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Science News for November 23, 2021


Chemistry: Researchers develop novel, inexpensive catalysts enabling noble metal chemistry

Researchers at Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg have developed novel, inexpensive catalysts for alkynes reactions. Alkynes are activated through a soft manner, mimicking gold and platinum-based catalysts, with aluminum oxide being a more accessible alternative.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2021

New precision approach against coronavirus infection: How the ACE2 receptor blocks the 'gateway' into human cells

Researchers from Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia have developed a new precision strategy to hinder coronavirus infection by blocking the ACE2 receptor. The study, published in Pharmacological Research, reveals two anti-K353 aptamers that dose-dependently inhibit viral spike protein binding to human ACE2, preventing cell infection.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·JournalPharmacological Research·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Big batteries on wheels can deliver zero-emissions rail while securing the grid

A Berkeley Lab study shows how battery-electric trains can cut carbon dioxide emissions by over half, eliminating premature deaths and health costs associated with diesel freight trains. The analysis suggests that retrofitting diesel-electric trains with batteries is a cost-effective solution with multiple benefits.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateNov 23, 2021

New project to support student carers

A new project aims to provide peer support and research opportunities for students with caring responsibilities. The study reveals that without adequate support, caring can negatively impact physical and mental health, university performance, and social life.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalInternational Journal of Inclusive Education·DateNov 23, 2021

Successful identification of the cause and cellular physiology of apoptosis caused by microplastics introduced into the brain

A joint research team identified the mechanism of microplastic-induced apoptosis in the brain by administering MPs orally to mice for 7 days. Microglial cells recognize MPs as external threats, leading to phagocytosis and apoptosis. The study reveals that smaller MPs (<2㎛) have a greater impact on cellular physiology.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateNov 23, 2021

Examining the dynamics of complex networks

The special issue examines the collective dynamics of complex networks with applications in neuroscience, climate modelling, and Earth science. The papers cover a broad range of topics including dynamics of excitable systems, cluster dynamics, and interplay of noise and feedback.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Special Topics·DateNov 23, 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.

Real-time COVID-19 infection risk assessment

The RT-CIRAM system analyzes public-domain data to determine the best times to avoid crowds and minimize COVID-19 infection risk. The mobile phone app provides personalized recommendations based on user input and factors like vaccination rates and cultural norms.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateNov 23, 2021

Scientists find SARS CoV-2-related coronaviruses in Cambodian bats from 2010

Researchers found coronaviruses closely related to SARS-CoV-2 in Shamel's horseshoe bats sampled in 2010. The discovery suggests a wider geographic distribution of the virus and its potential spillover from bat-borne viruses. Surveillance in Southeast Asia is crucial for pandemic preparedness.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2021

New model links cultural trauma with health inequalities

Researchers propose a new model linking cultural trauma to health disparities in US cultural groups, identifying cultural trauma as a fundamental cause of health disparities. The model suggests that damaging or destroying a group's culture can rob people of important resources for protecting their health.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 23, 2021

The role of bitter receptors in cancer

A systematic review of bitter taste receptors in cancer found that overexpression of these receptors stimulates anti-cancer mechanisms, reducing cell division and migration while increasing programmed cell death. Conversely, downregulation of bitter taste receptor genes is common in cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalCancers·DateNov 23, 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.

Study proposes a two-step plan to combat China’s waning agricultural exports

A recent study proposes a two-step plan to improve China's export competitiveness of its agricultural products. The study suggests focusing on traditional products with distinctive regional characteristics and taking comprehensive measures to enhance the international competitiveness of disadvantaged products.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalRegional Sustainability·DateNov 23, 2021

Novel aptamer-SERS detection protocol developed to detect hepatic inflammation related MiR-122

Researchers developed a novel biosensor using aptamer-combined SERS to detect miR-122 in cell-secreted exosomes, providing a potential biomarker for radiation-induced organ injury and liver inflammation. The method offers rapid separation of analytes using magnetic NPs, enabling early diagnosis of hepatic inflammation cases.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalACS Applied Bio Materials·DateNov 23, 2021

Free green services could substantially reduce emissions

A new study found that providing free green electricity and public transport can reduce home energy emissions by 13.4% and motor fuel emissions by 23.8%. This approach is more effective than redistributing carbon tax revenue among the population to address poverty.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateNov 23, 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.

Two-meter COVID-19 rule is ‘arbitrary measurement’ of safety

A new study suggests that social distancing alone is ineffective in mitigating COVID-19 spread and recommends vaccination, ventilation, and masks as vital measures. The researchers found that individual coughs vary widely, leading to a 'safe' distance of anywhere between one to three or more meters.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPhysics of Fluids·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 23, 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.

