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Science News for June 24, 2021


Streptococcus pneumoniae sticks to dying lung cells, worsening secondary infection following flu

Researchers have identified a novel virulence trait of Streptococcus pneumoniae that increases the severity of S. pneumoniae superinfection following flu. The surface protein PspA, previously known to have several other virulence mechanisms, now functions as an adhesin to dying lung epithelial cells. This finding provides further expla...

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 24, 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.

Recycling next-generation solar panels fosters green planet

A new recycling strategy for perovskite solar panels has been developed, which could reduce the carbon footprint of these panels by up to 72.6%. The recycling process could also lower the primary energy consumption of perovskite solar cells.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJun 24, 2021

Quantum simulation: Measurement of entanglement made easier

Researchers have developed a more efficient method for measuring entanglement in quantum simulators, allowing for new insights into the structure of the quantum state. The new protocol uses insights from quantum field theory to perform tomography with significantly fewer measurements.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 24, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Research team discovers Arctic dinosaur nursery

A research team from the University of Alaska Fairbanks and Florida State University has found evidence that nearly all types of Arctic dinosaurs reproduced in the region and likely remained there year-round. The discovery contradicts previous hypotheses that the animals migrated to lower latitudes for the winter, suggesting they were ...

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 24, 2021

Gastrulation research reveals novel details about embryonic development

Researchers from Helmholtz Zentrum München have discovered a novel mechanism driving the formation of the endoderm germ layer during gastrulation. This finding has significant implications for understanding congenital diseases and potential targets for therapeutic intervention in cancer.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJun 24, 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.

Russian forests are crucial to global climate mitigation

New study confirms Russian forests have accumulated 40% more biomass than reported, with potential for 47% higher carbon sequestration. Close collaboration between science and policy is critical for adaptive forest management.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 24, 2021

Ethane proxies for methane in oil and gas emissions

A recent study using ethane proxies has found that oil and gas wells contribute significantly to greenhouse warming, exceeding EPA estimates by 48-76%. The researchers tracked ethane and methane emissions across the US over three seasons, providing new insights into fossil fuel sources.

SourcePenn State·DateJun 24, 2021

When did the first COVID-19 case arise?

A new study suggests that the first COVID-19 case arose in China between early October and mid-November 2019, with November 17 being the most likely date of origin. The analysis reveals a more rapid spread than previously confirmed cases imply, with the disease spreading globally by January 2020.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJun 24, 2021

Plant Protector: How plants strengthen their light-harvesting membranes against environmental stress

A study by an international consortium reveals the structure and mechanism of a protein that builds and maintains photosynthetic membranes in plants. The research provides new opportunities for engineering plants to be more resistant to extreme environmental conditions, helping to sustain human food supply and combat climate change.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalCell·DateJun 24, 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.

Better mental health supports for nurses needed, study finds

A new study found that nurses experienced high rates of depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly those working in long-term care. The survey of over 10,000 Canadian nurses revealed a significant decline in their well-being, with six out of 10 reporting anxiety in April.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAnnals of Epidemiology·DateJun 24, 2021

Research news tip sheet: Story ideas from Johns Hopkins Medicine

A recent study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers suggests that playing virtual reality games during a venipuncture procedure can reduce pain and anxiety in pediatric patients. However, the study also found that VR gameplay added an average of 4-6 minutes to the procedure time due to technical issues.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalHospital Pediatrics·DateJun 24, 2021

Burnout is a widespread reality in today's NHS

Burnout is a significant issue in today's NHS, with 44% of staff reporting work-related stress. Improving staff health and wellbeing is crucial for the moral, social, and economic priority it represents.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJun 24, 2021

UCLA study reveals how immune cells can be trained to fight infections

Researchers have discovered a key molecular mechanism underlying immune cell training, which determines whether cells respond aggressively to threats. By understanding this process, doctors may be able to 'hack' the immune system to strengthen it and prevent autoimmunity.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalScience·DateJun 24, 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.

