Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for November 2, 2021


Chemo helps breast cancer cells get their ‘foot in the door’ to the lungs

Researchers in mice found that chemotherapy enhances cancer's spread by making blood vessel walls more receptive, allowing cancer cells to latch on. The study shows how a chemo drug like cyclophosphamide alters non-cancer cells' properties, facilitating the cancer cells' attachment and progression.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateNov 2, 2021

New study examines long-term benefit of ‘two-midnight rule’

A new Health Affairs study found that the Medicare Two-Midnight Rule hastened a shift from inpatient to observation stays, but ultimately led to stabilization of both types of stays. The authors suggest weighing the rule's continued benefit against its substantial administrative burden on hospitals.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalHealth Affairs·DateNov 2, 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.

NREL researchers point toward energy efficiency instead of long-term storage

Researchers found that incorporating energy efficiency measures can minimize long-duration storage, reducing the need for renewable resources. By optimizing mix of renewables, oversized generation capacities, and energy efficiency investments, achieving 100% renewable energy becomes more achievable and cost-effective.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalRenewable Energy and Environmental Sustainability·DateNov 2, 2021

Revising a generalized spin current theory for the magnetoelectric effect in multiferroics

The team of researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a generalized spin current theory that accounts for various multiferroic scenarios and provides a transparent toy model for electric polarization. The study demonstrates how the new theory can effectively rationalize the properties of multiferroic materials.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 2, 2021

Not silent yet; the shifting sounds of spring

A new study reveals that spring soundscape acoustic diversity and intensity are declining due to changes in bird communities. The research suggests that reductions in natural soundscapes may be the primary mechanism through which population declines impact humans.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 2, 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.

Enhanced therapeutic foods improve cognition in malnourished children

Severely malnourished children who consumed ready-to-use therapeutic food fortified with DHA showed significant improvement in gross and fine motor abilities, language proficiencies, and social skills. The findings suggest that reducing omega-6 fatty acid levels can also aid neurological development.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateNov 2, 2021

When building rapport, sometimes less is more

Research from the University of Georgia found that using verbal commonalities alone was more effective in building rapport than combining it with nonverbal mirroring. Participants were willing to discuss personal topics when interviewer used verbal commonalities, but not when combined with mirroring.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalCommunication Studies·DateNov 2, 2021

Poverty in unmarried-parent families: A fresh perspective from Pusan National University

Researchers at Pusan National University and Columbia University reanalyzed poverty estimates in unmarried parent families using the 'Supplemental Poverty Measure' (SPM), accounting for specific criteria. The analysis revealed significant drops in poverty rates over time, particularly for single-mother families.

SourcePusan National University·JournalPopulation Research and Policy Review·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 2, 2021

CABI study assesses the capacity and responsiveness of Kenya’s national invasive species system

A CABI-led study developed a framework for assessing the performance and responsiveness of an invasive species system in Kenya. The approach enabled identifying opportunities and challenges from various actor perspectives, highlighting the need for better financing, leadership, and coordination to effectively manage invasive species.

SourceCABI·JournalCABI Agriculture and Bioscience·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 2, 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.

Movement of plankton between tropical marine ecosystems drives “sweet spots” for fishing

A new analysis reveals that plankton-eating fish play a central role in driving local spikes of extreme biological productivity in tropical coral reefs. These 'sweet spots' concentrate abundant fish production, making them optimal for fishing. The study's findings hold significance for the future of tropical reef fisheries as coral ree...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 2, 2021

Tel Aviv University researchers have discovered a mechanism that helps plants cope with water shortages

Researchers at Tel Aviv University discovered a central mechanism in plants that helps them deal with drought conditions and water shortages. They found that the ABA signal molecule is stored in inactive state in leaves and released under desired conditions, allowing plants to rapidly respond to changing environmental conditions.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 2, 2021

Late bombardment of the Moon revealed

Scientists from the University of Münster used precise isotope measurements to determine that the Moon's heavy bombardment 3.9 billion years ago was caused by continuous impacts of leftover asteroids from the main phase of Earth's formation. The study rules out a sudden increase in impact rate due to outer solar system bodies.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 2, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study identifies specific drugs that can prevent disease-causing activity of key immune cells

A study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers has identified specific drugs that can selectively block the polarization of M2-type macrophages, which exacerbate diseases such as wet age-related macular degeneration. The findings suggest that these drugs could be repurposed for new therapies to influence disease outcomes.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 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.

