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Science News for June 22, 2021


Recycling robot could help solve soft plastic waste crisis

A new recycling robot will use AI and computer vision to sort recyclable waste, separating soft plastics from other materials. The system aims to drastically increase soft plastic recycling in Australia, diverting millions of tonnes of waste from landfills.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·DateJun 22, 2021

How pancreatic cancer cells dodge drug treatments

Researchers discovered that pancreatic cancer cells use a backup protein complex to survive when KRAS is blocked, allowing them to continue growing and dividing. This finding highlights the need for drugs that can target multiple molecules in cancer cells to improve treatment outcomes.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 22, 2021

Patents help build a global map of new space industry

Researchers analyzed over 900 patents to identify key technological trends in the New Space economy. The study found that data is the most valuable asset in this ecosystem, with 62% of patents related to data products and services. Emerging topics include active constellation management and new satellite systems design.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalProgress in Aerospace Sciences·DateJun 22, 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.

New universal vaccine targets coronaviruses to prevent future pandemics

Researchers at UNC-Chapel Hill developed a universal vaccine that protects against multiple coronaviruses, including COVID-19 and SARS. The hybrid vaccine effectively generated neutralizing antibodies against various spike proteins, preventing infection and lung damage in mice.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalScience·DateJun 22, 2021

Sound-induced electric fields control the tiniest particles

Researchers at Duke University developed acoustoelectronic nanotweezers that control nanoparticles using sound-induced electric fields. This label-free, dynamically controllable method can be applied to various technologies, including biomedicine and condensed matter physics.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 22, 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 device refines scientists' ability to sort and process human cells

A new device at the University of Exeter allows for more precise sorting and analysis of individual human cells based on their response to stimuli. This innovation has the potential to improve personalized medicine by detecting which drugs are likely to work for specific patients, reducing unnecessary side effects.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAdvanced Biology·DateJun 22, 2021

Researchers hope a protein blueprint might aid infertility treatments

Scientists at the University of Cincinnati have developed a blueprint for the protein anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), which plays a crucial role in reproductive organ development. Understanding how AMH interacts with its signaling receptor may lead to novel treatments for infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and even feral cat ...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 22, 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.

Flash mob in the nucleus

Researchers clarify the role of SMN complexes in splicing and Cajal body formation, which is crucial for protein translation. The study reveals kinases play a key role in regulating these processes, potentially leading to new therapies for spinal muscular atrophy.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 22, 2021

Targeted tumors attack not-innocent bystanders

The study found ADCs made with cleavable linkers can decrease small-cell lung cancer tumor size in PDX mouse models, showing promise for improved efficacy. The 'bystander effect' kills nearby nontargeted cancer cells often found near malignant tumors.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 22, 2021

SARS-CoV-2 positivity, mask utilization among health care workers

Researchers found no association in SARS-CoV-2 positivity rates between healthcare workers wearing respirator masks and those wearing medical masks. The study suggests that mask utilization is not a significant factor in preventing SARS-CoV-2 transmission among healthcare workers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 22, 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.

Testing several genes can lead to better effect of medicinal products

A new study from Aarhus University found that over 80% of participants have more than three genetic variants affecting medicinal product metabolism, increasing the risk of reduced effect or side effects. Genetic tests can provide personalized treatment plans by analyzing multiple genes and variants.

SourceAarhus University·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateJun 22, 2021

Did the ancient Maya have parks?

Researchers found over 30 species of plants along the banks of Tikal's reservoirs, including trees like ramón and cabbage bark. The study suggests that the Maya protected these areas as sacred groves to provide medicinal or edible plants and fruits.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 22, 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.

