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Science News for October 27, 2021


Jewish autistic pupils thrive as bilingual learners, after communities reject advice “not to teach Hebrew”

A University of Cambridge study found that Jewish autistic children who learn Hebrew as a second language benefit from their cultural identity and community involvement. Parents and teachers rejected outdated professional advice, instead teaching pupils Hebrew to enhance their spiritual and family life.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateOct 27, 2021

Polar bear diet may indicate prey distribution changes due to climate shifts

Researchers found polar bears can be used as indicators of environmental shifts, highlighting how changes affect marine mammal prey populations. They also discovered that polar bears are flexible eaters and will consume available prey, making them an ideal monitoring tool for tracking environmental changes.

SourceYork University·JournalEcological Indicators·DateOct 27, 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.

Infections from respiratory viruses follow a predictable seasonal pattern, researchers find

Researchers identified a clear-cut seasonal pattern in respiratory viruses, with peaks in January and lows in June, affecting hospital admissions. The study found that babies born in severe peak years were more likely to be infected and hospitalized, highlighting the importance of planning ahead for high seasons of illnesses.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 27, 2021

A heart that beats (almost) like our own

Researchers at the University of Iowa found that the fruit fly's head-heart beats much like a human's, driven by an automatic muscle contraction and relaxation. This rhythmic pulsation generates hemolymph flow to the antennae and may help keep the brain clean.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2021

Does playing high school football lead to increased risk of suicide later in life?

A new study published in Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine found that playing high school football is not associated with an increased risk of suicidal ideation or depression in young adulthood. In contrast, mental health difficulties in adolescence were strongly related to suicidality in young adulthood.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalClinical Journal of Sport Medicine·DateOct 27, 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.

The Lancet Global Health: Treatment of COVID-19 with fluvoxamine reduces risk of prolonged hospitalization, finds largest trial to date

The largest trial to date shows that fluvoxamine treatment for high-risk outpatients with early-diagnosed COVID-19 reduces the need for prolonged observation or hospitalization. The study found an absolute reduction in risk of prolonged hospitalization and a relative risk reduction of 32% compared to the control group.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 27, 2021

UBCO researchers examine how e-cigarette users quit

A UBCO study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that negative health experiences and withdrawal symptoms are major barriers to quitting e-cigarettes. Gradual reduction methods, including tapering nicotine concentration and using distraction techniques, were preferred by over 65% of quitters.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 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.

Why roots don’t grow in the shade

Plants redirect resources from root growth to stem development when shaded, limiting yields and biomass. Researchers discovered key genes involved in this process, including WRKY proteins and ethylene signaling.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateOct 27, 2021

Taking the pulse of flies

A study by Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown found that fruit fly hearts accelerate when in danger and slow down during freezing, a behavior previously thought to be energy-saving. This unexpected result suggests an entirely new mechanism at play in flies' cardiac responses.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 27, 2021

New research NETs a fresh angle for treating severe inflammation

Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital propose using an existing drug to prevent NET formation, which can lead to severe inflammation in conditions like COVID-19, sepsis, and ARDS. The study shows that ricolinostat inhibits histone deacetylases, reducing NET formation and inflammation.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournaliScience·DateOct 27, 2021

Bone mineral density decreases less than expected after menopause

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that postmenopausal women experience a significant decrease in bone mineral density, but at a lower rate than previously assumed. Women who received hormone replacement therapy and those with weight gain during follow-up showed minimal bone loss.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateOct 27, 2021

Astronomers discover massive galaxy 'shipyard' in the distant universe

Astronomers have discovered a massive galaxy protocluster, believed to be a 'galaxy shipyard', in the distant universe. The discovery provides insights into galaxy cluster formation and sheds light on the process of galaxies forming into clusters.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 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.

Not all acne is equal: scientists reveal strains of C. acnes that promote skin health

A new study reveals that certain strains of Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) found on healthy skin can prolong the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans and help its innate immune system fight against Staphylococcus aureus. RNA sequencing analysis also shows these beneficial strains activate genes related to innate immunity.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2021

People may prefer climate change policies that give incentives, find energy alternatives

Participants preferred policies that used incentives to encourage eco-friendly choices, particularly when they targeted businesses. In contrast, policies that focused on energy alternatives and used incentives were also supported. The researchers found that policy support was influenced by the type of change targeted, who was targeted,...

