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Science News for October 29, 2021


Army grants to bolster unique, new semiconductor fabrication facility

The Army Research Office and Army Research Laboratory have awarded $5.4 million in grants to support the development of a unique silicon carbide semiconductor fabrication facility at the University of Arkansas. Researchers will focus on producing energy-efficient and heat-resistant integrated circuits for military applications.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·DateOct 29, 2021

Molecular shape puzzles

Researchers designed a fast and efficient way to determine Cilostazol's concentration using molecularly imprinted polymers. The sensor works like a three-dimensional shape puzzle, selectively binding to the target molecule.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateOct 29, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Solving complex learning tasks in brain-inspired computers

A new algorithm has been developed to train spiking neural networks, mimicking the human brain's structure and function. This approach enables these powerful, fast, and energy-efficient systems to solve complex tasks like image classification with high precision.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateOct 29, 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.

Researchers discover new type of nerve cell in the retina

A team of scientists at the University of Utah has discovered a new type of interneuron in the mammalian retina called the Campana cell. The discovery marks a notable development for the field, as scientists work toward a better understanding of the central nervous system by identifying all classes of neurons and their connections.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 29, 2021

New Geology articles published online ahead of print in October

Researchers have made new discoveries about the Martian water record, with a fragile record of fleeting water found. Petrographic microscopy techniques are also being used to analyze geological materials, revealing new insights into microstructures.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateOct 29, 2021

Is it worth trying to sway the most staunch climate deniers?

A Boston University researcher found that while many climate deniers are receptive to disinformation, some are also open to the science. Her study suggests that engaging with individuals most vulnerable to climate disinformation is crucial in stopping its spread.

SourceBoston University·JournalJournal of Public Relations Research·DateOct 29, 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.

Climate change: We're acting, but are we making a difference?

A study has created a massive database of academic papers documenting global adaptation actions to climate change. The research found that people are taking action, but these efforts tend to be fragmented and may not be enough to deal with the expected effects of climate change.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Climate Change·DateOct 29, 2021

Drug-like molecule points to novel strategies for cancer therapy

A team of scientists developed a drug-like molecule that can counteract the effects of mutated epigenetic regulators, which are known to drive certain types of cancer. The molecule targets the 'reader' CBX8, which is critical for the proliferation of cancer cells, but more dispensable in healthy cells.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalCell Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 2021

Honeybees use social distancing to protect themselves against parasites

Researchers found that honeybee colonies modify their social interactions and movement patterns in response to parasite infestations, increasing social distance between young and old bees. This adaptation helps reduce the spread of diseases while maintaining beneficial social behaviors.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 2021

People who purchased guns during buying surge more likely to have suicidal thoughts

A Rutgers study found that people who bought firearms during the 2020 purchasing surge were more likely to report suicidal thoughts, with 56% experiencing lifetime thoughts and 42% in the past year. The study highlights the need for safe storage policies and suicide risk screening during firearm purchases.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 29, 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.

Waste of space

Researchers have discovered a way to manipulate orbiting debris with spinning magnets, allowing for gentler maneuvering and potential repair of malfunctioning objects. The technology has the potential to help clear space junk from Earth's orbit and extend the life of satellites.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 2021

Drones show promise in speeding up communication with underwater robots for ocean surveys

Researchers from The University of Tokyo Institute of Industrial Science have found that drones can be used as communication bases with underwater robotic devices (AUVs) for ocean surveys. UAVs offer high-speed observations, mobility, and resistance to ocean currents, making them suitable candidates for this application.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalRemote Sensing·DateOct 29, 2021

Prompt procurement and roll-out of COVID-19 vaccines are as important as their efficacy

A study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that prioritizing prompt procurement, distribution, and vaccination pace can maximize public health benefits and economic efficiency. Meeting vaccination targets of 67% or 80% of the population can significantly reduce infections and deaths while minimizing healthcare costs.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 29, 2021

Twisted bilayer graphene dances with light

Researchers have discovered that twisted bilayer graphene can guide and control light at the nanometer scale due to its unique interaction with collective electron movements. This property enables the material to be used as a platform for optical sensing of gases and bio-molecules.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 29, 2021

Cardiac MRI of myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination in adolescents

A recent study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found a link between COVID-19 mRNA vaccination and myocarditis in adolescent males. Cardiac MRI was used to assess suspected myocarditis post-vaccination, with late gadolinium enhancement persisting in two patients undergoing repeat MRI.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 29, 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.

A novel way to generate visible light

A research team led by Professor Luca Razzari at INRS has successfully generated coherent, intense visible light pulses with femtosecond duration using a simplified setup. This innovation opens up new possibilities for studying various phenomena in physics, chemistry, and biology.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalNature Photonics·DateOct 29, 2021

HSE researchers discover how people’s values affect their attitudes to COVID-19 restrictions

The study found that individuals with prosocial values are more receptive to information emphasizing the risks posed to others, whereas those without such values focus on personal threats. Risk framing also significantly increased support for anti-COVID measures, potentially promoting autocratic policies globally.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 29, 2021

Molecular imaging suggests Long-COVID symptoms may be caused by fatigue, not regional brain dysfunction

A recent study suggests that Long-COVID symptoms, such as cognitive deficits and fatigue, may be attributed to fatigue rather than pathological changes in the brain. Neuroimaging results showed no significant differences in cerebral glucose metabolism or brain pathology between patients with long-COVID and healthy controls.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateOct 29, 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.

