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Science News for June 3, 2021


Mason scientists explore herbal treatment for COVID-19

Researchers at George Mason University discovered that the over-the-counter drink Respiratory Detox Shot (RDS) may broadly inhibit respiratory viruses such as influenza. RDS contains nine herbal ingredients traditionally used in Eastern medicine to manage lung diseases.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalCell & Bioscience·DateJun 3, 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.

Biomarker predicts bowel cancer recurrence

A biomarker based on circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) can predict the likelihood of bowel cancer recurrence after surgery and chemotherapy. The test measures ctDNA levels before and after treatment to provide real-time information on chemotherapy effectiveness.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 3, 2021

3D printed micro-optics for quantum technology

Researchers developed a method to enhance collection efficiency of single QDs using 3D printed micro-lenses, achieving intensity enhancements up to 2.1 and 26% in fibre-coupling validation. A standalone fibre-coupled device was also realised, opening the route to stable stand-alone devices.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJun 3, 2021

Study finds age doesn't affect perception of 'speech-to-song illusion'

A study from the University of Kansas found that the speech-to-song illusion occurs in adults 55 and older at similar rates as younger people, with no difference in perception or intensity. The findings suggest that older adults may not experience a decline in cognitive abilities related to this phenomenon.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 3, 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.

High energy telescopes dissect the afterglow of a gamma ray burst

Astronomers used High Energy Stereoscopic System to observe gamma ray burst GRB 190829A's afterglow, detecting emission at several tera-electronvolts. The results show similar spectral properties and decay profiles to x-ray emission, contradicting current emission models for gamma ray bursts.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 3, 2021

Life stage differences shield ecological communities from collapse

A new study reveals that juvenile-adult differences shield ecological communities from collapse. The research shows that variations within species are crucial for community stability, leading to the stabilization of ecosystems. Differences in size and growth rates between juveniles and adults contribute to these effects.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 3, 2021

Changes in pregnancy, birth rates during COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic led to changes in pregnancy and birth rates, with increased cesarean deliveries and emergency C-sections reported during lockdowns. Researchers analyzed electronic medical records to estimate the impact of lockdown measures on reproductive health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 3, 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.

New technology 'listens' for endangered right whales

Researchers developed a machine learning technique to detect North Atlantic right whales by listening for their sounds underwater. The technology can remove unwanted noises, increasing the reliability of detecting right whales in adverse conditions, and offers hope for the species' survival and population increase.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateJun 3, 2021

Healing hydrogels

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a novel crystal that allows hydrogels to rapidly recover from mechanical stress, making them suitable for medical applications. This breakthrough could lead to more effective treatments for sports injuries and joint pain.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience·DateJun 3, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mangrove Root Model May Hold the Key to Preventing Coastal Erosion

A study by Florida Atlantic University quantifies the optimal mangrove root hydrodynamic with a predictive model, providing insight into sediment transport and erosion processes. The research suggests that optimizing porosity can mitigate coastal erosion and promote biodiversity.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 3, 2021

Neurological symptoms like fatigue common in mild COVID

A new meta-analysis of 215 COVID-19 studies reveals a wide range of ways the virus affects mental health and brain function. Common symptoms include fatigue, loss of smell, depression, anxiety, and headaches, even in mild cases, suggesting that mental health impacts may be more prevalent than expected.

SourceUniversity College London·DateJun 3, 2021

Engineers create a programmable fiber

Engineers at MIT have developed the first digital fiber that can store, analyze, and infer physical activity, revolutionizing textiles for performance monitoring, medical inference, and disease detection. The fiber is thin, flexible, and can be sewn into fabrics without breaking down, opening up new possibilities for fabrics.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 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.

UW researchers investigate mining-related deforestation in the Amazon

A team of University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers investigated mining-related deforestation in the Peruvian Amazon to see if formalizing and legalizing these operations could reduce their negative effects. The study found that while formalization has potential, it needs enforcement and regulations to match the local context.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 3, 2021

Study sheds new light on link between COVID pressures and suicidal thoughts

A new study in Wales has found that social isolation, domestic abuse, and relationship problems are strongly linked to suicidal thoughts, while hope for the future and high levels of resilience can mitigate these effects. The survey of over 12,000 people revealed that several stressors contribute to increased risk of suicidal thoughts.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalArchives of Suicide Research·DateJun 3, 2021

Enantiomorph distribution maps for metals and metallic alloys

Researchers developed a new EBSD-based method to determine enantiomorph distribution in polycrystalline materials, including the chiral elemental structure β-Mn. This simplifies the preparation of materials with defined handedness.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids·JournalJournal of Mathematical Sciences Advances and Applications·DateJun 3, 2021

Mockingbird song decoded

Researchers discovered that mockingbirds use specific compositional strategies to create complex melodies, including changing timbre, pitch, stretching transitions, and squeezing them. These techniques are also used by human composers across various musical styles.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 3, 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.

