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Science News for June 2, 2021


How HIV infection shrinks the brain's white matter

Researchers found that HIV prevents oligodendrocytes from maturing, reducing myelin production. The virus secretes glutamate, which activates the integrated stress response, further disrupting cell development.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalGlia·DateJun 2, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sinai Health scientists provide detailed map to understanding human cells

Researchers at Sinai Health have developed a new tool to better understand the organization of living human cells. By creating a detailed map of protein localization across all compartments in human cells, the team has gained valuable insights into cellular function and disease mechanisms.

SourceLunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute·JournalNature·DateJun 2, 2021

Can echolocation help those with vision loss?

A 10-week training program showed that both sighted and blind participants improved on echolocation tasks, with some even performing better than expert echolocators. The study's findings suggest that click-based echolocation can be a valuable tool for people with vision loss or progressive degenerative eye conditions.

SourceDurham University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 2, 2021

Spiders can sniff out and avoid killer ants, SFU study finds

Researchers found that spiders detect the chemicals released by European fire ants and choose to build their webs elsewhere. This instinctual behavior allows spiders to survive in areas with high ant activity, potentially leading to the development of more effective spider repellents.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJun 2, 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.

Real-time continuous glucose monitoring, blood sugar control

Researchers investigated the effect of real-time continuous glucose monitoring on glycemic control among patients with insulin-treated diabetes. The study found that this technology improved blood sugar control, allowing for more effective management of the condition.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJun 2, 2021

Gut to brain: Nerve cells detect what we eat

Researchers discovered two types of nerve cells in the vagus nerve control center that adapt feeding behavior and blood sugar levels differently. The first type detects stomach stretch, while the second type senses chemical signals from food, influencing appetite and glucose metabolism.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 2, 2021

Anyone can get super-hearing

Researchers at Aalto University developed a new audio technique that allows people to track bats in flight and localise sources of ultrasonic sound, enabling super-hearing. The device records ultrasound using microphones on a small sphere, pitch-shifts the signal, and plays it back through headphones.

SourceAalto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 2, 2021

What guides habitual seeking behavior explained?

A recent KAIST study revealed that the ventral striatum is a neural basis for our habitual seeking behavior, including addiction. The research found that long-term value memories are retained in the ventral striatum and guide automatic evaluations of objects based on positive values.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 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.

Kids who sleep with their pet still get a good night's rest: Concordia research

A new study by Concordia researchers found that children who share a bed with their pets have indistinguishable sleep quality compared to those who sleep alone. The study, which analyzed data from over 200 children, discovered that frequent pet-sharing was associated with higher perceived sleep quality, particularly among adolescents.

SourceConcordia University·JournalSleep Health·DateJun 2, 2021

New nanoparticle design paves way for improved detection of tumors

A team of researchers from KTH Royal Institute of Technology has developed a novel nanoparticle design that enhances the contrast of living tissues for X-ray fluorescence imaging. This breakthrough enables early stage tumor detection with lower doses of radiation.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 2, 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.

Experts propose 'five Cs' to tackle vaccine hesitancy

A five-pronged strategy addressing behavioural and socio-demographic factors is proposed to combat vaccine hesitancy. Confidence in vaccine safety is crucial, while addressing complacency among younger people and those of lower socioeconomic status is essential for increased uptake.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateJun 2, 2021

Cancer-promoting Ras protein exists in a pair within cells

The Ras protein, involved in cancer development, is found to exist in a pair at the cell membrane. This pairing enhances signal transmission for cell growth, making it a potential target for cancer treatment. Bioinformatic methods and experimental data validate the structure of the interface between the two proteins.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalChemical Science·DateJun 2, 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.

Aortic condition more deadly in women than in men

Women are more likely to experience acute aortic dissection with older age and different presenting symptoms, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. The study highlights the need for sex-directed strategies to improve outcomes in female patients.