Scientists build on AI modelling to understand more about protein-sugar structures

Scientists have developed a software that adds missing sugar components to protein models created with AlphaFold, enabling more accurate structural predictions. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize workflows in biology, allowing scientists to understand proteins and their mutations faster than ever.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateNov 2, 2021

Towards self-restoring electronic devices with long DNA molecules

Researchers from Tokyo Tech have developed a long DNA molecule-based junction that shows remarkable conductivity and self-restoring ability under electrical failure. The 'zipper' configuration allows for high electron transport and reveals delocalized ς-electrons moving freely within the molecule.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2021

Researchers quantify the role of the pandemic in the 2020 US Elections

A team of researchers led by Maurizio Porfiri found that counties with fewer COVID-19 cases voted more for Joe Biden than Donald Trump. The study used a spatial data modeling approach to analyze county-level data and determine the influence of epidemiological and economic processes on voting behavior.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalThe European Physical Journal Special Topics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 2, 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.

Motorways shape the sociology of cities

Researchers found that motorway connections lead to a 42% increase in wealthy households but only a 5% increase in lower-income households. This results in higher land prices and urban sprawl, disproportionately affecting those with modest incomes.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalThe Economic Journal·TypeNews article·DateNov 2, 2021

Mapping the complexity of T cells to improve immunotherapy

Researchers are developing a transformative technology called Multiscale Intelligent Convergence (MusIC) to map the complexity of T cells and identify attributes essential for patient benefit. The goal is to create more reliable biomanufacturing of T cell infusion products and engineering potent immune cells.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateNov 2, 2021

Better models of atmospheric ‘detergent’ can help predict climate change

Researchers used computer simulations to predict the presence of hydroxyl radicals, which clean pollutants from the atmosphere. The study showed that traditional models had widely varying forecasts due to uncertainties in gas emissions, and that better models can aid in combating climate change.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 2, 2021

Research shows mass production can make customised PPE for healthcare workers

A team of researchers has successfully designed and manufactured customised respiratory protection for healthcare workers using digital facial capture. The technology, developed by the University of Birmingham and King's College London, provides a comfortable close-fitting seal suitable for nearly 90% of face shapes and sizes.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 2, 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.

Mongooses give bullies the cold shoulder, scientists find

Wild dwarf mongooses have sufficient cognitive ability to monitor vocal cues about aggressive interactions and remember who the bullies are. After a conflict, subordinate group members groom with each other more than usual and ignore perceived aggressors.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournaleLife·TypeObservational study·DateNov 2, 2021

Prostate cancer urine test identifies good prognosis patients

A new pilot study reveals a prostate cancer urine test can identify men with intermediate-risk disease, allowing them to opt for active surveillance instead of immediate treatment. The test assesses the amount of aggressive cancer in the prostate without needing a biopsy.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalLife·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 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.

Giant leap taken in fighting antibiotic resistance

Researchers have made a giant leap in fighting antibiotic resistance by using supercomputers to redesign existing antibiotics. The new approach shows that the redesigned antibiotic is up to 56 times more active than two existing antibiotics on the World Health Organisation's list, and potentially effective against three top-ranked bact...

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2021

The influence collective risks have on the acceptance of social norms is being analysed

A study by UC3M researchers found that higher collective risks lead to stronger social norms and increased punishment for non-compliance. However, as perceived risk decreases, compliance with these norms also drops. The study, published in Nature Communications, provides evidence on how collective risks impact social behavior.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2021

Social motivation in voles differs by species and sex

A study reveals that prairie voles are highly motivated by social interactions with familiar animals, while meadow voles tolerate friends and family but lack strong motivation. Oxytocin receptor density is associated with individual variation in social behavior.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateNov 2, 2021

Tulane University study uses artificial intelligence to detect colorectal cancer

A Tulane University study successfully leverages artificial intelligence to identify and diagnose colorectal cancer with a performance comparable to, if not better than, highly experienced pathologists. The AI-powered program achieves an average accuracy of .98 in accurately identifying colorectal cancer from tissue scans.

SourceTulane University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 2, 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.

