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Science News for June 8, 2021


Study reveals changes in cigarette smoking during the COVID-19 pandemic

Researchers found that the fear of catching COVID-19 led many smokers to cut down or quit, while stress caused others to increase their smoking. The study analyzed survey responses from 694 current and former daily smokers, revealing a complex relationship between perceived risk and smoking behavior.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 8, 2021

Drinking alcohol is linked to reduced chances of pregnancy

A study published in Human Reproduction found that women who drink alcohol are less likely to conceive, with heavy drinking associated with a 61% reduced odds of becoming pregnant. Moderate drinking during the luteal phase also linked to lower conception rates, highlighting the importance of avoiding alcohol for those trying to conceive.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJun 8, 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.

Tracking RNA through space and time

Researchers developed a technique to spatially track RNA molecules within cells, revealing ten times more genes with localized RNA than previously known. These genes are hard-wired into the fertilized egg cell, dictating cell differentiation and potentially influencing diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2021

Projected acidification of the Great Barrier Reef could be offset by ten years

New research suggests that artificial ocean alkalinization can offset ten years of projected acidification in the Great Barrier Reef. The study used a high-resolution model to simulate the impact of alkalinity injection on the reef's acidity, finding that it could sequester 35,000 tons of carbon per year and alleviate the effects of oc...

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 8, 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.

Drone improves odor management in water treatment plants

A new system using a drone with an electronic nose detects odor concentration in WWTPs, providing maps for targeted control actions. The technology represents a significant advance in odor management, surpassing previous methods that only tested single-odor chemical sources in controlled scenarios.

SourceInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)·JournalRemote Sensing·DateJun 8, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Senolytics reduce COVID-19 symptoms in preclinical studies

Researchers discovered that senolytic drugs significantly reduced inflammation, illness, and mortality from COVID infection in older mice. Treating infected mice with senolytics before or after infection led to a decrease in senescent cells, inflammation, and mortality, resulting in improved survival rates similar to younger mice.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalScience·DateJun 8, 2021

Study identifies major barriers to financing a sustainable ocean economy

A new report identifies four major barriers to financing a sustainable ocean economy, including weak enabling environment and insufficient public-private investment. Governments, financial institutions, and other players can make financial gains with sustainable ocean investments.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2021

Transformation toughening of ceramics made crystal clear

Zirconia ceramics exhibit improved toughness due to phase changes, but real-time observation of these changes is challenging. Researchers employ time-resolved X-ray diffraction to visualize transformation toughening during dynamic fracture.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 8, 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.

Patient characteristics, subsequent health care use of SARS-CoV-2 testing initiation in safety-net health system

Researchers identified disparities in SARS-CoV-2 testing initiation by sociodemographic characteristics, including race and language, within a safety-net health system. Black, Native American, and non-English-speaking patients were more likely to receive testing through emergency departments rather than telehealth visits compared to wh...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 8, 2021

Voice acting unlocks speech production, therapy knowledge

Research by Colette Feehan suggests that voice actors' unique vocalizations can help speech pathologists better understand the muscles involved in creating words and sounds. This knowledge could lead to alternative pronunciations for individuals with speech difficulties, such as those with lost muscle tone due to a stroke or cancer.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateJun 8, 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.

Consumers spent less on candy and desserts when shopping online

A new study found that online shoppers spent more per transaction and purchased more items than in-store shoppers, but reduced spending on certain unhealthy foods like candy and desserts. Researchers suggest this may be due to online marketing strategies being less effective for impulse-sensitive purchases.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateJun 8, 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.

Outstanding education scholarship

Roberta Golinkoff, a renowned University of Delaware professor, has been elected to the National Academy of Education for her groundbreaking contributions to language development and playful learning. Her research focuses on how children learn and grow, with a particular emphasis on the importance of play in early childhood education.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateJun 8, 2021

Noisy homes during pandemic drive future design choices

A survey found that residents in noisy environments were more satisfied with their housing after pandemic restrictions began. Stress and anxiety increased with noise annoyance levels during the pandemic. Future designs may prioritize indoor noise considerations.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateJun 8, 2021

New population of blue whales discovered with help of bomb detectors

A team of researchers from the University of New South Wales has discovered a new population of pygmy blue whales in the Indian Ocean, using data from underwater bomb detectors. The finding, published recently, confirms the existence of this smallest subspecies of blue whales, which can reach up to 24 meters long.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 8, 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.