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 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.

Picomolar antimalarial agent from a Chinese medicinal plant

Researchers at Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica have isolated and characterized seven novel dimeric sesquiterpenoids with potent antimalarial activities. The most potent compound, Shizukaol A, exhibits an EC50 value 1000-fold more active than artemisinin.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·DateOct 27, 2021

Industry must prepare now for a new world of green electricity

The University of Leeds research highlights the need for industry to adopt new technologies that can manufacture materials using renewable electricity. This is crucial to achieving net zero emissions targets by 2050, as current steel and aluminium manufacturing capacities pose a significant barrier to this goal.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalCurrent Opinion in Environmental Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 27, 2021

Likely lower risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes from SARS-CoV-2 than previously feared

A national study in Sweden suggests that the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes from SARS-CoV-2 is likely lower than previously feared. The study found that infants born to test-positive mothers had a higher risk of neonatal care and preterm birth, but no significant difference in stillbirths or low Apgar scores.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalBJOG An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2021

A lab in the sky: Physics experiment in Earth’s atmosphere could help improve GPS performance

Researchers conducted a controlled radar wave experiment to monitor plasma waves and control wave modes in the ionosphere, which can help improve GPS accuracy during space weather events. The study published in Nature Communications provides new diagnostics for temperature, density, magnetic field, and ion composition.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New computer modelling could boost drug discovery

Scientists at Queen's University Belfast have developed a computer-aided data tool that can predict novel sites of binding for potential drugs. The tool aims to improve treatment for a range of illnesses by increasing therapeutic efficacy and reducing side effects.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalACS Central Science·DateOct 27, 2021

UTSW scientists identify protein that stops cell cycle in response to stress

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified a protein called Xbp1 that plays a crucial role in halting the cell cycle in response to stressful events. The study uses innovative techniques to track proteins in individual cells over time, revealing a previously unrecognized function of Xbp1 in regulating the cell cycle.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateOct 27, 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.

New study finds potatoes, when enjoyed as part of a healthy diet, are not associated with elevated heart health risk factors among adolescent girls

Researchers found that moderate potato consumption among adolescent girls did not increase the risk of overweight or high blood pressure, and may even be associated with improved nutrient intakes. The study suggests that potatoes can be a part of a healthy diet pattern, particularly when consumed in moderation.

SourceThe Alliance for Potato Research and Education (APRE)·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateOct 27, 2021

Metastases use divided blood vessels to grow

Metastases in malignant melanoma can use an alternative process to access the circulatory system, where a blood vessel divides into two parallel vessels. This finding challenges traditional research on tumor growth and may lead to new treatment options for metastatic cancer.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateOct 27, 2021

Gender gap revealed in academic journal submissions during first COVID-19 wave

A study of 5 million authors found that the pandemic exacerbated existing gender inequalities in academia, with women submitting fewer manuscripts than men across various fields. The research highlights the need for addressing these disparities to prevent long-term effects on career success and deepen gender inequality.

SourceElsevier·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 27, 2021

Early Earth: Evolution in the abiotic world

Researchers found promising candidates for a prebiotic evolutionary system with imidazolidine-4-thione organocatalysts. These catalysts can change their composition and catalyze essential reactions, supporting the development of our current biosystem.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateOct 27, 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.

Brain connectivity is lower in adults with PTSD or a history of sexual abuse

A study found that adults with a history of childhood maltreatment, particularly sexual abuse, exhibit reduced brain connectivity in attention systems. Oxytocin treatment has been shown to increase connectivity, suggesting its potential as a treatment for PTSD and childhood trauma-related disorders.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalPsychiatry Research Neuroimaging·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2021

NYU Abu Dhabi researchers discover new nanobodies that can disable a key SARS-CoV-2 structural protein and disrupt viral replication

Researchers identified two nanobodies that specifically target and stabilize the tetrameric form of SARS-CoV-2 non-structural protein Nsp9, potentially repressing viral replication. These findings suggest a new antiviral strategy for diagnosis and treatment against COVID-19.