Salton Sea aerosol exposure triggers unique and mysterious pulmonary response

A University of California, Riverside study found Salton Sea aerosol triggers nonallergic inflammation genes and promotes lung inflammation in mice. The researchers also observed a distinct inflammatory response in the lungs compared to exposure to aerosolized fungal allergen.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJun 22, 2021

Antelope's fate shrouded by social, political forces

A University of Georgia study reveals the complex web of human conflicts hindering endangered species conservation in South Africa. The oribi's fate is entwined with private landownership, political corruption, and racial tensions.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalEndangered Species Research·DateJun 22, 2021

Progress in the functional characterization of human olfactory receptors

Researchers have identified an olfactory receptor that selectively recognizes pyrazines, a type of volatile substance found in food and contributing to animal communication. This discovery could lead to the development of biobased artificial noses for monitoring sensory quality and authenticity of food.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJun 22, 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.

No northern escape route for Florida's coral reefs

Climate change is expected to suppress the growth of Florida's coral reefs due to their inability to migrate north. The warming seas and increasing frequency of water-cooling cold snaps will make it difficult for corals to adapt and survive, leading to further decline and potentially extinction.

SourceFlorida Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 22, 2021

Four-component, and asymmetric radical 1,4-oxy-trifluoromethylation to olefins

Researchers at NTHU and IU developed a novel four-component coupling strategy for olefins, resulting in asymmetric radical trifluoromethylation. The reaction utilizes chiral VO species as catalysts under aerobic conditions, offering high diastereo-/enantio-controls and potential applications for biomedical compounds.

SourceIbaraki University·JournalACS Catalysis·DateJun 22, 2021

The very venomous caterpillar

A team of researchers from the University of Queensland has discovered a venomous caterpillar that produces peptides with high potency against nematode parasites and disease-causing pathogens. The study also unlocks a source of bioactive peptides with potential uses in medicine, biotechnology, and scientific tools.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 22, 2021

Patenting a fiber optic monitoring system for 5G light-powered networks

The Universidad Carlos III de Madrid has patented a multicore fibre optic monitoring system for 5G networks, optimizing energy consumption while preserving data transmission capacity. The system can monitor temperature changes, energy distribution, and communication channel state using a single optical signal.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalJournal of Lightwave Technology·DateJun 22, 2021

Actively addressing inequalities promotes social change

A study of over 11,000 individuals found that actively addressing inequalities fosters social change when both disadvantaged and advantaged groups feel heard and accepted. Empowerment through active listening and acknowledgment of injustices are key factors in promoting social justice.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJun 22, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cohesin opens up for cell division

A study by Nagoya University researchers reveals that cohesin's ring needs to open for certain processes, like DNA replication and chromosome segregation. This opening facilitates the progressive replication of the DNA double helix and allows DNA looping, crucial for regulating gene expression.

SourceNagoya University·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 22, 2021

A 'bio-refinery': using the chemistry of willow trees to treat municipal wastewater

Scientists have found a way to filter wastewater through the roots of willow trees, treating over 30 million litres of primary wastewater per hectare annually. The process produces renewable lignocellulosic biofuels and 'green' chemicals with antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJun 22, 2021

NCRI to offer new opportunities for early career researchers

NCRI has created an Early Career Researcher Forum to build collaborative networks, enhance skills, and support career development among early career researchers in cancer. The forum aims to accelerate cancer research by providing opportunities for peer support, mutual learning, and collaboration.

SourceNational Cancer Research Institute·DateJun 22, 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.

Statin use is linked to reduced risk of cancer among heart failure patients

A recent study found that statin use among patients with heart failure is associated with a 16% lower risk of developing cancer and a 26% reduced risk of dying from cancer over an average of four years. The longer patients remained on statins, the greater the reduction in their cancer risk.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateJun 22, 2021

12,000 scientific articles a year -- can they all be wrong?

Researchers at Linköping University discovered that XPS can give misleading analysis results due to an erroneous assumption during calibration. This error has led to the publication of interpretations of data in conflict with basic physics, raising concerns about research credibility.

SourceLinköping University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 22, 2021

Not all dietary proteins are created equal

A recent study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that animal-based protein food sources elicited greater anabolic responses and increased whole-body net protein balance compared to plant-based protein food sources. This suggests that 'ounce equivalents' of protein food sources are not metabolically equivalent, and animal prot...