Imaging speeds lifesaving care to stroke victims

A new imaging technique can identify stroke patients with slow-growing ischemic cores, who are most likely to benefit from late thrombectomy. The study found that patients with symmetric collateral patterns had slower core growth and were more treatable.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateNov 2, 2021

Samples of paraffinic oils from Western Siberia studied at Kazan University

Researchers analyzed samples of paraffinic oils from the western Siberian Basin, Russia, to understand their characteristics. The study found that these oils are primarily composed of saturated hydrocarbons and have low sulfur content.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalJournal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2021

Tokyo researchers take a look beneath the skin of surfactant onions

Researchers from The University of Tokyo Institute of Industrial Science used microscopy to examine surfactant onion layers, discovering they contain defects. Their findings are crucial for designing effective therapeutic carrier systems.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateNov 2, 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.

Abnormal brain changes over time with bipolar disorder

Longitudinal study reveals cortical thinning in people with bipolar disorder, especially those with more manic episodes. The findings suggest that bipolar disorder may be a neuroprogressive disorder, worsened by the progression of symptoms.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateNov 2, 2021

Marine microbes more effective reducing methane than expected

A new study reveals that marine microbes are able to consume more methane from sediments than anticipated, preventing its release into the ocean and subsequent environmental consequences. This discovery suggests that these microbes play a crucial role in suppressing methane emissions and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

SourceStockholm University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 2, 2021

Researcher traces concept of taste in literature to 16th century

A researcher has traced the concept of taste in literature to the 16th century, highlighting Francis Bacon's 1597 aphorism that influenced the development of aesthetic discrimination. The study utilized Early English Books Online and found language patterns that shifted over time, ultimately leading to the modern meaning of taste.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalTextual Cultures·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 2, 2021

A commonly found parasite could treat certain types of cancer, say scientists

Researchers found that Toxoplasma gondii, a commonly found parasite, can 'tame' the parasite to induce inflammatory responses and make tumours more responsive to treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors. This approach has shown promise in treating melanoma, Lewis lung carcinoma, and colon adenocarcinoma in mouse models.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 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.

Urgent need for vaccine to prevent deadly Group B streptococcus

A new report highlights the alarming global impact of Group B streptococcus, which can lead to up to 150,000 infant deaths annually. Maternal vaccination is seen as a cost-effective solution to reduce this toll, with significant health benefits in all regions.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·DateNov 2, 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.

Coronavirus: Minimal transmission risk when playing football

A study by the Universities of Basel and Saarland found almost no risk of coronavirus infection in football players, contradicting previous assumptions about team contact risks. The research team collected data from over 1,300 cases and concluded that outdoor sports with minimal physical contact pose a very low risk of infection.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateNov 2, 2021

Oncotarget: Decreasing DNA repair and genomic instability

Research found that Pim kinase inhibitor co-treatment decreases alternative non-homologous end-joining DNA repair and genomic instability induced by topoisomerase 2 inhibitors in AML cells with FLT3-ITD. This approach may enhance chemotherapy drug induction of DNA DSBs and apoptosis.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateNov 2, 2021

Clogged flow: Cancer cells impair blood flow in metastatic lymph nodes

Researchers found that tumors with few micro-blood vessels are associated with defective perfusion, impacting the efficiency of systemic chemotherapy. This study highlights the importance of improving diagnostic imaging equipment to better detect lymph node metastasis and curb cancer-related mortality.

SourceTohoku University·JournalClinical & Experimental Metastasis·DateNov 2, 2021

Prior poor mental health is associated with higher COVID-19 infection rates

A nationwide US population-level study found that prior poor mental health at the county level had a positive and significant association with COVID-19 infection rates. Areas with greater vulnerability in poor mental health prior to the pandemic had a greater burden of COVID-19. The study used aggregated survey data from 2,839 US count...

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 2, 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.

C4 bioenergy grass: Working towards higher productivity under fluctuating light

A recent study found that C4 bioenergy grass species outperform C3 species in assimilating carbon during fluctuating light conditions. This discovery could lead to increased productivity and reduced dependence on fossil fuels through targeted plant breeding programs.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalGCB Bioenergy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2021

UTSW study finds potential strategy for fighting obesity

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified a method to safely replicate the weight-loss benefits of a plant compound, celastrol. By deleting a specific protein in brain cells, they were able to mimic the effects of celastrol, resulting in mice losing 7% of their body weight without experiencing harmful side effects.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·DateNov 2, 2021

They'll lead the robots out

Researchers at Nicolaus Copernicus University developed an algorithm to help robots avoid dead ends by predicting obstacles and using augmented reality. This innovation significantly improves the efficiency of mobile robots.