Financial hardship of pregnant, postpartum US women

Financial hardship was common among pregnant and postpartum US women, with many reporting unmet healthcare needs due to cost. The study found significant financial stress affecting these individuals, impacting their overall well-being.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 29, 2021

How foodborne diseases protect the gut's nervous system

A new study reveals that mice infected with bacteria or parasites develop a unique tolerance mechanism to shield their enteric neurons from death. This finding has potential clinical implications for conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, where neuronal loss can lead to severe gastrointestinal disease.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateOct 29, 2021

How mining companies can better protect workers from injury and death

A new study from Edith Cowan University identifies four pathways regularly associated with Western Australian mining deaths, including design flaws and poor management. The research recommends that companies prioritize these pathways to reduce workplace fatalities and improve worker safety.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalSafety Science·TypeSurvey·DateOct 29, 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.

Heparin dose capable of preventing COVID-19 deaths is four times higher than the dose recommended by WHO

A clinical trial of 465 patients found that administering heparin in therapeutic doses reduced mortality from COVID-19 by 78%, with benefits only observed when administered between seven and 14 days after symptom onset. The study suggests that timing is crucial for treatment efficacy.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 29, 2021

Needle-free COVID-19 vaccine shows promise

Researchers at University of Queensland successfully protected mice from COVID-19 using a US-developed vaccine candidate delivered via a pocket-sized, pain-free applicator. The vaccine produced strong immune responses and neutralized multiple variants, including UK and South Africa variants.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 29, 2021

Non-thermal atmospheric plasma stimulates new bone formation in critical bone defects of animal model

Researchers from Osaka City University found that non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma (NTAPP) accelerates cell growth and promotes bone regeneration in animal models with critical bone defects. Micro-CT images showed a 1.51 times larger bone volume after 10-minute treatment, while histological analysis confirmed new bone formation ...

SourceOsaka City University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 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.

Dopamine’s many roles, explained

A new study by Vanessa Ruta and her team found that dopamine neurons in fruit flies correlate strongly with ongoing behavior, reflecting motivation or goal underlying actions. The activity of these neurons not only encode mechanics of movement but also provide moment-to-moment reinforcement, guiding beneficial actions.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateOct 29, 2021

Reported health care use by sexual orientation among teens

A study of 10th graders found that LGB individuals reported more unmet medical care needs and had lower health care utilization rates compared to their non-LGBTQ peers. This disparity highlights the need for improved health care access and communication for LGBTQ youth.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 29, 2021

Detector advance could lead to cheaper, easier medical scans

Researchers have demonstrated a new technique for cross-sectional medical images without the need for tomography, enabling faster and more accurate imaging. The breakthrough is made possible by ultrafast photon detectors that can precisely determine the arrival times of photons, allowing for reconstruction-free positron emission imaging.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 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.

Study identifies new potential drug target for pneumonia

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered that interleukin-26 plays a critical role in bacterial pneumonia by directly killing bacteria and modulating the immune system. This finding positions IL-26 as a new potential target for biological treatment of pneumonia, an increasing global health threat.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateOct 29, 2021

Ultra-broadband sound absorber

Researchers create ultra-broadband sound absorber with an average absorption coefficient of 0.93, surpassing previous limitations. The metamaterial's design utilizes near-field non-locality to suppress excessive response and achieve efficient impedance matching.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateOct 29, 2021

Differences in T cells’ functional state determine resistance to cancer therapy

Researchers found that certain T cells stop working before entering the tumor due to changes in gene expression, making ICB therapies less effective. Combining ICB with other forms of immunotherapy targeting different aspects of T cell function may improve response rates for non-small cell lung cancer patients.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology Department of Biology·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 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.

UTSW scientists eliminate key Alzheimer’s feature in animal model

Researchers at UTSW Medical Center discovered a way to abolish the formation of amyloid beta plaques in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease by inhibiting the NHE6 gene. This breakthrough suggests a possible treatment approach for preventing late-onset Alzheimer's, a condition affecting nearly 6 million Americans.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournaleLife·DateOct 29, 2021

A scientific competition assesses methods for anomalous diffusion

Researchers launched an open competition to benchmark existing and novel methods for quantifying anomalous diffusion. The analysis of results provided an objective assessment of method performance, contributing to the definition of standard tools for trajectory analysis.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 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.