SourceThe Society of Thoracic Surgeons·JournalThe Annals of Thoracic Surgery·DateJun 2, 2021

A new dimension in the quest to understand dark matter

A new theoretical framework suggests that dark matter's properties can be explained by the existence of an extra dimension in space-time. The force between dark matter particles is described by a continuum, which could address puzzles seen in small galaxies.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of High Energy Physics·DateJun 2, 2021

Record-breaking temperatures more likely in populated tropics

New research suggests that record-breaking temperatures will occur more frequently in the tropics due to large and growing populations. The study found that normalized temperature data reveals greater warming and more extreme heat events in tropical regions.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 2, 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.

App helps pregnant women to a healthy lifestyle

The HealthyMoms app has been shown to improve a pregnant woman's diet and physical activity, leading to healthier weight gain. Women with overweight or obesity who used the app gained an average of 1.7 kg less weight than those in the control group.

SourceLinköping University·JournalJMIR mhealth and uhealth·DateJun 2, 2021

Social media influencing grows more precarious in digital age

A new Cornell University study reveals that social media content creators face significant precarity in their pursuit of visibility and metrics success. The research highlights the challenges posed by algorithmic systems and platform instability, which can quickly render an influencer's career uncertain.

SourceCornell University·JournalSocial Media + Society·DateJun 2, 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.

Nanomaterials with laser printing

Researchers develop a laser-driven method to synthesize nanoparticles, enabling efficient conversion of solar energy into electricity. The technology also promotes the production of green hydrogen by employing photoelectrodes that use sunlight directly.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 2021

Metal ions help COVID-19 virus to disguise itself

The SARS-CoV-2 virus exploits metal ion concentration changes to evade immune surveillance. Metal ions form a bridge between viral messenger RNA and a protein complex, stabilizing it for modification.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 2021

La Jolla Institute for Immunology launches new global cancer immunology resource

The La Jolla Institute for Immunology has launched the Cancer Epitope Database and Analysis Resource (CEDAR), a new global cancer immunology resource, thanks to $4.2 million in National Cancer Institute funding. Researchers can now easily search and contribute data on potential immune system targets on various types of cancer cells.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·DateJun 2, 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.

World's lakes losing oxygen rapidly as planet warms

Research published in Nature found that oxygen levels in temperate freshwater lakes declined 5.5% at the surface and 18.6% in deep waters since 1980. Climate change is driving this decline, which threatens aquatic biodiversity and drinking water quality.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNature·DateJun 2, 2021

Conservatives more susceptible to believing falsehoods

A new national study conducted over six months shows conservatives are less able to distinguish political truths from falsehoods than liberals. This is mainly because of a glut of right-leaning misinformation in the American media and information environment.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 2, 2021

Research suggests BMI may not be best obesity indicator to assess risk for lung cancer

A new study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that using traditional methods like BMI can misclassify obesity as a non-risk factor for lung cancer. The researchers measured visceral fat index through CT scans and found a clear correlation between central obesity and poor lung cancer outcomes.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateJun 2, 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.

Immunotherapy after surgery reduces deadly relapse risk in advanced bladder cancer

A phase 3 clinical trial shows that immunotherapy nivolumab after surgery can nearly double the time before relapse for patients with high-risk urothelial cancer. The treatment significantly reduces metastatic recurrence risk, offering hope for thousands of patients worldwide.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 2, 2021

People of color twice as likely to die after traumatic brain injury, new study finds

A recent study by Oregon Health & Science University found that people of color are more than twice as likely to die after a traumatic brain injury compared to white patients. The researchers analyzed over a decade of data and attributed the disparity to underlying social determinants such as diet, lifestyle, and access to healthcare.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalFrontiers in Surgery·DateJun 2, 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.

Autistic people find it harder to identify anger in facial expressions -- new study

A new study found that autistic individuals have difficulty recognizing angry facial expressions produced at a normal 'real-world' speed, while those with alexithymia perceive all expressions as more intensely emotional. The researchers suggest that recognizing anger is a specific challenge for autism.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateJun 2, 2021

Growing evidence fruit may lower type 2 diabetes risk

Eating at least two serves of fruit daily has been found to lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 36%. The study suggests that whole fruits, not juice, contribute to improved insulin sensitivity and reduced blood glucose levels. Higher consumption of fruits rich in phytochemicals and fibre may also play a role.