A better way to introduce digital tech in the workplace

MIT Professor Kate Kellogg advocates for 'experimentalist governance' to find what works best for employees at all levels, then implement it widely. This approach helps overcome participation, threshold, and free rider problems associated with digital technology implementation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalOrganization Science·DateJun 3, 2021

Bilingualism as a natural therapy for autistic children

Autistic children who are bilingual show improved theory of mind and executive function skills compared to monolingual peers. Bilingualism enables children to partially compensate for deficits in these areas, allowing them to focus on one language while inhibiting another.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAutism Research·DateJun 3, 2021

Studies reveal skull as unexpected source of brain immunity

Researchers discovered that immune cells from the skull bone marrow guard the brain and spinal cord, while others arrive from the bloodstream, carrying genetic signatures that may promote autoimmunity. This finding could inform understanding and treatment of brain disorders such as neuro-COVID, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·DateJun 3, 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 study further advances the treatment of chronic pain

Scientists identified conolidine's interaction with ACKR3/CXCR7, a novel opioid receptor, to increase analgesic activity and block pain relief-dampening effects. A synthetic analogue, RTI-5152-12, was developed to enhance pharmacological properties.

SourceLuxembourg Institute of Health·JournalSignal Transduction and Targeted Therapy·DateJun 3, 2021

New algorithm for modern quilting

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new prototype software to facilitate pattern-making in foundation paper piecing quilting. The algorithm is based on a graph structure called a hypergraph and allows users to design patterns without having to consider the geometry, ordering, and constraints of the technique.

SourceStanford University·DateJun 3, 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.

'Floating' microgrids: Optimizing naval ships' power systems

Wenxin Liu's research aims to improve the reliability of naval ships' power systems using advanced algorithmic design and hardware experimentation. He believes that his work has implications for civilian microgrid technology, which could lead to more efficient and flexible power distribution networks.

SourceLehigh University·DateJun 3, 2021

Quantum computing with holes

Researchers created a new qubit by manipulating hole spins in a germanium layer, enabling faster processing speeds and reduced magnetic field requirements. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more efficient quantum computers combining semiconductors and superconductors.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 3, 2021

New tech predicts chemotherapy effectiveness after one treatment

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a predictive model using tumor biomarkers and imaging parameters to forecast chemotherapy response. The model's accuracy reaches 0.94, allowing for early adjustments to treatment plans and reduced use of toxic chemotherapy drugs.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalBreast Cancer Research and Treatment·DateJun 3, 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.

Cultural, belief system data can inform gray wolf recovery efforts in US

A new study uses cultural data to inform gray wolf recovery efforts in the US, highlighting Colorado's supportive social environment for wolf reintroduction. The research reveals a shift towards mutualism, where people view animals as companions and part of their social networks.

SourceColorado State University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJun 3, 2021

Is Earth's core lopsided? Strange goings-on in our planet's interior

Researchers at UC Berkeley found that the inner core's asymmetric growth explains a long-standing mystery about iron crystals' orientation. The study suggests the core may be only 500 million years old, contradicting previous estimates and shedding light on Earth's magnetic field history.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 3, 2021

What makes good fibroblasts go bad?

Fibroblasts, the cells responsible for extracellular matrices, become diseased in fibrosis. Researchers create 3D hydrogels that mimic living tissue to study fibrosis progression and epigenetic responses.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateJun 3, 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.

Shoot better drone videos with a single word

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed a model that enables drones to capture videos evoking specific emotions, such as excitement or calmness, through camera angles and flight paths.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateJun 3, 2021

Immunotherapy drug delays recurrence in kidney cancer patients

A phase 3 clinical trial of adjuvant immunotherapy found that pembrolizumab prolonged disease-free survival rates in patients with kidney cancer at high risk of relapse. The estimated disease-free survival was 77.3% with pembrolizumab and 68.1% with placebo, translating to a 32% decrease in the risk of recurrence or death.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·DateJun 3, 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.