Some good news for those with migraines

A new study from the University of Toronto found that 63% of Canadians with migraines experience almost daily happiness and high levels of social and psychological well-being. Those who had a confidant or used spiritual coping mechanisms were more likely to be in excellent mental health.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAnnals Of Headache Medicine Journal·DateJun 24, 2021

Study suggests scientists may need to rethink which genes control aging

Researchers found that only about 30% of genes associated with aging control the body's internal clock, while the rest reflect the response to bacteria. Antibiotics extended fly lives by up to six days and altered gene activity in many hallmark aging genes.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournaliScience·DateJun 24, 2021

Outcomes for COVID-19 patients 1 year after loss of smell

Researchers evaluated COVID-19 patients with loss of smell one year post-diagnosis, finding persistent cognitive and emotional impairments. Long-term follow-up studies like this one are crucial for understanding the lasting effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 24, 2021

People with fibromyalgia are substituting CBD for opioids to manage pain

A new study found that over 70% of people with fibromyalgia who use CBD substitute it for opioids or other pain medications, reporting improved symptom relief. CBD is being used as a harm reduction strategy due to its non-intoxicating properties and lower potential for abuse.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Pain·DateJun 24, 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.

Searching for the cell of origin of childhood brain cancer

A study coordinated by the University of Trento identified the cell of origin of medulloblastoma, a common and aggressive childhood brain cancer. The researchers used organoids, three-dimensional models of tumor tissue, to understand the genetic mechanisms responsible for this type of brain cancer.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 24, 2021

Kiwi disease study finds closely related bacterial strains display different behaviors

A recent study found that genes involved in bacterial signaling play a crucial role in the virulence of Psa3, a highly aggressive biovar of the pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae. This discovery highlights the importance of understanding the diversity of virulence strategies among closely related bacterial strains.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateJun 24, 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.

New microscopy method reveals single childhood cancer cells in unprecedented detail

Scientists at Princess Máxima Center developed a new imaging technique to study millions of cells in 3D tissue, revealing hundreds of features from each individual cell. The technique helps analyze molecular profiles and cell shape, potentially improving diagnosis and treatment for children's cancers.

SourcePrincess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 24, 2021

Mixed cultures for a greater yield

A study published in Nature Plants found that mixed cultures of crops can produce higher yields than monocultures due to the biodiversity effect. This approach involves sowing multiple species or varieties alongside each other, resulting in increased plant productivity and effective natural pest control without pesticides.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Plants·DateJun 24, 2021

How neurons get past 'no'

A new study reveals that inhibitory neurons increase signal transmission by targeting the weakest-responding neurons in the brain, enabling flexible information transfer. This discovery could help understand and treat disorders such as anxiety and attention deficit disorders.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 24, 2021

Structural biologists granted Wellcome Trust Investigator Awards

Researchers John Schwabe and Daniel Panne have been awarded £3.89 million to investigate gene regulation, with a focus on histone deacetylase complexes and DNA folding. The study aims to understand how genes are regulated and its potential in treating diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateJun 24, 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.

COVID-19 origins still a mystery

A recent study using computer modelling found that the SARS-CoV-2 virus binds more tightly to human cells than any other tested animal species, including bats and pangolins. The results suggest that the virus may have adapted to become an effective human pathogen through convergent evolution or genetic recombination.

SourceFlinders University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 24, 2021

Common plant fiber gel doubled rate of tumor eradication

Researchers developed a new dietary fiber formulation that modulates the gut microbiome, improving potency of immunotherapies against cancer. The inulin gel doubled the rate of tumor eradication in rodents with colon carcinoma and melanoma, expanding beneficial microbes in the gastrointestinal tract.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJun 24, 2021

Smooth muscle overexpression of PGC1α attenuates atherosclerosis in rabbits

This study highlights PGC1α's role in maintaining vascular smooth muscle cells' contractile phenotype and reducing atherosclerotic plaque formation. Overexpression of PGC1α attenuates high cholesterol diet-induced atherosclerosis in rabbits, showing its therapeutic potential for cardiovascular diseases.

SourceNanjing University School of Life Sciences·JournalCirculation Research·DateJun 24, 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.

