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Science News for May 24, 2021


New study shines light on hazards of Earth's largest volcano

Researchers found that a large earthquake could set off the eruption of Hawaii's Mauna Loa volcano by relieving stress from magma influx, generating additional pressure and buoyancy. The study also identified movements along near-horizontal faults under the flanks as essential features of long-term volcano growth.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 24, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Stanford bioengineer aims to turn nature's virus fighters into powerful drugs

A Stanford bioengineer has developed peptide-like molecules called peptoids that can retain therapeutic properties against viruses, offering a new approach to treating infectious diseases. The peptoids work by disrupting the virus's outer membrane, making them promising antiviral agents.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalPharmaceuticals·DateMay 24, 2021

Experimental broadcast of whitewater river noise drives bats and birds away

Birds and bats avoid habitat swamped with loud whitewater river noise, with overlap between background noise and song frequency predicting bird declines. The study found that increased noise levels lead to decreased bird foraging efficiency and a shift in bat hunting behavior.

SourceCalifornia Polytechnic State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2021

Regular physical activity linked to better organized preteen brains

A Boston Children's Hospital study using neuroimaging data from nearly 6,000 early adolescents found that regular physical activity was associated with more efficiently organized, flexible, and robust brain networks. Physical activity also partially offset the effects of unhealthy body mass index (BMI) on brain circuitry.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateMay 24, 2021
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Helping adults navigate the decision to move back in with parents

A recent study provides valuable insights into how adults can navigate the often awkward experience of moving back in with their parents. Key findings include framing the decision as an investment in the future, clearly defined expectations, contributing to the household, laying out intended timelines, and embodying adult behavior.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEmerging Adulthood·DateMay 24, 2021

Autonomous cortisol secretion associated with 2- to 3-fold increase in mortality risk

A retrospective cohort study found that autonomous cortisol secretion is associated with a 2- to 3-fold increased risk of death and cardiovascular disease in patients with adrenal incidentalomas. Researchers recommend treating known cardiovascular risk factors and incorporating findings into treatment decisions, including surgery.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 24, 2021

Dual impacts of extreme heat, ozone disproportionately hurt poorer areas

A study by UC San Diego scientists reveals that extreme heat and elevated ozone levels have a disproportionate impact on low-income ZIP codes in California. Areas with higher unemployment rates and car traffic are more affected, with increased hospitalizations for respiratory issues.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sterilizing skeeters

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have created sterile male mosquitoes using CRISPER/Cas9, a technique that could suppress Aedes aegypti populations. The study found that the mutant males produced no sperm but still suppressed female fertility, making them effective in controlling mosquito populations.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

Keeping it rolling

Scientists at Osaka University employ machine learning algorithms to assess the remaining useful life of mechanical rolling bearings, which may lead to industrial cost savings and fewer discarded parts. The new method improves prediction accuracy by about 32%.

SourceOsaka University·JournalIEEE Access·DateMay 24, 2021

Researchers identify facilitators for rehabilitation care for people with spatial neglect

A recent qualitative study identified facilitators for rehabilitation care of individuals with spatial neglect, including the importance of family support, interdisciplinary collaboration, and continuous treatment. Experts also highlighted the need for therapists to engage patients and their families in therapy to improve outcomes.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalArchives of Rehabilitation Research and Clinical Translation·DateMay 24, 2021
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Game on: Game-based program boosts physical activity among diabetes patients

A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that a game-based program increased physical activity levels among diabetes patients by an average of 503 steps per day. The program used wearable devices and digital scales with personalized goals to encourage competition, collaboration, or support from family members.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 24, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Fat around the heart linked to increased risk of heart failure

Researchers found that excess pericardial fat increases the risk of heart failure, even after adjusting for established risk factors. High pericardial fat volume was associated with a double increase in risk for women and a 50% increase for men, according to the study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 24, 2021

Games, computing, and the mind: How search algorithms reflect game playing

Scientists at JAIST explored the connection between game-playing search tree algorithms and human decision-making, proposing two indicators - PPN and SCN - to analyze potential future states. These findings have applications in AI, optimization problems, and entertainment analysis.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalIEEE Access·DateMay 24, 2021

