Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for September 1, 2021


Study: Crowds can wise up to fake news

A new study by MIT researchers found that crowdsourced accuracy judgments from groups of normal readers can be virtually as effective as the work of professional fact-checkers. The study deployed 1,128 U.S. residents who rated news stories and found that their average ratings correlated with those of professional fact-checkers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 1, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Immune cell betrayal explains why it gets colder as we age

Researchers at Yale University found that aging immune cells within fat tissue lose their ability to produce heat in cold temperatures. Stimulating new production of these cells actually makes older mice more prone to cold-induced death.

SourceYale University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 1, 2021

Flooding patterns expected to change with future warming

Climate change is altering flooding patterns, with moderate storms producing less runoff due to increased soil moisture, but extreme storms causing more devastating flooding. The study's findings have significant implications for infrastructure design and flood risk mitigation strategies.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 1, 2021

Dogs tell the difference between intentional and unintentional action

Researchers found that dogs respond differently to food rewards withheld intentionally versus unintentionally. Dogs waited longer in the 'unwilling' condition, indicating they can differentiate between purposeful and accidental actions.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Food for seals and other Arctic predators is shrinking — literally

A new study found that Arctic cod biomass and distribution will decline dramatically by the end of the century, while smaller fish like capelin and sand lance will become more prevalent. This shift may leave predators with less energy gained during foraging, forcing them to spend more energy to catch smaller fish.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalEcology Letters·DateSep 1, 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.

COVID-19 long-haulers at risk of developing kidney damage, disease

Research reveals a significant decline in kidney function among COVID-19 long-haulers and even those with mild infections. The study highlights the critical need for paying attention to kidney function and disease in caring for patients who have had COVID-19, as kidney problems can be silent and untreated until it's too late.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 1, 2021

Best of both worlds: Updating the chemical process to remove organic pollutants from water

Researchers from India and Saudi Arabia have combined oxidation and photocatalysis to create a heterogeneous photo-Fenton system that degrades phenols at higher rates than individual approaches. The system is highly photostable and reusable, making it promising for practical applications in wastewater purification.

SourceShoolini University·JournalJournal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Patterns of income and urbanization impact mammal biodiversity in the concrete jungle

A study of 20 US cities reveals that urban intensity, characterized by paved landscapes and high population density, is a stronger correlate with mammal biodiversity than income. While the 'luxury effect' shows some correlation between income and biodiversity, it's not strong enough to explain the observed patterns.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 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.

Misinformation on Twitter adversely affects adults’ health decisions

A study published in BMJ Open found that brief exposure to misinformation about e-cigarette harms on Twitter can deter adult smokers from considering using e-cigarettes. Conversely, some US adult smokers may be encouraged to use e-cigarettes after being exposed to tweets that claim they are completely harmless.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBMJ Open·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Rheumatoid arthritis treated with implanted cells that release drug

Researchers have genetically engineered cells that can deliver a biologic drug in response to inflammation, reducing inflammation and preventing bone damage in mice with rheumatoid arthritis. This approach could provide personalized treatments for arthritis patients, limiting side effects associated with current therapies.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Nasal cartilage relieves osteoarthritis in the knee

Researchers from the University of Basel have found that nasal cartilage cells can withstand chronic inflammatory conditions and counteract inflammation in osteoarthritis. The approach involves using engineered cartilage tissue to repair or replace damaged joints, offering a promising alternative to joint prostheses.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Cleveland Clinic researchers develop bionic arm that restores natural behaviors in patients with upper limb amputations

Researchers created a bionic arm that combines intuitive motor control with touch and hand movement sensation, enabling wearers to think and behave like a person without an amputation. The system's bi-directional feedback and control allowed study participants to perform tasks with similar accuracy as non-disabled people.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalScience Robotics·DateSep 1, 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.

Unmarried adults with heart disease living in rural areas face more hopelessness, increased risk of death

Adults with heart disease living in rural areas experience higher levels of hopelessness and an increased risk of death. The study found that living in a rural setting is a significant risk factor for feelings of hopelessness among people with heart disease, which can more than triple the risk of death or heart attack.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateSep 1, 2021

Novel approach reverses amblyopia in animals

A new study demonstrates that temporarily anesthetizing the retina of the non-amblyopic eye can lastingly improve vision in the amblyopic eye even after the critical period. The approach has shown promising results in two different mammal species, offering a potential pathway for a new and more effective treatment for amblyopia.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Mathematical model reveals possible role of drug-eluting stents in artery re-closure

Researchers develop novel models to investigate the impact of drug-eluting stents on arterial tissue permeability and blood flow. The study identifies key factors contributing to restenosis near stent edges, highlighting potential avenues for design improvements.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 1, 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.