Starting the day off with chocolate could have unexpected benefits

Researchers discovered that consuming concentrated chocolate in the morning can aid in burning fat and decreasing blood sugar levels. The study also found that eating chocolate at different times of day can influence hunger, appetite, microbiota composition, sleep, and metabolism.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJun 24, 2021

New findings unveil a missing piece of human prehistory

A joint research team led by Prof. FU Qiaomei has sequenced the ancient genomes of 31 individuals from southern East Asia, unveiling a missing piece of human prehistory. The study reveals three genetically distinct ancestries in southern East Asia and Southeast Asia: Fujian ancestry, Hòabìnhian ancestry, and Guangxi ancestry.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell·DateJun 24, 2021

Embryologists reveal a secret of a worm with regeneration super abilities

Biologists at St Petersburg University studied mechanisms of regeneration of marine animals and found that suppression of FGF protein activity disrupts the ability of Alitta virens to restore lost body segments. Similar proteins are found in humans, suggesting potential therapeutic approaches for regenerative medicine.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalGenes·DateJun 24, 2021

Mini-brains reveal cause of rare syndromes

A recent study reveals that different brain syndromes are caused by damage to the HUWE1 gene, leading to intellectual disabilities. The research, led by Professor Barbara van Loon, used mini-brains created from stem cells to demonstrate the common cause of these disorders.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateJun 24, 2021

Preventing the break-in of the toxoplasmosis parasite

Researchers have identified the structure and functions of RON13, a kinase essential for the invasive mechanism of Toxoplasma gondii in humans. The parasite's ability to infect cells is hindered without RON13, providing a potential target for new therapies.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 24, 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.

Cosmic dawn occurred 250 to 350 million years after Big Bang

A new study suggests that cosmic dawn, when stars formed for the first time, occurred between 250 and 350 million years after the beginning of the universe. The study used data from the Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes to estimate the age of distant galaxies.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 24, 2021

New findings on body axis formation

Researchers at Heidelberg University discovered an enzyme that breaks down Wnt proteins, shaping body axis development in the freshwater polyp Hydra. This discovery may play a role in human diseases such as cancer.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalBMC Biology·DateJun 24, 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.

A low Omega-3 index is just as strong a predictor of early death as smoking

A new study found that a low Omega-3 Index is associated with increased risk of early death, comparable to the risk of smoking. The research used data from the Framingham Heart Study and suggested that biomarkers integrating lifestyle choices could help identify individuals at risk and inform treatment approaches.

SourceWright On Marketing & Communications·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJun 24, 2021

A 'tasty' protein may lead to new ways to treat metabolic and immune diseases

Researchers at Van Andel Institute have published high-resolution images of TRPM5, a taste-sensing molecule that may serve as targets for new medications to control blood sugar in diabetes. The findings also reveal potential applications for low-calorie alternative sweeteners that mimic sugar.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJun 24, 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.

Study highlights racial inequity in health care access, quality

A recent study found that states with higher levels of systemic racism have pronounced racial disparities in healthcare access and quality, benefiting white people more than Black people. The researchers also discovered that Black individuals who experienced provider racism reported lower quality of care.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJun 24, 2021

Spreading of infections = need for collaboration between biology and physics

The spread of infections requires collaboration between biology and physics to understand superspreaders, who account for 80% of transmission. Researchers develop computer models considering family context, work context, and random contexts, highlighting the importance of time in modeling disease behavior.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 24, 2021

Decoding humans' survival from coronaviruses

An international team analysed genomes of over 2,500 humans from 26 populations to understand human adaptation to historical coronavirus outbreaks. They found signs of adaptation in 42 different human genes encoding viral interacting proteins (VIPs), which primarily active in the lungs and interact with coronaviruses.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 24, 2021

Coronavirus crisis and social citizenship in India

A new project funded by the German Research Foundation is analyzing the coronavirus crisis in India to understand its effects on social policy, regional variations, and local experiences of access to social entitlements. The project aims to capture the dynamism of social perceptions during this period.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·DateJun 24, 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.