Using waste heat to power an environmentally sustainable future

Dr Martin White's research proposes a two-phase expansion system that can generate up to 28% more power than conventional single-phase systems. The study aims to enhance the performance of Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) systems for waste heat recovery, reducing environmental footprint in industries such as iron and steel, food, and drink.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalApplied Thermal Engineering·DateMay 24, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

New fishing tech may pose risks to fisheries, says study co-authored by UMass researcher

A new study co-authored by UMass researcher Andy Danylchuk warns that advances in recreational fishing technology can have significant impacts on fish ecosystems. The study emphasizes the need for resource management agencies to share their experiences and for scientists to intensively study the effects of technological innovations.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalReviews in Fish Biology and Fisheries·DateMay 24, 2021

Endangered wallaby population bounces back after ferals fenced out

Researchers successfully implemented a headstarting method to protect juvenile bridled nailtail wallabies from feral cats, resulting in an 89% survival rate. The technique involves fencing off areas to raise young animals until they are large enough to be released back into the wild, demonstrating its effectiveness as a cost-effective ...

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 24, 2021

'Champagne' technology to capture carbon dioxide via the oceans

The SeaCURE method utilizes natural processes and renewable energy to remove CO2 from seawater, allowing the ocean to absorb more CO2. The process involves making seawater temporarily acidic to 'bubble out' CO2, then delivering a concentrated stream for utilisation and storage.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateMay 24, 2021

The brain learns faces fastest in person

A new study found that the brain's neural representation of a familiar face strengthens faster when viewing someone in person. The type of exposure affected how much the signal changed, with in-person interactions strengthening it the most.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateMay 24, 2021

Dental crowding: Ancient baleen whales had a mouthful

A new study on the 25 million-year-old fossil skull of Aetiocetus weltoni reveals that it had both teeth and baleen in adulthood. The discovery provides evidence of a major shift in feeding behavior from raptorial carnivory to filter-feeding, and sheds light on the evolution of modern baleen whales.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateMay 24, 2021
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Implantable piezoelectric polymer improves controlled release of drugs

Researchers at UC Riverside developed an implantable drug delivery system using piezoelectric nanofibers that can release therapeutic molecules on demand. The system offers robust control over release rate and precision in administering drug molecules, making it suitable for treating chronic diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalACS Applied Bio Materials·DateMay 24, 2021

Oncotarget: Urine protein biomarkers of bladder cancer

Researchers found that urine protein biomarkers IL-1α, IL-1ra, and IL-8 can distinguish bladder cancer from controls with high accuracy. These markers also show promise in discriminating between different stages of the disease.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateMay 24, 2021

Weight-loss maintainers sit less than weight-stable people with obesity

A recent study found that successful weight losers sit significantly less during the week and weekends compared to those who are weight stable. Weight loss maintainers expended more calories per week in physical activity, suggesting that moving more may be key to long-term weight maintenance.

SourceThe Obesity Society·JournalObesity·DateMay 24, 2021

Telomere length, a longevity measure, may be determined early in life

A new study reveals that telomeres shorten rapidly during early childhood, setting the stage for lifelong health outcomes. Researchers found that a mother's telomere length is predictive of her child's telomere length through pre-adolescence.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateMay 24, 2021
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

How school board meetings could attract more diverse audiences and boost public trust

A study by Brown University found that school boards can increase civic engagement and public trust by incorporating two-way conversations with citizens. This approach, particularly among people of color and low-income households, can lead to increased attendance at meetings and a more inclusive representation of constituents.

SourceBrown University·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·DateMay 24, 2021

To unpack colonial influence on ecology, researchers propose five strategies

The researchers proposed five strategies to address colonial legacies in ecology: decolonizing the mind, understanding history, increasing access to information, recognizing diverse expertise, and establishing inclusive teams. These strategies aim to challenge biases and promote a more ethical approach to ecological research.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 24, 2021

Health impacts of heat and ozone across zip codes

A study analyzing California data from 2004-2013 reveals that heat events and ozone have substantial spatial variation in their impact on respiratory hospitalizations, with stronger joint effects in lower-income areas. The results suggest establishing local temperature and ozone thresholds to protect population health.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Diabetes vaccine gives promising results in a genetic subgroup

A clinical study found that injecting a protein GAD into lymph nodes can be effective in preserving insulin production in individuals with the HLA-DR3-DQ2 variant. This subgroup accounts for around half of patients with type 1 diabetes, who may benefit from a potential new treatment to slow or stop the immune system's attack.