Fancy a Swim?

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba reviewed the scientific literature on swimming hydrodynamics and identified key areas for improvement. They found that certain biomechanical aspects, such as velocity and drag forces, are not fully understood, but optimizing technique can lead to a competitive edge.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalSports Biomechanics·DateSep 1, 2021

Sand is one of our most used resources, but the industry is not sustainable

The sand industry is unsustainable due to rapid consumption, conflicting with eight of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. Environmental and local human consequences are significant, including erosion, flooding, and polluted drinking water.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalOne Earth·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 1, 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.

Vanity plates in Greece may be a form of “conspicuous corruption”

A new study finds that distinctive license plates in Greece are more likely to appear on luxury cars, suggesting a market for bribery to obtain more desirable plates. This phenomenon is seen as a form of conspicuous corruption, where the value of the plate lies not in its price but in the hint of rule-breaking.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2021

CHOP researchers show key differences in emotion, adaptation skills of children with autism in school settings

A study by CHOP researchers reveals that children with autism on the autism spectrum who have impaired executive functioning skills face specific challenges in a school setting. The findings suggest that these challenges worsen as children experience adolescence, emphasizing the need for early intervention supports.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalAutism·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 1, 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.

Beyond dopamine: New reward circuitry discovered

Researchers have discovered a new pathway in the brain that plays a key role in rewards and reinforcement. GABA neurons from the ventral tegmental area project to the nucleus accumbens shell, promoting reward processing. This finding offers new avenues for understanding psychiatric diseases such as depression and addiction.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Doubling the number of species of hand-standing spotted skunks

Researchers analyzed skunk DNA to determine the correct number of species, revealing seven species, including the previously recognized four. The revised family tree highlights the distinct evolutionary lineages of each species, making conservation efforts more effective.

SourceField Museum·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

People look alike if we think they have similar personalities, new study finds

A new study by NYU researchers reveals that knowledge of an individual's personality can affect facial recognition, leading to biased perceptions. The study found that when participants believed two individuals had similar personalities, their faces were perceived as more similar, even if they lacked physical resemblance.

SourceNew York University·JournalCognition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 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.

Indigenous and local communities key to successful nature conservation

A systematic review of 169 conservation projects worldwide reveals that Indigenous and local communities are crucial for successful nature conservation. The study found that equitable conservation approaches, empowering local communities, yield positive outcomes for both humans and the environment. However, complex factors such as comm...

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalEcology and Society·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 1, 2021

Antibiotics increase the risk of colon cancer

Researchers found a significant link between antibiotic use and an increased risk of developing colon cancer within five to ten years. The risk was highest for those taking antibiotics for over six months, with a 17% greater likelihood of colon cancer in the ascending colon compared to non-users.

SourceUmea University·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 1, 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.

Discovery paves way for improved quantum devices

Physicists have developed a new method to identify and address imperfections in materials for quantum computing. The technique, terahertz scanning near-field optical microscopy, has been used to optimize fabrication protocols and reduce decoherence.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 1, 2021

Salinas Valley teens find green cleaning is worth the hype

A study by UC Berkeley researchers and Salinas Valley teens found that switching to green cleaning products can reduce users' exposure to up to 17 different harmful chemicals. The study, led by co-author Jessica Cabrera, showed an 86% decrease in chloroform exposure after making the switch.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Rheumatoid arthritis drug combined with standard of care may help reduce mortality for hospitalized COVID-19 patients

A study found that hospitalized COVID-19 patients who received the rheumatoid arthritis drug baricitinib, in combination with the standard of care, died less often than those receiving only the standard of care. The COV-BARRIER trial showed a 5% reduction in 28-day and 60-day mortality.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 1, 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.