CNIC scientists identify essential factors for limb formation

The study reveals that Meis transcription factors are crucial for the formation and antero-posterior patterning of limbs. Genetic deletion of all four family members showed that these proteins are essential for limb development.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2021

New method accurately reflects hotspots in epidemic

Researchers developed a mathematical tool to evaluate the relationship between viral load and case growth, providing real-time estimates of epidemic growth rates. This new metric can help public health officials distribute resources effectively.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalScience·DateJun 3, 2021

Secret shopper study sheds light on barriers to opioid treatment for women

A secret shopper study found that pregnant women are 20% less likely to be accepted for opioid treatment than non-pregnant women, citing long on-hold times and difficult interactions. The study highlights the need for increased access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) regardless of pregnancy status.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·DateJun 3, 2021

Linked faults under Salt Lake City may elevate risk of building damage

Research suggests that earthquakes magnitude 5.0 and larger could cause ground displacement and liquefaction in Salt Lake City, increasing the risk of earthquake-related building damage. The study identified a complex zone of folding and faulting beneath downtown Salt Lake City, which may deform the ground during a large earthquake.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalThe Seismic Record·DateJun 3, 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.

What we know about water may have just changed dramatically

Scientists have discovered that water molecules respond differently to an electrode surface, affecting how substances dissolve in water and chemical reactions occur. This breakthrough could lead to more accurate simulations for water desalination and potentially provide clean water faster, cheaper, and cleaner.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature·DateJun 3, 2021

COVID-19: Seroprevalence and vaccine responses in UK dental care professionals

A study of UK dental care professionals found that natural infection alone is unlikely to generate meaningful, durable herd immunity, emphasizing the importance of vaccinations. The data also suggest that previous infection with SARS-CoV-2 leads to a faster and stronger immune response following vaccination.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateJun 3, 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.

Tick for insomnia treatment

Researchers developed new clinical guidelines for Australian doctors to treat insomnia with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for insomnia (CBTi), improving mental health and quality of life. CBTi can be more successful than sleeping pills in managing insomnia.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAustralian Journal of General Practice·DateJun 3, 2021

Coastal flooding increases Bay Area traffic delays and accidents

A Stanford University study found that coastal flooding in the Bay Area leads to significant travel time delays and an increase in vehicular accident rates, particularly in residential neighborhoods. The research highlights the importance of prioritizing road safety in climate adaptation planning.

SourceStanford University·JournalUrban Climate·DateJun 3, 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.

Underwater ancient cypress forest offers clues to the past

A preserved ancient bald cypress forest was discovered underwater in the northern Gulf of Mexico, providing clues about the region's climate history. The forest is estimated to be between 42,000 and 74,000 years old, offering insights into the rapid changes in sea levels and climate that occurred during the last Ice Age.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalBoreas·DateJun 3, 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.

Prior COVID-19 infection reduces infection risk for up to 10 months

Researchers found that prior COVID-19 infections reduced the risk of reinfection by 85% for care home residents and 60% for staff within a four-month period. The study, published in Lancet Healthy Longevity, used antibody testing to determine previous infection status.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Healthy Longevity·DateJun 3, 2021

NIH researchers identify potential new antiviral drug for COVID-19

Researchers at the National Institutes of Health have identified a promising oral antiviral treatment for COVID-19. The experimental drug TEMPOL can inhibit viral replication by degrading iron-sulfur clusters required by the SARS-CoV-2 RNA replicase enzyme.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalScience·DateJun 3, 2021

Covid-19 pandemic led to increased screen time, more sleep problems

A study of 2,123 Italian residents found that increased evening screen time during the Covid-19 lockdown negatively affects sleep quality, with decreased sleep times and later bedtimes. In contrast, participants who reduced their screen time before bed showed improved sleep quality and fewer insomnia symptoms.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalSLEEP·DateJun 3, 2021

Fifty years of progress in women's health

Major points of progress in women's health since the 1970s include reproductive health advances, improvements in overall well-being throughout life, reduced mortality rates for cardiovascular and cancer diseases in women. Clinical research has improved understanding of conditions disproportionately affecting women, such as autoimmune d...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 3, 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.

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.

Looking for mussels? A dog just might be your best friend for that, too

Researchers are collaborating to evaluate detection canine technology and eDNA detection sensitivity for preventing invasive mussel invasion in Texas. Detection canines have shown great success in detecting mussels at all stages of life, but their limits for late-stage larval detection have not been studied.

