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Science News for June 21, 2021


'Pack ice' tectonics reveal Venus' geological secrets

New analysis of Venus' surface reveals evidence of tectonic motion in the form of crustal blocks that have jostled against each other. The movement of these blocks could indicate that Venus is still geologically active and give scientists insight into both exoplanet tectonics and the earliest tectonic activity on Earth.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021

Statin therapy not associated with cognitive decline, dementia in older adults, study says

A new study found that statin therapy is not associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia in older adults. Researchers analyzed data from the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly trial and found no significant difference in the incidence of dementia and mild cognitive impairment between statin users and non-...

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJun 21, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Painted lady butterfly population fluctuations

Winter rainfall in sub-Saharan Africa limits painted lady butterfly migrations to Europe. The size of migrating populations varies greatly, increasing by a hundredfold in some years, likely driven by weather conditions in West Africa.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 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.

How the surfaces of silicone breast implants affect the immune system

MIT researchers found that rougher implant surfaces stimulate pro-inflammatory T cell responses, while unique surface topographies inhibit tissue inflammation. The study suggests that texture sloughs off and causes chronic inflammation, potentially leading to cancer.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJun 21, 2021

How do developing spinal cords choose 'heads' or 'tails'?

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes develop a three-dimensional human spinal cord organoid that mimics the earliest developmental steps of the nervous system in embryos. The organoid demonstrates how human spinal cord cells become oriented in an embryo, shedding light on potential impact of environmental exposures and toxins.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalDevelopment·DateJun 21, 2021

COVID-19-related multisystem inflammatory syndrome in adults: rare but possible

A case of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in an adult who recovered from COVID-19 is reported, highlighting the importance of considering this rare but possible complication. Prompt treatment helped recover the patient. The authors suggest encouraging reporting of cases to facilitate research and improve outcomes.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 21, 2021

Popular sepsis prediction tool less accurate than claimed

A recent study found that a widely used sepsis prediction model performs poorly, correctly identifying patients at risk of sepsis only 63% of the time. The tool was developed based on billing codes, which can be inaccurate, and sent alerts to nearly 1 in 5 patients without actual sepsis.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 21, 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.

Study suggests blood test could guide precision treatment in bladder cancer

A blood test detecting tiny amounts of circulating cancer DNA may identify risk of cancer recurrence and guide precision treatment in bladder cancer following surgery. The study found patients with a particular cancer DNA marker in their blood had a higher likelihood of cancer relapse, suggesting the potential for personalized treatment.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature·DateJun 21, 2021

Indigenous people travel long distances to give birth compared with non-Indigenous people

A new study published in CMAJ found that Indigenous mothers are 23% more likely to travel 200 km or more to give birth compared to non-Indigenous women. The disparity is attributed to a lack of birthing facilities and providers near rural Indigenous communities, reflecting colonial policies prioritizing non-Indigenous settlements.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 21, 2021

The clean power of starch

Scientists at DGIST developed a triboelectric nanogenerator using cyclodextrin, a green material from starch, to convert mechanical energy into electricity. The device can be reused and is biocompatible, making it suitable for wearable applications.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJun 21, 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.

Solar energy collectors grown from seeds

Rice University engineers have developed a method to grow remarkably uniform 2D perovskite crystals using microscopic seeds. This breakthrough addresses production issues and enables the creation of highly efficient photovoltaic devices with stable performance.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 21, 2021

Women who lose close elections are just as likely to run again as men

A recent study published in PNAS found that women who lose local or state elections are equally likely to run for office again as men. Despite prior research suggesting women may be more risk-averse, the study reveals no statistically distinguishable difference between genders in choosing to seek office after losses.

SourceHarvard Kennedy School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021

Profiling gene expression in plant embryos one nucleus at a time

Researchers developed a method to profile gene expression in Arabidopsis embryos at the single cell level, overcoming obstacles that hindered previous attempts. This approach provides insights into transcription profiles within each cell, enabling the discovery of gene expression patterns that distinguish early embryonic cell types.