New study shows environmental and social factors contribute to higher rates of pneumonia in children

A new study found that exposure to particulate matter pollution and social factors such as race and socioeconomic status contribute to higher rates of community acquired pneumonia in children. Researchers used satellite data to identify high- and low-risk areas for the disease, highlighting the need for policy adjustments.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 29, 2021

Study finds the SARS-CoV-2 virus can infect the inner ear

Researchers develop cellular models to study SARS-CoV-2 infection of the inner ear, finding that the virus can infect hair cells and Schwann cells. The pattern of infection matches symptoms observed in a study of 10 Covid-19 patients with ear-related issues.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCommunications Medicine·DateOct 29, 2021

A better way to raise chickens for low-intensity, small stakeholders

A new production model has been introduced to the Rwandan broiler industry, allowing smallholders to increase productivity and profitability. The model, which employs a hybrid asset-building approach, provides an entry point for small-scale producers to compete with larger operations.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·JournalWorld s Poultry Science Journal·DateOct 29, 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.

Uncovering how injury to the pancreas impacts cancer formation

Researchers discovered that pancreatic injury leads to the formation of new cell types that can give rise to cancerous mutations. The study provides a valuable resource for understanding the processes behind pancreatic cancer and potential therapeutic targets.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalGastroenterology·DateOct 29, 2021

Smartphone app could improve aspirin use for healthy pregnancies

A new smartphone app, MyHealthyPregnancy, evaluates preeclampsia risk and patient adherence to low-dose aspirin recommendations. The study found that 37% of high-risk patients were unaware they needed to take the medication, highlighting a need for improved communication between providers and patients.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateOct 29, 2021

Meanders help the climate

Researchers at GFZ found that undisturbed meandering sections of a river deposit and reabsorb organic carbon, transporting it into the sea. In contrast, straight river sections only pass through suspended particles, with carbon decomposing to CO2 by microorganisms.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 2021

Lithium metal batteries with diluted high concentration electrolytes to power the future

Scientists have demonstrated that diluting high concentration electrolytes can improve the cycling abilities of lithium metal batteries over a wide range of temperatures. The study found that TTE dilution significantly improved Li+ ion transport and reduced dendritic Li plating, leading to better cycling stability.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateOct 29, 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.

This squirrel watches its neighbor's back

Researchers found that Barbary ground squirrels in the Canary Islands rely on synchronized vigilance as their main defense mechanism against predators. They spend a significant amount of time watching each other and scanning their surroundings to detect threats.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 29, 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.

Innovative chip built by UCPH physicists resolves quantum headache

Researchers at University of Copenhagen have developed a new quantum circuit that can operate and measure all four qubits simultaneously. This breakthrough resolves a significant engineering headache in the development of large functional quantum computers.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalPRX Quantum·DateOct 29, 2021

Dogs learn about word boundaries as human infants do

A new study by Hungarian researchers finds that dogs use complex computations and brain regions similar to humans to learn word boundaries in speech. Dogs can recognize syllable patterning, such as frequent words with consistent syllables, and use this information to extract words from continuous speech.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 2021

Blasting the zombie out of water-saving tech

A team of scientists found that technology adoption as a water-saving method for improving irrigation efficiency is ineffective and can worsen water scarcity. The study suggests that modern irrigation technologies may only achieve a 10-20% saving under ideal conditions.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateOct 29, 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.

Placebo-inspired project wins $12 million grant to help Parkinson’s patients

Researchers will investigate brain circuits involved in the placebo effect and paradoxical kinesia, a phenomenon where Parkinson's patients exhibit normal motor function under specific circumstances. The study aims to identify new locations for deep brain stimulation placement and discover new treatments for Parkinson's disease.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateOct 29, 2021

Nearly 300 scientists ask the WTO to ban harmful fisheries subsidies

Two hundred ninety scientific researchers from 46 countries urge the World Trade Organization (WTO) to ban harmful fisheries subsidies that contribute to overcapacity and overfishing. The signatories cite research showing that such subsidies lead to unsustainable fishing practices, contravening UN Sustainable Development Goal 14.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience·DateOct 29, 2021

Hollings collaborates on two studies showing how to boost immunotherapy effectiveness for patients with oral-cavity squamous cell carcinoma

Researchers from MUSC Hollings Cancer Center, UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Winship Cancer Institute discovered that pre-surgical anti-PD-1 immunotherapy is safe and effective for OCSCC patients. The studies identified potential molecular biomarkers in blood and tumors to predict treatment response.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateOct 29, 2021

Morro Bay seagrass loss causes change in fish populations

Researchers at California Polytechnic State University found that seagrass loss in Morro Bay led to changes in fish species, with increasing numbers of flatfish like speckled sanddab and staghorn sculpin. The study highlights the importance of protecting remaining seagrass habitats to maintain biodiversity.

SourceCalifornia Polytechnic State University·JournalEstuaries and Coasts·DateOct 29, 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.

“Towards Straintronics: Guiding Excitons in 2D Materials” -- CCNY & partners make breakthrough

A team of physicists and their collaborators created an excitonic wire, a one-dimensional channel for electrically neutral quasiparticles called excitons. This breakthrough could lead to innovative devices that operate at room temperature and replace certain tasks performed by standard transistor technology.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 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.