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Science News for March 15, 2021


Criteria published for diagnosing the clinical syndrome of CTE during life

The new NINDS Consensus Diagnostic Criteria for Traumatic Encephalopathy Syndrome provide a standardized approach to diagnose CTE's clinical manifestations during life. These criteria require substantial exposure to repetitive head impacts and progressive cognitive impairment or neurobehavioral dysregulation.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalNeurology·DateMar 15, 2021

Of mice and men and their different tolerance to pathogens

Researchers developed a mouse Intestine-on-Chip platform to study host-microbiome interactions, confirming that Enterococcus faecium promotes tolerance to S. typhimurium infection in mice. The technology mimics human Intestine Chips, enabling real-time analysis of normal and pathological processes.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateMar 15, 2021

Is there an association between a pregnant mother's diet and her child's weight?

Research suggests a mother's diet during pregnancy influences her child's BMI trajectory from birth to adolescence. A Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help prevent childhood obesity. Mothers' dietary habits during pregnancy are likely to shape their child's eating behaviors and food preferences.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMar 15, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Biosensing with whispering-gallery mode lasers

Whispering-gallery mode (WGM) microlasers exhibit extraordinary sensitivity for detecting physical, chemical, and biological entities, even down to single molecules. Active WGM microlasers have the potential to expand applications in biological and chemical sensing, particularly in in vivo sensing.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMar 15, 2021

HIV research: Increased weight gain with TAF medication

A large multicenter cohort study found that individuals switching to TAF therapy gained significantly more weight (1.7 kg) compared to those staying on TDF therapy (0.7 kg). The study also noted a negative development in lipid metabolism with an overall increase in blood lipid levels.

SourceInselspital, Bern University Hospital·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 15, 2021

Study finds high tumor mutation burden predicts immunotherapy response in some, but not all, cancers

A new study found that a high rate of genetic mutations within a tumor (high tumor mutation burden) can predict clinical responses to immune checkpoint inhibitors in certain cancer types, such as melanoma, lung and bladder cancer. However, this was not the case for other cancers, including breast, prostate and brain cancers.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateMar 15, 2021

Lessons learned in Burkina Faso can contribute to a new decade of forest restoration

A study in Burkina Faso found that assisted natural regeneration, combined with tree planting and participatory approaches, is effective in restoring degraded landscapes. However, local communities, particularly women, face limited land-access rights, hindering their involvement in decision-making.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalSustainability·DateMar 15, 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.

Doctor communication key to pandemic vaccine adoption

A recent study from Washington State University found that doctor-patient communication plays a crucial role in building trust and increasing vaccination rates during a pandemic. By discussing the pros and cons of vaccines, doctors can help patients make informed decisions and ultimately receive vaccinations.

SourceWashington State University·JournalHealth Communication·DateMar 15, 2021

Dean Sam H. Noh named 2020 ACM fellow

Professor Sam H. Noh, a prominent scientist at UNIST, has been elected as a 2020 ACM Fellow for his groundbreaking work in system software and data storage technology. This recognition is the first for a Korean university scientist and honors his contributions to advancing the field of computing.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateMar 15, 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.

Energy-efficient design for mmWave-enabled NOMA-UAV networks

The researchers propose a hybrid precoding architecture to reduce hardware cost and energy consumption in mmWave-enabled NOMA-UAV networks. They optimize UAV placement, user clustering, and power allocation to achieve a good balance between system complexity and performance.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Information Sciences·DateMar 15, 2021

How artificial intelligence can help curb traffic accidents in cities

Researchers at UOC used AI to analyze urban scenes and identify patterns that may lead to accidents, suggesting that complexity and layout are key factors. The technology aims to aid traffic authorities in reducing the likelihood of accidents by providing real-time hazard warnings and optimizing traffic flow.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalTransportation Research·DateMar 15, 2021

Migration routes of one of Britain's largest ducks revealed for the first time

New research reveals the length, speed, and flight heights of Shelduck migration across the North Sea, showing interactions with offshore wind turbines. The study used solar-powered GPS tags to track four birds, finding that they all ended their migration in almost exactly the same place despite taking different routes.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalRinging & Migration·DateMar 15, 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.