SourceTexas Tech University·DateJun 3, 2021

Milk makeover: A great start for a healthy heart

A new study from the University of South Australia found that regular milk consumption is associated with a lower risk of heart disease. The research, which analyzed genetic biomarkers in over 400,000 people, suggests that milk's calcium content may contribute to improved cholesterol levels and reduced cardiovascular risk.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateJun 3, 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.

Which way does the solar wind blow?

Researchers developed new software for improved space weather prediction, leveraging supercomputers and advanced computing techniques to analyze magnetized solar wind plasma. This effort aims to enhance the accuracy of predictions for coronal mass ejections and their impact on Earth's magnetosphere.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateJun 3, 2021

Polar vortex, winter heat may change bird populations

Researchers found that individual bird species respond uniquely to extreme winter weather events, with some experiencing population changes after polar vortexes. Winter heat waves also led to increased bird abundance and occurrence in affected regions.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalEcography·DateJun 3, 2021

Researchers reveal the inner workings of a viral DNA-packaging motor

Scientists discovered the molecular motor that packages genetic material into double-stranded DNA viruses. The advance provides insight into a critical step in the reproduction cycle of viruses such as pox- herpes- and adeno-viruses, which could inspire researchers creating microscopic machines.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 3, 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.

Arctic sea ice thinning faster than expected

A new UCL study finds that Arctic sea ice in coastal regions is thinning at a rate of 70% to 100% faster than previously thought. The study uses a novel snow model and satellite radar observations to estimate the overall rate of decline of sea ice thickness in the Arctic, with implications for human activity in the region.

SourceUniversity College London·DateJun 3, 2021

Stone Age raves to the beat of elk tooth rattles?

Researchers found that dancing with elk tooth ornaments creates similar wear marks on the teeth as those found in ancient Stone Age graves. The study used microanalysis to compare modern and ancient elk tooth wear marks, providing insight into the past's auditory experiences.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalCambridge Archaeological Journal·DateJun 3, 2021

Obrusnikova honored

Associate Professor Iva Obrusnikova at the University of Delaware has been selected as an IFAPA Fellow for her outstanding work in adapted physical activity. She is a leading researcher on technology-based behavioral strategies and their impact on functional performance and health outcomes in adults with developmental disabilities.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateJun 3, 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.

Five million years of climate change preserved in one place

A 5-million-year-old sedimentary record at Charyn Canyon provides a rare insight into long-term land-climate feedback mechanisms. The analysis revealed increasing aridity over the past five million years, with short-term fluctuations influenced by westerly winds and the Siberian high-pressure system.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemistry·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateJun 3, 2021

Preclinical research reveals that new IgM antibodies administered intranasally to fight COVID-19 more potent than commonly used ones

A new engineered IgM antibody therapy has been found to be significantly more potent than standard IgG antibodies at neutralizing the COVID-19 virus in animal models. The therapy, IGM-6268, demonstrated increased potency against emerging variants of concern and variants of interest.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalNature·DateJun 3, 2021

How quantum dots can 'talk' to each other

Researchers have successfully simulated the interaction of two quantum dots, exchanging energy controlled by light. The study's results are promising for experimental research and development in various fields, including qubit development and photocatalysis.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry A·DateJun 3, 2021

Genetic base editing treats sickle cell disease in mice

Researchers used base editing to convert a pathogenic hemoglobin gene to a benign variant, rescuing disease symptoms in animal models and enabling long-lasting production of healthy blood cells. The treatment successfully edited up to 80% of the mutated gene in human blood stem cells and maintained its effects in mice for 16 weeks.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalNature·DateJun 3, 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.

Are wind farms slowing each other down?

A recent study by Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon found that wind farms in the North Sea experience a significant slowing down of wind speeds when built close together, leading to reduced power output and economic consequences.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 3, 2021

Filter membrane renders viruses harmless

A new water filter membrane made from natural raw materials has been developed to render viruses harmless. The membrane combines protein nanofibrils with iron oxyhydroxide nanoparticles to eliminate a wide range of water-borne viruses, including those causing gastrointestinal infections, with great efficiency.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 3, 2021

Nanoscale sensors measure elusive water levels in leaves

Researchers at Cornell University developed a minimally invasive method to measure water potential in leaves using nanoscale sensors and fiber optics. This technology enables the study of basic plant biology, advances breeding more drought-resistant crops.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 3, 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.