SourceNew York University·JournalAdvanced Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2021

Pyruvate as an essential substance for the survival of neurons and Schwann cells under high-glucose milieu

Researchers found that pyruvate supplementation prevents rapid cell death of peripheral sensory neurons and Schwann cells under high-glucose conditions. Exogenous pyruvate may play a key role in maintaining glycolysis-TCA cycle flux by suppressing PARP activity, thereby supporting cellular viability and energy production.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 27, 2021

The delicate dance of developmental genes

A study by EPFL researchers reveals that CTCF sites within the HoxD cluster contribute to organizing genes into topologically associated domains, helping to organize developmental complexity. The dual function of CTCF binding sites varies depending on tissue type.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalGenes & Development·DateOct 27, 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.

Vascular disease in COVID-19 is not caused by viral infection of blood vessels

Researchers from the University of Queensland found that COVID-19 causes cardiovascular complications due to inflammation in infected airway cells. The study clarifies a key debate about the relationship between the virus and blood vessel linings, suggesting inflammation as the primary cause of damage.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalClinical & Translational Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2021

Newly discovered skin cell may underlie inflammatory skin disease

Researchers have discovered a new type of skin cell, TIFFs, that may play a role in inflammatory skin diseases such as scleroderma. These cells were found to interact with immune cells and expand in response to inflammation, leading to an exaggerated response and fibrosis.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateOct 27, 2021

Home care patients with language barriers at higher risk for rehospitalization

A new study published in the International Journal of Nursing Studies found that home care patients who prefer a language other than English are more likely to be readmitted to hospital within 30 days. The study suggests that addressing language gaps is crucial for improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.

SourceNew York University·JournalInternational Journal of Nursing Studies·DateOct 27, 2021

Study: Death rate from Parkinson’s rising in US

A new study found a significant increase in US Parkinson's disease deaths over the past two decades, with mortality rates twice as high in men as in women. White people were also more likely to die from the disease, potentially due to socioeconomic factors affecting access to healthcare.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateOct 27, 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.

ASTRO: International meta-analysis quantifies impact of three prostate cancer therapy intensification strategies

A new international meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials found that adding androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) to definitive radiotherapy improves metastasis-free survival by 8% and overall survival by 7%. Prolonging adjuvant ADT for 18-36 months also shows similar benefits.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 27, 2021

Model could help archeologists unearth new Pleistocene sites in Cyprus, suggesting that more historic hunter-gatherer activity on Eastern Mediterranean islands than previously suspected

A new model has been developed to help archeologists uncover new Pleistocene sites in Cyprus, revealing more evidence of historic hunter-gatherer activity on the island. The study suggests that there may have been more human activity on Eastern Mediterranean islands during the last ice age than previously thought.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 27, 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.

NSF funds Texas A&M research on west coast fisheries management

A team of scientists led by Piers Chapman will develop a sustainable blue decision support system to help West Coast communities dependent on fisheries. The project aims to provide climate-informed information for fisheries management and decision-making, enabling stakeholders to make better long-term decisions.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateOct 27, 2021

​​More than ceremonial, ancient Chaco Canyon was home, new study says

Ancestral puebloans in Chaco Canyon thrived for over a millennium through indigenous agriculture and water irrigation, but their activities led to environmental degradation. The researchers found significant changes in the local woodlands beginning around 600 B.C., contributing to severe erosion and cropland deterioration.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 27, 2021

A new type of eco-friendly solvent designed to purify polluted water

A new type of eco-friendly solvent, SUPRAS, has been designed to extract polluting substances from the environment and is more stable under various conditions compared to existing ecological solvents. The solvent uses rhamnolipids produced by bacteria, attracting and separating pollutants with a simple decantation process.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2021

A sub-nanometer supramolecular rectifier

Researchers designed a sub-nanometer molecular rectifier utilizing destructive quantum interference and asymmetric supramolecular interaction, overcoming electronic functionality challenges. The device achieves rectification behavior at the sub-nanometer scale, enabling potential miniaturization of electronic devices.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·DateOct 27, 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.