Deafness trumps HIV for deaf people living with HIV

A University of California, Riverside-led study found that deafness is a significant barrier to accessing health care and resources for deaf individuals living with HIV. The research highlights the need for improved communication, cultural competency, and accessibility in healthcare services to support aging deaf people with HIV.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care·TypeSurvey·DateNov 23, 2021

Finding the perfect match

A new paper proposes a means of filtering for candidates who identify with organizational goals and are willing to go the extra mile. Researchers found that those who strongly identified with the organizational goal were willing to expend significantly more effort towards finding ways to reduce carbon emissions.

SourceElsevier·JournalManagement Accounting Research·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2021

Virtual reality tool to be used in the fight against disease

A team of researchers from Lund University has developed a virtual reality tool called CellexalVR to help scientists better understand the complex relationships between genes and cell types. By using VR technology, researchers can visually explore large amounts of genomic data in a more intuitive and collaborative way.

SourceLund University·JournaliScience·DateNov 23, 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.

Study looks at brain flow, and how people achieve it

Researchers discover flow results from modular brain networks, enabling high-control and effortless experiences. Flow requires balance between engagement and challenge, with brain regions densely connected but sparsely connected to other areas.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Communication·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2021

Strengthening the food supply chain in response to the COVID-19 pandemic

The article examines how the pandemic affected the protein sector's food supply chains, discussing lessons learned from the experience. The authors highlight the importance of building food supply chain resilience through improved efficiency and technology adoption, but warn that larger firms may pose a threat to smaller local systems.

SourceElsevier·JournalApplied Animal Science·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 23, 2021

New chip hides wireless messages in plain sight

Researchers at Princeton University developed a new millimeter-wave wireless microchip that allows secure wireless transmissions without reducing latency or efficiency. The technique shapes the transmission itself to foil would-be eavesdroppers by using interference from multiple antennas.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 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.

Researchers study extent of healthcare avoidance during COVID-19

A new study found that 20.2% of participants reported avoiding healthcare during the pandemic, with those who are most likely to be affected being older individuals and those with low perceived health. The study calls for targeted public education to urge vulnerable citizens to seek medical attention.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 23, 2021

New method allows for a closer look at the effect of endocrine disrupting chemicals on gene expression

Researchers developed a new live cell quantitative analysis of ER dynamics using fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) to study the effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals on gene expression. The method enables faster and more accurate testing of larger numbers of compounds, revealing complex dynamics between receptor mob...

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2021

Latte lovers rejoice! Study reveals drinking coffee could lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease

A long-term study has revealed that drinking higher amounts of coffee may make you less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. The study found an association between coffee and several important markers related to Alzheimer’s disease, including executive function and amyloid protein accumulation in the brain.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·TypeSurvey·DateNov 23, 2021

Fewer than 14% of high-risk women attended a postpartum blood pressure screening

A new study found that only 13.7% of women diagnosed with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy attended a blood pressure screening visit within 10 days of delivery. Women with inadequate prenatal care utilization had lower rates of screening attendance compared to those with adequate care.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Women s Health·TypeCase study·DateNov 23, 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.

UBCO study finds psychedelic microdosing improves mental health

A UBCO study found that psychedelic microdosing significantly reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression in adults. The study, which followed over 8,500 participants from 75 countries, suggests that microdosing can be a valuable tool for mental health treatment.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateNov 23, 2021

New Canadian houses found to have much higher radon gas levels than those in Sweden

A Canadian research team has found that new homes in Canada have significantly higher radon gas levels than those in Sweden. The study, which analyzed over 25,000 Canadian and 38,000 Swedish properties, suggests that without intervention, radon levels in Canadian homes will increase by another 25% by 2050.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 23, 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.

By putting cancer cells to sleep, new drug could prevent tumor metastasis

Researchers have discovered a new therapeutic approach that prevents the growth of metastatic tumors in mice by forcing cancer cells into a dormant state. The drug C26 activates NR2F1, a protein that can induce cancer cell dormancy and prevent recurrence and metastasis.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2021

GMRT discovers several rare class of radio stars

A team of astronomers discovered eight new stars and three more previously known stars belonging to the rare 'Main-sequence Radio Pulse emitters' (MRPs) using the GMRT. These discoveries suggest that MRPs may be more common than thought, but are difficult to detect due to their radio pulses being visible only at certain times.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateNov 23, 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.