SourceFoodMinds LLC·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateJun 22, 2021

Switching from Western diet to a balanced diet may reduce skin, joint inflammation

A study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that a Western diet rich in sugar and fat disrupts gut microorganisms, leading to psoriasis flares. Switching to a balanced diet restores gut health and suppresses skin inflammation, offering a potential solution for managing the condition.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateJun 22, 2021

Rap1 controls the body's sugar levels from the brain

Researchers discovered a brain mechanism that regulates whole-body glucose balance without altering body weight, indicating a promising therapeutic target for type 2 diabetes. By modulating this mechanism, it may be possible to regulate blood sugar levels in obese individuals with diabetes without requiring weight loss.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJCI Insight·DateJun 22, 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.

Running to music combats mental fatigue a study suggests

Researchers found that listening to self-selected motivational music improved interval running capacity and 5km time-trial performances in mentally fatigued fitness enthusiasts. The positive effects may be due to altered perception of effort when listening to tunes.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Human Sport and Exercise·DateJun 22, 2021

Study provides MIS-C treatment guidance

A study found that initial treatment with intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) plus glucocorticoids in children with Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular dysfunction. This is compared to IVIG alone, where left ventricular dysfunction occurred in 17% of patients.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 22, 2021

A more robust memory device for AI systems

Researchers developed a new magnetic memory device using antiferromagnetic materials, offering improved scalability, write speed, and security. The device's unique structure allows for simultaneous writing and reading of data, addressing key challenges in high-performance AI applications.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 22, 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.

Marine sediments explain how part of Brazil's Northeast region became semi-arid

The study suggests that the tropical rain belt's latitudinal oscillation range contracted, resulting in reduced rainfall in Brazil's Northeast region. This finding can help predict the region's future climate and inform strategies for managing food and water security.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPaleoceanography and Paleoclimatology·DateJun 22, 2021

Ben-Gurion U. develops new method for continuous traumatic stress impact

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University have developed a validated assessment tool, the Continuous Traumatic Stress Response (CTSR) Scale, to measure symptoms associated with ongoing exposure to traumatic stress. The study identified three distinct factors: exhaustion/detachment, rage/betrayal, and fear/helplessness.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 22, 2021

Foreign-born status, but not acquired US citizenship, protects many immigrants from criminal victimization

A recent study found that foreign-born status, but not acquired U.S. citizenship, protects against criminal victimization. Researchers used new data to explore the association between citizenship status and risk of victimization, finding significantly lower rates of victimization among foreign-born citizens compared to U.S.-born citizens.

SourceAmerican Society of Criminology·JournalCriminology·DateJun 22, 2021

Cities 'must become car-free to survive'

A new modelling report calls for cities to reduce private car use and promote walking, cycling, and public transport. By decreasing car use, cities can lower congestion, improve air quality, and create faster, more sustainable urban environments.

SourceUniversity College London·DateJun 22, 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.

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.

Transforming CO2 and sugars into biofuel

University of Delaware researchers are developing a system to produce bioenergy from microbes that convert carbon dioxide into useful chemicals. The team aims to refine the technology to produce desirable metabolites and consume less useful ones, paving the way for sustainable production of chemicals and fuels.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateJun 22, 2021

Asymmetry in CO2 emissions and removals could skew climate targets: SFU research

A new study published in Nature Climate Change suggests that balancing carbon dioxide emissions with removals could lead to different climate outcomes. Researchers found that a larger amount of CO2 removal is required to compensate for a given amount of CO2 emissions to maintain unchanged atmospheric CO2 concentration.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJun 22, 2021

Secretin hormone induces satiation by activating brown fat

A new study reveals that secretin hormone induces satiation by activating brown adipose tissue, leading to increased glucose uptake and elevated energy expenditure. This mechanism has significant implications for weight control and metabolic disorders.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalNature Metabolism·DateJun 22, 2021

Childhood trauma can make people like morphine more

Researchers found that individuals with childhood trauma experienced a stronger desire for morphine and felt more euphoric after taking the opioid drug. In contrast, those without childhood trauma were more likely to dislike the effects and feel dizzy or nauseous.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAddiction Biology·DateJun 22, 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.