SourceGregor Mendel Institute of Molecular Plant Biology·JournalDevelopment·DateJun 21, 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.

'Flashed' nanodiamonds are just a phase

Researchers develop method to control flash Joule heating process to produce valuable allotropes, including fluorinated nanodiamonds and graphene. The process uses organic fluorine compounds and fluoride precursors to create the desired structures.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 21, 2021

The risks of adopting 'body positivity' to make a sale

A study suggests that Instagram posts borrowing body positive messages from actual users and containing advertising can undermine the movement. Participants who spotted self-promotion or advertising considered the posts less morally appropriate than non-promotional posts.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCommunication Monographs·DateJun 21, 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.

Blaming COVID-19 can help couples weather pandemic-related stress

A new study in Social Psychological and Personality Science found that blaming COVID-19 for problems can reduce the negative effects of stress on relationships. Couples who blamed their stress on the pandemic, rather than each other, reported higher happiness and greater resilience.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJun 21, 2021

Physicists made photons be friends with magnons

Scientists from NUST MISIS and MIPT create a system with ultra-strong photon-to-magnon coupling, enabling efficient information exchange between hybrid quantum systems. This breakthrough reduces the electromagnetic resonator size by hundreds of times, increasing photon-magnon interaction by several times.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 21, 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.

Gender and persistence in running for office

Researchers analyzed election data to find that men and women are equally likely to run for office after electoral losses. Gender does not affect political ambition after electoral setbacks, according to the study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 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.

New geochemical study confirms cause of end-Permian mass extinction event

A new study published in Nature Communications confirms that the end-Permian mass extinction was caused by nickel-rich aerosols from volcanic eruptions. The study uses nickel isotope analyses to demonstrate a direct link between global dispersion of Ni-rich aerosols, ocean chemistry changes and the mass extinction event.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 21, 2021

ESMO Gynaecological Cancers Virtual Congress 2021

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynaecological cancer with an absence of screening programmes, leading to late diagnosis and poor prognosis. Despite targeted therapies, personalized medicine remains a challenge due to inconsistent symptoms and resistance to chemotherapy.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateJun 21, 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.

Win or lose, women are seeking election for the long haul

A UC Davis study analyzing 7 decades of election results shows women are just as likely to persist in politics after losing elections as men. Despite initial predictions of 'sore losers,' researchers found no significant differences in candidates' responses to losses by gender.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 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.

There's no cheating old age

A recent study found that life expectancy and lifespan equality in humans and non-human primates are not driven by aging rate, but by early life mortality rates. The researchers analyzed data from nine human populations and 30 non-human primate groups, revealing a strong relationship between early-life deaths and population aging.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 21, 2021

Researchers trace dust grain's journey through newborn solar system

A team from the University of Arizona recreated the history of a dust grain formed during the solar system's birth, providing insights into planetary system formation processes. The analysis revealed clues about the environmental conditions that shaped the grain's journey, contradicting current theories on protoplanetary disk physics.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·DateJun 21, 2021

Catherine F. Sinclair, MD appointed incoming Editor-in-Chief of VideoEndocrinology™

Dr. Catherine F. Sinclair has been selected as the next Editor-in-Chief of VideoEndocrinology, a pioneering videojournal covering thyroid, parathyroid, and endocrine-related procedures. She brings extensive experience in surgical management of neck endocrine diseases and is an internationally recognized expert.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalVideoEndocrinology·DateJun 21, 2021

New research unlocks the mystery of New England's beaches

New research from UMass Amherst reveals how beach sand grain size relates to the slope of the beach. The study found that finer-grained sand determines a beach's slope in bi-modal beaches. This discovery has implications for understanding how New England's beaches will respond to sea-level rise and increased storm activity.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalMarine Geology·DateJun 21, 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.