SourceEdith Cowan University·DateJun 2, 2021

Using the fungal electrical activity for computing

Researchers propose techniques to decode fungal electrical activity, enabling efficient information transmission and complex processing. Fungal networks can monitor large data flows, providing insights into ecosystem dynamics and promoting sustainable development.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalBiosystems·DateJun 2, 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.

Tiny implant cures diabetes in mice without triggering immune response

Researchers developed a nanofiber-integrated cell encapsulation device that protects insulin-secreting cells from the immune system, allowing them to secrete insulin and control blood sugar levels. The implant was successful in mice with diabetes for up to 200 days without suppressing the immune system.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 2, 2021

People who eat a healthy diet including whole fruits may be less likely to develop diabetes

A new study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that consuming two servings of whole fruits per day significantly lowers the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The research, which analyzed data from over 7,700 participants, suggests that a healthy diet and lifestyle, including frui...

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJun 2, 2021

Want to Talk About Prenups? Describe Them as Something Else

Researchers found that online commenters used metaphors to describe prenups as 'insurance' or 'safety features', reframe negative perceptions. Most commenters viewed prenups positively, arguing they prepare for the worst while maintaining a long-term commitment.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Family and Economic Issues·DateJun 2, 2021

A speedy trial: What it takes to be the fastest land predator

The study reveals that cheetahs use two types of flight during galloping, which enables them to accelerate to high speeds. The team's simple model and measurements with real-world data confirm the findings, suggesting a key factor in cheetahs' exceptional speed.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 2, 2021

The feasibility of transformation pathways for achieving the Paris Climate Agreement

A new systematic framework allows researchers to identify feasibility concerns in climate mitigation scenarios, highlighting the need for improved assessments of socio-cultural factors and demand-side mitigation. The framework is particularly useful for exploring trade-offs over time and analyzing enabling conditions for achieving ambi...

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 2, 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.

New articles for Geosphere posted online in May

Researchers analyzed detrital-zircon data from sandstones in the Ouachita orogen, revealing a mix of sediment dispersal pathways from multiple provenances. In Scotland, the Moine thrust zone hosted highly alkaline syenite intrusions with high-temperature contact metamorphic aureoles.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeosphere·DateJun 2, 2021

New study explores link between economic shock and physical inactivity

A new study published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine finds critical links between job loss and physical inactivity among young adults during the U.S. Great Recession. The study, led by Dickinson College economist Shamma Alam, found that job losses reduced the likelihood of physical exercise by 6.3 percentage points.

SourceDickinson College·JournalAmerican Journal of Lifestyle Medicine·DateJun 2, 2021

Faith-community nurses promote physical activity among congregants

A West Virginia University study shows that faith communities have the potential to promote physical wellbeing along with emotional or spiritual health. A 12-week program led by faith-community nurses encouraged better time management, provided participants with more energy, and improved comfort with exercise on a regular basis.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalJournal of Interprofessional Education & Practice·DateJun 2, 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.

Male piglets less resilient to stress when moms get sick during pregnancy

A study from the University of Illinois found that male piglets are more susceptible to neurodevelopmental and neurological anomalies when their mothers are infected with PRRSV during pregnancy. The researchers also discovered changes in gene expression associated with autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia spectrum disorder, and neur...

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateJun 2, 2021

European Virtual Institute to study the neural basis of emotion

The European Virtual Institute will study the neural basis of emotion using a Marie Sklodowska-Curie Innovative Training Network, focusing on the role of the cerebellum in controlling emotions. The network aims to develop new therapeutic strategies for emotional disorders by combining fundamental and clinical research.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateJun 2, 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.

Luring bacteria into a trap

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a vaccine that guides bacteria's evolution to make them a weaker pathogen, rather than trying to kill them. The combination vaccine was shown to be more effective in preventing Salmonella infections than existing vaccines.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJun 2, 2021

New project aims to digitize astrophysical literature

A new project, 'The Reading Time Machine,' aims to digitize predigital scientific literature in astronomy, extracting text and figures to enhance searchable capabilities. Researchers will use optical character recognition and object detection methods to parse tables, figure captions, and science-relevant information.