SourceLinköping University·JournalDiabetes Care·DateMay 24, 2021

Impact of school nutrition policies in California varies by children's ethnicity

A new study found that California school nutrition policies had varying impacts on childhood obesity among children of different ethnicities. The prevalence of overweight/obesity was higher among PI, FI, and AIAN children compared to White students. After implementing the policies, the overweight/obesity rates decreased for almost all ...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMay 24, 2021

Rubisco proton production can enhance CO2 acquisition

Researchers have found that Rubisco proton production can enhance CO2 acquisition, allowing plants to fix more carbon dioxide and produce more sugar. This discovery could lead to improved crop yields and increased food security.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

Origin of domesticated watermelons

Genetic resequencing reveals Sudanese Kordofan melon as closest relative to domesticated watermelon, potentially a precursor. Pulp bitterness and sweetness likely altered over time through artificial selection.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Surge in nitrogen has turned sargassum into the world's largest harmful algal bloom

A study by Florida Atlantic University reveals that increased nitrogen availability is transforming Sargassum into a toxic 'dead zone' with catastrophic impacts on coastal ecosystems and human health. The research, published in Nature Communications, suggests that global nutrient pollution is driving harmful algal blooms.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2021

How "paralyzed" immune cells can be reactivated against brain tumors

Scientists discover a way to reactivate paralyzed immune cells against IDH-mutant gliomas, leading to improved vaccine effectiveness. The researchers identified the molecular mechanism behind the 'immune paralysis' caused by cancer-promoting metabolic products and found a substance that deactivates a key immune system regulatory molecule.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalNature Cancer·DateMay 24, 2021

New insight into when CAR T is effective against childhood leukaemia

Researchers discovered a sub-set of CAR T-cells called 'stem cell memory T-cells' that play a key role in destroying cancer and maintaining immune surveillance. These cells are critical to the long-term success of CAR T-cell therapy, which could improve treatment outcomes for patients with high-risk relapse.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateMay 24, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Effectiveness of tocilizumab in patients hospitalized with COVID-19

A randomized clinical trial examined the association between tocilizumab treatment and C-reactive protein levels in patients hospitalized with COVID-19. The study found a positive correlation between tocilizumab treatment and improved survival rates for patients with high C-reactive protein levels.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 24, 2021

Researchers first synthesize conjoined bismacrocycle with all phenylene units

Scientists have successfully synthesized the first conjoined bismacrocycle with all phenylene units, a complex material that has potential in photoelectric and supramolecular applications. The molecule's unique structure allows it to form a peanut-shaped host-guest complex with fullerene derivatives.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMay 24, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Posts to Reddit forum "SuicideWatch" spike in the early hours of Monday morning

A new study from King's College London found that users of the Reddit forum 'SuicideWatch' post at their highest between 02:00 and 05:00 on Mondays, a trend that closely follows earlier studies on suicide timing patterns. The researchers believe this data can be used to target at-risk populations with greater levels of support.

SourceKing's College London·JournalBMC Psychiatry·DateMay 24, 2021

Gene editing suppresses fertility in Aedes aegypti

Researchers used CRISPR/Cas9 to create sterile male mosquitoes that suppress female fertility in Ae. aegypti. This reduction in female fertility can help combat disease spread by increasing the presence of sterile males in wild populations.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

New insights on animals in the African past

Researchers have developed new peptide markers to identify African bovid species, enabling more accurate analysis of ancient animal remains. The discovery sheds light on subsistence strategies and paleoenvironments in Iron Age Zambia.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 24, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Specialized inhibitory cluster gates plasticity in fear learning

Scientists have identified a unique subset of inhibitory cells in the amygdala known as apITC, which modulates plasticity in fear learning. The apITC connects to various regions, including thalamic processing centers and sensory areas, to regulate fear-related responses.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 24, 2021

New use of imaging technique could allow early detection of aortic aneurysms

An international team used Raman microspectroscopy and imaging to identify signatures in the elastic and collagen fibers of the aorta that indicate the presence of an aneurysm. The study found biomarkers for thoracic aortic aneurysms, which could enable early detection and potentially save lives.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateMay 24, 2021

How do clownfish earn their stripes?