Cellular mechanisms of early mammary gland development unraveled

The study used live tissue imaging to show that cell migration drives the growth of the mammary bud, while ring cells exert contractile force through the actomyosin network. This novel mechanism for invagination may be essential for developing organs.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJun 21, 2021

An overview of protected satellite communications in the intelligent age

The paper presents a comprehensive overview of protected satellite communications systems, highlighting critical technologies and practical application scenarios. The authors discuss the importance of protected SatComs in military communications and identify remaining challenges and future research directions.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Information Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021

'Urban green space affects citizens' happiness'

A recent study found that urban green spaces, including parks and gardens, have a positive correlation with citizen happiness. The study analyzed data from satellite images of 60 countries and found that the area of green space acted as a more important factor affecting happiness in countries with higher GDP per capita.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalEPJ Data Science·DateJun 21, 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.

Summer catch-up programs need to focus on teens' wellbeing, not just academic progress

Researchers found that social connections with friends and family, as well as emotional closeness with parents, significantly impacted young people's mental health during lockdown. The study highlights the need for summer holiday programs to prioritize wellbeing support and increase funding for child and adolescent mental health services.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·DateJun 21, 2021

Significant inequalities observed in popular Liverpool 'mass testing' pilot

The study found that asymptomatic COVID-19 testing was popular in Liverpool, but disparities were evident between those who got tested and those who didn't. Lower uptake of testing was observed in the most deprived areas and among Black, Asian, and other non-White ethnic groups.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·DateJun 21, 2021

Crustal block tectonics offer clues to Venus' geology, study finds

A recent analysis of Venus' surface found evidence of tectonic motion in the form of crustal blocks that have jostled against each other, indicating that Venus is still geologically active. This discovery provides insight into exoplanet tectonics and the earliest tectonic activity on Earth.

SourceBaylor University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021

Creating cooler cities

Cities experience higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas due to the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect, caused by urban infrastructure absorbing heat. Researchers propose applying cooler surfaces to strategic locations to decrease cost and increase usage, offering an effective solution for resilient and sustainable infrastructure.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 21, 2021

Landmark field trials show potential of gene-editing

Researchers have successfully used CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology to manipulate glucosinolate levels in broccoli, reducing their accumulation in the leaves and florets. This study highlights the potential of gene editing to improve crop health and adaptability in challenging environments.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalThe CRISPR Journal·DateJun 21, 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.

Adjuvant-free avian influenza vaccines in the works

A research team at POSTECH has created a multivalent, adjuvant-free vaccine against various strains of avian influenza. The vaccine uses green vaccine technology to produce bacteria-like particles that elicit strong immune responses in mice and chickens.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalJournal of Integrative Plant Biology·DateJun 21, 2021

The paths through which COVID-19 spread across Brazil

A Brazilian study found that three factors - super-spreader cities, highways, and ICU availability - contributed to the country's high COVID-19 death toll. The 'boomerang effect' of patients traveling to larger cities for treatment exacerbated the distribution of deaths.

SourceAssociação Alberto Santos Dumont para Apoio à Pesquisa·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 21, 2021

New model simulates the tsunamis caused by iceberg calving

A new model has been developed to simulate the correlation between iceberg size and tsunami amplitude, providing insight into glacial rupture mechanisms. The study's results can refine sea-level rise predictions and provide detailed information about icebergs' mass loss.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateJun 21, 2021

Microscopy deep learning predicts viral infections

A machine-learning algorithm can recognize virus-infected cells based on fluorescence of the cell nucleus, reliably identifying viruses and predicting severe acute infections. The algorithm has been trained with a large set of microscopy images and demonstrates 95% accuracy in detecting virulent infections up to 24 hours in advance.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournaliScience·DateJun 21, 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.

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.