What happens in your brain when you 'lose yourself' in fiction

A study published in Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience found that highly identified fans of 'Game of Thrones' characters activate the ventral medial prefrontal cortex (vMPFC) when thinking about the characters, similar to how they think about themselves. The vMPFC is a brain area involved in self-referential processing.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateMar 15, 2021

Weed invaders are getting faster

A study by James Cook University found that invasive plants rapidly adapt to new regions, growing and reproducing faster in tropical environments. This trend suggests that global warming will increase invasive impacts in these areas.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateMar 15, 2021

Twisting, flexible crystals key to solar energy production

Halide perovskites' twisting motion creates desirable renewable energy properties, helping materials scientists tailor chemical recipes for environmentally friendly applications. The study's findings apply to a wide range of halide perovskites, including hybrid organic-inorganic and lead-free variants.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 15, 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.

Crucial step in formation of deadly brain diseases discovered

A breakthrough discovery has pinpointed the mechanism by which normal proteins convert to diseased forms, causing conditions like CJD and Kuru. The research could lead to the development of new drugs to combat these devastating diseases.

SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 15, 2021

Bacteria adapt syringe apparatus to changing conditions

Pathogenic bacteria like Salmonella can rapidly adapt their injection apparatus to varying digestive tract conditions. This dynamic behavior allows them to quickly respond to environmental changes, preventing misfiring and potentially activating the host's immune response.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 15, 2021

Sweden's quantum computer project shifts up a gear

The Wallenberg Centre for Quantum Technology is doubling its annual budget to SEK 80 million, enabling the development of a more powerful quantum computer. The new funding will focus on improving qubit quality and software, with plans to increase the number of researchers from 60 to 100.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·DateMar 15, 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.

UNIST takes top prize at 2021 Samsung Humantech Paper Award

UNIST students won multiple awards at the 2021 Samsung Humantech Paper Award, including the grand prize for Jong Won Oh's work on multimodal holograms. The institute has a strong track record of producing excellent research, with 2 Silver and 5 Bronze awards also given to students.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateMar 15, 2021

How novel pathogens may cause the development of colorectal cancer

Scientists detected novel pathogens in colorectal cancer patients near tumors, triggering chronic inflammation that promotes cancer development. BMMFs were more frequently found near malignant tumors than healthy tissue.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 15, 2021

Melting glaciers could speed up carbon emissions into the atmosphere

A study linking glacier-fed rivers to higher rates of plant material decomposition reveals a major process in the global carbon cycle. The research found that warmer river water temperatures and reduced sediment movement create conditions favourable for fungi growth, leading to increased carbon dioxide release.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 15, 2021

Race influences flood risk behaviors

A study by researchers at the University of Connecticut and others found that race and stream flow are significant indicators of flood risk behavior in US cities. The models showed two diverging patterns among metro areas, with 'risk-enduring' communities taking less action against flooding after a disaster.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 15, 2021

Oncotarget: Folinic acid in colorectal cancer: Esquire or fellow knight?

A retrospective study found that folinic acid with fluorouracil improves progression-free and overall survival in metastatic colorectal cancer patients. The combination also shows a clear clinical benefit regardless of RAS mutational status or tumor side. This suggests folinic acid may be a valuable addition to chemotherapy protocols.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateMar 15, 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.

Autism online: A review of how autistic people communicate virtually

A systematic review of autistic people's internet use reveals benefits like increased control and calm during interactions, as well as opportunities for forming online communities. However, findings also suggest some individuals remain lonely despite online connections.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAutism in Adulthood·DateMar 15, 2021

Masonic Medical Research Institute develops new technology for studying brown fat

The Masonic Medical Research Institute has developed a novel technique for isolating brown fat cells, which can help study the relationship between brown fat cells and other cell types. This breakthrough could lead to better understanding of diseases and generate innovative cures and treatments.

SourceMasonic Medical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateMar 15, 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.

Community banks a key resource for small businesses when crises arise

Research from University of Florida finds community banks play a vital role in helping small businesses access Paycheck Protection Program funding, providing faster response times and more loans per dollar of deposits. Community bank focus on personal ties with customers enables quicker decision-making and higher loan volumes.

SourceUniversity of Florida·DateMar 15, 2021

Antarctic peninsula likely to warm over next two decades

The Antarctic peninsula is expected to experience significant warming over the next two decades, with temperatures rising by 0.5 to 1.5 degrees Celsius by 2044. Precipitation in the region is also projected to increase by 5% to 10%, posing a threat to the ice shelves and glaciers that cover it.