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.

Efficiently "switching on" bacteria to produce high-value chemicals

Researchers from the University of Warwick have developed a cheap way to switch bacteria into chemical production mode using a natural nutrient, drastically reducing costs. This breakthrough brings closer the realization of sustainable industrial-scale production of high-value chemicals from cheap feedstocks.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 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.

Mapping a successful recovery

Researchers mapped river ecosystems' responses to remediation efforts, revealing strategies that improved some of the biggest problems of mining contamination. The team's methodology showed that restoration can improve water quality, but regulations need to consider all contaminants together.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalFreshwater Science·DateJun 8, 2021

Feeling hot and bothered? It's complicated

Researchers analyzed thermal discomfort index levels across Saudi Arabia and neighboring regions to combat heat stress and discomfort. Most cities showed improvement, but Yanbu and Makkah regions had significant exceptions with increased heat-related deaths during the Hajj pilgrimage.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalGeoHealth·DateJun 8, 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.

Single-particle studies point the way toward next-generation light displays

Scientists demonstrated spatial distribution of circularly polarized light emitted by micro-spherical molecular assemblies, shedding light on helical molecular structures and chirality. This finding may inspire new versatile tools for studying molecular structure to enhance computer displays and everyday technologies.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 8, 2021

The buck stops where? UNH research records longest-ever deer distance

Researchers analyzed data from GPS radio collars on over 600 deer in Missouri to discover an adult white-tailed deer traveled 300 kilometers in 22 days. The finding has important implications for population management and disease transmission, particularly chronic wasting disease.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateJun 8, 2021

Studying wombat burrows with WomBot, a remote-controlled robot

The study used WomBot to explore 30 wombat burrows in Tasmania, finding average temperatures of 15 degrees Celsius and relative humidity of 85%. The authors suggest that environmental conditions within burrows may facilitate sarcoptic mange transmission by promoting mite survival.

SourceSpringer·JournalSN Applied Sciences·DateJun 8, 2021

Orphans and exiles: Research shows the impact of family separation

New research shows that family separations have long-lasting health consequences for children and families, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The study provides a human face to the tragic statistics of over 5,512 children separated from their families since 2017.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalLatino Studies·DateJun 8, 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.

Pandemic teaching transitions back to classroom with lessons learned

Educators who transitioned to remote teaching during the pandemic will retain online collaboration tools in the return to classroom instruction to increase student engagement and equity. Developing an online classroom culture is crucial for creating an environment where students feel valued and trust instructors.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateJun 8, 2021

A genomic single-cell map explains neuronal death in epilepsy

A multidisciplinary team has developed a genomic single-cell map that identifies cell-type specific transcriptional signatures of hyper-excitability and neurodegeneration. The study provides grounds for improved diagnosis of temporal lobe epilepsy and may also shed light on Alzheimer's disease.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalCell Biology·DateJun 8, 2021

Porpoises seem to cooperate in surprisingly sophisticated group hunting

Researchers observed porpoises taking on six different roles during group hunts, including a distant gatherer and shepherd, which led to successful captures of fish. This collaborative hunt is more sophisticated than previously thought, with individual animals sharing information and coordinating their actions.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalCanadian Journal of Zoology·DateJun 8, 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.

Experiments show natural selection opposes sexual selection

Researchers found that natural selection can counteract sexual selection's effects on females, leading to better-offspring survival rates. By reducing the advantages of exaggerated male traits, predation drives evolutionary changes favoring less masculinized bodies and improved female reproductive capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2021

Machine learning reduces microscope data processing time from months to just seconds

Researchers developed a machine learning technique to speed up microscopic cell analysis, reducing processing time from months to just seconds. The new approach uses neural networks to create detailed maps of cell composition without disrupting the cells, enabling rapid label-free biochemical composition mapping.

SourceInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)·JournalSmall Methods·DateJun 8, 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.

Harnessing healthy behaviors to prevent dementia

A national panel of experts recommends recognizing seven major modifiable risk factors for dementia and taking steps to lower risk through medication, lifestyle changes, and interventions. By controlling vascular risk factors, people can preserve cognitive function and reduce heart attack and stroke risk.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalStroke·DateJun 8, 2021

Teaching drones to hear screams from catastrophe victims

Researchers have developed a system using an array of microphones and advanced processing techniques that can detect impulsive sounds such as screams on UAVs. The technology has the potential to save lives by helping emergency crews locate survivors in disaster scenarios.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateJun 8, 2021

AI could soon tell you, how often to see the eye doctor

A study by Inselspital and RetinAI uses AI to predict anti-VEGF treatment demand for patients with AMD, RVO, and DME. The model achieved high accuracy in predicting treatment need, even at the initial visit or before the first injection.

SourceInselspital, Bern University Hospital·JournalOphthalmology Retina·DateJun 8, 2021

Variabilities in children's speech perhaps not so concerning

Recent studies challenge the long-held assumption that variability in children's speech is solely due to developmental delays. Instead, factors such as socioeconomic status, dialects, and exposure to languages play a significant role. Experts argue that caregivers can aid in this process through conversations about different words and ...

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateJun 8, 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.

Internal compression stocking helps against varicose veins

Researchers developed an organ-preserving treatment method to repair damaged vein valves, achieving a success rate of 95.24% in eliminating varicose vein problems. The therapy uses a thin sheath around the defective vein to restore its normal diameter and prevent serious health issues.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of International Medical Research·DateJun 8, 2021

Don't skip your routine check-up; here's why

A new Northwestern Medicine study found that routine check-ups have several health benefits, including better detection and treatment of chronic illnesses, increased vaccinations and screenings, and improved patient-reported outcomes. These benefits are particularly important for at-risk populations.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA·DateJun 8, 2021

To prevent delirium, increase mobility, connection and sleep

A comprehensive delirium prevention care pathway implemented at UCSF Medical Center reduced hospital stays by 2% and 30-day readmissions by 14%, with cost savings of $1,237 per hospitalization. The interventions also improved patient mobility and social connection, potentially mitigating the risk of accelerated cognitive decline.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Hospital Medicine·DateJun 8, 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.

Facemasks block expired particles, despite leakage at edges

A new study confirms that surgical masks effectively block expired particles from talking or coughing, even with leakage around the edges. The results show a significant reduction in disease transmission via expiratory particles when both infected and susceptible individuals wear masks.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 8, 2021

Airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2 calls for updated practices to prevent transmission

A commentary in the Canadian Medical Association Journal argues that Canada's public health guidance should be updated to address airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Key findings include a need for improved ventilation in schools and healthcare settings, as well as revised personal protective equipment recommendations.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 8, 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.

New heart metric may increase survival for heart-failure patients

A new physiological measurement of heart function, PAPP, has been shown to identify high-risk patients with systolic heart failure or pulmonary hypertension. This monitoring technology can reduce the risk of death by 46% annually in patients with low PAPPs.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalHeart Lung and Circulation·DateJun 8, 2021

Saving the climate with solar fuel

Researchers at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) are investigating a method to produce synthetic methane from hydrogen and CO2, which can be used as a fuel. This process, known as methanization, has the potential to make a significant contribution to reducing CO2 emissions in road transport.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·DateJun 8, 2021

Men with sensory loss are more likely to be obese

Research suggests men with hearing loss are 1.78 times more likely to be obese than those without hearing loss, while inactive people with vision loss have a likelihood of obesity 1.375 times higher. Exercise plays a crucial role in preventing obesity for men with sensory losses.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalEuropean Journal of Public Health·DateJun 8, 2021

COVID-19 lockdowns lead Aussie and UK women to drink more

A new study found that middle-aged women in Australia and the UK stockpiled alcohol during COVID-19 lockdowns due to anxiety and depression. The research suggests an urgent need to address mental health issues associated with the pandemic.