UMBC researchers develop new approach to nanoparticles that stop internal bleeding

Researchers at University of Maryland Baltimore County have developed a novel approach to modifying nanoparticles' surfaces to provide infusions with reduced negative reaction risks. By changing the core material, they reduced markers associated with infusion reactions, improving the effectiveness and safety of life-saving medications.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalNano Letters·DateNov 23, 2021

Using machine learning and natural language processing to measure consumer reviews for product attribute insights

Researchers develop a methodological framework to extract and monitor information from consumer reviews, providing actionable insights on product attributes and their benefits. The study also extends sentiment analysis by demonstrating hierarchical sentiment analysis, enabling managers to generate tailored dashboards and inform decisions.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateNov 23, 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.

Yoga improves quality of life in men with new diagnosis of prostate cancer

A pilot study found that yoga improved quality of life in men with new prostate cancer diagnoses, reducing fatigue and increasing immune response. The study also showed a reduction in inflammatory markers and an improvement in sexual function.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalProstate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 23, 2021

An exploration of tipping in complex systems

This special issue examines the nature of tipping in complex systems, revealing recent trends and challenges. The studies highlight the pressing need to control tipping phenomena and harness their potential for efficient logic operations.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Special Topics·DateNov 23, 2021

The 2nd International BioDesign Research Conference

The 2nd International BioDesign Research Conference will showcase the latest achievements in biosystems design and synthetic biology. Renowned speakers from top institutions worldwide will share their research progress, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among scientists.

SourceBioDesign Research·DateNov 23, 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.

Dopamine plays key role in songbird mating

Researchers found that dopamine stimulates female songbirds' preference for certain songs, affecting mating choice and memory. By manipulating dopamine levels, the team demonstrated lasting changes in song preferences, advancing our understanding of auditory perception.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 23, 2021

Magellanic Stream arcing over Milky Way may be five times closer than previously thought

New astronomical models suggest the Magellanic Stream could be just 20 kiloparsecs from Earth, potentially colliding with the Milky Way and fueling new star formation. The revised distance may also affect estimates of the stream's mass and density, which could require revision.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 23, 2021

Tectonic shift in Southern Ocean caused dramatic ancient cooling event

A new study suggests that the tectonic opening of Southern Ocean seaways led to a sudden cooling event 34 million years ago, contributing to the formation of Antarctic ice sheets. High-resolution simulations showed that this event caused a dramatic drop in coastal temperatures and initiated the Earth's transition into an Icehouse world.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 23, 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.

Reboot and recall: new brain hub for memory restoration identified

Researchers have found that stimulating the anterior thalamus can increase memory-related brain activity and restore memory function in rats with MTT lesions. The study suggests that therapies targeting this region could help recover memory in patients with brain injury, challenging previous notions of memory recovery.

SourceElsevier·JournalCurrent Research in Neurobiology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 23, 2021

Can we perceive gender from children's voices?

Researchers at the University of California, Davis and the University of Texas at Dallas found that listeners can reliably identify the gender of individual children as young as 5. They also discovered that identification of gender must take place jointly with the identification of age and likely physical size.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateNov 23, 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.

Clinical trial denounces use of platelet-rich plasma injections for knee joint osteoarthritis

A recent clinical trial published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that platelet-rich plasma injections had no significant benefits for reducing knee pain in people with mild to moderate osteoarthritis. The study, which involved 288 participants, compared platelet-rich plasma injections to placebo injections and...

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalJAMA·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 23, 2021

New method gives rapid, objective insight into how cells are changed by disease

A new 'image analysis pipeline' called TDAExplore gives scientists rapid insight into how cells are changed by disease, using a combination of microscopy, topology, and artificial intelligence. This approach can provide objective information on cell changes, such as the movement of proteins like actin, even with limited training data.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalPatterns·DateNov 23, 2021

Hepatitis drug increases antibiotic potency, limits antibiotic resistance

A study led by New York University researchers found that the FDA-approved hepatitis C treatment telaprevir can increase bacterial sensitivity to antibiotics and reduce antibiotic resistance. The antiviral blocks the function of essential proteins in bacteria, revealing an opportunity to repurpose the drug to use alongside antibiotics.

SourceNew York University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 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.