Personality traits relate to being a morning or evening person

A study by University of Warwick researchers found that people high in Conscientiousness and low in Openness tend to be morning larks. The link between chronotype, personality, and genetics has been discovered, with genetic factors playing a significant role. Further studies are needed to understand the shared genetic mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of Personality·DateJun 22, 2021

How shadow banks have exploited the COVID-19 crisis

Research reveals how shadow banks invested in ways that extract profit from frontline workers, struggling companies, and distressed sectors during the pandemic. The study found that shadow banks profited by investing in both booming and struggling sectors, exacerbating economic and social inequality.

SourceCopenhagen Business School·JournalAmerican Behavioral Scientist·DateJun 22, 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.

Health care leaders call for national focus on preventing hospital-acquired pneumonia

A joint task force of healthcare stakeholders recommends educating patients and staff about prevention measures, including standardized oral care. The initiative aims to reduce harm from non-ventilator-associated hospital-acquired pneumonia (NVHAP), which causes high mortality rates and prolonged hospital stays.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateJun 22, 2021

More than 6% of Europeans suffer from depression

A study by researchers from King's College London and IMIM found that 6.4% of Europeans suffer from depression, with higher rates in economically developed nations and varying rates across countries. The study suggests that demographic and socio-political factors contribute to the differences in prevalence.

SourceIMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute)·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateJun 22, 2021

Gestational diabetes increases the risk of fetal hypoxia during labor

A Finnish study published in Acta Diabetologica found that gestational diabetes significantly increases the risk of fetal hypoxia during labor. The risk is nearly seven-fold compared to non-diabetic mothers, and can lead to birth injuries, brain damage, and infant mortality.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalActa Diabetologica·DateJun 22, 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.

Open learning spaces do not increase children's physical activity

A recent study by the University of Jyváskylæ found that open learning spaces do not directly increase children's physical activity, despite more breaks from sedentary time observed in these spaces. The CHIPASE study suggests that teachers' adaptations to open learning spaces may limit students' movement during lessons.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalFrontiers in Sports and Active Living·DateJun 22, 2021

What Facebook can tell us about dietary choices

A new study using Facebook data found that interest in vegetarianism positively correlates with declining meat consumption rates. Education emerged as the most important factor affecting interest in vegetarianism globally, while gender played a strong role in shaping online behavior.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 22, 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.

Experts highlight solutions to bolster long-term care workforce

A new special issue of The Gerontologist explores strategies to improve the long-term care workforce, including diverse approaches to care and flexible models. The collection aims to provide positive guidance for future research and policy, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateJun 22, 2021

Producing hydrogen using less energy

An international research team has described a complete reaction path for electrocatalytic hydrogen generation using a newly produced compound inspired by nature. The findings provide new insights into the catalysis process and enable more efficient production of hydrogen as a sustainable energy source.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalACS Catalysis·DateJun 22, 2021

Does bubble cascade form only in a glass of Guinness beer?

Scientists from Osaka University have solved the physics of Guinness' cascading flow, a phenomenon that affects the texture of nitrogenated stout beer. The research has significant implications for industries such as pharmaceutical production and city water purification.

SourceOsaka University·JournalPhysical Review E·DateJun 22, 2021

Boost for mouse genetic analysis

MADM technology has been expanded to enable the analysis of over 96% of mouse genes at the single-cell level. This breakthrough allows researchers to study disease progression, including cancer, and gain insights into gene function.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 22, 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.