SourceFlinders University·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateJun 8, 2021

Artificial intelligence enhances efficacy of sleep disorder treatments

Researchers developed an AI algorithm using 20,000 nights of sleep data to improve diagnoses and treatments for sleep disorders. The algorithm can analyze patient sleep patterns in seconds, freeing up medical hours that can be used to assess and diagnose more patients.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·DateJun 8, 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.

Deforestation darkening the seas above world's second biggest reef

A new study reveals that deforestation in Central America is altering the composition of natural material washing into nearby rivers, making it less likely to decompose before reaching the ocean. This change has significant implications for global carbon and nutrient cycles, as well as coastal ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·DateJun 8, 2021

An unprecedented survey of the 'nurseries' where stars are born

A team of researchers has conducted the first systematic survey of stellar nurseries, charting over 100,000 nurseries in 90 nearby galaxies. The study reveals that these nurseries are surprisingly diverse across galaxies, live only a relatively short time, and are not very efficient at making stars.

SourceOhio State University·DateJun 8, 2021

How COVID-19 wreaks havoc on human lungs

Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed an atomic-level model of the SARS-CoV-2 envelope protein bound to a human lung-cell-junction protein. The findings reveal how the virus causes extensive lung damage by hijacking cell-junction proteins, leading to a cytokine storm and promoting viral spread.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 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.

Non-optimal codons enable coronaviruses' promiscuity

Non-optimal codons enable coronaviruses to infect multiple hosts, increasing viral mRNA load. This finding highlights the importance of considering non-optimal codon usage in SARS-CoV-2 vaccine development.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalFEBS Journal·DateJun 8, 2021

Control over water friction with 2D materials points to 'smart membranes'

Researchers at the University of Manchester developed graphene-based nanochannels that significantly reduce water friction, leading to enhanced permeation and efficiency in membrane processes. This breakthrough has potential applications in desalination, energy storage, and wastewater treatment.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2021

Online 'library of properties' helps to create safer nanomaterials

Researchers have developed a decision support system to identify the environmental impact of nanomaterials faster and more cost effectively. The library contains full physicochemical characterization of 69 nanomaterials, including calculated molecular descriptors.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNanoImpact·DateJun 8, 2021

Super productive 3D bioprinter could help speed up drug development

Researchers at UC San Diego developed a high-throughput 3D bioprinting technology that can produce 96-well arrays of living human tissue samples in just 30 minutes, accelerating preclinical drug screening and disease modeling. This could potentially reduce the time and cost associated with drug development.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBiofabrication·DateJun 8, 2021

Finding the weak points in radiation-resistant pancreatic cancer cells

Researchers found that autophagy and the G2 checkpoint are interrelated processes in pancreatic cancer cells, helping them survive radiotherapy. Inhibiting the G2 checkpoint suppresses tumor growth, suggesting new tools to combat radiation-resistant PDAC cells.

SourceThe National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics·DateJun 8, 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.

From burglar alarms to black hole detectors

Physicists propose an experiment using entangled quantum systems in free fall to detect movements and test if gravity is a quantum phenomenon. The system can also be used to detect space debris, tectonic movements, and burglars, with potential applications for early earthquake warnings and movement sensors.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateJun 8, 2021

Osteoporosis detection by a simple physical function test

Researchers at Shinshu University Hospital developed a novel method to detect untreated osteoporosis through a low-cost, physical function test during routine health checks. The test measures two-step distance and body height to identify high risk individuals. Proper treatment can help avoid serious fractures and reduce mobility issues.

SourceShinshu University·JournalJournal of Clinical Medicine·DateJun 8, 2021

Keeping a closer eye on seabirds with drones and artificial intelligence

Scientists used drones and artificial intelligence to analyze over 10,000 images of seabirds in the Falkland Islands, achieving accurate counts with 97% accuracy for albatrosses and 87% for penguins. This technology increases ability to monitor seabird colonies worldwide and track marine ecosystem health.