Changes in farming practices could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 70% by 2036

A new study published in PNAS predicts that changes in farming practices could reduce greenhouse gas emissions from grain production by up to 70% within the next 15 years. The study identifies a combination of technological innovations, including digital agriculture, crop genetics, and electrification, as key drivers of this reduction.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021

New method for molecular functionalization of surfaces

Researchers have developed a new approach to create stable and ordered single molecule layers on silicon surfaces through self-assembly. They use N-heterocyclic carbenes, which can form strong covalent bonds with silicon while maintaining mobility to arrange into regular molecular structures.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 21, 2021

Childhood BMI may influence poorer health outcomes in adulthood

A high childhood BMI is associated with a higher risk of Type 2 diabetes and early heart attack in adulthood. Adults who had a high BMI in adolescence were at highest risk for these conditions, regardless of their adult BMI.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJun 21, 2021

Keeping a vigilant watch on SARS-CoV-2

The Vigilant platform combines reverse transcription-recombinase polymerase amplification (RT-RPA) with bacterial enzymes to detect SARS-CoV-2 gene sequences. This method produces comparably reliable results as PCR tests but is cheaper and easier to use, making it suitable for non-laboratory settings.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 21, 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 research finds GCSE results linked to child's enjoyment of school aged six

Research found that school enjoyment at age six is strongly linked to GCSE achievement at age 16, even after considering socioeconomic background and cognitive ability. Pupils who reported enjoying school scored an average of 14.4 more points, equivalent to a three-grade increase across all GCSEs.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Science Learning·DateJun 21, 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.

Crustal deformation on Venus

The study reveals features on Venus that suggest limited yet global crustal deformation driven by convection in the planet's interior. The findings support the hypothesis that planetary heat flux and a thinner lithosphere were present during Earth's Archean Eon.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 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.

COVID-19, air pollution, and vehicle electrification

A study found that vehicle electrification may produce similar air quality effects as during the COVID-19 pandemic, but with decreased magnitude. The model accounted for nonlinear relationships between emission rates and atmospheric chemistry, highlighting the need to mitigate off-road emissions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021

Air quality monitoring during volcanic eruption

Researchers deployed a network of low-cost sensors to measure sulfur dioxide and particulate matter concentrations in volcanic smog during the 2018 Kilauea eruption. The system enabled fine-scale measurements and monitoring of plume chemical evolution over time, providing valuable insights into extreme air quality events.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021

Emissions reduction in row crop agriculture

A green transition roadmap for emissions-reducing technologies could achieve net negative emissions through optimized fertilizer application, low-emission alternatives, and system redesign. This plan aims to generate environmental benefits while fulfilling societal functions in row crop agriculture.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 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.

Common perovskite superfluoresces at high temperatures

Researchers from North Carolina State University have discovered that a commonly studied perovskite can superfluoresce at practical temperatures and timescales, indicating this characteristic may be widespread in the class of materials. This phenomenon could prove useful for quantum computing applications.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 21, 2021

'Suffocating' cancer: A new headway in melanoma immunotherapy

A recent study published in the Oncogene Journal revealed that targeting HIF-1α significantly inhibited melanoma growth and amplified immune cell infiltration into tumour microenvironment. The discovery provides a valuable new target for making resistant melanomas more vulnerable to available anti-cancer treatments.

SourceLuxembourg Institute of Health·JournalOncogene·DateJun 21, 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.

Better reporting of studies on artificial intelligence: CONSORT-AI and beyond

New CONSORT-AI extension addresses limitations in AI study reporting, promoting standardization and improving the validity of AI studies in dentistry. With the growth of AI in clinical trials, standardized reporting is crucial to gauge methodology, bias, and replication.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateJun 21, 2021

Climate change, land use, and riverine fish

Global riverine fish communities are being reshaped by climate change and land use, with warming temperatures favoring slow-flowing rivers and areas with high human modification

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021

Exposure to homophobic attitudes linked to higher stress levels among sexual minorities

Research reveals that lesbian, gay and bisexual people who encounter homophobic attitudes experience significant increases in heart rate, blood pressure and stress hormones. The study found that perceived homophobia had a direct impact on physiological stress among sexual minorities, increasing systolic blood pressure during interviews.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalHealth Psychology·DateJun 21, 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.

Study: Electronic monitoring failed to reduce recidivism for girls in juvenile justice system

A new study by researchers at UC and Michigan State University found that electronic monitoring tethers failed to reduce reoffending among girls involved in the juvenile justice system. The study suggests that tethering may be harmful because it limits girls' access to treatment programs, leading to higher recidivism rates.