Researchers discovered that clownfish develop white stripes faster in giant carpet anemone hosts due to higher levels of thyroid hormones and increased duox gene activity. Thyroid hormone levels correlate with duox expression, leading to faster bar formation in giant carpet anemone clownfish.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

36 dwarf galaxies had simultaneous 'baby boom' of new stars

A team of scientists discovered that three dozen dwarf galaxies simultaneously accelerated their star birth rates, defying expectations. The galaxies, separated by up to 13 million light-years, had a synchronized decrease in stellar birth rate 6 billion years ago and an increase 3 billion years ago.

SourceRutgers University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateMay 24, 2021

Upslope advance of forest fires

High-elevation fires in the western US have advanced upslope by 252 meters since 1984, fueled by climate change and increased lightning strikes. This expansion threatens previously wet areas and exacerbates fire risks in dry regions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

How clownfish gain their stripes

Clownfish develop white stripes during metamorphosis, with varying rates of formation depending on the sea anemone host. Thyroid hormone influences white bar development, with higher concentrations leading to more bars and earlier development.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

Study: Diet to lower blood pressure also improved other factors in cardiac health

A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that a diet proven to lower elevated blood pressure, known as the DASH diet, reduces inflammation and heart injury. The findings also showed that a low-sodium diet can improve cardiovascular risk factors in a relatively short time period.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 24, 2021
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Cancer treatments may accelerate cellular aging

New research suggests that anti-cancer therapies can hasten cellular aging, leading to increased inflammation and fatigue in patients with head and neck cancer. Epigenetic changes associated with these treatments may contribute to age-related conditions.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateMay 24, 2021

Study finds women with osteoporosis and low bone density are at increased risk of hearing loss

Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital analyzed data from nearly 144,000 women and found a 40% higher risk of moderate or worse hearing loss in those with osteoporosis or low bone density. Bisphosphonates did not alter this risk, suggesting that other factors may contribute to the development of age-related hearing loss.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMay 24, 2021
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

New optimization approach helps design lighter carbon fiber composite materials

A new design method for optimizing fiber orientation and thickness simultaneously reduces the weight of carbon fiber reinforced plastics by more than 5% while maintaining its strength. The approach, developed by researchers at Tokyo University of Science, enables higher load transfer efficiency compared to traditional methods.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalComposite Structures·DateMay 24, 2021
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

A community health worker intervention reduces hospital readmissions

A community health worker intervention has been shown to reduce hospital readmissions among patients discharged to short-term rehabilitation. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, found a 32.3% reduction in readmissions for this population compared to those discharged home.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 24, 2021

The birth of a subnanometer-sized soccer ball

Researchers successfully captured a video image of the bottom-up synthesis of fullerene C60, an allotrope resembling a soccer ball. The process was observed using single-molecule atomic resolution real-time electron microscopy (SMART-EM), revealing a kinetically and thermodynamically controlled cyclodehydrogenation reaction.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalACS Nano·DateMay 24, 2021

Babies with seizures may be overmedicated

A new multicenter study found that continuing antiseizure medication after neonatal seizures stopped did not prevent epilepsy or developmental delays in babies. This contradicts standard practice of extending treatment for months, and highlights the need to reassess standard care for newborns with seizures.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateMay 24, 2021

Milky Way not unusual, astronomers find

The discovery of UGC 10738 reveals that galaxies with similar structures and properties are likely common. The galaxy's thick disc consists mainly of ancient stars, while its thin disc stars are more recent and contain more metal.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for All Sky Astrophysics in 3D (ASTRO 3D)·DateMay 24, 2021
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Virus infection cycle revealed in dynamic detail

Researchers have developed a pioneering plant-based technology to study the virus maturation process, revealing large structural rearrangements that enable chemical reactions necessary for infection. The study provides valuable insights into the dynamics of an essential part of a virus infection cycle.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalCommunications Biology·DateMay 24, 2021