SourceDuke University·JournalOrnithological Applications·DateJun 8, 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.

Absorbent aerogels show some muscle

Researchers at Rice University have developed a simple chemical process to create light and highly absorbent aerogels that can take a beating. The aerogels, which are customizable in shape and size, showed superior remediation properties compared to traditional COF powders.

SourceRice University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateJun 8, 2021

Mechanochemical peptide bond formation behind the origins of life

Researchers at Ruđer Bošković Institute discover solid-state mechanochemical activation of amino acids leads to peptides, offering an alternative synthetic pathway to peptides without water. The study complements existing experimental procedures and provides insights into the emergence of life on Earth.

SourceRuđer Bošković Institute·DateJun 8, 2021

A drug from resin to combat epileptic seizures

Researchers at Linköping University have developed new resin acid molecules with antiseizure effects, opening a potassium ion channel that can prevent epileptic seizures. The molecules also show less effect on smooth muscle, reducing undesired side effects.

SourceLinköping University·JournalEpilepsia·DateJun 8, 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.

Researchers study historic Mississippi flow and impacts of river regulation

A recent paper examines the critical period before river regulation began, revealing that erosion of the upper Atchafalaya and dredging of the lower Mississippi contributed to increased water flow. The research aims to better understand river channel dynamics and inform management decisions to preserve Louisiana's coastline.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalWater Resources Research·DateJun 8, 2021

Food systems offer huge opportunities to cut emissions, study finds

A new global analysis reveals that greenhouse-gas emissions from food systems have long been systematically underestimated, with the equivalent of 16 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide produced in 2018. The study highlights the need for integrating research with efforts to reduce emissions and emphasizes the importance of considerin...

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 8, 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.

Researchers improve western North Pacific tropical cyclone intensity forecasts using the logistic growth equation

A new forecasting method has been developed to improve TC intensity forecast skill, providing more precise 5-7 day forecasts for coastal regions of East Asia. The logistic growth equation-based approach outperforms conventional methods, offering potential for forecasting rapid intensification and weakening.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 8, 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.

Earth's meteorite impacts over past 500 million years tracked

A new study at Lund University tracked meteorite flux to Earth over 500 million years, revealing a stable flux contrary to current theories. Researchers analyzed sedimentary rocks and extracted chromium oxide grains from nearly 10,000 meteorites.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2021

'Camouflage breakers' can find a target in less than a second

Researchers have developed a method for breaking camouflage that allows civilians and military personnel to identify hidden targets with high accuracy, even in complex scenes. The technique has been shown to be effective even when participants are given only a short viewing time.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJun 8, 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.

The next 20 are years crucial in determining the future of coal

A new analysis from Imperial College London suggests that countries investing in new coal mines and exports risk losing billions of dollars as the world shifts away from fossil fuels. Transitioning to a sustainable pathway by 2040 could save $10 billion per year globally, while avoiding job losses and economic instability.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJoule·DateJun 8, 2021

X-ray flash imaging of laser-induced bubbles and shockwaves in water

A research team led by the University of Göttingen has created tiny gas bubbles with a radius of a few thousandths of a millimeter using laser pulses, observing their expansion and shockwaves. The team used holographic flash imaging and X-ray laser pulses to capture data and images, providing insights into cavitation processes.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2021

A call for global oversight of unproven stem cell therapies

Experts call for global regulation to prevent unproven stem cell treatments from putting patients' lives at risk. The authors propose establishing an advisory committee on regenerative medicine and promoting harmonization among regulatory standards.

SourceCell Press·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJun 8, 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.

UN: More harmful algal bloom impacts emerge amid rising seafood demand, coastal development

A global assessment report by UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission found that reported Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) events have increased in some regions, while decreasing or holding steady in others. The study highlights the need for more research on the linkages between HABs and growth of the aquaculture industry.