SourceCrime and Justice Research Alliance·JournalJustice Evaluation Journal·DateJun 21, 2021

Comparing agricultural and microbial biomass yields

Researchers report that solar energy can produce microbial protein-rich biomass with significantly higher yields than traditional crops. This photovoltaic-driven process uses land and sunlight efficiently, offering a resource-efficient food source for a growing global population.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021

Implantable brain device relieves pain in early study

A computerized brain implant effectively relieves short-term and chronic pain in rodents, detecting brain activity linked to pain and triggering therapeutic stimulation of the prefrontal cortex. The device reduces pain intensity and is less likely to cause addiction, offering a promising new strategy for pain therapy.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJun 21, 2021

Resolving the red sky paradox

A study proposes three resolutions to explain the red sky paradox, where FGK dwarfs are not apparent in the sky despite being five times more common than Sun-like stars. Red dwarfs have a lower probability of emerging intelligent life, a shorter available time window for complex life evolution, and a lower occurrence of habitable worlds.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 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.

Butterflies cross the Sahara in longest-known insect migration

A species of butterfly found in Sub-Saharan Africa can migrate thousands of miles to Europe crossing the Saharan Desert in years with favorable weather conditions, increasing understanding of how insects could spread between continents due to climate change.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021

Ben-Gurion U. scientists invent an artificial nose for continuous bacterial monitoring

A team of Ben-Gurion University researchers has developed an artificial nose capable of detecting bacteria through volatile metabolites. The technology uses carbon nanoparticles to sense gas molecules and has the potential to identify 'good' vs. pathogenic bacteria in the microbiome, detect food spoilage, and identify poisonous gases.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalNano-Micro Letters·DateJun 21, 2021

A tapeworm drug against SARS-CoV-2?

Researchers from Charité and University of Bonn identify four substances that inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication in host cells, including niclosamide, a tapeworm drug. These findings suggest potential new treatment against COVID-19.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 21, 2021

Females supercharge sperm evolution in animals

Researchers from Stockholm University found that animal sperm evolve rapidly only when fertilization occurs inside females. Sperm size varies dramatically among species, but internal fertilization leads to supersized sperm.

SourceStockholm University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJun 21, 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.

New study on climate change impacts on plants could lead to better conservation strategies

A new study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that plant species vulnerable to climate change may lead to bigger problems than previously thought. The research, led by Amelia Wolf and Erika Zavaleta, suggests that losing biodiversity can have significant impacts on ecosystems, particularly during droughts.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021

Fertility drugs do not increase breast cancer risk, study finds

A large study of over 1.8 million women has found no link between fertility drugs and an increased risk of breast cancer. The research, published in Fertility and Sterility journal, provides reassurance to women seeking fertility treatments.

SourceKing's College London·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateJun 21, 2021

Study examines how breast implant surfaces affect immune response

Researchers found that textured-surface breast implants stimulate pro-inflammatory T cell responses, which may lead to chronic inflammation and cancer. Smooth-surface implants showed less immune cell activity, suggesting a potential link between rougher surfaces and breast implant-associated large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).

SourceRice University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJun 21, 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.

Novel smart cement can be used to build more durable roads and cities

Northwestern University researchers have developed a smarter, more durable and highly functional cement by introducing nanoparticles into ordinary cement. The new material shows improved water transport properties, including pore structure and water penetration resistance, with reported relative decreases of 76% and 78%, respectively.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (A )·DateJun 21, 2021

The same cell type can help or hinder kidney repair after acute injury

Researchers found that damaged proximal tubule cells can promote disease progression by showing activity in genes that support survival and programmed cell death. These cells may contribute to the transition from acute to chronic kidney disease, affecting 9.1% of the world's population.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021

Nerve tumor in children: better tolerable chemotherapy without loss of efficacy

A new study establishes a more tolerable chemotherapy regimen for children with high-risk neuroblastoma, while maintaining its effectiveness. The European Neuroblastoma Study Group's rCOJEC regimen showed significant reductions in side effects compared to the US-based MSKCC-N5 regimen.