Quantum-optically integrated light cage on a chip

Researchers from several institutions have successfully integrated a novel on-chip hollow-core light cage into an alkali atom vapor cell, overcoming previous limitations. The device exhibits high-speed gas diffusion and long-term stability, enabling integration with other technology platforms.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJun 3, 2021

Puppies are born ready to communicate with people, study shows

Researchers found that puppies demonstrate human-like social skills from a young age, with a strong genetic component. They can reciprocate human social gaze and use information given by humans in social contexts, even before extensive experience with humans.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 3, 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.

Researchers design simulation tool to predict disease, pest spread

A computer simulation tool called PoPS predicts when and where pests and diseases will attack crops or forests, helping manage strategies and pesticide applications. The tool improves with data feedback from natural resource managers, enabling more accurate predictions of future spread.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJun 3, 2021

Did heat from impacts on asteroids provide the ingredients for life on Earth?

Research suggests that heat generated by asteroid impacts could enable aqueous alteration and organic solid formation, increasing the number of potential sources of water and life's origins. The study found that craters over 1km in radius can support organic substance formation within a 2 AU distance from the impact point.

SourceKobe University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateJun 3, 2021

You're more likely to fight misinformation if you think others are being duped

A study found that people in the US and China who believe others are being misled by misinformation are more likely to take corrective actions, such as fact-checking and reporting. The study suggests highlighting the impact of misinformation on others can increase public support for addressing it.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJun 3, 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.

Beneficial arthropods find winter sanctuary in uncultivated field edges, study finds

A new study found that beneficial arthropods are nearly twice as abundant and diverse in uncultivated field edges than in cropped areas. The edges, which were rich in flowers and broad-leaved plants, provided a winter sanctuary for the beneficial bugs, making them more useful to farmers.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Insect Science·DateJun 3, 2021

Athletic competition after COVID

Researchers from Le Bonheur Children's Hospital and the University of Tennessee Health Science Center found no evidence of myocardial injury or myocarditis in athletes after COVID-19 infection. Most athletes had mild symptoms and normal cardiac test results.

SourceLe Bonheur Children's Hospital·JournalCirculation·DateJun 3, 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.

Breast cancer patients embrace integrative health during treatment

A national survey of breast cancer patients and oncologists reveals that nearly three-quarters of patients use complementary medicine during treatment, yet doctors often fail to discuss integrative health with patients. Patients report finding hope and improving quality of life through these therapies.

SourceThe Reis Group·DateJun 3, 2021

Puppies are wired to communicate with people, study shows

Researchers found that puppies as young as 8 weeks old demonstrate social communication skills, such as following pointing gestures and engaging in eye contact. Genetics explain more than 40% of the variation in puppies' abilities, suggesting an innate capacity for human interaction.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 3, 2021

Computer simulations visualize in atomic detail how DNA opens

Computer simulations reveal that DNA sequence and histone tails play crucial roles in nucleosome breathing, a motion essential for gene expression regulation. The findings provide unprecedented insights into the mechanisms that control chromatin dynamics.

SourceHubrecht Institute·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 3, 2021

Novel antibody drug wakes up the body's defense system in advanced-stage cancer

Researchers at the University of Turku discovered a novel antibody treatment that reactivates the immune defense system in patients with advanced-stage cancer. The treatment activates killer T cells and lowers the suppressive potential of macrophages, leading to increased inflammation and white blood cell activity.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJun 3, 2021

Water droplets become hydrobots by adding magnetic beads

Scientists create hydrobot, a small water droplet manipulated by magnetic beads, for various applications. Hydrobot can move with precision and even stop at random, making it suitable for dust collection and surface cleaning.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateJun 3, 2021

Let's talk about the elephant in the data

Computer scientists study the role of prior knowledge in machine learning tasks, considering philosophical frameworks that combine elements of rationalism and empiricism. This approach aims to improve the accuracy of complex systems by incorporating human-like reasoning and flexibility.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateJun 3, 2021

High-intensity strength and impact training attenuates skeletal aging

Regular strength and impact-type training decreases or prevents age-related bone loss, according to a new study at the University of Jyväskylä. High-intensity training preserves trabecular bone density and cross-sectional geometry, supporting its benefits for bone health.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateJun 3, 2021

AI outperforms humans in creating cancer treatments, but do doctors trust it?

A study by Princess Margaret researchers found that AI-generated radiation treatments were deemed clinically acceptable for patients in most cases, with 89% of ML-treatments preferred over human-generated ones. However, physician preferences changed when actual treatment was at stake, reducing the use of ML-generated treatments to 61%....