SourceTerry Collins Assoc·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateJun 8, 2021

Science and performing arts against stereotypes

A 14-day performing arts program reduced implicit cognitive biases against physical illnesses, according to a University of Barcelona study. The program combined scientific training with theatre performance and showed that participants' reaction times decreased after the experience.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 8, 2021

Study shows how taking short breaks may help our brains learn new skills

Researchers found that during rest, the brain rapidly replays compressed versions of previously practiced activities, strengthening memories and improving subsequent practice sessions. This study suggests that wakeful rest plays a crucial role in learning new skills and may be used to facilitate rehabilitation from stroke.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 8, 2021

New study: Developers' skills and top management commitment lead to Agile project success

A new study by Associate Professor Daniel Russo highlights the importance of strengthening developers' social and technical skills for Agile project success. The study also emphasizes the critical role of top management commitment in providing an adequate organizational setting.

SourceDepartment of Computer Science, Aalborg University·JournalACM Transactions on Software Engineering and Methodology·DateJun 8, 2021

Microbial production of natural rainbow colorants

A research group at KAIST successfully produced seven natural rainbow colorants, including carotenoids and violacein derivatives, using engineered Escherichia coli strains. The strategies developed can be applied to the efficient production of other industrially important natural products.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJun 8, 2021

People more afraid of catching COVID-19 are more judgemental, study finds

A recent study by the University of Cambridge found that individuals who are more concerned about contracting COVID-19 tend to be more disapproving of others' wrongdoings. The researchers suggest that concerns about health and safety shape morality, leading to non-rational judgments.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalEvolutionary Psychology·DateJun 8, 2021

Oral health needs among youth with a history of foster care

A new study found that youth with a history of foster care have self-identified dental needs, including issues with pain, and less access to a dentist to address these needs. Approximately 44% of youth with a history of foster care reported at least one dental problem.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateJun 8, 2021

Report calls for 'comprehensive action' to tackle poverty in UK city

A new study by Staffordshire University highlights the devastating impact of COVID-19 on Stoke-on-Trent's residents, with thousands turning to foodbanks for welfare support. The report calls for comprehensive action to address poverty, including benefit take-up campaigns and a Scandinavian-style employment and training model.

SourceStaffordshire University·DateJun 8, 2021

Discovery of circadian rhythm gene in mice could lead to breakthroughs

Researchers at Virginia Tech have identified a novel gene, Per2AS, that controls the sleep/wake cycle in mice, revealing the importance of non-coding genes in regulating biological processes. The study's findings could lead to breakthroughs in understanding internal body clocks and their role in various diseases.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalGenes & Development·DateJun 8, 2021

Preventing plant disease pandemics

Plant diseases can spread globally without borders, threatening food security. Researchers call for a One Health approach to safeguard staple crops from pandemic outbreaks.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2021

A vital tool to study virus evolution in the test tube

Researchers have developed a technology to manipulate viruses synthetically, allowing for rapid analysis and mapping of new potential virus variants. This innovation enables scientists to mimic natural selection processes safely in a controlled laboratory environment.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2021

Early endeavors on the path to reliable quantum machine learning

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new approach to prove the robustness conditions of certain quantum-based machine learning models, guaranteeing reliable results. The team's work explores protection against errors and hackers, paving the way for more accurate and trustworthy quantum machine learning applications.

SourceETH Zurich·Journalnpj Quantum Information·DateJun 8, 2021

Radicalized and believing in conspiracies: Can the cycle be broken?

A recent study suggests that improving economic conditions can reduce radicalization efforts, but trying to render people psychologically less susceptible can backfire. Conspiracies have become a powerful tool for far-right groups to manipulate public discourse and drive the growing radicalization of average Americans.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateJun 8, 2021

Preclinical study suggests new approach to reduce COVID-19 death among the elderly

A preclinical study suggests that senolytic drugs can significantly reduce mortality and severe disease in elderly people infected with SARS-CoV-2. The study found that treating older mice with senolytic drugs increased their survival rate from nearly 0% to 50%, reducing cellular senescence and inflammatory markers.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalScience·DateJun 8, 2021