SourceUniversity of Illinois School of Information Sciences·DateJun 2, 2021

Blood sugar highs and lows linked to greater dementia risk in type 1 diabetes

Researchers found that people with low blood sugar events had a 75% greater risk of developing dementia, while those with high blood sugar events had more than twice the risk. People experiencing both types of events faced the greatest risk, with an incidence rate of 98.5 cases for every 1,000 person-years

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJun 2, 2021

Quantum Hall effect and the third dimension

Scientists at Max Planck Institute show that electron system of ZrTe5 remains three-dimensional even in strong magnetic fields, linking quasi-quantization to quantum-Hall physics. This finding promises a unified explanation for puzzling plateaus in Hall measurements in many three-dimensional materials.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 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.

Salps fertilize the Southern Ocean more effectively than krill

Researchers found that salp fecal pellets release more bioavailable iron than krill pellets, allowing phytoplankton to take up five times more iron. This could lead to increased CO2 fixation and a shift in the Southern Ocean's food web as climate change affects krill dominance.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 2, 2021

Researchers identify how to prevent cancer metastases

Researchers have discovered that natural killer cells and interferon gamma play a crucial role in preventing cancer metastases. Targeted therapies, such as immunotherapy and interferon gamma therapy, show promise in maintaining dormant cancer cells in a state of hibernation.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature·DateJun 2, 2021

Acoustic solutions made from natural fibers can reduce buildings' carbon footprints

Aalto University researchers discovered that wood-based pulp fibers are well-suited for making acoustic materials. These natural fibers have positive environmental impacts compared to traditional acoustic materials, absorbing significant amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and producing more energy-efficient products.

SourceAalto University·JournalFrontiers in Built Environment·DateJun 2, 2021

R&D exploration or exploitation? How firms respond to import competition

A study published in the Strategic Management Journal finds that firms in response to increased import penetration tend to rely more on familiar knowledge in developing innovations, rather than exploring new sources of knowledge. This shift is temporarily reversed over time, positively associated with an increased likelihood of survival.

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateJun 2, 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.

Synthetic SPECIES developed for use as a confinable gene drive

Researchers create synthetic fly species with a genetic barrier to limit gene drive spread, offering a safe and reversible method of controlling populations. The technology has potential applications in disease elimination, crop protection, and pest management.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 2021

Fossil secret may shed light on the diversity of Earth's first animals

Scientists have found that exceptionally well-preserved fossils in the Burgess Shale, Canada, could have been moved by mudflows without damage, throwing doubt on the idea that they all lived together. This discovery suggests that early marine animal communities may be more complex and diverse than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateJun 2, 2021

CMU Team develops machine learning platform that mines nature for new drugs

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a machine learning platform that can identify natural product drugs for treating various ailments. The platform, called NRPminer, uses genomic and metabolomics data to detect promising natural products, including four novel compounds with potential antimalarial properties.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 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.

Coloring tumors reveals their bad influence

A team of researchers developed a laboratory system to dissect the pre-cancerous steps that remained undetected until present. They found that mutant cells create a hostile environment for neighboring non-mutant cells and deregulate the normal stem cell niche in mouse intestinal tissue.

SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature·DateJun 2, 2021

Regulation of the genome affects its 3D structure

Researchers found that DNA methylation increases stiffness of DNA, affecting its 3D structure and gene activation. This discovery reveals a cryptic mechanism connecting epigenetic footprinting and gene programming.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 2021

Study exposes increasing flood risk in the UK

A recent study by Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University researchers found that floods in most UK areas no longer follow historical patterns due to climate change and human intervention. This challenges traditional flood frequency analysis methods, which may lead to underestimation of flood peaks and catastrophic consequences.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalJournal of Hydrology·DateJun 2, 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.