SourceOhio State University·JournalClimate Dynamics·DateMar 15, 2021

A novel recipe for air-stable and highly-crystalline radical-based coordination polymer

Scientists from Japan's Institute for Molecular Science have created a new recipe for stable radical-based coordination polymers, which have potential applications in electronics and spintronics. The materials exhibit photoluminescence properties and can be produced using different metal ions or complexes.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 15, 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.

Voltage from the parquet

Scientists at Empa and ETH Zurich create piezoelectric wood by dissolving lignin using a biological process, resulting in an elastic material that generates a voltage when deformed. The technology has potential applications as a sensor or electricity-generating floor, and researchers are exploring its industrial feasibility.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 15, 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.

New research adds to evidence that POTS may be an autoimmune disorder

Recent studies suggest that postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by elevated inflammatory markers and autoantibodies. Researchers have documented significant elevations of five inflammatory markers in patients with POTS, similar to those seen in other autoimmune disorders.

SourceUniversity of Toledo·JournalJournal of Clinical Medicine·DateMar 15, 2021

Telemedicine versus office-based follow-up after meniscal surgery: Trial shows 'equivalent' patient satisfaction scores

A randomized trial of telemedicine versus office-based follow-up after arthroscopic meniscal surgery found equivalent patient satisfaction scores between the two groups. Patients using telemedicine for postoperative follow-up had similar pain scores and complication rates as those making in-person visits.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateMar 15, 2021

Improved tool to help understand the brain, one section at a time

Researchers have developed an automated silicon-substrate ultra-microtome to improve the speed and quality of brain neural connection reconstruction. The device reduces manual collection skill requirement and ensures high-quality imaging without post-processing operations.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateMar 15, 2021

When 'eradicated' species bounce back with a vengeance

A study led by University of California, Davis found that invasive European green crabs increased 30-fold after 90% were removed from a California estuary. The explosion was due to cannibalization of younger individuals by adult decapod crustacea.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateMar 15, 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.

Model predicts urban development and greenhouses gasses will fuel urban floods

A new study finds that combining urban development and climate change caused by greenhouse gases will increase extreme precipitation over future US metropolitan regions. Cities like Atlanta, Denver, Phoenix, and Houston are vulnerable to flooding due to these twin forcing agents of environmental change.

SourceArizona State University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 15, 2021

Switching from TDF- to TAF-containing ART associated with the development of obesity in people living with HIV

A cohort study found that switching from TDF to TAF-containing ART was associated with significant weight increases, obesity, and rising blood lipid levels in people living with HIV. The study suggests individualized preference for TAF over TDF should be accompanied by repeated assessment of cardiometabolic risk factors.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 15, 2021

Enzymatic danse macabre of lung cancer

Researchers discover histone-lysine N-methyltransferase (NSD3) as a main driver of squamous cell carcinoma lung cancer. Targeting NSD3 could improve treatment and survival rates.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature·DateMar 15, 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.

Pre-term births in Tennessee decreased during pandemic

A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that preterm birth rates in Tennessee declined by 14% during the COVID-19 pandemic, primarily attributed to lower late preterm infant births. The study suggests that stay-at-home orders may have contributed to this reduction.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 15, 2021

Brown researchers explore possibilities for an ultra-secure gun registry

A team of Brown University computer scientists has devised a way to implement a national gun registry that protects privacy and allows counties to control their data. The proposed system uses advanced encryption and decentralized data control, allowing authorized users to search the database without decrypting it.

SourceBrown University·DateMar 15, 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.

Mitochondria found to be protected by ketogenesis

Researchers at Kumamoto University found that ketogenesis maintains mitochondrial function, preventing excessive acetylation and fatty liver development. This discovery may lead to future therapies for protecting mitochondria and organs in newborns and individuals with nutritional deficiencies.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalNature Metabolism·DateMar 15, 2021

Demonstration of the universal quantum error correcting code with superconducting qubits

Researchers at the University of Science and Technology of China and Tsinghua University successfully implement a five-qubit quantum error correcting code using superconducting qubits. They achieve high fidelity logical state preparation with an average value of 98.6%, verifying the viability of experimental realization of quantum erro...

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateMar 15, 2021

Epigenetic mechanism contributing to lifelong stress susceptibility discovered

A study at The Mount Sinai Hospital found that a specific epigenetic modification, H3K79me2, mediates the lasting effects of early-life stress on adult stress vulnerability. A small-molecule inhibitor of this enzyme reversed increased susceptibility to lifelong stress in animal models.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMar 15, 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.