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 3, 2021

CO2 emissions are rebounding, but clean energy revolutions are emerging

Global clean energy technology adoption is growing at a rapid pace, particularly in niche markets like Norway and California for electric vehicles, Ireland for wind power, and China for electric buses and new nuclear. These pioneers are crucial to addressing climate change by developing and deploying low-carbon technologies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Energy·DateJun 3, 2021

Predictive model identifies patients for genetic testing

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center developed a predictive model to identify patients who may benefit from genetic testing based on routine information in electronic health records. The model accurately classified over 87% of cases and 96% of controls, and identified potential patients with rare undiagnosed diseases.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 3, 2021

COVID's impact on pregnancy, birth trends

The COVID-19 pandemic initially slowed down conception rates, but a baby surge is expected as pregnancy volumes rebound. Researchers at Michigan Medicine used electronic health records to model pregnancy episodes and project changes in pregnancy volumes during the pandemic.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 3, 2021

A shark mystery millions of years in the making

A massive die-off of sharks occurred 19 million years ago, with more than 70% of the world's sharks dying off - a phenomenon not seen since the Cretaceous-Paleogene mass extinction event 66 million years ago.

SourceYale University·JournalScience·DateJun 3, 2021

Combination of early reading programs helps with kindergarten readiness

A Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center study found that a combination of two early reading programs improved kindergarten readiness by 15.4 percentage points over three years. The Reach Out and Read/Imagination Library program boosted preliteracy skills, improving school success.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 3, 2021

A new water treatment technology could also help Mars explorers

A team of engineers at UC Riverside has developed a catalyst that removes perchlorate from water, which is abundant in Martian soil. The new technology could help produce oxygen for human explorers on Mars.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 3, 2021

Passing the acid test: New low-pH system recycles more carbon into valuable products

Researchers at the University of Toronto have developed a new electrochemical system that converts more than 50% of CO2 into valuable products. The system runs under acidic conditions, which reduces undesired side reactions and enhances efficiency, making it an economically viable solution for carbon capture and utilization.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalScience·DateJun 3, 2021

Front-row view reveals exceptional cosmic explosion

Scientists have recorded the most energetic radiation and longest gamma-ray afterglow of a gamma-ray burst, revealing similar spectral characteristics between X-ray and very-high energy gamma-rays. This challenge to established theory highlights the need for further studies of very-high energy GRB afterglow emission.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalScience·DateJun 3, 2021

Is elevated level of lung protein an early predictor for COPD?

Researchers from UNC School of Medicine discovered that MUC5AC is more reliably associated with COPD manifestation than another mucus protein, revealing a possible biomarker for disease initiation and prognosis. Elevated levels of MUC5AC in non-smokers who developed COPD suggest it could predict disease progression.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateJun 3, 2021

Extreme rainfall: More accurate predictions in a changing climate

A new study using Regional Climate Models (RCMs) at kilometer scale has shown significant improvements in simulating extreme rainfall events. The RCMs outperform lower resolution models, especially during summer months, providing more accurate predictions for policymakers to adapt to climate change.

SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalClimate Dynamics·DateJun 3, 2021

Scientists discover new approach to stabilize cathode materials

Researchers discovered that a valence gradient can serve as a new approach for stabilizing high-nickel-content cathode materials against degradation and safety issues. By isolating the valence gradient from concentration gradient, they confirmed its critical role in battery performance.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2021

How to obtain immune bovine milk to strengthen the body against COVID-19

Researchers at the University of Córdoba discovered that bovine milk contains antibodies that can neutralize SARS-CoV-2, potentially providing a natural source of immunity. The study found that consuming dairy preparations with high levels of these antibodies may help control infection and prevent disease.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateJun 3, 2021

Targeted 'radioligand' improves survival in advanced prostate cancer

A new treatment option has been developed to improve survival and disease control in men with advanced prostate cancer. The targeted radioligand therapy significantly extended survival and delayed progression, with a substantial effect given the high progression of disease despite previous treatments.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·DateJun 3, 2021

Electrochemical cell harvests lithium from seawater

Researchers at KAUST developed an electrochemical cell using a ceramic membrane to extract lithium ions from seawater. The process yields solid lithium phosphate with minimal impurities, making it suitable for battery production.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJun 3, 2021

The biodegradable battery

Researchers developed a biodegradable supercapacitor that can store electricity for hours, withstand thousands of charge cycles, and degrade naturally. The device uses a combination of cellulose nanofibers, carbon, and glycerin to achieve its capabilities.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 3, 2021