Researchers solve a puzzle to design larger proteins

A team of researchers identified the design principles for creating large ideal proteins, paving the way for designing proteins with new biochemical functions. They found that while designed proteins are structurally ideal, they lack functional sites due to internal energetic frustration.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 24, 2021

Higher doses of neutralizing antibody could protect humans against HIV

Researchers argue that a broader application of neutralizing antibodies could be key to developing an effective HIV vaccine and treatment strategy. The study's findings suggest that higher serum titers of infused therapeutic antibody may provide broad protection against various HIV strains.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 24, 2021

Leopard gecko skin tumors traced to cancer gene

A genetic analysis of leopard geckos has identified a cancer gene linked to skin tumors, shedding light on the animals' unique coloration patterns. The study, published in PLOS Genetics, suggests that the geckos' bright colors may be caused by an error in the gene, leading to overproduction of white skin cells and reflective crystals.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJun 24, 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.

Scientists explain the behaviour of the optical emission of blazars

Researchers have found that the polarisation plane of visible light in blazars sometimes rotates, coinciding with repeated gamma ray bursts. The study also described the structure of the inner part of the jets, revealing a fast spine surrounded by a slower sheath with ring condensations.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 24, 2021

Ubiquitination primes cell for recovery from heat stress

Researchers have identified distinct ubiquitination patterns that underlie cell recovery following different environmental stressors. For heat stress, ubiquitination primes cells to dismantle stress granules and reinitiate normal cellular activities after stress has been removed.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 24, 2021

Early findings of Alzheimer's study in diverse populations now available to researchers

The research data provides insights into the biology of Alzheimer's disease among Mexican Americans, highlighting lower levels of beta amyloid protein and earlier onset of cognitive loss compared to non-Latino whites. This comprehensive study is a first-of-its-kind examination of health disparities and diagnostic opportunities for unde...

SourceUniversity of North Texas Health Science Center·DateJun 24, 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.

COVID-19 monoclonal antibody therapy can reduce hospitalizations, healthcare system stress

A study by USF Health and Tampa General Hospital found that early administration of monoclonal antibodies to high-risk patients can significantly reduce COVID-19-related emergency department visits and hospitalizations. The treatment reduced hospitalization rates by 40.5% compared to controls, with no deaths reported in the treated group.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateJun 24, 2021

A hidden driver of food insecurity and environmental crisis that we cannot ignore

A study finds that cropland redistribution to marginal lands undermines environmental sustainability, increasing wind erosion, irrigation water consumption, fertilizer use, and decreasing natural habitats. The study suggests restricting land reclamation and boosting crop yields for both food security and environmental benefits.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJun 24, 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.

Ultralight material withstands supersonic microparticle impacts

Researchers have developed an ultralight material made from nanometer-scale carbon struts that provide toughness and mechanical robustness. The material withstood microparticle impacts at supersonic speeds without tearing, outperforming other impact-resistant materials of comparable weight.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 24, 2021

Making citizen science inclusive will require more than rebranding

Researchers argue that boosting equity, diversity, and inclusion in citizen science demands more than just rebranding. They recommend 'centering in the margins' by focusing on underserved areas and overcoming economic barriers to participation. This approach seeks to create a more inclusive and responsive system of knowledge production.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience·DateJun 24, 2021

A new type of Homo unknown to science

A new type of Homo has been identified in Israel, with features that challenge the prevailing hypothesis on Neanderthal origins. The discovery suggests that at least some Neanderthals' ancestors came from the Levant, and that two types of Homo groups lived side by side for over 100,000 years.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalScience·DateJun 24, 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.

Newly sequenced genome of extinct giant lemur sheds light on animal's biology

Researchers have sequenced the nuclear genome of the koala lemur, a giant primate that went extinct in Madagascar around 500-2,000 years ago. The findings reveal new insights into its position on the primate family tree and how it interacted with its environment, which could help understand past lemur extinctions.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 24, 2021

Coincidence? I think so: researchers use phylogenetics to untangle convergent adaptation in birds

A team of researchers used phylogenetics to investigate recurrent adaptations in bird mitochondria, finding that most convergence events can be explained by random coincidences rather than adaptation. The study confirms the scientific opinion that distant species choose different ways of similar trait evolution, but challenges the idea...

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateJun 24, 2021

Muscling up with nanoparticle-based anti-inflammatory therapy

A research team at Harvard's Wyss Institute has developed a new approach to treat Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy using nanoparticle-based anti-inflammatory cytokines. Locally applied nanoparticles improve muscle functions and boost the numbers of infiltrating anti-inflammatory regulatory T cells, leading to stronger muscles.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 24, 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.