SourceSt. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 21, 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.

New research finds link between walking speed and dual tasking after stroke

Training stroke survivors to walk at a faster speed can help improve the brain function that enables people to walk and perform another task simultaneously. Advanced brain imaging found changes in the brain consistent with adaptations necessary for controlling gait in complex environments, supporting the findings.

SourceOxford Brookes University·JournalClinical Rehabilitation·DateJun 21, 2021

Lead from leaded petrol persists in London air despite '90s ban

Researchers found that up to 40% of lead in airborne particles comes from legacy leaded petrol, highlighting the persistence of contaminants introduced by human activities. Long-term low-level exposure to lead can have detrimental health effects, and measures should be taken to reduce further lead emissions.

SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021

Capturing the huge impacts of tiny organisms

Researchers are developing a new technique to study microbes in conditions that mimic their native environment, facilitating the growth of difficult microbial species. This technology has potential applications in medicine, biotechnology, and bioremediation, including the controlled delivery of healthy gut bacteria into the body.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateJun 21, 2021

Future of perovskite solar cells shines a little brighter

Researchers at OIST Graduate University have developed a new method to synthesize crystalline powder necessary for perovskites, resulting in higher quality and stable solar cells. The newly created perovskite-based solar cells achieved conversion efficiencies of over 23% and lifespan of more than 2000 hours.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNano Energy·DateJun 21, 2021

NIH ACTIV-4B COVID-19 outpatient thrombosis prevention trial ends early

The NIH ACTIV-4B trial found that not treating certain symptomatic but stable outpatients with anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy may be the best course of action, suggesting a very low rate of thrombotic complications. This recommendation has immediate implications for prophylactic treatment and management of mild COVID-19 symptoms.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·DateJun 21, 2021

The Science of tsunamis

Researchers from University of California - Santa Barbara create model to couple dynamics of landslides and tsunami generation, predicting wave amplitude based on initial column geometry and water depth.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·DateJun 21, 2021

Access to peer support combined with telehealth being studied to combat PTSD

Researchers at UTHealth are investigating pairing patients with PTSD undergoing treatment for peer support and exposure therapy to improve treatment completion rates. The study aims to reduce the high dropout rate of 25-50% by providing a supportive network for patients to overcome triggers and work towards recovery.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateJun 21, 2021

Poaching affects behavior of endangered capuchin monkeys in Brazilian biological reserve

A study reveals that hunting pressure affects the behavior of endangered Yellow-breasted capuchin monkeys, causing them to avoid areas with abundant food sources due to increased risk of predation. The research suggests that poachers pose a significant threat, and the risk of predation outweighs the availability of food in their habitat.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAmerican Journal of Primatology·DateJun 21, 2021

Modeling a circular economy for electronic waste

A new framework analyzes dishonest end-of-life electronics management and finds that making recycling more profitable is key to preventing fraudulent practices. The researchers suggest targeted subsidies, higher penalties, and blockchain-based supervision as potential solutions.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateJun 21, 2021

New high-speed method for spectroscopic measurements

The new method uses polarization analysis to track changes in the spectrum of light on a nanosecond time scale over the entire color spectrum. By correlating polarization with laser color, researchers can measure spectral changes at high speeds, opening up new possibilities for material studies and astronomical observations.

SourceTampere University·JournalOptica·DateJun 21, 2021

New method using profragrance nanoparticles promises longer-lasting scented products

A new engineering strategy introduces photo-controllable profragrance nanoparticles with flash nanoprecipitation technology, allowing for tunable particle size and precise control over fragrance release. This innovation enables the scale-up of profragrance fabrication and has potential for industrial applications.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGreen Chemical Engineering·DateJun 21, 2021

Climate change may lead to more landfalling tropical cyclones in China

A study suggests that China will experience an increase in landfalling tropical cyclones by the end of the 21st century, with a projected 16% rise in annual mean frequency and a 10% increase in occurrence frequency. The study used regional climate models to simulate future changes in temperature and precipitation patterns.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021