SourceNicolaus Copernicus University in Torun·JournalEnergies·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2021

Lung capacity tests found to be accurate precursor of co-morbidities

A large UK Biobank cohort study found that Preserved Ratio Impaired Spirometry (PRISm) is strongly associated with an increased risk of death and comorbidities. PRISm was linked to symptoms such as breathlessness, cardiovascular disease, and multimorbidity.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 2, 2021

New tool assesses how well people read kids’ emotions

Researchers developed a new tool, PerCEIVED Task, to measure people's accuracy in recognizing emotion in elementary school-aged children. The study highlights the existence of emotional biases, such as incorrectly perceiving Black children as angry, and emphasizes the importance of asking children what they're feeling.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEmotion·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 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.

An artificial material that can sense, adapt to its environment

Researchers at University of Missouri and University of Chicago develop an artificial material that can respond to its environment, make decisions, and perform actions not directed by humans. The material uses a computer chip to control information processing and convert energy into mechanical energy.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 2, 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.

Lack of sleep affecting students’ mental health especially women, says study

A new study published in Annals of Human Biology found that over two-thirds of university students experience poor sleep quality, which is linked to increased risk of depression and high stress levels. Women are more likely to suffer from inadequate sleep habits and excessive daytime sleepiness.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalAnnals of Human Biology·DateNov 2, 2021

Pinniped craniofacial musculature provides insight on its role in aquatic feeding

A Baylor University researcher led a study comparing pinniped craniofacial musculature and its potential role in aquatic feeding, revealing unique adaptations in suction- and biting-specialist species. The study provides foundational data for further research on pinnipeds and their evolution of functional morphology.

SourceBaylor University·JournalJournal of Anatomy·DateNov 2, 2021

One in twenty achieve remission from type 2 diabetes

Researchers found that around 5% of patients with type 2 diabetes in Scotland are in remission, suggesting a need for updated guidelines to support clinicians. Individuals in remission tend to be older and have lower blood sugar levels at diagnosis, and often achieve remission after weight loss since their diagnosis

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 2, 2021

Ghanaian youth positive mental health linked to social connections and caring

Researchers found that emotional, social, and psychological well-being in Ghanaian youth are closely tied to having healthy relationships with friends, family, and community. The study's findings suggest that programs promoting Positive Youth Development (PYD) principles could be effective in promoting positive mental health.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateNov 2, 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.

Stabilized blue phase crystals could lead to new optical technologies

Stabilized blue phase crystals could lead to new optical technologies with better response times. By using a core and shell structure, researchers were able to trap chiral liquid crystal in a 'blue phase' state, allowing for perfect, uniform crystals that can be controlled and predicted.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalACS Nano·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 2, 2021

Baby seals can change their tone of voice

Researchers studied harbour seal pups' vocal responses to sea noise, finding they lowered their tone to adapt. The study reveals young seals have advanced control over their vocalizations at an early age.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateNov 2, 2021

Achieving inner balance: How to keep metabolites on the level

A study published in Nature Communications identified C-terminal binding protein 2 (CtBP2) as a global regulator of metabolism that balances sugar and fat levels in the liver. CtBP2 is crucial for controlling glucose and lipid balance, making it a promising drug target for treating symptoms associated with obesity.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 2, 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.

Unexpected antibody type found in people with malaria infections

Researchers have detected antibodies primarily made in response to mucous membrane infections, not typically thought of as a blood and liver infection, in study participants with malaria. The discovery provides new insight into the human body's response to malaria and may help identify new ways to treat or develop vaccines.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·Journalnpj Vaccines·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2021

Food quality and health essential for successful porpoise reproduction

Researchers found that poor health in females can lead to interrupted pregnancies and underdeveloped fetuses. High-caloric fish is essential for successful porpoise reproduction, according to Lonneke IJsseldijk's PhD study published in Scientific Reports.

SourceUtrecht University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2021

Gravitational ‘kick’ may explain the strange shape at the center of Andromeda

A new study suggests that a gravitational 'kick' from colliding supermassive black holes could be responsible for the strange shape of stars at the center of the Andromeda Galaxy. The team used computer simulations to track the consequences of such a merger, finding that it could knock millions of stars into wonky orbits.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 2, 2021

Transparency and kinder managers could lead to less collusion among staff, finds study led by NTU Singapore

A study led by NTU Singapore found that combining transparency with kinder management styles reduces collusion attempts among employees. The researchers conducted a roleplaying experiment in Amsterdam, assigning participants as managers or employees and observing the effects of increased transparency on collaboration.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalAccounting Organizations and Society·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 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.