UN-endorsed CityU project on monitoring global estuaries

The GEM Programme aims to establish a global monitoring network to collect and analyze seawater samples from urbanised estuaries worldwide. The project will identify pollution hotspots and priority contaminants, providing strategies for cleaner estuaries.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·DateJun 24, 2021

Water vole genome will help boost conservation of one of UK's most endangered mammals

The release of the European water vole genome provides a comprehensive set of genetic tools to support conservation efforts, helping to understand genetic diversity and structure of water vole populations. The reference genome will aid in reintroduction efforts and inform management strategies for sustainable species survival.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalWellcome Open Research·DateJun 24, 2021

Optical superoscillation without side waves

Developed by Jinan University researchers, the approach produces superoscillatory light spots without side lobes. The technique utilizes a cylindrical diffraction and sharp-edged apertures to eliminate tradeoffs between main and side lobes, enabling larger field of view while maintaining feature size within optical diffraction limit.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJun 24, 2021

Study shows potential dangers of sweeteners

Research from Anglia Ruskin University found that common artificial sweeteners like saccharin and sucralose can make previously healthy gut bacteria pathogenic. The study discovered that these pathogenic bacteria can invade intestinal cells and cause damage.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateJun 24, 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.

Rude behavior at work not an epidemic, new study shows

A new study suggests that while most employees (98%) experience rude behavior at work, the majority of workplace relationships are not characterized by rudeness. Unique relationships between colleagues and individual personality traits play a significant role in determining incivility levels.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalJournal of Applied Phycology·DateJun 24, 2021

Physicist Jean Dalibard awarded the 2021 CNRS gold medal

Physicist Jean Dalibard is recognized for his exceptional contributions to the dynamism and influence of French research, particularly in quantum technologies. He has made major contributions to the emergence of quantum technologies by developing sources for atoms cooled and trapped by light,.

SourceCNRS·DateJun 24, 2021

Novel risk score for predicting blood cancer relapse

Researchers in China have created a novel risk score to predict relapse of leukemia, allowing for better medical intervention and stratification of patients with different risks. The study analyzed factors such as engraftment of white blood cells, residual cancer cells, and chronic graft-versus-host disease to determine outcomes like 5...

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·DateJun 24, 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.

Cyclone study improves climate projections

Researchers developed a new method to quantify cyclones' influence on atmospheric circulation, improving climate projection accuracy. This approach allows for finer details to be revealed in patterns of cyclones and anticyclones.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 24, 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.

Water meters help scientists quantify river runoff at third pole

Researchers from ITP of Chinese Academy of Sciences use water meters to estimate annual total river runoff for 13 major rivers in the region. The study reveals significant regional variations in river runoff, with higher values found in Indian monsoon domain, and shows climate change impacts on snow and glacial melting.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateJun 24, 2021

Versatile, fast and reliable SARS-CoV-2 antibody assay

Researchers at TUM created a low-cost, automated rapid test for detecting SARS-CoV-2 antibodies with high sensitivity and specificity. The test can determine antibody concentrations and has the potential to answer questions about corona immunity, vaccinations, and disease progression.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateJun 24, 2021

Herbivore gut fungi found to produce unique building blocks of antibiotics

Researchers have discovered that anaerobic fungi in herbivores' guts can produce novel antibiotic compounds, which could be used to fight disease. The fungi's ability to produce these compounds is crucial for their survival and competitiveness in the environment.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 24, 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.

Setting gold and platinum standards where few have gone before

Researchers have created tables of responses for gold and platinum to extreme pressure, providing a standard for future researchers to calibrate the responses of other metals. The data generated by these experiments can aid in understanding exoplanets, planetary impacts, and moon formation.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalScience·DateJun 24, 2021

Researchers find the adhesions that build the brain's networks

Astrocytes play a key role in forming synapses between neurons. A new study has discovered that hepaCAM, a crucial protein, is essential for their communication and coordination. Lacking this molecule, astrocytes fail to form connections, leading to brain disorders like epilepsy and autism spectrum disorders.

SourceDuke University·JournalNeuron·DateJun 24, 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.