COVID-19 mortality associated with 2 signs easily measured at home

A study of 1,095 patients with COVID-19 found abnormal blood-oxygen levels and breathing rates are strong predictors of poor patient outcomes. Researchers recommend monitoring for these signs at home or seeking medical attention earlier to potentially save lives.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalInfluenza and Other Respiratory Viruses·DateMay 24, 2021
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Researchers identify the causes of the extreme drought that affected the Pantanal

The study reveals that the 2019-20 drought was caused by a meteorological phenomenon, atmospheric blocking, which prevented raincloud formation. The Pantanal's severe drought had devastating effects on the biome due to high temperatures, low humidity, and exacerbated by human activities like deliberate burning of vegetation.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Water·DateMay 24, 2021

Analyzing the impact of college gameday homes in the American south

A study by Georgia State University's Taylor Shelton found that vacant gameday homes drive up housing prices, displacing permanent residents in small college towns. The study analyzed data from over a dozen college towns and suggests changes to zoning and tax laws could ease the impacts.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalCities·DateMay 24, 2021
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

USC study reveals potential new treatment target in the fight against COVID-19

Researchers at Keck School of Medicine of USC have identified GRP78 as a molecular chaperone that plays a crucial role in the spread of SARS-CoV-2, offering a potential new therapy to combat COVID-19. Targeting GRP78 with therapies could provide additional protection against COVID-19 and its variants.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 24, 2021

Infertility poses major threat to biodiversity during climate change, study warns

A new study by University of Liverpool ecologists finds that climate change will see some species succumb to infertility earlier than thought. The research used fruit fly species to predict temperature tolerance and found that almost half of the species become sterile at lower temperatures, making conservation more difficult.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 24, 2021

A seedy slice of history: Watermelons actually came from northeast Africa

A new study in PNAS reveals that domesticated watermelons come from wild crop progenitors in northeast Africa. The research uses DNA from hundreds of watermelon varieties to confirm the correct origin, correcting a long-held misconception about their South African roots.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

Metabolic hormone ‘leptin’ linked to vaccine response

A University of Queensland study has found that reduced levels of metabolic hormone leptin are associated with poor vaccine antibody responses in both young and older individuals. The research could lead to the development of new strategies for improving vaccine protection in vulnerable populations.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Storytelling, oxytocin, and cortisol

Researchers found that storytelling significantly increased oxytocin levels and decreased cortisol and pain levels in hospitalized children. The study showed a positive effect on emotional well-being and found higher positive emotions following the storytelling intervention compared to the riddle game.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

Facilitating speech comprehension in rare inherited hearing loss patients

Scientists have discovered a novel deafness gene, TMEM43, linked to auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder (ANSD), a rare form of hearing loss that affects speech comprehension. The treatment involves cochlear implants, which have successfully restored speech discrimination in patients, offering new hope for those affected.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

COVID-19 infection rates of dentists remain lower than other health professionals

A recent study found that COVID-19 infection rates among US dentists are significantly lower than those of other healthcare professionals, with a cumulative infection rate of 2.6%. The monthly incidence rate varied between 0.2% and 1.1%, indicating effective infection control measures.

SourceAmerican Dental Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateMay 24, 2021

Simple diagnostic tool predicts individual risk of Alzheimer's

A simple diagnostic tool has been developed to predict the individual risk of developing Alzheimer's disease with over 90% accuracy. The algorithm combines data from a simple blood test and brief memory tests, and has been shown to be significantly more accurate than clinical predictions by dementia experts.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 24, 2021
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Decolonising ecology? How to adopt practices that make science more equitable

Researchers propose five interventions to promote equitable ecology practices, including amplifying diverse expertise, addressing data sovereignty issues, and deconstructing biases in research teams. These actions aim to connect with existing anti-colonial and anti-racist struggles and promote ecological justice.