Our brains may think two steps ahead when trying to sway others

Researchers at Mount Sinai found that people used forward thinking when trying to influence others, regardless of controllability. This neural activity was linked to the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, a decision-making center involved in strategic thinking.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2021

Hand washing and sanitizing not enough: Close that toilet lid after flushing!

A global review found bioaerosols can be transmitted throughout a building by defective plumbing and that opening toilet lids after flushing disperses contaminated droplets. Uncovered rubbish bins and poor surface cleaning also contribute to high bacterial loads.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 2, 2021

Drinking alcohol to stay healthy? That might not work, says new study

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that people who abstain from alcohol do not necessarily have a shorter survival time than those who consume low to moderate amounts. The study, which analyzed data from over 4,000 German adults, suggests that factors such as previous substance abuse or poor health are more significant predic...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 2, 2021

Forest fires linked to low birth weight in newborns

Exposure to fire smoke from landscape fires during pregnancy is linked to low birth weights, a public health problem in LMICs. Newborns from families with lower average birthweights are most susceptible to the risks of pollution.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateNov 2, 2021

Rocky exoplanets are even stranger than we thought

A new study suggests that most nearby rocky exoplanets are quite unlike anything in our Solar System, with diverse and exotic rock types not found anywhere. The research uses the chemical composition of 'polluted' white dwarfs to estimate the rock types on planets orbiting nearby stars.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateNov 2, 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.

Aircraft can get higher and greener from doped fuels

A team of UBCO researchers developed a recipe for a clean-burning, power-boosting aircraft fuel by adding graphene oxide nanomaterials to ethanol. This mixture improves the burn rate by about eight per cent, reducing carbon footprint and increasing engine power.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalCombustion and Flame·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2021

Helical conducting polymers go viral

Scientists from the University of Tsukuba have created a method to grow conducting polymers with magnetic properties using harmless virus particles as templates. The resulting polymer networks exhibit helical antiferromagnetic behavior, opening doors for applications in biosensors and virus detection.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalJournal of Polymer Science·DateNov 2, 2021

Duke, UNC-Chapel Hill scientists identify new antibody for COVID-19 and variants

Researchers at Duke University and UNC-Chapel Hill have identified a new antibody that can block infections and minimize symptoms against a broad array of coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-1 and SARS-CoV-2. The antibody was tested in animal models and found to be effective in protecting mice against developing severe lung symptoms.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2021

Researchers must assume responsibility for halting the global bee decline

The number of wild bees has fallen by 25% since 1990, threatening plant reproduction and food production. Researchers must assume social responsibility to communicate their knowledge and work in transdisciplinary coalitions to halt the decline.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalCurrent Opinion in Insect Science·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 2, 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.

You and your 27 friends will kill someone

A new study reveals that consumption in G20 nations causes significant premature deaths worldwide, particularly among infants and elderly populations. The research estimates that the lifetime consumption of 28 people in G20 nations will result in one person's premature death.

SourceNational Institute for Environmental Studies·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 2, 2021

Ventilation matters: Engineering airflow to avoid spreading COVID-19

Researchers used computer simulations and experiments to find that dead zones in indoor spaces can linger with infectious aerosols up to 10 times longer than the rest of the room. This discovery highlights the need for ventilation systems based on air circulation within a room, rather than relying solely on air changes per hour.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateNov 2, 2021

The state of research into youth helplines

A systematic review of youth helplines found that while they appear to be beneficial, there is limited evidence on their effectiveness, particularly for lower socioeconomic backgrounds. The study highlights the need for further research and tailored services to address systemic barriers to help-seeking.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 2, 2021

Cord blood cell transplantation and curcumin administration tested as therapy of Tay-Sachs disease

A new study investigates the effects of cord blood cell transplantation and curcumin administration on Tay-Sachs disease. The results show an increase in enzyme production and a decrease in inflammation after transplantation, as well as improved symptoms and reduced GM2 ganglioside levels when combined with curcumin.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalLife·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2021

Light pollution makes crickets chirp in the daytime and may disrupt reproductive processes

Exposure to artificial light at night impairs crickets' activity cycles, disrupting their nocturnal chirping and potentially affecting reproduction. The study, conducted by researchers at Tel Aviv University and the Open University, highlights the need to reduce artificial light pollution to protect environmental behaviors.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateNov 2, 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.