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Science News for October 13, 2021


Freezing fruit flies for future function

Scientists from the University of Tsukuba have developed a new technique to preserve Drosophila primordial germ cells, which can be used to produce new offspring. The cryopreserved PGCs were found to be effective after up to 400 days of long-term storage.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalCommunications Biology·DateOct 13, 2021

Welcoming composite inks into the fold

A new composite ink composed of ceramic particles in polymer acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) has been developed to make foldable electronics easier and cheaper to manufacture. The ink enables the creation of flexible, large-area dielectric substrates suitable for millimeter-wave devices, including 5G antennas.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 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.

OSU study: After two hours, sunscreen that includes zinc oxide loses effectiveness, becomes toxic

A new OSU study reveals that sunscreen containing zinc oxide loses its effectiveness and becomes toxic after just two hours of exposure to ultraviolet radiation. The research used zebrafish to test the toxicity of photodegradation products, finding significant increases in defects in the fish.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPhotochemical & Photobiological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021

Increases in extreme humid-heat disproportionately affect populated regions

A new study by Washington State University scientists finds that people living in areas with humid-heat extremes are bearing the brunt of the impact. The researchers identify a greater increase in population exposure to humid-heat as compared to dry-heat, emphasizing the importance of understanding humidity changes in a warming world.

SourceWashington State University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 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.

Immune system keeps the intestinal flora in balance

A team of scientists has found that IgA antibodies, a natural defense substance in the human body, can limit the fitness of benign bacteria in the intestine. This discovery helps maintain a delicate balance between the human organism and the intestinal flora.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021

During the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly 70% percent of surveyed healthcare workers in Ghana and Kenya met criteria for stress and burnout, which are associated with low job satisfaction

A study found that nearly 70% of surveyed healthcare workers in Ghana and Kenya experienced stress and burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers suggest that perceived preparedness plays a crucial role in mitigating these negative effects on job satisfaction.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·DateOct 13, 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.

Smoke from nuclear war would devastate ozone layer, alter climate

A new study finds that massive columns of smoke from a nuclear war would destroy much of the ozone layer over a 15-year period, with peak ozone loss averaging about 75% worldwide. This would lead to devastating effects on human health and food supplies, as well as terrestrial ecosystems.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Atmospheres·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 13, 2021

'Broken heart' syndrome is on the rise in women

A recent study by the Smidt Heart Institute found that middle-aged and older women are being diagnosed with 'broken heart' syndrome more frequently—up to 10 times more often—than younger women or men of any age. The incidence has been rising steadily since before the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting a possible link between stressors, brai...

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 13, 2021

Telehealth addiction treatment rose rapidly during pandemic; but potential benefits still unclear

New research highlights the potential of telehealth to increase patient engagement through improved access and convenience. However, studies found limited evidence that telehealth results in better retention or outcomes compared to in-person treatment. Researchers emphasize the need for more empirical work to confirm its benefits.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalPsychiatric Services·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 13, 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.

Stress on mothers can influence biology of future generations

Biologists found that a mother roundworm's response to heat stress affects not only her offspring but also their children. The researchers discovered a protein called HSF1 that collaborates with mechanisms to establish stress memory in eggs, which are then passed on through conception.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021

A crystal ball into our solar system’s future

Researchers detected giant gas planet with Jupiter-like orbit around white dwarf star, confirming planets can exist beyond star death; study suggests Jupiter and Saturn may survive Sun's red giant phase.

SourceW. M. Keck Observatory·JournalNature·DateOct 13, 2021

Storing data as mixtures of fluorescent dyes (video)

Researchers have developed a novel data storage method using mixtures of fluorescent dyes, which can store binary information at high density with fast read/write speeds. The technique encodes sequences of 0s and 1s into dye molecules, allowing for the storage of digital information for thousands of years or longer.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateOct 13, 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.

World-first clinical trial demonstrates focused ultrasound can deliver antibody therapy to breast cancer metastases in the brain

Researchers at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre have successfully delivered antibody therapy to breast cancer metastases in the brain using focused ultrasound. The treatment, which temporarily opens the blood-brain barrier, has shown promising results with tumor size reductions of up to 21% in patients.

SourceFocused Ultrasound Foundation·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 13, 2021

Pandemic-related grief may hamper bond between mothers and babies

A recent study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that pandemic-related grief and depressive symptoms are associated with lower levels of mother-infant bonding. Higher self-efficacy and social support were also linked to better bonding outcomes, while anxiety symptoms were not a significant factor.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalPediatric Research·TypeSurvey·DateOct 13, 2021

Did Venus ever have oceans?