For a fungus, the right “accessories” can make or break a relationship with a plant

A new study explores how plants respond differently to useful and harmful microbes, revealing that accessory chromosomes from fungal strains dictate these responses. Most plant genes are expressed similarly in response to both beneficial and pathogenic fungi, but with key differences occurring just 12 hours after interaction.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2021

New process makes every atom matter for sustainable catalyst production

Scientists have discovered a new process to break bulk metal into atoms for sustainable catalyst production. The method uses magnetron sputtering to achieve record-breaking rates of atom dispersal, enabling the fabrication of valuable catalyst materials. This breakthrough has significant implications for industries reliant on catalysts.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2021

Optimizing FDNY ambulance response

Researchers at Columbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science teamed up with the Fire Department of New York to upgrade FDNY's EMS response operations. They developed an optimization system that minimizes response time, reduces overcrowding, and balances demand and supply of patient intakes at a city-wide level.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateNov 23, 2021

Salvaging rare earth elements from electronic waste

A new nanotechnology developed by Penn State researchers selectively recovers neodymium and other rare earth elements from electronic waste using plant cellulose. The process is environmentally friendly and can separate neodymium in seconds, making it a sustainable solution for recycling.

SourcePenn State·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateNov 23, 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.

UNM methane leak detection research could help reduce emissions

Researchers at UNM are working on a DOE-funded project to develop low-cost sensors for detecting natural gas pipeline leaks. The sensors can quantify methane concentrations and identify sources of emissions, helping to pinpoint the origin of methane emissions in the US.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico·DateNov 23, 2021

New index tracks US state progress on promoting the health and well-being of older populations for the first time

A new index ranks US states based on their support for successful aging across five domains: productivity, security, equity, cohesion, and well-being. The study found that no single domain drives the results, and state policies play a significant role in adapting to an aging population.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalMilbank Quarterly·DateNov 23, 2021

Chemical researchers invent bio-petroleum for sustainable materials

Researchers develop technology to produce petroleum-like liquids from renewable plants using combined fermentation and chemical refining. The new bio-petroleum can be converted into various chemicals, including polymers, rubbery materials, soap-like molecules, and lubricants, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 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.

Origami, kirigami inspire mechanical metamaterials designs

Researchers categorize origami- and kirigami-based mechanical metamaterials into six groups based on folding and cutting patterns. Hybrid designs offer great potential for shape morphing and real-world applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateNov 23, 2021

When bees get a taste for dead things

Researchers discovered that these 'meat-eating' bees have a unique gut microbiome enriched with acid-loving bacteria, similar to those found in vultures. The bees' ability to eat dead bodies is surprising, but they can also store honey and have special chambers for meat storage.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalmBio·DateNov 23, 2021

Antibodies help keep harmful forms of gut fungi in check

A study by Weill Cornell Medicine investigators found that antibodies secreted in the gut help control pathogenic forms of gut fungi like Candida albicans. However, patients with Crohn's disease often have impaired antibody function, leading to an overgrowth of harmful fungi.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Microbiology·DateNov 23, 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.

The Riemann conjecture unveiled by physics

A mathematical enigma, the Riemann conjecture, has been unraveled thanks to a new approach from statistical physics. The solution lies in chaotic motions and probability laws that regulate them.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalJournal of Statistical Mechanics Theory and Experiment·DateNov 23, 2021

Deeper defense against cyber attacks

A KAUST team developed an improved method for detecting malicious intrusions using deep learning, achieving accuracy rates of up to 99% in simulations of different kinds of attacks. This stacked deep learning approach promises an effective defense against cyberattacks and could prevent outages in critical infrastructure.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalCluster Computing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 23, 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.

New species of green microalga identified in São Paulo

A new species of green microalgae was identified in a reservoir in northwest São Paulo, Brazil, and reclassified into the genus Nephrocytium. The discovery was made through phylogenetic analysis and molecular sequencing, confirming that the microalga is distinct from other known species.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalTaxon·DateNov 23, 2021

Prehistoric mums may have cared for kids better than we thought

A new study from Australian National University challenges old assumptions about infant mortality in ancient populations. The research suggests that fertility had a greater influence on the proportion of deceased infants than infant mortality rate.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateNov 23, 2021

Remote responders

A new study by UNM researchers found that patients treated in rural emergency departments had similar outcomes to those receiving care in urban EDs for life-threatening conditions. However, rural patients with vague symptoms fared worse due to limited diagnostic capabilities and transfer processes.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeCase study·DateNov 23, 2021

First moth species on Alpenrose discovered

A previously unknown glacial relic, the Alpine rose leaf-miner moth, has been discovered in the Alps. The caterpillars specialize on the rust-red alpine rose, avoiding it like most other moths and butterflies due to its toxicity.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalAlpine Entomology·DateNov 23, 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.