SourceUniversity of Cape Town·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 24, 2021

Wolves and road safety

A study in Wisconsin found that wolf introduction reduced deer-vehicle collisions by 24%, with an economic benefit of 63 times the harm caused by livestock predation. The study suggests that wolves' impact on prey behavior is a key factor in collision reduction.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

Researchers find semimetal that clings to a quantum precipice

Scientists have discovered a semimetal, CeRu4Sn6, that is naturally at the quantum critical point without external influences. This finding has significant implications for developing powerful new quantum technologies and discovering new phases of matter.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 24, 2021
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Accurate evaluation of CRISPR genome editing

Researchers developed a novel software tool to quantify potential CRISPR-induced errors, including adverse translocation events that can cause cancer. The tool, CRISPECTOR, analyzes next-generation sequencing data and applies statistical modeling to determine editing activity.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2021

Electromagnetic anomalies that occur before an earthquake

A joint research project by Shinshu University and Genesis Research Institute found that electromagnetic anomalies occur before earthquakes due to gas-electric interactions. The anomalies are caused by the trapping of fluid in a fault-valve, which eventually cracks and releases charged gas, generating a large current.

SourceShinshu University·DateMay 24, 2021

Ludwig Cancer research study finds way to revive potent immune cells for cancer therapy

A Ludwig Cancer Research study has discovered how to revive terminally exhausted T lymphocytes, found within tumors, for cancer therapy by using an immune factor called interleukin-10. This revival restores their potent anti-cancer activity, leading to tumor regression and cures in mouse models of melanoma and colon cancer.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalNature Immunology·DateMay 24, 2021

Dengue immune function discovery could benefit much-needed vaccine development

Researchers at the University of Vermont have discovered new biomarkers for predicting clinical and immune responses to dengue virus infection. These findings could aid in the development of more effective vaccines against all four dengue strains, a crucial step in combating this deadly disease.

SourceLarner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2021
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Microscopic fossils record ancient climate conditions

Researchers analyzed magnetic fossil particles to decode environmental changes during the ancient warming event. The study found that oxygen levels declined rapidly in the New Jersey coast and fluctuated thereafter.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPaleoceanography and Paleoclimatology·DateMay 24, 2021

Plasma jets reveal magnetic fields far, far away

Researchers observed plasma jets interacting with magnetic fields in a massive galaxy cluster 600 million light years away. The findings can help clarify how such galaxy clusters evolve, providing new insights into the structure of intracluster magnetic fields.

SourceNagoya University·JournalNature·DateMay 24, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Intermittent fasting in mice effective at promoting long term memory retention

A study from King's College London found that intermittent fasting increased Klotho gene expression and promoted adult hippocampal neurogenesis in mice, leading to improved long-term memory retention. The researchers hope to replicate the study with human participants to further explore the effects of IF.

SourceKing's College London·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 24, 2021

Pristine quantum criticality found

A team of physicists from Rice University and colleagues discovered that quantum fluctuations may give rise to topological phases of matter. The study used magnetic susceptibility, specific heat, and inelastic neutron scattering measurements to show that the material CeRu4Sn6 is quantum critical without fine-tuning.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 24, 2021

Researchers discover oligodendrocyte loss and subtype alteration in CTE brains

A study by Boston University School of Medicine researchers has identified significant alterations in white matter, including loss of oligodendrocytes and changes to oligodendroglial subtypes, in CTE brains. These findings may lead to new treatments for the progressive brain disease associated with repetitive head trauma.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateMay 24, 2021

Researchers find greenland glacial meltwaters rich in mercury

Researchers discovered high concentrations of mercury in Greenland glacial meltwaters, comparable to those found in industrial China. This finding raises concerns about the impact on coastal ecosystems and the seafood industry, which is a significant export for Greenland.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 24, 2021

Defective gene slows down brain cells

Researchers found that the defective Cullin 3 gene leads to increased levels of Plastin 3, causing neurons to migrate slower and accumulating in the cortex. This study provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying autism spectrum disorder and may pave the way for therapeutic treatments.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2021

Plant-microbe homeostasis: A delicate balancing act

Research finds that a balance between immune-suppressive and non-suppressive bacterial strains in the plant microbiota is crucial for maintaining microbe-plant homeostasis. This balance allows plants to promote growth while preventing excessive defense, reducing disease susceptibility.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research·JournalNature Plants·DateMay 24, 2021

Prebiotic ethanolamine found in space

Researchers found prebiotic ethanolamine in a molecular cloud near the center of our galaxy, suggesting it may have formed in space and was incorporated into meteorites and planetesimals. This discovery supports the idea that the molecule could have contributed to the assembly and evolution of primitive cell membranes on early Earth.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