A team of astrophysicists led by Martin Turbet from UNIGE and NCCR PlanetS found that Venus's climate conditions prevented the formation of oceans. The study suggests that the Earth could have suffered a similar fate if it had been closer to the Sun or had weaker radiation in its youth.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·TypeNews article·DateOct 13, 2021

Metamaterial eENZ can control correlations of light

A team at Tampere University has created a metamaterial eENZ mirror that can control the correlation properties of light, switching between high and low correlation states. By manipulating polarization, they achieve near-perfect coherence switching.

SourceTampere University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 13, 2021

Formula milk trials are not reliable, warn experts

A comprehensive review of formula milk trials found that only 17% were conducted independently of formula companies, and most had a high risk of bias due to selective reporting. The researchers call for substantial changes in the conduct and reporting of formula trials to protect participants from harm.

SourceBMJ Group·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 13, 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.

Penn researchers to study the impact of environmental and economic interventions on reducing health disparities in Black Philadelphia neighborhoods with nearly $10 million grant

The study will assess the impact of environmental and economic interventions on health and well-being in predominantly Black neighborhoods. Researchers will enroll 720 adults, half receiving the proposed interventions, and evaluate their overall health and wellbeing, as well as violent crime rates.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateOct 13, 2021

Quick test for potential probiotic in seawater may reveal health of corals

Researchers developed a quick test to identify beneficial bacteria species known to benefit coral, allowing for non-invasive assessment of coral health. The method enables rapid detection of specific bacterial species in seawater and coral samples, suggesting that the bacteria may be concentrated in coral.

SourceOsaka Prefecture University·JournalMarine Biotechnology·TypeNews article·DateOct 13, 2021

Crafting a “sponge” for adsorbing and desorbing gas molecules

A team of scientists has created a novel material composed of catenane molecules, which can adsorb and desorb gas molecules like carbon dioxide. The soft crystal exhibits unique properties, including porosity and deformability, making it suitable for applications such as capturing CO2 molecules.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021

How long does a neutron live?

Physicists have made the most precise measurement yet of a neutron's lifetime, revealing that it lives 14.629 minutes with an uncertainty of 0.005 minutes. This result brings scientists closer to understanding why two previous methods disagree and could provide evidence for new physics.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 13, 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.

Lack of power grids sealed fate for early electric cars

A recent study from Lund University reveals that inadequate infrastructure hindered the adoption of electric cars in the early 20th century. Electric cars were cheaper to drive and emitted less CO2 than gasoline cars, but access to local electrical infrastructure was a major factor in their popularity.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Energy·DateOct 13, 2021

Quarks and antiquarks at high momentum shake the foundations of visible matter

Two independent studies illuminate unexpected substructures in fundamental components of all matter. One study presents new evidence on the EMC effect by tagging spectator neutrons, offering direct insight into its origin. Meanwhile, a team from Fermilab found evidence that antimatter asymmetry plays a crucial role in nucleon properties.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateOct 13, 2021

Fewer frogs died by vehicles in the outset of the pandemic, study finds

A new study led by a University of Maine graduate student found that 50% fewer frogs died from vehicle collisions in spring 2020 compared to previous years. This decline was part of a broader reduction in animal road fatalities during the pandemic, similar to findings in other studies worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Maine·JournalConservation Science and Practice·DateOct 13, 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.

Ultrasound can enable faster, more sustainable battery recycling

Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology developed an ultrasound-assisted extraction method for valuable metals from electric car batteries, reducing extraction time by 50% and increasing metal ion recovery. The new process uses gentler acids and eliminates the need for harsh chemicals.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalGreen Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021

Hurricane Michael damage wins 2021 DesignSafe Dataset Award

The StEER Network's post-event reconnaissance helped assess building damage from Hurricane Michael, revealing widespread wind- and surge-induced damage. The dataset has been used to develop data-driven fragilities, train machine learning applications, and inform policy and practice improvements for coastal communities.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateOct 13, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The calculated costs of setting up labs to monitor antimicrobial resistance in resource-limited settings may be prohibitive without financial support

The cost of establishing laboratories to track antimicrobial resistance in Southeast Asian hospitals is substantial, making it challenging for many countries to implement such programs. Financial support is crucial to overcome these costs and provide effective antimicrobial resistance monitoring.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·DateOct 13, 2021

Cognitive study shows lack of bilingual education adversely affects English language learners' writing skills