Mental well-being higher in the summer vs. fall

Research from Binghamton University found that mental distress is lower in summer compared to fall. Good quality diet, good sleep quality, and higher exercise frequency are all associated with better mental well-being. Seasonal changes impact diet quality and mental health.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders Reports·DateJun 22, 2021

Exotic superconductors: The secret that wasn't there

A new study has disproved an experiment that claimed to discover a novel form of superconductivity in strontium ruthenate, a material that plays an important role in unconventional superconductivity. The material behaves similarly to well-known high-temperature superconductors.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 22, 2021

Nightside radio could help reveal exoplanet details

Scientists at Rice University have developed a new model to detect magnetospheres in distant solar systems using nightside radio signals. This could provide valuable information about the characteristics of exoplanets, including their ability to protect themselves from solar winds.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateJun 22, 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.

More intense and frequent thunderstorms linked to global climate variability

Researchers analyzed oxygen isotopes from Texas caves to understand trends in past thunderstorms and their durations. They found that shifts in storm regimes coincide with global abrupt climate shifts during the last glacial period. This study helps predict future mid-latitude thunderstorm patterns.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 22, 2021

Bee-impersonating flies show pollinator potential

Researchers found that syrphid flies, a type of bee-impostor, were the second most common pollinators on urban and rural farms, accounting for 35% of visits. The flies' bee-like colors may help avoid predators, while their presence could also benefit plants by consuming pests like aphids.

SourceWashington State University·JournalFood Webs·DateJun 22, 2021

Investigating a better treatment sequence for esophageal cancer

A new treatment sequence for esophageal cancer may improve patient outcomes by treating microscopic disease first. The approach adds chemotherapy for two to three months before radiation and surgery, potentially reducing mortality rates.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAnnals of Surgical Oncology·DateJun 22, 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.

Sports: Men and women react differently to a missing audience

A new study by Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg found that women ran slower in the presence of spectators but performed better in shooting than men. This challenges the social facilitation theory and suggests a gender-specific difference in response to audiences or lack thereof.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalPsychology of Sport and Exercise·DateJun 22, 2021

It's true: Stress does turn hair gray (and it's reversible)

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found a link between psychological stress and graying hair. The study, published in eLife, revealed that hair color can be restored when stress is eliminated. Stress-induced changes in mitochondria may explain how stress turns hair gray.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·DateJun 22, 2021

WVU research finds 'excess deaths' in Amish and Mennonite communities during pandemic

Researchers analyzed obituary data to examine excess deaths among the Amish population in 2020, finding a spike in November that mirrored general COVID-19 infection waves. The study suggests that face-to-face interactions and distrust in preventative medicine contributed to these 'excess deaths', which may or may not be directly relate...

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalJournal of Religion and Health·DateJun 22, 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.

Improving asphalt road pavement with nano-engineered particles

Scientists discover fumed silica nanoparticles as an anti-ageing binder to reduce moisture susceptibility and increase durability in warm mix asphalt. The findings offer a cost-effective solution to minimize asphalt-related emissions, paving the way for longer-lasting roadways.

SourceSwansea University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 22, 2021

Salt marsh plants may signal carbon capture capacity

Researchers at UConn discovered that salt marsh vegetation, bacterial communities, and soil composition can predict a marsh's potential to be a blue carbon reservoir. The study found that tidal restoration leads to changes in plant growth, microbial activity, and carbon cycling.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalEstuaries and Coasts·DateJun 22, 2021

UCI-led study finds that cancer immunotherapy may self-limit its efficacy

A recent UCI-led study reveals that cancer immunotherapy can trigger both favorable and unfavorable immune effects, with T regulatory cells playing a key role in limiting tumor control. The study found that CTLA-4 blockage activates these cells, decreasing the efficacy of immunotherapy and potentially leading to fatal autoimmunity.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalCell·DateJun 22, 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.

Advancing research on environmentally friendly, hydrogen-enriched fuel

A team of researchers, led by Dr. Muzammil Arshad, conducted a study on the performance of hydrogen-enriched fuel in spark ignition engines. The findings show that adding hydrogen can reduce in-cylinder peak pressure and emissions, making it a potential solution to improve fuel efficiency and reduce harmful emissions.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalPetroleum and Chemical Industry International·DateJun 22, 2021

Study finds common protein in blood enables human fertilization and fighting infection

A University of California, Irvine-led study reveals albumin activates a proton channel giving sperm the ability to penetrate and fertilize an egg, and allowing white blood cells to secrete inflammatory mediators. The interaction also enables neutrophils to produce and secrete inflammatory mediators that kill bacteria and fight infection.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 22, 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.