LAMOST reveals new footprints of the Gaia -sausage-enceladus merger event

The LAMOST survey has identified 1534 low-α metal-rich member stars of the Gaia-Sausage-Enceladus galaxy, challenging previous understanding of the merging process. The newly discovered component extends from a previously detected metal-poor region and suggests that these stars were formed during subsequent evolution.

SourceScience China Press·DateMar 15, 2021

How do good metals go bad?

Researchers found that exotic metallic materials exhibit poor electrical conductivity due to tiny amounts of impurities or defects. These defects cause electrons to remain localized, hindering current flow at low frequencies, but allowing it at high frequencies.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 15, 2021

Immigrants in ICE detention face high risks in COVID-19 pandemic

Researchers found that 42% of detained immigrants had chronic conditions and faced disrupted healthcare upon entering facilities. The study highlights the need for government action to reduce reliance on immigration detention, citing concerns over COVID-19 infection risks.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Immigrant and Minority Health·DateMar 15, 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.

Ancient light illuminates matter that fuels galaxy formation

Researchers have made groundbreaking discoveries about the formation of galaxies and stars using data from the Atacama Cosmology Telescope. By analyzing microwave observations, they found that only a small percentage of gas in galaxies (about 10%) is turned into stars, shedding light on why galaxy formation remains inefficient.

SourceCornell University·JournalPhysical Review D·DateMar 15, 2021

European summer droughts since 2015 unprecedented in past two millennia

A recent study found that European summer droughts since 2015 exceed anything in the past 2,100 years, with climate change and jet stream changes likely causing this anomaly. The researchers analyzed tree-ring stable isotopes to reconstruct summer climate conditions over 2,110 years.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 15, 2021

How can new technologies help reduce the harm of drug use?

Researchers analyzed online requests from people who use drugs in Russia and found that online platforms provide essential support and services. The study highlights the effectiveness of remote work in reducing harm and increasing help-seeking behavior among individuals with problematic drug use.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalHarm Reduction Journal·DateMar 15, 2021

Center-right MEPs less cohesive on votes about EU fundamental values during Fidesz era, study shows

Researchers found that Center-right MEPs became less cohesive in voting for resolutions protecting EU fundamental values between 2009 and 2019. The analysis shows a sharp increase in the tendency of EPP MEPs to support these resolutions over time, but during 2011-2019, they had below-average cohesion compared to others.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEuropean Political Science Review·DateMar 15, 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.

Researchers discover how the brain learns from subconscious stimuli

A study published in Neuron reveals that the brain learns from subconscious visual stimuli through the activation of dopamine-producing cells. The discovery has significant implications for developing targeted therapies for conditions like Parkinson's disease and improving brain plasticity in situations such as trauma or ageing.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalNeuron·DateMar 15, 2021

Injections or light irradiation?

Researchers at POSTECH have developed an on-demand drug delivery system that utilizes organic photovoltaic cells and upconversion nanoparticles to convert near-infrared light into visible light, allowing for controlled drug release in medical devices.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNano Energy·DateMar 15, 2021

Cancer immunotherapy approach targets common genetic alteration

Researchers developed a new cancer immunotherapy that uses engineered T cells to target a genetic alteration common among all cancers. The approach stimulates an immune response against cells with the loss of one gene copy, called loss of heterozygosity (LOH), and has shown promising results in laboratory studies and mouse models.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 15, 2021

Open door to treatment of renal fibrosis by showing that it is caused by telomere shortening

Renal fibrosis, a leading cause of kidney failure, has been linked to telomere shortening. Researchers found that short telomeres exacerbate epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, promoting pathological scarring of kidney tissue. They propose treating renal fibrosis by lengthening telomeres and restoring normal gene expression.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNature Aging·DateMar 15, 2021

Exercise during pregnancy may save kids from health problems as adults

Research suggests that maternal exercise during pregnancy can prevent the transmission of metabolic diseases from parent to child. The study found that maternal exercise only during pregnancy completely blocked the negative effects of either mother's or father's obesity on the offspring.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateMar 15, 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.

Lemurs can sniff out hidden fruit from afar

Researchers found that ring-tailed lemurs can detect ripe cantaloupe from a distance of up to 56 feet using their sense of smell. The study demonstrates the first time primates track distant smells carried by wind.