A University of Kansas study examined three key cognitive functions in teaching writing to Hispanic English learners, revealing word retrieval skills, verbal language skills, and working memory are crucial for success. The research highlights the negative effects of a lack of bilingual education on these students' writing abilities.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Educational Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 13, 2021

At initial cancer diagnosis, a deeply personalized assessment

Researchers conducted genomic evaluations of advanced malignancies to develop matched, individualized combination therapies. The study found that precision cancer therapy improved median overall survival rate by 3.9 months compared to standard care.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalGenome Medicine·DateOct 13, 2021

Artificial intelligence-based technology quickly identifies genetic causes of serious disease

A new AI-powered algorithm, GEM, has been developed to quickly identify genetic causes of serious disease in newborns. The technology leverages machine learning and natural language processing to analyze vast amounts of genomic data and clinical records, achieving an accuracy rate of 92% compared to existing tools.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalGenomic Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 13, 2021

Pain relief without side effects with promising technique

Researchers at Lund University have developed a promising new pain relief method using ultra-thin microelectrodes, providing effective and personalized pain relief without common side effects. The study showed that this technique can block pain signals in the brain without affecting other sensory systems or motor skills.

SourceLund University·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 13, 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.

Free food provided to US households at school and work is relatively unhealthy, though food for families in the supplemental nutrition assistance program appears to be of better nutritional quality

A study published in PLOS ONE found that free food provided to US households at school and work is of poor nutritional quality. In contrast, food for families receiving the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) appears to be of better nutritional value.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 13, 2021

LSU Health funded to support community health workers for pandemic response

LSU Health has been awarded funding to support community health workers in New Orleans and throughout Louisiana, enabling them to serve as liaisons between healthcare services and under-resourced communities. The grants will promote health equity and provide essential public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateOct 13, 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.

Solving mystery of rare cancers directly caused by HIV

A team of scientists from the University of Pittsburgh and National Cancer Institute discovered why HIV is rarely the direct cause of cancer. The research found that it requires a specific series of events involving changes in HIV and additional mutations in human genes, resulting in T cell lymphomas. However, the occurrence is rare, a...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 13, 2021

International team of astronomers report on largest-ever observed set of mysterious fast radio bursts

An international team of astronomers observed over 1,650 fast radio bursts from one source in deep space, shedding new light on the engine that powers these phenomena. The bursts were measured using the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST) and represent more FRBs in one event than all previous reported occurrences com...

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateOct 13, 2021

Empowering Communities through Local Monitoring

The article discusses community-based environmental monitoring, which allows local members to collect and analyze data independently. This approach has the potential to empower Indigenous rightsholders and stakeholders, and contribute to meeting contemporary sustainability challenges.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 13, 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.

Society for Endocrinology annual conference heads to Edinburgh

The Society for Endocrinology's annual conference will feature world-leading scientific and clinical research on endocrine clinical practice. The event will showcase the latest innovations in endocrine medicine, including Medal and Award lectures by renowned experts.

SourceSociety for Endocrinology·DateOct 13, 2021

First global estimate of importance of pollinators for seed production in plants

A global study estimates that half of flowering plants are dependent on animal pollinators, with declines in pollinators threatening ecosystems and biodiversity. Without pollinators, many plant species would suffer reduced fertility or produce no seeds, emphasizing the importance of pollination services.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalScience Advances·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 13, 2021

Troubling birth findings show importance of timely flu vaccination

New research from an international team of scientists found that poor timing of influenza vaccination campaigns in Brazil led to increased premature births, lower birth-weight babies, and the need for more cesarean sections. The study suggests that earlier flu vaccination campaigns could better protect pregnant women and their babies.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateOct 13, 2021

Stanford-led research underscores pollution’s impact on child health

A Stanford-led study found that tiny airborne particles can cause inflammation and impair the body's ability to fight infection in children. The analysis, published in Environmental Pollution, estimates that increased particulate matter can lead to twice as many pneumonia hospitalizations as previously thought.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateOct 13, 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.

Genes and collective behaviour

Researchers used CRISPR-Cas9 technique to edit genes in zebrafish larvae, altering individual behavioral responses and group behavior. The study suggests two simple visuomotor reflexes explain the collective behavior of zebrafish.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 13, 2021

Ancient poop shows people in present-day Austria drank beer and ate blue cheese up to 2,700 years ago

Researchers found evidence of two fungal species used in blue cheese and beer production in ancient feces from Hallstatt-Dachstein/Salzkammergut. The findings suggest that people consumed blue cheese and beer during the Iron Age, nearly 2,700 years ago, and retained a non-Westernized gut microbiome structure until the Baroque period.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 13, 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.