Less than 10% of opioid overdose patients are prescribed potentially lifesaving medications after emergency treatment

A Michigan Medicine study found that only 7.4% of patients received naloxone and 8.5% received buprenorphine prescriptions within 30 days of an opioid overdose. The low rates highlight missed opportunities for equipping patients with rescue medicines to use in case of future overdoses.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 23, 2021

The Lancet Infectious Diseases: First real-world study reports effectiveness of BBV152 against symptomatic COVID-19 in India

A real-world study of BBV152 found that two doses resulted in 50% effectiveness against symptomatic COVID-19 in hospital workers. The study's findings support the importance of a second dose for maximum protection, but highlight limitations in estimating vaccine effectiveness against severe outcomes.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateNov 23, 2021

A new snow tracking sensor

A new snow tracking sensor using infrared radiation technology will track daily snow depth, making it easier to predict and prevent winter-related hazards. The device will measure snow density by strata, providing more accurate data for avalanche forecasting and flood risk assessment.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalRemote Sensing·DateNov 23, 2021

Antibody levels predict vaccine efficacy, new analysis shows

Researchers found that higher antibody levels correlate with greater vaccine protection against COVID-19. The study provides new insights into how to measure vaccine efficacy, potentially guiding approval decisions and vaccine regimen modifications.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 23, 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.

Neurobiologists reveal how value decisions are coded into our brains

Researchers discovered the retrosplenial cortex as the site of value decision-making in the brain. Persistency allows value signals to be effectively represented across different brain areas, especially the RSC. Artificial intelligence networks mimicking mouse decisions showed remarkably similar results.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2021

Ultrashort-pulse lasers kill bacterial superbugs, spores

Researchers have found that ultrashort-pulse lasers can inactivate antibiotic-resistant bacteria and bacterial spores, reducing their numbers by over 1,000 times. The technology has the potential to be used to sterilize wounds and disinfect blood products, and may also be used to treat bloodstream infections.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Biophotonics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2021

The Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 is rapidly taking over in West Africa

The Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 has become the dominant virus form in Benin, West Africa, with over 60% of cases linked to the variant. Vaccination campaigns are crucial to combat the spread, as only 1% of the population is vaccinated.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2021

Bans on flavored e-cigarettes could see some vapers return to smoking cigarettes

A recent study by the International Tobacco Control Policy Evaluation Project found that most adult vapers oppose flavor restrictions, with 82% saying they would continue vaping if flavored products were banned. Some vapers may switch to smoking cigarettes instead, highlighting potential unintended consequences of a flavor ban.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalAddictive Behaviors·DateNov 23, 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.

Athletes need thorough tests after long COVID

A new study published in Annals of Medicine recommends that athletes returning to training after long COVID undergo a series of tests and receive regular advice from medical specialists. The researchers defined long COVID as symptoms lasting more than four weeks, and warned of the risk of organ damage and mental health issues.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalAnnals of Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 23, 2021

Researchers investigate link between bilingualism and false memories

A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that false information in both native and second languages equally contribute to the formation of false memories. The researchers used an online experiment with participants speaking Russian and English to assess the influence of misinformation and source misattribution on memory recall.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateNov 23, 2021

How eating less in early life could help with reproduction later on

Researchers found that females who consumed less food for their entire lives lived longer but didn't reproduce as well as better-fed counterparts. However, those who switched to unlimited food after early life restriction started mating and reproducing more, producing three times more offspring than restricted diet flies.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 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.

Houston Methodist study reveals masks and distancing worked to keep germs at bay

A Houston Methodist study found that lifting COVID-19 restrictions led to a rapid return of seasonal respiratory viruses, highlighting the effectiveness of masking and distancing measures. The study's findings demonstrate that these precautions can suppress all respiratory viruses, not just COVID-19.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeObservational study·DateNov 23, 2021

How positively and negatively charged ions behave at interfaces

Scientists investigate how positively and negatively charged ions behave at solid-liquid interfaces. They found that the hydration shell of positively charged sodium ions is stripped away at small voltages, while negatively charged chloride ions require higher voltages.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2021

Understanding Eraser Enzymes

MRNA eraser enzymes play a crucial role in regulating gene expression and cell fate decisions. Research on these enzymes may lead to the development of therapeutics that target misbehaving erasers in disease. The team aims to understand how these enzymes recognize and choose specific methyl groups to remove from RNA.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateNov 23, 2021

Measuring inequality in COVID-19 mortality

The study found significant disparities in COVID-19 mortality rates among racial and ethnic groups and those with different levels of educational attainment. The researchers analyzed data from 219 million adults aged 25 or older to identify these inequalities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 23, 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.

Vehicles are an under-recognized source of urban ammonia pollution

Researchers found that vehicles accounted for 60-84% of total NH3 emissions in western Los Angeles, significantly higher than government estimates. This discovery suggests a substantial health impact from vehicle-related ammonia, which has been largely under-recognized and uncontrolled.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateNov 23, 2021