AI-powered glaucoma screening test delivers rapid results

A new rapid screening test for glaucoma uses infra-red sensors to monitor eye movement, providing accurate results within seconds. The test could help advance early detection of the disease, a leading cause of irreversible blindness, and make it more accessible for national screening programs.

SourceRMIT University·JournalIEEE Access·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 27, 2021

Potentially harmful industrial chemicals detected in US fast foods

A recent study found that popular US fast food items contain widespread amounts of phthalates and other plasticizers, which are linked to serious health problems. Consumers can reduce exposure by switching to mostly home-cooked meals.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalJournal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·DateOct 27, 2021

A universal law of physiology emerges from University of Toronto professor’s research

Professor Willy Wong has discovered a mathematical relationship in the sensory adaptation response curve that is true for all sensory modalities and all organisms. This finding, supported by 250 measurements of adaptation from different branches of sensory physiology, presents a single, simple equation that holds across all species.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateOct 27, 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.

ALS and dementia attacked by an RNA-hunting compound that recruits cell's own virus fighter

A collaboration led by Scripps Research Institute successfully treated C9 ALS/FTD in mice using a novel RNA-hunting compound that recruits the cell's own virus fighter. The compound eliminated 70% of toxic protein fragments and removed most hallmarks of the disease from patient-derived nerve cells.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2021

Multi-algorithm approach helps deliver personalized medicine for cancer patients

A team of researchers has developed an ensemble-based machine learning model that can predict how cancer patients will respond to certain drugs with high accuracy. The model was trained on data from 499 independent cell lines and validated against a clinical dataset containing seven chemotherapeutic drugs.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Oncology Research·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2021

New whale species named after Māori whale expert

A new beaked whale species has been discovered and named after Māori whale expert Ramari Stewart, highlighting the importance of Indigenous knowledge in scientific discovery. The species, Mesoplodon eueu, was found in South Africa and features a unique name that reflects its Indigenous roots.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 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.

Four commonly used medications reverse Alzheimer's disease in mice

Researchers have found four commonly used medications that can reverse Alzheimer's disease in mice by addressing the underlying causes of the condition. The study identifies non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and anti-hypertensives as effective treatments, paving the way for early diagnosis and potential therapy.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalGenome Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2021

Immunotherapy for intractable mutant cancer using a statin, hyperlipidemia drug

Researchers have discovered a novel approach to treat intractable mutant cancer using statins, which selectively kill KRAS mutant cancer cells and activate the immune system. This breakthrough has significant implications for the treatment of cancers with limited options, and may lead to the development of new cancer immunotherapies.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·DateOct 27, 2021

Flexible device could treat hearing loss without batteries

Researchers developed a flexible, self-powered device that translates sound waves into electrical signals, mimicking the inner ear's function. The device, implanted in a model ear, accurately recreated music files, offering a promising solution for treating hearing loss without batteries.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 27, 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.

Fish are being increasingly exposed to endocrine disrupters

A recent study reveals that fish ingest progesterone through microplastics, releasing the hormone into their digestive tract. Researchers found that microplastics act as vectors for exposing fish to micropollutants like progesterone, which can have significant environmental and health impacts.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalEnvironmental Science Processes & Impacts·DateOct 27, 2021

US emergency department spending on the rise, study finds

US emergency department spending grew to $136.6 billion in 2016, with road injuries and falls accounting for the highest amount of ED spending. The study found that ED spending per visit increased at an annualized rate of 3.4% over the decade.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2021

Serial radiation therapy is safe and effective as alternative treatment to systemic therapy for kidney cancer

Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center reported that serial stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is a safe and effective treatment for oligometastatic renal cell carcinoma. The study showed promising results, with a median progression-free survival of 22.7 months and minimal toxicity.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateOct 27, 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.