HSE University researchers explain behaviour of chaotic systems

Researchers from HSE University's Laboratory of Complex Systems Modeling and Control proposed a new mechanism explaining power-law patterns in real-world systems. The discovery may improve understanding of processes leading to strong earthquakes, forest fires, financial market crashes, and social network synchronization.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 13, 2021

Center for Innovation in Mental Health at CUNY SPH awarded NIH grant for Harlem Strong Collaborative

The CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy has received a nearly $2 million NIH grant to develop a multisectoral coalition to implement a community-wide collaborative care model to address mental health and socio-economic risks in Harlem. The initiative aims to close the mental health treatment gap for ethnic minoritie...

SourceCUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy·DateOct 13, 2021

Fluorescent spray lights up tumors for easy detection during surgery

Scientists developed a fluorescent spray that specifically targets and illuminates cancerous tissue, enabling precise tumor detection and removal during surgery. The innovative approach offers a solution to the challenge of distinguishing between healthy tissue and cancerous cells.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateOct 13, 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.

How to force photons to never bounce back

Researchers at EPFL have created a topological insulator that allows microwave photons to survive unprecedented levels of disorder and obstacles. This discovery holds great promise for advances in science and technology, particularly in the development of next-generation communication systems and photonic processors.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateOct 13, 2021

Study finds correlation between rural geography and access to handguns, suicidality among Colorado teenagers

A cross-sectional study found a correlation between rural geography and easy access to handguns, leading to higher risks of suicidality among Colorado teenagers. The findings can inform the allocation of educational firearm safety and suicide prevention resources in the state.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 13, 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.

LLU study identifies uptick in mammogram cancellations from early pandemic

A Loma Linda University Health research study found that mammogram cancellations increased during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic before decreasing to pre-pandemic levels. The study's findings could help breast cancer surgeons prepare for a potential surge of patients presenting with more advanced stages of breast cancer.

SourceLoma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center·JournalThe American Surgeon·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 13, 2021

Harvard researchers use dyes to store data

A Harvard research team has created a new method of storing digital information using mixtures of fluorescent dyes, which can potentially store data for thousands of years or more. The technique uses inkjet printing and fluorescence microscopy to encode and decode binary messages in the dye molecules.

SourceHarvard University·JournalACS Central Science·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021

How many people get 'long COVID?' More than half, researchers find

According to a study by Penn State researchers, more than half of the 236 million people who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 worldwide since December 2019 will experience post-COVID symptoms, also known as 'long COVID', up to six months after recovery. The research team found that adults and children can experience various adverse he...

SourcePenn State·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 13, 2021

New clues toward treating pediatric brain tumors harboring epigenetic mutation

Researchers have found a small-molecule inhibitor that can suppress tumor growth in animal models of H3.3G34R/V glioma, offering new treatment options for pediatric patients. The compound has the potential to cross the blood-brain barrier and is currently being tested in clinical trials.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 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.

Study: Heartburn drugs may have unexpected benefits on gum disease

A recent University at Buffalo study found that patients using proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for heartburn had smaller probing depths in their gums, indicating less severe gum disease. The researchers suggest that PPIs' side effects may be linked to reduced periodontitis severity.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalClinical and Experimental Dental Research·DateOct 13, 2021

Climate model shows that Venus could never have had oceans

A new climate model challenges the idea that Venus ever had oceans, suggesting high surface temperatures and limited solar radiation prevented ocean formation. The research team found that clouds on night-side Venus would actually maintain high temperatures through a greenhouse effect, further supporting this conclusion.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature·DateOct 13, 2021

Johns Hopkins pioneers method to examine how immunotherapy changes tumors

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a non-invasive optical probe to understand the complex changes in tumors after immunotherapy. Using Raman spectroscopy and machine learning, they identified key features that indicate how tumors respond to treatment, showing promising results for predicting patient response.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalCancer Research·DateOct 13, 2021

A new single-atom catalyst can produce hydrogen from urea at an exceptional rate

Researchers developed a strategy to achieve ultra-high loading of single metal atom sites on cobalt oxide support, stabilizing Rh and other noble metals. The strained surface showed exceptional UOR activity and stability, requiring lower working voltage than commercial Pt and Rh catalysts.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 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.