New study may help explain low oxygen levels in COVID-19 patients

Researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 infects immature red blood cells, leading to reduced oxygen levels and impaired immune response. The study also shows why dexamethasone has been an effective treatment for COVID-19 patients.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJun 2, 2021

The best strawberries to grow in hot locations

Researchers found five strawberry cultivars suitable for growing in hot, dry regions like Texas. These varieties have desirable berry characteristics, including sweetness and flavor intensity. The top performers were Albion, Sweet Charlie, Camarosa, Camino Real, and Chandler.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJun 2, 2021

Stemming the leaky pipeline of females in STEM

A Singapore study explores how female students fare in STEM careers, revealing only half of graduates stay in the field. The research aims to stem the 'leaky pipeline' by investigating early exposure to female role models and group work dynamics.

SourceSingapore Management University·DateJun 2, 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.

Activation of carbon-fluorine bonds via cooperation of a photocatalyst and tin

Researchers from Osaka University have successfully developed an organic reaction that selectively converts a specific carbon-fluorine bond in perfluorinated compounds to other functional groups. This breakthrough enables the synthesis of high-value fluorine-containing drugs, addressing a significant challenge in pharmaceutical applica...

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 2, 2021

Continuous glucose monitors help manage type 2 diabetes

The study found that continuous glucose monitors reduced emergency department visits and hospitalizations for hypoglycemia, improving blood sugar control in selected insulin-treated type 2 diabetes patients. The monitors also showed comparable results to a new diabetes medication in terms of blood sugar control.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJAMA·DateJun 2, 2021

Current global environmental law and policy are failing, experts say

Leading scholars propose new frameworks for environmental governance, citing structural problems in current laws and international law-making processes. They advocate for a new environmental charter, reviving the United Nations Trusteeship Council, and strengthening the UN Environment Programme to address pressing global challenges.

SourceIOS Press·JournalEnvironmental Policy and Law·DateJun 2, 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.

Protein disguise could be new target for cancer immunotherapy

Researchers identified a protein that interferes with the immune system's response to cancer, allowing tumours to evade killer T-cells. Lower levels of this protein in tumours have been linked to improved survival rates in patients with specific types of cancer, such as liver, head and neck, and stomach cancers.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalCell·DateJun 2, 2021

Target protein identified for improving heart attack treatment

A new study led by Washington State University researchers has identified protein kinase A (PKA) as a potential target for improving treatment outcomes after a heart attack. The research suggests that PKA plays a role in heart muscle cell necrosis, a major type of cell death that commonly occurs after reperfusion therapy.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 2, 2021

Broadly neutralizing antibodies against pandemic flu point to new vaccine targets

Researchers found broadly neutralizing antibodies that target two conserved regions of the H1N1 influenza virus, which also neutralize various other strains. These findings suggest that vaccines targeting these regions could protect against a broader array of flu strains.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 2, 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.

Better popping potential for popcorn

A team of researchers has identified key characteristics related to popcorn expansion, enabling more efficient selection and breeding of high-quality popcorn. The study found that kernel outer layer thickness is a critical trait for increased popping expansion.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateJun 2, 2021

Patients Taking Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Respond Less Well to COVID-19 Vaccine

A new study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found that patients taking methotrexate for immune system disorders have a weaker antibody response to COVID-19 vaccines. This means they may not be as protected against the virus, but further research is needed to understand the issue.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 2, 2021

Neuroscience doesn't undermine free will after all

A new study published in Trends in Cognitive Science argues that recent research does not challenge free will. The article highlights computational modeling and data analysis challenges to the idea that electrical activity in the brain indicates a lack of free will.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateJun 2, 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.

At-home COVID-19 tests: How good are they?

A recent study by the American Chemical Society tested five at-home rapid tests, finding they were relatively easy to use with accurate results compared to lab testing. The cost and access to these tests are concerns, but community programs can help offset costs and build trust in testing.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJun 2, 2021

Under the microscope: SMU's experiential learning

SMU-X, a university-wide pedagogical experiential learning programme, is being rigorously evaluated to assess its impact on graduates. The study will investigate whether SMU-X effectively cultivates a learning mindset, sharpens workforce skills, and facilitates career-related advancements for SMU graduates.