New life for a cancer drug that reprograms pain pathways to treat chronic pain

Researchers at Duke University and UC Irvine identify Kenpaullone, a cancer drug, as an effective analgesic for chronic and challenging-to-treat pain. The compound enhances Kcc2 gene expression, which resets maladaptive genetic switches in neurons, leading to pain signal silencing.

SourceWrite Science Right·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2021

Vulnerable populations not receiving cancer survivorship care plans

A new study found that vulnerable populations are less likely to receive cancer survivorship care plans, which can help with transition out of active treatment. The Regenstrief Institute and Indiana University School of Medicine analyzed data from the 2016 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System's Survivorship modules.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalSupportive Care in Cancer·DateOct 27, 2021

All about Eve

Researchers developed AI tool EVE to analyze genetic variations, reclassifying 256,000 variants as benign or disease-causing. The tool enhances clinical methods for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment choice.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 27, 2021

Timing is everything: Stanford researchers reveal why the right sequence of policies is essential to slow deforestation

A new study by Stanford researchers provides a blueprint for public and private interventions to slow deforestation. The study reveals that the right sequence of policies, including disincentives, incentives, and enabling measures, can deliver conservation goals at lower cost across entire at-risk regions.

SourceStanford Woods Institute for the Environment·JournalGlobal Sustainability·DateOct 27, 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.

Genetic risk of mental health conditions may influence where people choose to live, study suggests

A new study suggests that genetic liability to various mental health conditions may affect an individual's choice of residence. The research found higher genetic risks for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in those who moved from rural to urban areas, while lower genetic risk was seen for ADHD in those who remained in rural areas.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJAMA·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2021

Microorganisms produce elemental carbon

Researchers discovered that certain microorganisms can form elemental carbon without high temperatures and pressures, challenging current scientific understanding. The formation of this carbon is believed to be linked to the symbiotic relationship between archaea and their partners.

SourceMARUM - Center for Marine Environmental Sciences, University of Bremen·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 27, 2021

Impaired vision increases risk of depression in midlife women

A new study based on data from SWAN found a significant longitudinal association between mild and moderate to severe vision impairment and subsequent depressive symptoms in midlife women. Early identification and correction of vision problems are crucial for preserving mental and physical health.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 27, 2021

Mining shift workers at significant risk of sleep loss and sleep disorders

A study of 75 FIFO shift workers found significant sleep loss and reduced alertness, with up to 60% at risk of developing sleep disorders. The research highlights the need for companies to reassess roster designs to ensure adequate rest and provide education on good sleep health practices.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalApplied Ergonomics·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 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.

Tuneable catalysis: Solving the particle size puzzle

Researchers linked microscopic and macroscopic approaches to describe a technologically important chemical reaction under realistic conditions. This allows understanding why catalyst particle size plays a crucial role in chemical processes.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 27, 2021

Talk-to-tilt: head tilting in dogs

Researchers studied head tilting in dogs that could learn toy names and found a relationship between head tilts and processing relevant stimuli. Consistent side tilts were observed for each individual dog over time.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalAnimal Cognition·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2021

Scientists discover how forest fires influence rain cloud formation in the Amazon

A Brazilian study reveals that forest fires and wildfires modify the freezing process of cloud droplets, altering natural cloud functioning and potentially impacting precipitation. The research used a large dataset to show that aerosols emitted by fires can affect cloud formation in southern Amazonia during the rainy season.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 27, 2021

Research news: We’re not as smart as Google makes us think we are

A new study finds that relying on online search can lead to overconfidence in one's own knowledge, blurring the lines between internal and external memory. This can affect decision-making, particularly in high-stakes areas like medicine and finance.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 27, 2021

Systemic lupus erythematosus linked to altered gut microbiome

A recent study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases reveals a link between systemic lupus erythematosus and an altered gut microbiome. Researchers at Osaka University identified two species of Streptococcus bacteria significantly increased in SLE patients, which can affect the body's functions by altering plasma metabolites. T...

SourceOsaka University·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 27, 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.