Making data visualizations more accessible

A new study by MIT researchers has found that blind and sighted readers have sharply different takes on what content is most useful to include in a chart caption. The study created a four-level framework for evaluating charts, which could help develop more effective tools for automatically generating captions and alternative text.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics·DateOct 13, 2021

COVID-19 vaccine acceptance, access among Black, Latinx communities

A study finds that community-informed insights can inform health care strategies to maximize vaccine acceptance in communities hardest hit by the pandemic. Vaccination rates were found to be lower among Black and Latinx populations compared to other demographics, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 13, 2021

Physicists lead world's most precise measurement of neutron lifetime

Researchers at Indiana University have made the world's most precise measurement of a neutron's lifetime, improving upon previous measurements by more than two-fold. The study provides new insights into the nature of the universe, including the possibility of dark matter and the formation of atomic nuclei.

SourceIndiana University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeObservational study·DateOct 13, 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.

Longstanding magnetic materials classification problem solved

Researchers have classified magnetic materials using a unified description, solving a longstanding problem. The new system provides a complete mathematical characterization of magnetic structures and has implications for quantum applications.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 13, 2021

Catching malaria evolution in the act

Scientists have developed a technique to sequence individual malaria parasites' genomes, allowing for the detection of new mutations. These mutations are often targeting a gene family controlling transcription in malaria, suggesting potential avenues for developing more effective treatments and vaccines.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateOct 13, 2021

I’m not a little kid anymore! 10-year-old children act like adults, giving more credit to the opinion of adults who have previously endorsed their ideas.

A study published in Royal Society Open Science found that 10-year-old children follow social norms and reciprocate consideration from adults. Children of this age tend to behave more like adults, giving weight to adults' opinions if they are credited, whereas younger children trust their own decisions independently of adult behavior.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 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.

Children repeatedly exposed to malaria from birth are more likely to be anemic by the age of two

A Brazilian study found that children exposed to malaria from birth are more likely to develop anemia by age two. The researchers, led by Dr. Marly Augusto Cardoso, followed 1,539 children and discovered that 12.6% were anemic, with a higher prevalence in rural areas not covered by the study.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateOct 13, 2021

Tackling the collateral damage from antibiotics

Researchers from EMBL Heidelberg and University of Tübingen discovered that certain antibiotics, like tetracyclines and macrolides, can kill specific gut microbes. Combining antibiotics with non-antibiotic drugs may reduce collateral damage by preserving antibiotic activity against pathogens.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021

Leprosy confirmed in wild chimpanzees

Researchers have confirmed cases of leprosy in two unconnected West African populations of chimpanzees, in Guinea-Bissau and Ivory Coast. The strains identified are different and rare among humans. Long-term health monitoring is needed to establish the scale and possible effects of leprosy on critically endangered western chimpanzees.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 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.

COVID testing using pooled samples showed high accuracy, low cost

Pooled saliva sample COVID-19 testing demonstrated over 95% agreement with the gold standard and detected 83% of semester's cases. The approach is among the most sensitive available, detecting virus at very low viral load, and provides results in under 8 hours.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·DateOct 13, 2021

Soybean study designs and implements a more effective and less toxic bio-fungicide

Researchers have successfully used double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) molecules as a bio-fungicide to suppress the production of a toxin in soybean plants. The study found that dsRNAs produced in bacterial cells can effectively manage fungal diseases, reducing the need for toxic chemicals and potentially mitigating fungicide resistance.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytopathology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021

Higher fasting ‘hunger hormone’ levels from healthy diet may improve heart health and metabolism

A clinical trial found that a green Mediterranean diet rich in leafy greens like Mankai and green tea can elevate fasting ghrelin levels, reducing belly fat and improving insulin sensitivity. This approach may also have additional cardiometabolic benefits.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 13, 2021

Surface chemistry reveals corrosive secrets

A new technique reveals the role of cations in surface chemistry, shedding light on environmental issues like rust and pollution. The study uses surface analysis to understand the initial stages of iron corrosion, which can help monitor carbon dioxide capture, water quality, and infrastructure management.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry A·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 13, 2021

Estimated pulse wave velocity predicts severe Covid

Researchers have discovered that estimated pulse wave velocity is an effective tool to refine risk stratification of hospitalized patients with Covid-19. The study found that the addition of ePWV to clinical predictive markers improved prognostic value for in-hospital mortality.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 13, 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.