Songbirds and humans share some common speech patterns

A study from McGill University found that songbirds use similar speech patterns to humans, including shorter elements in longer phrases. The researchers suggest that physical factors such as muscle fatigue and limited lung capacities may play a role in these patterns.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 22, 2021

In many cases, MS starts long before the diagnosis

A new study suggests that many MS complaints prior to diagnosis may not be a prodromal phase but rather relapses causing individuals to seek medical attention. The researchers found that these patients often exhibited typical MS symptoms, indicating the disease was fully active and not in a preliminary or prodromal phase.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNeurology·DateJun 22, 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.

Making our computers more secure

Columbia Engineering researchers have developed new techniques to bolster memory safety, creating a processor for the Air Force Research Lab. The novel solution, ZeRØ, protects code and data pointers without affecting system performance, while No-FAT speeds up fuzz testing and makes security checks faster with minimal impact on speed.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateJun 22, 2021

Analysing volcanoes to predict their awakening

A team of geologists reviewed the literature on volcanic eruptions, determining that most magma rising from depth doesn't cause an eruption. Older volcanoes produce less frequent but larger eruptions. The analysis helps refine models to reduce the impact of volcanic eruptions on nearby populations.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Reviews Earth & Environment·DateJun 22, 2021

Ontario students more likely to drive after consuming cannabis than alcohol

A new study from the University of Ottawa found that Ontario high school students are more likely to drive after consuming cannabis than alcohol, with 10% reporting driving within an hour of cannabis use. The study suggests that educating adolescents about cannabis risks may be effective in reducing dangerous driving behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateJun 22, 2021

Aviation's contribution to cutting climate change likely to be small

A new study suggests that aviation's contribution to cutting climate change will be small, even with emission targets in line with the Paris Agreement. Researchers warn that non-CO2 effects, such as nitrogen oxides and ozone, will continue to make a major contribution to aviation's climate impact over the coming years.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 22, 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.

First wave COVID-19 data underestimated pandemic infections

Researchers from the University of Nicosia used environmental fluid dynamics to correct COVID-19 pandemic data inaccuracies. The study found that daily number of total new infections reported during the first wave was underestimated by a factor of four in cities like New York.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJun 22, 2021

Multiple long-term physical health problems increase risk of depression later in life

A large-scale analysis of over 150,000 middle-aged people found that those with two or more physical health conditions were at greater risk of developing depression and anxiety. The study confirmed the importance of integrating mental health support into care plans for individuals with multiple physical health conditions.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·DateJun 22, 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.

UM student, researchers analyze Montana childhood under vaccination

Researchers have identified hotspots of undervaccinated children across Montana using spatial scan analysis. The study found that parental hesitancy on vaccination is concentrated in the western part of the state, while structural or access barriers are more prevalent on the eastern side.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJun 22, 2021

CIBER-2 experiment successfully completes first flight

The Cosmic Infrared Background Experiment-2 (CIBER-2) has completed a successful first launch, aiming to better understand extragalactic background light and resolve discrepancies about the number of stars in the universe. The experiment will analyze data collected during four planned launches over several years.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·DateJun 22, 2021

Perovskite memory devices with ultra-fast switching speed

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology developed halide perovskite-based memory with fast switching speed, overcoming slow speed limitations. The new technology uses lead-free materials and offers a step towards practical applications.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 22, 2021

A warming climate and intensifying land use increase mercury content in fish

A recent study found that Finland's lakes in Lapland will have higher mercury levels due to climate change and increased land use. The warmer climate and more intense land use lead to the leaching of nutrients and carbon-bound mercury into waterways, causing a biomagnification effect on fish and food webs.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJun 22, 2021