SourceNew York University·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateMar 15, 2021

Two UNIST faculty members elected as 2020 KAST fellows

Distinguished Professor Sang Il Seok was recognized for his record-breaking efficiency of next-generation perovskite solar cells. Professor Jong-Beom Baek was elected a 2021 Fellow of KAST in engineering field for successfully achieving mass production of graphene.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateMar 15, 2021

Faster drug discovery through machine learning

DeepBAR, a new machine learning-based technique, quickly calculates binding affinities between drug candidates and their targets, offering a faster and more efficient approach to drug discovery and protein engineering. The approach yields precise calculations nearly 50 times faster than previous methods.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateMar 15, 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.

Scientists stunned to discover plants beneath mile-deep Greenland ice

Researchers find fossilized plant structures at the bottom of a 4560-foot-deep ice core, indicating that most of Greenland was ice-free within the last million years. The discovery highlights the vulnerability of the Greenland ice sheet to climate warming and sea-level rise, posing a significant threat to coastal cities worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 15, 2021

Insulin rises before cells develop resistance, new diabetes research implies

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg found that free fatty acids in the blood trigger insulin release even at normal blood-sugar levels, contradicting the long-held hypothesis. The study suggests that obesity and excess fat tissue contribute to increased FFAs, which may be an early sign of incipient type 2 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEBioMedicine·DateMar 15, 2021

Golfers against cancer funds three CU cancer center researchers

Golfers Against Cancer funds three CU Cancer Center researchers: Matthew Sikora studying genetic predispositions to ovarian cancer, Jamie Studts exploring lung cancer screening access, and Jenna Sopfe developing a standardized approach to sexual dysfunction in pediatric cancer survivors.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateMar 15, 2021

Women veterinarians earn $100K less than men annually

A new study by Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine has found that women veterinarians earn an average of $100,000 less than their male counterparts annually. The disparity affects recent graduates and the top half of earners, with partnerships proving more beneficial for women's income earning potential.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateMar 15, 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.

Researchers present spontaneous sparse learning for PCM-based memristor neural networks

A team of researchers from UNIST developed a new learning method for PCM-based memristor neural networks, improving their learning ability by about 3% in handwriting classification tasks. The approach leverages the 'resistance drift' property of phase-change memory to update synapses and associate patterns with data.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 15, 2021

'Reducing global warming matters for freshwater fish species'

A recent study published in Nature Communications found that global warming poses significant threats to the habitats of approximately 11,500 freshwater fish species worldwide. Limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius can reduce the number of species at risk from over half to just 4%.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 15, 2021

When English and French mix in literature

A new study published in Language and Literacy explores the value of bilingual children's books in French immersion classrooms. Bilingual books are seen as an effective tool for second language learning, with students noting benefits such as learning French vocabulary and developing English knowledge. The study suggests that incorporat...

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalLanguage and Literacy·DateMar 15, 2021

Skoltech and MIT researchers identify optimal human landing system architectures to land on the Moon

The study analyzed 39 variants of lunar human landers, considering key architectural decisions such as number of stages and propellant type. The analysis showed that expendable systems with 2-stage architecture are advantageous, but reusable vehicles with 1-stage or 3-stage systems offer comparable advantages.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalActa Astronautica·DateMar 15, 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.

Beta blockers not associated with risk of depression

A meta-analysis of over 53,000 patients found no evidence that beta blockers increase the risk of depression or most other psychiatric symptoms. However, sleep disturbance was linked to treatment with beta blockers.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalHYPERTENSION·DateMar 15, 2021

Blight may increase public health risk from mosquito-borne diseases

Researchers found significantly higher Asian tiger mosquito populations and habitat availability in a low-income neighborhood with high levels of environmental blight. The study highlights the need for blight reduction efforts to mitigate public health risks from mosquito-borne diseases in vulnerable communities.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMar 15, 2021

Simple iodine will speed up drug discovery

Researchers from Osaka University have developed a sustainable method for synthesizing vicinal diamines, crucial in medications for influenza and colorectal cancer. The process uses molecular iodine as a catalyst, reducing the need for rare and toxic metals.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 15, 2021

Story tips: Urban climate impacts, materials' dual approach and healing power

Scientists have identified a statistical relationship between city growth and paved surfaces' impact on water cycles and climates. They also demonstrated a method to heal dendrites in solid-state batteries, and created high-performance thermoplastic composites using additive manufacturing and conventional compression molding.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateMar 15, 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.