Survival similar for younger and older patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, study finds

A new study by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found that younger patients with metastatic colorectal cancer have a similar overall survival time as older patients, defying expectations. The study included data from the CALGB/SWOG 80405 clinical trial and compared survival times in 514 younger patients under 50 with 1,812 older patients.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 27, 2021

How employers can keep experienced older workers from retiring

A study of over 750,000 federal employees aged 50+ found that those in high-quality jobs were more likely to delay retirement, especially if they lacked a college degree or managerial experience. Employers can attract these workers by investing in autonomy, training opportunities, and good benefits.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPersonnel Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 27, 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.

Profound ecological change in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea

Recent study reveals that non-indigenous tropical species are occupying 'empty niches' in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, altering ecosystem functioning. The findings suggest that these species are successful invaders due to their distinct biological traits, rather than direct competition with native species.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateOct 27, 2021

Giving disadvantaged kids a sporting chance

A new study by Flinders University highlights the importance of organized activities for disadvantaged youth, finding they are almost three times more likely to miss out on such opportunities. Participation in these activities can help reduce socio-economic disparities by promoting better mental health and improved educational outcomes.

SourceFlinders University·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2021

Higher education must prepare graduates to adapt to changing labor conditions

A recent special issue of Human Systems Management explores how higher education can prepare students for the modern labor market. The research highlights the importance of developing knowledge-driven competitiveness, entrepreneurial thinking, and human rights for education and work.

SourceIOS Press·JournalHuman Systems Management·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 27, 2021

Making Martian rocket biofuel on Mars

Researchers at Georgia Tech have created a bioproduction process to produce rocket fuel on Mars, reducing mission cost and generating excess clean oxygen. The bio-ISRU strategy uses cyanobacteria to convert CO2 into sugars, which are then converted by E. coli into a Martian propellant.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 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.

Sweet! How glycogen is linked to heat generation in fat cells

A recent study by the University of California - San Diego team discovered that glycogen regulates and promotes fat metabolism, helping to balance energy intake and expenditure. The research suggests modulating glycogen metabolism in fat cells could provide new approaches for weight loss and improved metabolic health.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateOct 27, 2021

Researchers map best conditions for forage fishes in the Chesapeake

A new study by Virginia Institute of Marine Science researchers maps the conditions most suitable for key species of forage fishes in the Chesapeake Bay, offering guidance for protecting or restoring their habitats. The analysis reveals that factors such as water depth and temperature affect the abundance of forage fish, with some spec...

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 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.

Biodiversity collections address science workforce needs

A new module in biodiversity collections addresses the need for scientists to have both foundational biological skills and data acumen. The module was implemented in 10 courses across four universities and showed strong learning results, with students feeling well-prepared to collect and archive specimens, as well as deposit digital da...

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2021

Certain brain rhythms coordinate cognitive map in human spatial navigation

Researchers found that theta oscillations in the medial prefrontal cortex and entorhinal cortex coordinate spatial computations, guiding human navigation behavior. Grid-like representations were identified in both regions, with synchronization between them predicting navigational performance.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2021

Membrane vesicles studied as carcinoma treatment

Researchers from Kazan Federal University have developed a gene-cell preparation that uses membrane vesicles to target and kill cancer cells. The technology has shown promise in treating various types of cancer, including breast, lung, and colon cancer.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalTissue and Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2021

Optimal concentrations of enzymes and their substrates

Researchers found that optimal cellular efficiency occurs when substrate mass equals free enzyme waiting to convert it into products. This relationship was confirmed with E. coli experimental data, offering insights into biochemistry and cellular physiology.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 27, 2021

The surprising origins of the Tarim Basin mummies

A genomic study of the Tarim Basin mummies in western China found that they were direct descendants of a once widespread Pleistocene population known as Ancient North Eurasians. The mummies show no evidence of admixture with other Holocene groups, forming a previously unknown genetic isolate.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalNature·DateOct 27, 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.