SourceSingapore Management University·DateJun 2, 2021

Mapping intermittent methane emissions across the Permian Basin

A team of researchers has identified over 1,100 unique large methane point sources across the Permian Basin using airborne imaging spectrometry. The study found that most sources were highly intermittent, but those that were persistent accounted for a significant portion of total emissions.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJun 2, 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.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Similarity of legs, wheels, tracks suggests target for energy-efficient robots

The U.S. Army Research Laboratory has developed a new formula that applies to a broad range of legged, wheeled, and tracked systems, showing they are as efficient as other ground mobile platforms. The findings have implications for designing future terrestrial robots for defense applications, particularly in challenging terrain.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 2, 2021

Researchers explore ways to detect 'deep fakes' in geography

A team of researchers has developed a method to detect deep fakes in geography, including satellite images and maps. The technique uses Cycle-Consistent Adversarial Networks (CycleGAN) to identify fake images, distinguishing them from real ones with 80% accuracy.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalCartography and Geographic Information Science·DateJun 2, 2021

Laser physics: Two-stage particle-beam booster

Laser physicists have built the first compact two-stage plasma-based accelerator, accelerating particles to near-light speed within a few millimeters. The hybrid plasma accelerator has shown more than three orders of magnitude higher acceleration fields than conventional accelerators.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 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.

Building green finance in Asia

The Monetary Authority of Singapore launches a $2 billion green investments program to promote environmentally sustainable projects. The Singapore Green Finance Centre, launched by SMU Lee Kong Chian School of Business and Imperial College Business School, aims to build a new ecosystem for sustainable investing in Asia. Researchers wil...

SourceSingapore Management University·DateJun 2, 2021

DNA circuits

Scientists have created a molecular switching circuit made of DNA that can change the shape of soft matter based on pH levels. The DNA switches react differently with their surroundings, allowing for potential applications in soft robotics and logical function networks.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 2, 2021

NIH supports mathematical optimization of tumor treatment

Researchers aim to develop a personalized approach to adaptive radiation therapy (ART) using computerized tomography (CT) technology. The goal is to balance the needs of patients, clinicians, and insurers by adapting treatment strategies in real-time.

SourceRice University·DateJun 2, 2021

How platelets help resolve lung inflammation

Researchers at the University of Münster discovered that platelet-white blood cell interactions resolve lung inflammation by secreting anti-inflammatory substances and eliminating excess neutrophil granulocytes. This finding has implications for developing new therapy concepts to combat acute respiratory failure.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJun 2, 2021

THOR: Driving collaboration in heavy-ion collision research

The THOR COST Action has enabled a large collection of papers on hot matter and relativistic heavy-ion collisions, thanks to extensive collaborations between researchers. Through the project, over 300 physicists have improved their methods by exchanging ideas and results.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal A·DateJun 2, 2021

Oldest human traces from the southern Tibetan Plateau in a new light

Researchers used OSL dating to directly date stone artefacts from an archaeological site in southern Tibet, revealing an age between 5,200 and 5,500 years. The analysis provides new insights into human occupation of the region and sheds light on the earliest human activities in the Tibetan Plateau.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 2, 2021

Pandemic shows essential role of ECT as treatment for severe depression

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many ECT centers reduced services, but most were able to react and return to care by mid-summer. The survey found that 70% of sites had patients return to inpatient psychiatric care due to unscheduled ECT cancellations.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJun 2, 2021

US conservatives less able than liberals to distinguish truth from falsehoods in study of responses to 240 political news stories

A study of over 1,000 Americans found that conservatives were more likely to believe false claims about politics that benefited the right, while liberals were more likely to believe true claims that favored the left. This suggests that the political environment and widely shared news plays a role in shaping conservative misperceptions.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 2, 2021

Atmospheric metal layers appear with surprising regularity

Twice a day, a faint layer of metals sinks down through the atmosphere at 90 miles high above Boulder, Colorado. The discovery provides a window into the high-altitude region where interactions between the sun, earth, and magnetic field can create conditions for surface life to thrive.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 2, 2021

Plastic waste in the sea mainly drifts near the coast

Researchers at the University of Bern found that most plastic waste does not end up in open ocean, but instead remains near coastlines or on beaches. The study suggests that regions with large sources of plastic waste, such as Southeast Asia and the Mediterranean, are disproportionately affected.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 2, 2021