Encapsulated NiCo alloy nanoparticles catalyzing HDO reactions

Researchers develop efficient Ni-Co alloy nanoparticle catalysts for HDO reactions, achieving 100% selectivity and conversion efficiency. The synergistic effect of alloyed nanoparticles enhances deoxygenation activity and selectivity.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateSep 1, 2021

Long-lasting disinfectant promises to help fight pandemics

Researchers at the University of Central Florida developed a nanoparticle-based disinfectant that continuously kills viruses on surfaces for up to seven days. The discovery has antiviral activity against multiple viruses and could be a powerful tool against COVID-19 and emerging pathogenic viruses.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Using machine learning to understand complex auctions

Researchers at Technical University of Munich have developed a new machine learning algorithm that can analyze complex markets and their equilibrium strategies. This breakthrough has potential applications in auction theory, wireless spectrum auctions, and more.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 1, 2021

The future of flooding in Venice: improving projections, predictions and protection in the face of expected sea level rise

A new assessment indicates that higher emissions will significantly impact Venice's flood risk, emphasizing the need for improved projections and protection infrastructure. The study highlights the importance of accurate sea level projections and the potential for extreme events like meteotsunamis to exacerbate flooding.

SourceEuropean Geosciences Union·JournalNatural Hazards and Earth System Sciences·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 1, 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.

Study finds body mass index for children greatest in Midwest, least in West

A study of over 14,000 children found Midwestern kids have the highest body mass index (BMI) levels, while Western kids have the lowest. The research suggests regional influences may play a role in childhood obesity, with factors such as environmental exposures and mother's education also contributing to BMI.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalObesity·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2021

Having MS plus depression may be tied to increased risk of death

A new study published in Neurology shows that people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and depression are more likely to die over the next decade than those with MS alone or neither condition. The study also found a higher risk of developing vascular disease, such as heart attack and stroke, among individuals with both MS and depression.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateSep 1, 2021

Nitrogen-efficient wheats can provide more food with fewer greenhouse gas emissions, new study shows

A new study introduces a wild-grass chromosome segment that inhibits nitrification, reducing fertilizer use and nitrous oxide emissions in wheat crops. The technology has the potential to increase yields and grain quality in both well-fertilized and nitrogen-poor soils.

SourceInternational Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Scientists discover zeolite-tailored active site proximity for efficient production of pentanoic biofuels

Researchers design a new strategy for producing pentanoic biofuels by synthesizing Ru metal nanoclusters confined within zeolite Y. This approach boosts chemoselectivity and promotes catalytic activity. The findings extend the notion of 'the closer, the better' into biomass catalysis.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 1, 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.

Choosing personal exercise goals, then tackling them immediately is key to sustatining change

A new study at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that individuals who choose their own exercise goals and start immediately are more likely to achieve significant increases in physical activity, with an average increase of 1,384 steps per day. This approach also leads to sustained high activity periods and maintai...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 1, 2021

Watercooler parts could be a source of organophosphate ester exposure

A study found that water dispensers could be a source of organophosphate ester exposure, with OPEs detected in the majority of samples. The researchers estimated daily consumption levels to be below health-risk thresholds, but highlighted the need for future research on suitable tubing materials.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateSep 1, 2021

Researchers identify a novel cell type that makes survivors of sepsis more susceptible to infections

Studies on mice and septic patients show that a specific B lymphocyte subpopulation produces large amounts of CD39, leading to increased adenosine levels and reduced macrophage activity. This results in heightened susceptibility to opportunistic infections, with survivors experiencing a sevenfold higher risk of severe infections.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalImmunity·DateSep 1, 2021

Study shows a whale of a difference between songs of birds and humpbacks

A University at Buffalo researcher proposes that humpback whale songs are not similar to bird songs but rather dynamic and freeform vocalizations. The study reveals changes in the units within whale songs over time, suggesting a vocal flexibility that demonstrates the inadequacy of using human labels for sound production.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalAnimal Cognition·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 1, 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.

Toward scaling up nanocages to trap noble gases

Researchers developed a method to scale up nanocages to trap noble gases like krypton and xenon. The team used commercial materials and found the optimal temperature range for trapping gas atoms inside the cages.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalSmall·DateSep 1, 2021

NAMS releases new position statement on management of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women

The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) has released a new position statement on the management of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. The guidelines emphasize an individualized approach with regular follow-up to prevent fractures and maintain mobility and independence. Key findings include recommendations for calcium, vitamin D,...

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 1, 2021

New brain model provides patient-specific Alzheimer’s insights, predictions of cognitive decline

A new brain model developed by researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital has identified specific forms of amyloid beta-protein and tau protein associated with cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. The model uses induced pluripotent stem cell lines from over 50 individuals, providing a powerful experimental system for understandi...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

The PANoptosome: a new frontier in innate immune responses

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have identified the PANoptosome, a complex that integrates multiple cell death pathways to protect against infections. This discovery offers new insights into the functional role of inflammasome sensors in innate immune responses.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature·DateSep 1, 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.

