern on human health impact of plastic pollution

A large-scale survey found that both Europeans and Australians are highly concerned about the human health impact of marine plastic pollution, ranking it as a top threat. The study suggests a need for more research into the potential impacts on human health to inform policy and decision-making.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateJun 16, 2021

New beetle species discovered and named after iconic sci-fi heroines

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered over three dozen new ambrosia beetle species previously unknown to science. These beetles are named after female science fiction characters, such as Nyota Uhura and Katniss Everdeen, highlighting the importance of biodiversity classification.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalZooKeys·DateJun 16, 2021

Researchers find human infant brains, bodies are active during new sleep stage

A study by University of Iowa researchers found that human infants exhibit increased twitching during quiet sleep, which is synchronized with brain oscillations called sleep spindles. This discovery suggests that babies are learning about their bodies through twitching during a previously thought to be inactive period.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 16, 2021

Omega-3s may hold key to unlocking blood-brain barrier

Researchers have visualized the structure of the MFSD2A transporter protein, which allows omega-3s to enter the brain. The study provides insight into how this protein can be used to design drugs that mimic omega-3s and hijack the system for neurological treatment.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature·DateJun 16, 2021

Yeast mating -- more than meets the eye

Researchers discovered an asymmetrical behavior in isogamous yeast, where MATa cells exhibit exploratory search and MATα cells display short-range gradient sensing. This finding challenges previous assumptions on the evolutionary origins of sexual dimorphism.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 16, 2021

UBCO researchers identify best strategy to reduce human-bear conflict

Researchers used computer modelling to simulate bears' journeys in Whistler, identifying anthropogenic food as a major attractant. The study found that reducing attractants is more effective than reactive management strategies, and can be applied to communities across Canada

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalEcological Modelling·DateJun 16, 2021

Machine learning can now reduce worry about nanoparticles in food

Researchers at Texas A&M University used machine learning to evaluate metallic nanoparticles' susceptibility for plant uptake. The algorithm indicates how much plants accumulate nanoparticles in their roots and shoots, providing a safer approach to nanotechnology in agriculture.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 16, 2021

What factors put Philippine birds at risk of extinction?

A new study from the University of Utah reveals that more bird species in the Philippines may be endangered than previously thought, including those yet to be discovered. The research identifies key traits that make certain species more at risk of extinction, such as narrow elevation ranges and dependence on forests.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJun 16, 2021

Bats in Switzerland harbor diverse viruses, some potentially zoonotic

A study of 18 bat species in Switzerland revealed 39 different viral families, with 16 infecting vertebrates and potentially posing a risk to humans. A near-complete genome of an MERS-CoV-related virus was also identified, highlighting the need for continued monitoring of viruses carried by bats.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 16, 2021

Bacteria used to clean diesel-polluted soil in Greenland

Researchers found that bacteria can break down up to 82% of contaminated soil in five years through the landfarming method, a new approach for Arctic regions. The study demonstrates the potential of naturally occurring bacteria to remediate diesel pollution at abandoned military installations.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateJun 16, 2021