Primary lung cancers detected by LDCT are at lower risk of brain metastases

A study published in Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for primary lung cancer is associated with a lower risk of developing brain metastases. Researchers identified 1502 participants diagnosed with lung cancer between 2002 and 2009, where LDCT screening was detected versus other meth...

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateJun 24, 2021

Genetic study of liver cancer reveals new drug target

A recent genetic study published in PLOS Genetics has identified MAGEA3, a gene associated with poor prognosis in liver cancer, as a potential target for new treatments. The study found that blocking the expression of MAGEA3 in liver cancer cells can prevent their growth and death, offering hope for developing new therapies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJun 24, 2021

Battle of the Pleiades against plant immunity

A group of corn smut proteins, known as the Pleiades, launch a battle against maize immunity by targeting key defense mechanisms. The study reveals that eight of the ten Pleiades inhibit reactive oxygen species production, while two others promote flowering by dampening immunity.

SourceGregor Mendel Institute of Molecular Plant Biology·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJun 24, 2021

Mount Sinai study finds that rotator cuff injuries account for nearly half of shoulder injuries among collegiate baseball players, identifies other risks

A Mount Sinai study reveals rotator cuff injuries are the most common type, accounting for nearly half of all shoulder injuries. The research also identifies other risk factors, including pitching and throwing, and highlights the need for improved injury prevention strategies.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalThe Physician and Sportsmedicine·DateJun 24, 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.

Antarctic Circumpolar Current flows more rapidly in warm phases

The Antarctic Circumpolar Current flowed more rapidly during the last interglacial period, with a flow speed 10-15% higher than today. This could lead to an increase in global temperatures and a decline in the ocean's capacity to absorb CO2.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 24, 2021

Repurposing rheumatology drugs for COVID-19

The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology taskforce provides guidelines for treating severe COVID-19 with immunomodulatory therapies. The recommendations consider the individual's condition and stage of the disease, including antiviral medicines, oxygen therapy, and anticoagulation.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 24, 2021

New fossil discovery from Israel points to complicated evolutionary process

The Nesher Ramla fossils, dating back to 120,000-140,000 years ago, represent late survivors of a population of humans in the Middle East. The discovery suggests that interactions between different human species were more complex than previously believed, with genetic contributions from the Middle East into Europe during their evolution.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalScience·DateJun 24, 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.

Light-harvesting nanoparticle catalysts show promise in quest for renewable carbon-based fuels

A study by University of Illinois researchers has shown that small quantities of hydrocarbons can be produced when CO2 and water react in the presence of light and a silver nanoparticle catalyst. The findings demonstrate a viable technology for renewable energy generation and chemical manufacturing.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 24, 2021

Virus that causes COVID-19 can find alternate route to infect cells

Researchers at WashU Medicine discovered a single mutation in SARS-CoV-2 that allows the virus to enter human lung cells through an alternative route, which may evade COVID-19 antibodies or vaccines. The study suggests the virus can change and adapt in unexpected ways to cause infection.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 24, 2021

Non-invasive potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at the University of Queensland have found that low-intensity ultrasound can effectively restore cognition without crossing the blood-brain barrier in mice models. The findings provide a potential new avenue for non-invasive treatment and will help clinicians tailor medical treatments to individual disease progressions.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJun 24, 2021

Are zebra mussels eating or helping toxic algae?

Researchers found that zebra mussels can increase Microcystis, a type of cyanobacteria causing harmful algal blooms, by filtering out competitors. The study suggests that zebra mussels may be inadvertently helping toxic algae thrive in nutrient-poor waters.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEcosphere·DateJun 24, 2021

Immunotherapy may be effective for subset of prostate cancer

Researchers identified a subset of localized prostate cancers that exhibit characteristics typical of 'hot' tumors, which may respond to immunotherapies. The study found that about a quarter of high-risk prostate cancers have these immunologic traits, suggesting a substantial number of patients may benefit from immunotherapy.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJun 24, 2021

Stopping the onset and progression of intractable immune diseases

A research team from POSTECH and ImmunoBiome Inc. discovered a yeast-derived polysaccharide mixture that selectively suppresses inflammatory T-cells and induces regulatory T-cells with anti-inflammatory function. The study found that MGCP, the novel polysaccharide, effectively inhibits inflammatory diseases without major side effects.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 24, 2021