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia researchers develop tools to measure skeletal muscle function in patients with mitochondrial disease

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have created a new outcome measure called 'Mitochondrial Myopathy-Composite Assessment Tool' (MM-COAST) to monitor disease severity in patients with mitochondrial disease. The tool evaluates key aspects of disease, including muscle weakness, fatigue, and exercise capacity, providing in...

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJCSM Clinical Reports·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2021

Rice physicists find 'magnon' origins in 2D magnet

Researchers found that spin-orbit coupling induces asymmetric interactions between electrons in chromium triiodide, affecting its topological excitations. This discovery could exist in other 2D van der Waals magnets and has implications for spintronics.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review X·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Comparing seniors who relocate long-distance shows where you live affects your longevity

Researchers found that seniors moving from low-mortality areas to high-mortality areas experience a significant decrease in life expectancy. On the other hand, urban areas on the East and West Coasts have positive effects on longevity for seniors, while Midwestern metro areas score well. The study also identified parts of the deep Sout...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateSep 1, 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.

Ultrafast electronic control of magnetic anisotropy by mid-infrared light

A team of researchers from Osaka University and international partners used intense mid-infrared laser pulses to alter magnetic anisotropy in a weak ferromagnet. They found that electronic excitation, rather than lattice heating, was responsible for the ultrafast change, enabling faster spintronics devices. This breakthrough has signif...

SourceOsaka University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

School day structure could benefit children’s health

A study of rural schoolchildren found that behaviors leading to obesity decreased on school days compared to non-school days, while activity levels increased. The researchers recommend structured programs or schedules for children on non-school days to combat obesogenic behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalChildhood Obesity·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2021

Sieving ions with a polymer membrane

Researchers at KAUST have developed a novel polymer membrane that can precisely separate ions, opening up new possibilities for technologies like water purification, mineral extraction, and energy storage. The membranes' precise control over pore size and uniformity makes them ideal for applications such as removing ions from seawater ...

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 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.

New therapies possible after finding immune cell changes in WM

Researchers discovered that cancer-associated mutations in blood progenitor cells lead to distinct changes in both cancer and non-cancer immune cells in Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. This finding has potential implications for origins and therapy of the disease, suggesting a new approach to immune therapies.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalBlood Cancer Discovery·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2021

Higher-order topological bound states in the continuum

The study reveals that corner states can be embedded into bulk states while being decoupled, forming bound states in the continuum. This discovery extends conventional topological BICs into higher-order cases, enabling robust and localized states in bulk spectra.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateSep 1, 2021

Cleveland Clinic research proves feasibility of new cancer treatment approach

Researchers from Cleveland Clinic have published results showing that Temporally Feathered Radiation Therapy (TFRT) is a safe and feasible approach to reduce toxicity in radiation treatment. The technique optimizes radiation delivery time to improve normal tissue recovery, potentially improving patient quality of life.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalRadiotherapy and Oncology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2021

DGIST develops artificial intelligence technology for detecting objects based on aerial photographs via industry-academia collaboration

Prof. Jae Youn Hwang's team developed an AI neural network module that can accurately extract buildings from aerial images for remote sensing. This technology can significantly improve the performance of extracting buildings from various aerial image domains.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

New articles for Geosphere posted online in August

A new study on Haleakala volcano's crater and great valleys proposes a landslide hypothesis to explain the formation of these features. The researchers suggest that a giant landslide on the volcano's northeastern flank displaced the surface, creating the valleys and crater. Another article presents detrital zircon research on Sierra Ne...

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeosphere·DateSep 1, 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.

Is “patient activation measure” relevant for adults on dialysis?

A study found that PAM scores were associated with lower health literacy and higher levels of depression and anxiety, but not with missed dialysis sessions or weight gain. The measurement may be picking up on other issues known to interfere with engaged care.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 1, 2021

Deadwood in the global carbon cycle

The study reveals that climate change affects the rate of decomposition and insect contributions to deadwood, releasing approximately 10.9 giga-tons of carbon worldwide annually

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Burnout in resident doctors is common; study found unionization doesn’t help

A Northwestern University study found that unionizing resident doctors does not reduce burnout, but provides additional benefits such as more vacation time and housing stipends. The study suggests that improving resident wellness requires a program-by-program approach, with implementing wellness toolkits being a promising solution.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 1, 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.