Smart quantum technologies for secure communication

Researchers from Louisiana State University have developed a smart quantum technology to correct distorted spatial modes of light at the single-photon level using artificial neural networks. This technique boosts channel capacity in optical communication protocols, enabling secure communication and enhancing sensing capabilities.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalAdvanced Quantum Technologies·DateMar 15, 2021

Researchers identify non-coding RNA molecule in trypanosome parasites

A newly-discovered non-coding RNA molecule regulates protein translation in trypanosoma parasites, a key finding with potential applications in treating and preventing diseases such as sleeping sickness. The discovery sheds light on the previously unknown function of rRNA introns and may lead to the development of novel medications.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournaliScience·DateMar 15, 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.

Global river flow contingent upon climate change

Researchers have found that climate change is the primary driver of changes in global river flow, leading to increased risk of flooding and water scarcity. The study used measurements from over 7,250 locations globally to examine the impact of manmade climate change on river flows between 1971 and 2010.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience·DateMar 15, 2021

There might be many planets with water-rich atmospheres

Researchers at University of Chicago and Stanford University propose mechanism for formation and retention of water-dominated atmospheres on hot, rocky exoplanets. The model suggests these planets could have a water-rich atmosphere for long stretches, with some potentially keeping it for billions of years.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 15, 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.

A law to protect those who support victims of violence against women

In Catalonia, a new law includes protection for supporters of victims of violence against women. The law aims to prevent second-order sexual harassment, which involves physical or psychological violence against those who support victims. Victims can now receive accompaniment, psychological assistance, and other resources.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalViolence Against Women·DateMar 15, 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.

Could we recycle plastic bags into fabrics of the future?

MIT engineers develop wicking fabrics from polyethylene, a material previously dismissed for textile use due to its water-trapping properties. The new fabrics show improved moisture-wicking ability compared to cotton, nylon, and polyester.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Sustainability·DateMar 15, 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.

UIC researchers discover hidden link between cellular defense systems

Researchers at UIC have found that HPSE drives antiviral immunity, proliferative signals and cell death, with potential applications in treating dysregulation of the protein in various diseases. This discovery has broad implications for diseases such as cancer, atherosclerosis and autoimmune disorders.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateMar 15, 2021

Calls to poison centers about high-powered magnets increased by 444% after ban lifted

A recent study found a significant increase in high-powered magnet-related injuries in children after the ban was lifted, with cases increasing by 355% and hospitalizations rising by 39%. The study calls for stricter regulations on these products to protect children and emphasizes the importance of keeping them out of reach of young ones

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateMar 15, 2021

Double trouble for drug-resistant cancers

Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School and A*STAR discovered that inhibiting the Wnt signalling pathway with ETC-159 can reverse PARP inhibitor resistance in several cancer cell lines. This breakthrough could lead to novel anti-cancer treatments for cancers with overactive Wnt signalling, such as colorectal cancer.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateMar 15, 2021

Study predicts the oceans will start emitting ozone-depleting CFCs

The global ocean is expected to become a source of ozone-depleting CFC-11, reversing its longtime role as a sink. By 2075, the oceans will emit more CFC-11 than they absorb, with detectable amounts by 2130, and climate change accelerating this shift.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 15, 2021

Solving the puzzle of polymers binding to ice for Cryopreservation

A team of researchers from the University of Warwick has discovered that even short chains of poly(vinyl alcohol) bind to ice and inhibit recrystallization. This finding sheds new light on the fundamental principles of ice recrystallization, enabling the design of more effective cryoprotectants.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 15, 2021

Study reveals new clues about the architecture of X chromosomes

A new study reveals how proteins alter X chromosome architecture, contributing to its inactivation and potentially leading to cures for genetic disorders. The findings suggest that the shape and structure of the X chromosome play a vital role in gene silencing.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 15, 2021

Fear of COVID-19 :

A study published in PLOS ONE found that individual psychological variables, such as germ aversion and attachment security, are better predictors of fear and perceived health during lockdowns than environmental factors. The researchers investigated 533 participants across Europe and found that younger age, physical activity, and higher...

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 15, 2021

Discovery of 'knock-on chemistry' opens new frontier in reaction dynamics

Researchers at the University of Toronto have made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of reaction dynamics, shedding light on the behavior of molecules during collisions. The 'knock-on chemistry' phenomenon reveals that reaction products emerge in a straight line, moving in the same direction as the incoming reagent atom.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateMar 15, 2021

Making women's football a level playing field

A new European Women in Sport (E-WinS) project seeks to address issues specific to women in sport, such as the impact of menstruation and hormone-based contraception on performance. UK football clubs are invited to participate in an online survey and focus groups to share best practices.

SourceStaffordshire University·DateMar 15, 2021