Comet strike may have sparked key shift in human civilization

A cluster of comet fragments believed to have hit Earth nearly 13,000 years ago may have triggered the transition from hunter-gatherer lifestyles to agriculture-based settlements in the Fertile Crescent. This impact, known as the Younger Dryas event, also caused widespread extinctions and a mini ice age lasting over 1,000 years.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalEarth-Science Reviews·DateJun 24, 2021

Genome study reveals East Asian coronavirus epidemic 20,000 years ago

A recent study has found evidence of a large coronavirus epidemic that occurred in the East Asia region more than 20,000 years ago. The researchers used genetic data from the 1000 Genomes Project to discover changes in human genes that suggest ancestors of East Asian people experienced an epidemic similar to COVID-19.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 24, 2021

Quantum dots keep atoms spaced to boost catalysis

Rice University engineers developed a strategy to increase the number of transition-metal single atoms that can be loaded onto a carbon carrier using graphene quantum dots. The new technique showed significant improvement in electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide compared to lower metal loading catalysts.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 24, 2021

The job you want vs. the job you get

A University of Houston researcher found significant discrepancies between teenagers' dream careers and job availability in the US labor market. Most adolescents aspired to low-automation careers, but these jobs account for only 8% of available positions.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournal of Career Assessment·DateJun 24, 2021

Race, ethnicity not a factor in recent weapon-carrying behaviors at US schools

A recent study by the University of Minnesota Medical School found that schools' social climates play a stronger role in weapon-carrying behaviors among US high school students than their racial or ethnic backgrounds. The study also discovered that males who experienced violence or felt unsafe at school were more likely to carry weapons.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 24, 2021

WVU researchers eye development of tomato with insecticide-resistant trait

West Virginia University researchers are working on a project to create a tomato that requires little to no pesticides. They aim to identify pest-resistant genes and make those new varieties available to breeders and farmers. The goal is to develop an environmentally friendly and sustainable crop that reduces pesticide use.

SourceWest Virginia University·DateJun 24, 2021

Adolescent marijuana, alcohol use held steady during COVID-19 pandemic

Despite significant declines in perceived availability of marijuana and alcohol, adolescent use rates remained stable during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nicotine vaping, however, declined significantly, with a sharp decrease in respondents who said they could easily obtain vaping devices.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateJun 24, 2021

Membrane proteins of bacteria and humans show surprising similarities

Researchers have discovered that a bacterial protein has a similar structure and function as human ESCRT-III proteins, which are responsible for remodeling and rebuilding the cell membrane. The protein, PspA, forms protective structures on the cell membrane to cope with stress, and its structure is essential for its function.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalCell·DateJun 24, 2021

Parents of children with complex medical conditions more likely to have mental health issues

A recent study published in Pediatrics found that parents of children with the most complex medical conditions are more likely to report poor or fair mental health and struggle to find community help. The study recommends that healthcare systems provide support resources and prioritize mental health for these families.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateJun 24, 2021

Protocells spring into action

A team of researchers has developed micro-actuators that use internal changes as a trigger for signal-based movement, paving the way for new applications in soft robotics, microscale sensing, and bioengineering. The devices, powered by chemical reactions, can be programmed to perform different modes of mechanical work.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 24, 2021

Antidepressants safe during pregnancy

A recent study found that mothers with psychiatric disorders had a higher risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental delay in their children. In contrast, antidepressant use was not associated with an increased risk of ASD. The research provides reassurance for pregnant women taking SSRIs.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJun 24, 2021

Mosquito love songs send mixed message about immunity

Researchers found that male mosquitoes' ability to harmonically converge affects their offspring's immune response, with males investing more energy in mating effort than immunity. Female mosquitoes are better able to resist parasites and pathogens, but may lose immunity as they age.

SourceCornell University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJun 24, 2021

Feel-good hormone dopamine affects passion and autism

A new study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology researchers found that dopamine levels are linked to passion and goal achievement in men, which may explain the higher prevalence of autism diagnoses in males. The study also found no significant gender difference in passion or grit among women.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNew Ideas in Psychology·DateJun 24, 2021