Study reveals confusing mishmash of newborn bathing practices at US hospitals

A nationwide survey of US hospitals found a wide variety of approaches to newborn skincare, including the timing of the first bath. The researchers urge the formulation of more consistent guidelines built on hard evidence to improve care for babies born in US nurseries and mother-baby units.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalHospital Pediatrics·DateSep 1, 2021

Hidden bacterial hairs power nature’s ‘electric grid’

Researchers at Yale University discovered that bacteria use hidden protein filaments called pili to pump out nanowires, which are the basis of nature's electrical grid. This finding opens up new possibilities for generating electricity, creating biofuels, and developing self-healing electronics.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateSep 1, 2021

Double vaccination halves risk of Long COVID

Researchers at King's College London found that double vaccination significantly reduces the risk of Long COVID, with a 49% lower likelihood of contracting the virus. Fully vaccinated individuals also experience milder symptoms, fewer hospitalizations, and a lower burden of acute symptoms.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateSep 1, 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.

Immunotherapy for HPV+ head and neck cancer: Awakening the force within

A new study found that immune checkpoint inhibitors are effective against HPV-positive head and neck cancers, with a potential therapeutic vaccination approach also being explored. Researchers discovered tumor-specific CD8 T cells in tumors from patients, which could provide a proliferative burst in response to PD-1 blockade.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2021

Adding foreign atoms to graphene does wonders to boost its properties!

Researchers from South Korea have developed a method to add metal oxides to graphene, enhancing its physical and chemical properties. This creates composite structures with unique characteristics, suitable for energy storage and flexible devices. The study's findings pave the way for biocompatible, durable, eco-friendly materials.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNano Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

How ant teeth cut like a scalpel

A recent study reveals that ants, worms, spiders, and other tiny creatures have a built-in set of tools that maximize cutting efficiency thanks to the arrangement of individual atoms of zinc. This biomaterial allows animals to use less force, making their smaller muscles spend less energy.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Fingertip advanced glycation end products and psychotic symptoms among adolescents

A study of 277 drug-naive adolescents found a link between fingertip advanced glycation end products and the trajectory of psychotic symptoms. Baseline levels of these compounds predicted the risk of persistent psychotic symptoms, suggesting their involvement in the pathophysiology of early psychosis.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science·JournalSchizophrenia·DateSep 1, 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.

Light-induced shape shifting of MXenes

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have discovered that MXenes can be switched repeatedly between a flat and a rippled shape by applying femtosecond laser pulses. This discovery could lead to improved energy storage capacity, enhanced catalytic or antibiotic activity, and new applications in sensing and active plasmonic devices.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 1, 2021

Uppsala researchers solve long-standing biological search problem

A team of Uppsala researchers has discovered the solution to finding a matching DNA template in the cell's busy interior, solving a 50-year-old puzzle. They use a CRISPR-based technique and microscopy to image the homologous recombination process, revealing that the search is reduced from three to two dimensions.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 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.

COVID-19 transmission at school rare for children with disabilities

Weekly saliva tests contributed to low transmission rates among students, teachers, and staff at schools serving children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Safety protocols, including masking and social distancing, helped maintain low transmission rates.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 1, 2021

How much wildfire smoke is infiltrating our homes?

Researchers found that residents in San Francisco and Los Angeles reduced PM2.5 particulate matter by half indoors on smoky days, despite outdoor levels remaining three times higher. Newer homes with central air conditioning performed better at keeping wildfire smoke out.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Step by step to the end product through enzyme catalysis

The team designed a cascade for flow catalysis to convert glucose into trehalose in two steps using immobilised enzymes. They aim to optimise the process by improving substrate materials and making it more cost-efficient through recycling UTP.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Palm tree disease in Florida transmitted by traveling bug from Jamaica

A study found that palm phytoplasmas in Florida were transmitted by the American palm cixiid bug, originating from Jamaica. The research revealed a network of movement across the Caribbean basin, with distinct groups of insects found in different countries.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytoFrontiers™·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 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.

New Geology articles published online ahead of print in August

Researchers have discovered a molecular biomarker for the end-Permian plant extinction in South China, revealing synchronous extinction among continental and marine organisms. A study in Namibia reveals a preserved fjord-network morphology, allowing reconstruction of paleo-ice thicknesses and glacial dynamics.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateSep 1, 2021

Early COVID-19 shutdowns helped St. Louis area avoid thousands of deaths

Researchers analyzed epidemiological models to examine the impact of delayed public health orders in St. Louis, finding that a two-week delay could have resulted in nearly sevenfold more deaths by June 15. The study highlights the importance of early and coordinated implementation of local public health policies.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 1, 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.