An old drug saves lives of COVID-19 patients

A study co-led by McMaster University found that fluvoxamine can save the lives of COVID-19 patients and reduce hospital admissions by up to 30%. The treatment was effective in preventing COVID-19 from becoming a life-threatening illness when administered early.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 27, 2021

Moving past conflation of race and genetics

Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing argue that conflating race and genetics leads to misdiagnoses and reinforces racist beliefs. The conflation is perpetuated in medical research, such as studies on neonatal abstinence syndrome, which can result in inequitable treatment according to race.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateOct 27, 2021

A novel solution to a combinatorial optimization problem in bicycle sharing systems

Researchers develop an algorithm to find optimal or near-optimal solutions in the space of 'infeasible solutions' to speed up search, alleviating traffic congestion and improving city living. A novel solution to a combinatorial optimization problem in bicycle sharing systems is proposed.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalApplied Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 27, 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.

Researchers uncover new links between arts programming and social action

A study by NYU researchers reveals that participating in arts programming enhances critical consciousness among youth of color and white youth alike, promoting greater awareness of social inequity. This breakthrough finding highlights the significance of arts programming as a site for developing critical consciousness.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2021

Tiny pterosaurs dominated Cretaceous skies

Researchers found that tiny pterosaur juveniles, known as flaplings, dominated the Late Cretaceous period due to their exceptional growth rates and feeding ecology. These findings suggest that the smaller species of pterosaurs were overshadowed by their giant parent's offspring.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalCretaceous Research·DateOct 27, 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.

Exploiting cancer’s sweet tooth

Researchers discovered that acute myeloid leukemia (AML) depends on a transporter to bring in inositol, a sugar required for cells to survive. By blocking this transporter, cancer cells would starve without inositol. This method leaves normal cells unharmed as they can produce their own inositol.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCancer Discovery·DateOct 27, 2021

Model of predator-prey relationship helps predict spread of COVID-19

Researchers developed a mathematical model to predict the spread of COVID-19, taking into account restrictions and containment policies. The model successfully calculated the total number of infected and peak infection days in the 2014-2015 Ebola virus epidemic.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalEurasian Economic Review·DateOct 27, 2021

Study captures, quantifies decline in military surgeon readiness

A recent study found that the number of surgical procedures contributing to military surgeon readiness decreased by approximately 25% between 2015 and 2019. This decline, attributed to reduced surgical volumes at military hospitals, poses a potential gap in care for deployed settings.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateOct 27, 2021

ASTRO: Optimizing preoperative radiation therapy in high-risk sarcoma

A phase 2 single-institution study found that dose-equivalent preoperative radiation therapy delivered in five days rather than over the conventional five weeks produced similar benefits and treatment side effects. The study showed excellent local control rates with acceptable toxicities and wound complications.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateOct 27, 2021

A mathematical model to help optimize vaccine development

A mathematical model has been developed to better understand the immune response to vaccines, which could improve vaccine design and simplify technical challenges. The model shows that antibodies and cytotoxic T cells cooperate multiplicatively, providing vaccine developers with options for their design.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalTrends in Immunology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 27, 2021

Researchers film fundamental life process

Researchers at the University of Bonn have successfully filmed the nuclear export of protein-building machines, or ribosomes, from the nucleus to the rest of the cell. The study provides new insights into this complex process, which is crucial for understanding how cells produce proteins.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2021

The upside-down orbits of a multi-planetary system

Exoplanets HD3167b and two mini-Neptunes orbit in planes perpendicular to each other, with the innermost planet still in the equatorial plane. The discovery suggests an unknown celestial body responsible for this disorder is likely at play.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·TypeNews article·DateOct 27, 2021

Gastric cells—Plant substance from wine influences acid secretion via a bitter receptor

A study by Veronika Somoza's team found that gallic acid stimulates gastric cells to secrete acid via the bitter receptor TAS2R4. The plant substance affects acid secretion regardless of whether it is added to water or red wine. This discovery provides new insights into the functions of bitter receptors in food ingredients.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2021

Hazardous levels of alcohol consumption identified in African hunter-gatherer group

Researchers found that 44.3% of the Mbendjele BaYaka population had hazardous alcohol consumption, associated with mental and physical health harms like high blood pressure and increased diarrhoea rates. The study emphasizes the need for community involvement and socioeconomic changes to address the underlying drivers of poor health.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2021