Stem cell transplant: How skin-derived T cells can damage other organs

Researchers discovered that skin-derived T cells can migrate into the bloodstream and cause inflammation in other organs, such as the intestine. The study provides new approaches to therapy and diagnostic options for stem cell transplantation.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateOct 13, 2021

Salk scientists reveal most commonly mutated gene in all cancers

Researchers at the Salk Institute combined genomic and epidemiological data to reveal that some widespread beliefs about cancer-causing genes are incorrect. For example, KRAS is found to be involved in only about 11% of all cancers, not 25% as previously thought. This study could help guide genetic research for more effective treatments.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 13, 2021

Holey metalens!

Researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences developed a metasurface using ultra-deep holes to focus light to a single spot, achieving a record-breaking aspect ratio of nearly 30:1. This breakthrough enables the creation of large achromatic metalenses with diverse color control capabilities.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNano Letters·DateOct 13, 2021

Hormone widely used as an autism treatment shows no benefit

A multicenter study found that oxytocin, a hormone used as an autism treatment, had no significant impact on social skills among children with autism. The study of 290 children aged 3-17 showed that oxytocin was safe but ineffective in boosting social abilities.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 13, 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.

Improvements in microscopy home in on biology’s elusive details

Researchers at Arizona State University have refined cryogenic electron microscopy to produce more accurate structures of biological samples. The new method uses a statistical approach to model transitory structures, which can play a vital role in biological processes.

SourceArizona State University·JournalMatter·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 13, 2021

Study: Women are underrepresented in stroke clinical trials

A recent study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that women are underrepresented in stroke clinical trials, with a participation-to-prevalence ratio of 0.84. This disparity may limit the applicability of trial results to the general population and affect access to new therapies.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateOct 13, 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.

Fewer patients sought treatment for kidney failure in early months of COVID-19 pandemic

A new study found that the COVID-19 pandemic led to a 30% decline in patients seeking treatment for kidney failure, with Black patients experiencing significantly worse kidney function. The decline was attributed to changes in healthcare delivery and may reflect delays in treatment due to fear of infection or logistical barriers.

SourceBrown University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateOct 13, 2021

Scientists seen as trustworthy experts when sharing their work in online videos

A new study found that scientists who present their own work in science videos are perceived as having more expertise and being more trustworthy than third-party presenters. The study also showed that first-person accounts can humanize the science and make it more relatable to a wider audience.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021

Mixing mineral and chemical sunscreens may limit protection against UVA

Researchers found that combining zinc oxide with small-molecule UV filter ingredients reduced UVA protection by 84.3-91.8% compared to non-mineral sunscreens. The study also showed toxic effects on zebra fish embryos when exposed to sunscreen mixtures containing zinc oxide.

SourceSpringer·JournalPhotochemical & Photobiological Sciences·DateOct 13, 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.

Mutated cells drive out early tumours from the oesophagus

Researchers discovered that mutant clones in the normal human oesophagus outcompete and eliminate emerging tumours, preventing them from growing. This study sheds light on how cancer develops and could lead to new ways to prevent early tumours from becoming cancers.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature·DateOct 13, 2021

Primates’ ancestors may have left trees to survive asteroid

A recent study suggests that primates and marsupials were among the few tree-dwelling mammals that survived an asteroid impact 66 million years ago. The researchers used computer models and fossil records to find that most surviving mammals did not rely on trees, but some arboreal species may have been versatile enough to adapt.

SourceCornell University·JournalEcology·DateOct 13, 2021

How the Sun’s magnetic forces arrange gas particles

A research team from Göttingen University observed magnetic forces arranging gas particles in solar prominences, with charged particles moving at speeds of up to 42 km/s. This phenomenon is significant for understanding astrophysical processes, including star and planet formation.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateOct 13, 2021

First evidence of microtubules’ mechanosensitive behavior

A research team led by Associate Professor Akira Kakugo of Hokkaido University has provided direct evidence that microtubules function as mechanosensors, slowing down kinesin movement when bent. This phenomenon is attributed to enhanced interaction energy between kinesin and deformed microtubule structural units.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021

Over a thousand cosmic explosions in 47 days detected by FAST

A team led by Prof. LI Di and Dr. WANG Pei detected 1,652 independent bursts of Fast Radio Burst (FRB) 121102 within 47 days using the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope (FAST). The characteristic energy and energy distribution of FRBs were determined for the first time.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·DateOct 13, 2021

New cell treatment could combat ageing

Researchers have identified a new method for clearing senescent cells using an antibody treatment, which could transform treatments for ageing and related conditions. The treatment targets specific membrane markers on senescent cells, effectively eliminating them and slowing age-related degeneration.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021