COVID-19: An innovative candidate vaccine shows efficacy in preclinical models

A novel COVID-19 vaccine candidate demonstrates high efficacy in preclinical models by stimulating the immune system and inducing a robust neutralizing antibody response. The vaccine protects against reinfection and provides better protection than natural immunity, making it a potential supplement to existing vaccines.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

A single gene can disrupt the sleep-wake cycle

A UNIGE team has identified the Nf1 gene as essential for regulating the sleep-wake cycles of Drosophila. This discovery could help explain symptoms of neurofibromatosis, including sleep disturbance, and may provide new insights into the circadian rhythm.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·TypeNews article·DateSep 1, 2021

Marginal land available for bioenergy crops much scarcer than previously estimated

A recent study by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment suggests that bioenergy crops can be produced on economically marginal land. The research team estimated that 1.4-2.2 million hectares in the rainfed region are suitable for bioenergy crop production on such land.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 1, 2021

The Lancet Infectious Diseases: COVID-19 vaccines are effective at reducing severe illness and hospitalisation, new UK study confirms

A large-scale UK study confirms that COVID-19 vaccines are effective in reducing severe illness and hospitalisation. The study found that people who received one or two vaccine doses had lower odds of severe disease or hospitalisation than unvaccinated individuals, with a significant reduction in long COVID cases.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2021

Human health may be at risk from long-term exposure to air pollution below current air quality standards and guidelines

A study published in The BMJ found that long-term exposure to air pollution below current standards is associated with higher mortality rates. Researchers analyzed data from eight European groups and found that even at low concentrations, particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and black carbon were linked to increased natural deaths.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 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.

Geologists propose theory about a famous asteroid

Researchers suggest that Vesta's large troughs were formed by rocks cracking apart due to the planet's weak gravity, contradicting a leading hypothesis. The study uses crater counting methods to explore the relative age of the basins and troughs, indicating they share a similar age.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalIcarus·DateSep 1, 2021

Do genetics control who our friends are? It seems so with mice

Researchers found that genetically similar mice prefer each other's company, while PDE11 mutant mice show no preference for familiar friends. This discovery may indicate a biological basis for human social choices and improve healthcare outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Coastal grape growers can use less water during drought

A recent study published in Frontiers in Plant Science found that coastal grape growers in California can reduce irrigation levels by up to 50% during droughts without affecting crop yields or flavor profile. This reduction also leads to a decrease in water footprint and improved water use efficiency.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Prehistoric climate change repeatedly channelled human migrations across Arabia

Research in Saudi Arabia reveals multiple pulses of increased rainfall transformed the arid region into a hospitable route for human population movements. The discovery of thousands of stone tools shows changing human culture over time, documenting transition from Lower Palaeolithic Acheulean to Middle Palaeolithic technologies.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature·DateSep 1, 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.

Family of proteins offers promise as ischemic stroke treatment, preclinical trial finds

A preclinical trial has found that boosting a naturally occurring protein family may reduce damage from ischemic strokes. The study, published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation, discovered that administering supplemental IAIP after an ischemic stroke reduced the size of the damaged area and improved functional recovery.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 1, 2021

Warming Atlantic drives right whales towards extinction

A Cornell-University of South Carolina-led report warns that warming oceans are driving North Atlantic right whales towards extinction. The calving rate has declined by 26% since 2010, with the population now estimated at just 356 whales.

SourceCornell University·JournalOceanography·DateSep 1, 2021

Cao receives Young Investigator Award from American Chemical Society

Pengfei Cao, a polymer chemist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been recognized for his significant contributions in polymeric materials science. He is the first ORNL scientist to win the award, which honors early-career emerging leaders who have made notable contributions within seven years of beginning their independent careers.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateSep 1, 2021

Exposure to persistent environmental toxins in everyday products may increase diabetes risk in Latina adolescents

A new USC study found a link between 'forever chemicals' and changes in glucose metabolism in Latina girls, potentially increasing their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Researchers measured the impact of PFAS on glucose metabolism over time among adolescents and young adults.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2021

Food insecurity during college years linked to lower graduation rate

A study by researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that nearly 15% of college students were food-insecure. These students were 43% less likely to graduate from college and 61% less likely to attain a graduate or professional degree compared to non-food-insecure peers.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·DateSep 1, 2021