Obesity protects against death in severe bacterial infection

A study published in PLOS ONE found that a higher BMI is associated with improved survival rates in patients hospitalized for severe bacterial infections. In the short and long term, patients with higher BMIs had significantly lower mortality rates compared to those with normal weights.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 24, 2021

UIC leads new collaborative to reduce COVID-19 disparities

The University of Illinois Chicago is leading a multi-center collaborative to improve community vaccinations, testing, and engagement in clinical research. The Chicagoland COVID Collaborative aims to bolster COVID-19 vaccine confidence and access among Black and Latino communities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateMay 24, 2021

Mason4C partnering medical societies and environmental justice groups

The Mason4C Medical Society Consortium on Climate & Health will expand its partnership with NMA fellows and community-based environmental justice groups. With funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, this collaboration aims to amplify the voices of doctors and other health professionals in addressing climate and health injustices.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateMay 24, 2021

Sustainable funding needed to provide nursery places

Researchers found that children who attended childcare outside the home during COVID-19 made greater gains in language and thinking skills, particularly among those from less advantaged backgrounds. The study recommends sustainable funding for nursery provision, promotion of funded places in target areas, and removal of administrative ...

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalInfant and Child Development·DateMay 24, 2021

Deep and extreme: Microbes thrive in transition

A diverse microbial community has adapted to an extremely salty environment deep in the Red Sea, with microbial cell densities more than double those found in normal deep Red Sea water and the brine below. The team sequenced the genome of a new microbe that suggests this transition zone is critical for nitrogen cycling.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateMay 24, 2021

Bile acids trigger satiety in the brain

Researchers at EPFL discovered that bile acids can trigger satiety in the brain by activating specific receptors. Bile acids reach the brain shortly after a meal and suppress food intake by blocking appetite-stimulating signals. This study suggests a new role for bile acids in regulating eating behavior.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Metabolism·DateMay 24, 2021

Built environments don't play expected role in weight gain

A recent study by the University of Washington found that living in a more densely populated neighborhood is associated with lower body weight and less obesity. However, proximity to fast-food restaurants or supermarkets did not have a significant impact on weight gain.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateMay 24, 2021

New research shows ridesharing services reduce sexual assault

New research shows that ridesharing services can significantly reduce the risk of sexual assault in neighborhoods with limited public transportation. The study found a 6.3% reduction in rape incidents after Uber entered a city, and a 3% decrease in likelihood for every 1% increase in Uber pickups.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateMay 24, 2021

How hepatitis C virus evades the immune system

Researchers discovered a novel molecular mechanism by which HCV interferes with the host's immune system, leading to chronic infection. The study found that HCV core protein is degraded via SPP and MHC class I proteins, impairing proper immune response and allowing infection to become chronic.

SourceOsaka University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

How tendons become stiffer and stronger

Researchers have deciphered how tendon cells adapt to physical demands, revealing a molecular force sensor that promotes stiffness. A gene variant associated with West African ancestry enhances jumping performance in humans by 13%, suggesting its potential role in elite athletic success.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateMay 24, 2021

Forensic analysis of visual patterns

A Perspective counters the DOJ's claim that forensic analysis of visual patterns is not metrology by highlighting biological sensory systems' ability to quantify patterns. This clarifies processes underlying human sensation and perception, potentially improving forensic accuracy.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

Can antibiotics treat human diseases in addition to bacterial infections?

A new study by UIC researchers shows that antibiotics designed for bacteria can also inhibit protein synthesis in human cells, potentially treating diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. The team engineered yeast ribosomes to be more bacterial-like, allowing them to respond to macrolide antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2021

Storytelling reduces pain and stress, and increases oxytocin in hospitalized children

A new study by D'Or Institute for Research and Education found that storytelling can decrease cortisol levels and increase oxytocin production in ICU children. The results showed that the narrative activity was more effective than riddles, improving the quality of life for hospitalized kids.

SourceD'Or Institute for Research and Education·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

Mapping the local cosmic web

Researchers have created a new map of dark matter in the local universe using machine learning, revealing previously undiscovered filamentary structures connecting galaxies. The map provides a detailed understanding of the distribution of dark matter and its gravitational influence on galaxies.

SourcePenn State·DateMay 24, 2021