Printing a better microgrid

Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh have developed a new particle-free silver microgrid conductor that surpasses traditional indium tin oxide (ITO) in flexible high-performance transparent electrodes. The microgrids demonstrate better transparency, lower roughness, and mechanical durability.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalACS Applied Electronic Materials·DateJun 2, 2021

Hexagonal boron nitride's remarkable toughness unmasked

Researchers discovered hexagonal boron nitride's fracture resistance is about 10 times higher than graphene's, due to slight asymmetries in its atomic structure. This finding opens up new possibilities for fabricating tough mechanical metamaterials through engineered structural asymmetry.

SourceRice University·JournalNature·DateJun 2, 2021

The powerhouse future is flexoelectric

Scientists at the University of Houston have demonstrated giant flexoelectricity in soft elastomers, paving the way for improved robot movement range and self-powered pacemakers. The breakthrough could also enable human-like robots to perform physical tasks with greater flexibility.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 2, 2021

Lighting Hydrogels Via Nanomaterials

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a new class of hydrogels that can be controlled by light, enabling precise drug delivery and regenerative medicine treatments. The hydrogels are responsive to near-infrared (NIR) light, which has a higher penetration depth than other light sources, allowing for more effective therapy.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 2, 2021

Shining light on two-dimensional magnets

A team of researchers has successfully controlled the magnetic state of two-dimensional van der Waals magnets using light, enabling efficient data storage and fast data processing. By inducing 'magnetic anisotropy' with ultrashort pulses of light, the scientists can manipulate the material's magnetic properties on demand.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 2, 2021

Machine learning brings an early diagnostic for pancreatic cancer a step closer to reality

A new study published in PLOS ONE demonstrates the potential of machine learning to identify high-risk patients with pancreatic cancer up to 2 years before diagnosis. The algorithm achieved high sensitivity and specificity rates, identifying 41% of patients under 60 as high risk and 72% of those diagnosed as having a detectable risk. T...

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 2, 2021

Why short selling is good for the capital markets

A study by SMU Associate Professor Rencheng Wang found that short selling reduces opportunistic insider sales by 11% in pilot firms, deterring unethical behavior. This suggests that short sellers can play a positive role in capital market development and governance reforms across different institutional environments.

SourceSingapore Management University·JournalThe Accounting Review·DateJun 2, 2021

Replicating patients' tumors to test different treatments

Researchers at UNIGE create 3D spheroidal tumor models incorporating tumor cells and patient-specific immune cells to test treatment efficacy. This innovative approach enables personalized treatment options, potentially reducing reliance on animal experiments.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCancers·DateJun 2, 2021

Gender differences exist even among university students' wage expectations

A study of university students found that despite optimistic initial expectations, women tended to decrease their expected wages after being informed about the actual wages of similar graduates. In contrast, male students increased their expected wages under the same conditions. The study suggests a persistent gender gap in wage expect...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 2, 2021

Understanding feelings: When less is more

Researchers discovered a surprising paradox: as emotional expressions increase in intensity, they become more ambiguous to infer meaning from, with maximal intensity leading to decreased legibility. This challenges prevailing theories of emotion and opens new avenues for understanding affective experience and communication.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 2, 2021

The uneven benefits of CSR efforts

A study by SMU researchers found that corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities have a positive impact on future operating performance, but only in tangible asset-intensive industries such as manufacturing and utilities. For companies in intangible asset-intensive sectors like technology, there is no significant beneficial effect.

SourceSingapore Management University·DateJun 2, 2021

Declining fish biodiversity poses risks for human nutrition

A computer modeling study found that declining fish biodiversity can lead to a decrease in essential nutrients like zinc and iron, exacerbating existing health issues like anemia. The study's findings have significant implications for food security and fisheries sustainability worldwide.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 2, 2021

Bringing order to hydrogen energy devices

Scientists have developed a new approach to improve hydrogen transport in solids, enabling faster movement of negatively charged hydrogen 'anions' at lower temperatures. The breakthrough could lead to more sustainable sources of energy and practical applications in electrochemical devices.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 2, 2021