Vegetation of planet Earth: Researchers publish unique database as Open Access

A global geodatabase of vegetation plots has been published as open access, containing data from 114 countries and all climate zones on Earth. The sPlotOpen database provides a balanced representation of the Earth's vegetation, enabling researchers to study biodiversity and climate change across different regions.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateJun 21, 2021

Inkjet printing 'impossible materials'

Researchers created metamaterials using low-cost inkjet printing with potential implications for telecommunications, GPS, and medical devices. The materials can be electrically tuned to adjust their properties, enabling the design of unconventional mirrors, lenses, and filters.

SourceTufts University·JournalNature Electronics·DateJun 21, 2021

Universal mechanism of regulation in plant cells discovered

A German-Japanese research team has deciphered the 3D structure of a metalloprotein that catalyzes RNA editing in all plant cells. The DYW domain's activation is triggered by a zinc atom and a gating domain, providing a sophisticated regulation mechanism for chloroplasts and mitochondria.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Catalysis·DateJun 21, 2021

Plant probes make sense for sustainable farming

Researchers have developed ultrathin sensors that can monitor plant health without harming them, providing a promising solution for sustainable farming. The sensors use bioimpedance measurements to detect physiological changes in plants, enabling farmers to optimize water, light, and nutrient supply.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJun 21, 2021

Genetic cause of neurodevelopmental disorder discovered

A team of researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine has identified a new gene, AP1G1, that is associated with neurodevelopmental disorders and intellectual disabilities. The gene plays a crucial role in transporting essential materials within brain cells, and its disruption can lead to significant developmental delays.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJun 21, 2021

A bright future: Using visible light to decompose CO2 with high efficiency

Researchers at Nagoya Institute of Technology have created a photocatalyst that efficiently uses visible light from the sun to decompose CO2. The breakthrough uses single-walled carbon nanotubes to improve electron transfer pathways and synthesis processes, enabling large-scale manufacturing.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 21, 2021

Targeted therapy could be first line treatment for childhood cancer

Researchers have identified a genetic marker in tumours from patients with high-risk neuroblastoma that can predict poorer prognosis and respond to targeted treatment. This breakthrough may lead to personalized treatment options for children with high-risk disease.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 21, 2021

Birthdays and COVID-19

A new analysis reveals that households with recent birthdays are 30% more likely to have a COVID-19 diagnosis in counties with high infection rates. The study suggests that social gatherings like birthday parties may have contributed to infections during the pandemic.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 21, 2021

New position statement declares that sleep is essential to health

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine's new position statement emphasizes the biological necessity of sleep for health and well-being in children, adolescents, and adults. Insufficient sleep and untreated sleep disorders are linked to increased health risks such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and workplace accidents.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateJun 21, 2021

Ramanome Database can help mining microalgal cell factories for reducing carbon emissions

Researchers have developed a Ramanome Database to rapidly identify and characterize microalgae, which can convert carbon dioxide into valuable compounds. The database achieves 97% accuracy in identifying species and their metabolic functions, accelerating the mining of microalgal cell factories for carbon-neutral production.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJun 21, 2021

Blaming the pandemic for stress leaves couples happier

Researchers found that when couples blamed the pandemic for their stress, they were happier in their relationships. This phenomenon helped reduce the negative effects of stress spillover, allowing partners to work together and tackle challenges as a team.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJun 21, 2021

Resuspended dust and lead pollution in London

Researchers found that airborne lead in London is attributable to resuspended dust, not current coal burning or seasonally variable sources. Historical contributions of leaded gasoline remain a significant source of environmental lead.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021

Study: Removing 'bad apples' from police forces unlikely to significantly reduce use-of-force complaints

A new study suggests that replacing high-risk police officers with less likely to generate use-of-force complaints would reduce complaints by just 6 percent over a 10-year period. Researchers found that early warning systems and broader accountability measures are more effective in reducing misconduct.

SourceAmerican Society of Criminology·JournalCriminology & Public Policy·DateJun 21, 2021