Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for September 16, 2021


Biologists identify new targets for cancer vaccines

MIT researchers have found that vaccinating against certain cancer proteins can boost the overall T cell response and help to shrink tumors in mice. The study identifies specific neoantigens that, when targeted with a vaccine, can reawaken dormant T cell populations and lead to tumor regression.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateSep 16, 2021

How scents take on meaning

A study published by Ruhr-University Bochum's Department of Neurophysiology found that the olfactory system works closely with the brain's reward and aversion systems to form and retrieve memories. Non-olfactory brain regions, such as the limbic cortex, play a crucial role in categorizing scents as pleasant or unpleasant.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCerebral Cortex·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 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.

HSE researchers assess the effectiveness of short-term online meditation courses

Novice participants in a three-week online meditation course showed improved emotional wellbeing, concentration, and motivation. Effects were strongest among those with high levels of self-control and motivation, highlighting the importance of individual differences in response to mindfulness interventions.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·DateSep 16, 2021

Anesthesia for knee replacement surgery has considerable carbon footprint

A study published in Anesthesiology found that anesthesia for total knee replacement surgery generates substantial CO2 emissions, with an average of 14.9-18.5 kg for general, spinal, and combined anesthesia approaches respectively, contributing to a carbon footprint of approximately 42 miles driven by a US car.

SourceAmerican Society of Anesthesiologists·JournalAnesthesiology·DateSep 16, 2021

Consuming fruit and vegetables and exercising can make you happier

Research by the University of Kent and University of Reading reveals that a healthy lifestyle can increase happiness. The study found that consuming more fruit and vegetables and exercising can improve life satisfaction, with delayed gratification playing a key role.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalJournal of Happiness Studies·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 2021

Improving leukemia therapy with targeted treatment approaches

Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered a novel combination therapy approach that combines inhibiting JAK2 with targeting the MAPK signaling pathway. This dual targeting strategy has shown promising results in improving leukemia treatment outcomes by reducing blood cell production and altering disease course.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalLeukemia·DateSep 16, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study finds complexity in language is driven by the needs of the speakers

A recent study found that colexification, where multiple meanings share one word, reduces language complexity. The study also suggests that communicative needs drive lexical choices in languages, with some languages preferring separate words for similar concepts depending on climate.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalCognitive Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Researchers explore promising new stem cell treatment for MRSA superbug

A study found that treating wounds with mesenchymal stromal cell secretions significantly reduced MRSA viability and stimulated the surrounding skin cells to build a defense. The treatment has potential as an alternative to antibiotics, reducing antibiotic resistance in both veterinary and human medicine.

SourceAlphaMed Press·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Mass shootings in US during pandemic

A study analyzing mass shootings in the US found a significant increase during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting that extreme violence may be influenced by social and economic factors. The research revealed consistent patterns, implying that mass shootings are not solely driven by mental health issues or individual motivations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 16, 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.

Silver nanoparticles boost performance of microbial fuel cells

Researchers found that coating Shewanella bacteria with silver nanoparticles improves electron transfer efficiency, leading to higher current and power densities in microbial fuel cells. The resulting MFCs have a maximum current density of 3.85 milliamperes per square centimeter and a coulombic efficiency of 81%.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 16, 2021

How we’re taking the latest superfood mainstream, with science

A new study from Edith Cowan University has identified over 2,500 proteins in lupin seeds using a novel testing regime. The research aims to develop value-added high protein ingredients while complying with food-labelling regulations, transforming lupins from feed to superfood.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalFood Chemistry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 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.

Hydroxyurea may reverse sickle cell-related heart abnormalities

A study published in Blood Advances found that hydroxyurea therapy can improve or even reverse cardiac complications in individuals living with sickle cell anemia. The longer duration of treatment was associated with better cardiac outcomes, suggesting the need for early screening and treatment initiation for this patient population.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood Advances·DateSep 16, 2021

Six stages of engagement in ADHD treatment revealed in new, diverse study

Researchers at Boston Medical Center have identified six stages of engagement in ADHD treatment, highlighting the importance of breaking down barriers for racial and ethnic minority families. The study provides a comprehensive framework that can help healthcare systems better match the needs of children with ADHD and their families.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 16, 2021

Cancer cells’ unexpected genetic tricks for evading the immune system

Researchers discover that tumor suppressor genes can prevent the immune system from spotting and destroying malignant cells in mice. The study reveals a surprising new action for many of these defective genes, which trigger mechanisms that prevent the immune system's T-cells from targeting tumors.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience·DateSep 16, 2021

The first glimpse of hydrodynamic electron flow in 3D materials

A team of researchers from Harvard and MIT observed hydrodynamic electron flow in three-dimensional tungsten ditelluride for the first time using a new imaging technique. The findings provide a promising avenue for exploring non-classical fluid behavior in hydrodynamic electron flow, such as steady-state vortices.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 16, 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.

New technique provides insights into the evolution of the brain

A research team identified H3 acetylation as a crucial factor in human brain development, leading to the unique neocortex structure. This finding could pave the way for new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases by manipulating basal progenitor cell proliferation.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

For one group in child welfare, trauma is especially common

Adults in the child welfare system with substance misuse issues have higher scores on a trauma questionnaire than previously estimated for other adults and the general population. Children in these families also experience more trauma, with trauma scores 27% higher than those in the juvenile justice system.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 2021

UNH research finds witnessing abuse of sibling can lead to mental health issues

A national study from the University of New Hampshire found that children who witness abuse of a brother or sister by a parent experience similar levels of trauma as those witnessing violence against another parent. This exposure is linked to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and anger.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·DateSep 16, 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.

Leaf-inspired surface enables different liquids to flow in different directions

Scientists developed a surface that directs different liquids to flow in opposite directions, inspired by the unique liquid transport behavior on Araucaria leaves. This approach could be used in practical applications such as microfluidics and water desalination, with high-flow velocity and self-propulsion exhibited.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 16, 2021

Giant Waikato penguin: school kids discover new species

A team of researchers has discovered a new species of giant penguin, named Kairuku waewaeroa, in the North Island of New Zealand. The fossil, estimated to be between 27.3 and 34.6 million years old, was found by school children on a fossil hunting field trip in 2006.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 16, 2021

Getting to the root of tooth replantation challenges

A new gene delivery system promotes healing in rat models by preventing inflammation and bone degradation after tooth replantation. The study found that teeth treated with the system showed significantly greater dental root thickness and fewer osteoclasts, leading to improved success rates.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateSep 16, 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.

Act now to benefit economically from peatland restoration

A new study found that restoring peatlands now would provide significant economic benefits to society, including a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and improved wildlife habitat. In Scotland, restoration could generate £191m in annual societal benefits if done by 2027, rather than later.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·TypeCase study·DateSep 16, 2021

Study finds long-term injectable medications combined with counseling improves adherence and symptoms in patients with bipolar disorder

Researchers from University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine found that combining long-term injectable medications with psychosocial intervention improves adherence and symptoms in patients with bipolar disorder. The study enrolled 30 people with bipolar disorder who had adherenc...

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalThe Primary Care Companion to The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Quantifying future impacts on coral reefs

Coral reefs will experience substantial declines in productivity and survival due to rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification, with some attributes responding similarly to heat stress with or without acidification

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 16, 2021

Discovery of rapid-response signaling platform suggests new path for blocking allergic inflammation

A study by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center has identified a common biological response platform that could help alleviate allergic inflammation. The research suggests that inhibiting this pathway may provide a unique opportunity to counteract type 2 immunity and reduce allergic reactions.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNature Immunology·DateSep 16, 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.

Researchers explore promising treatment for MRSA ‘superbug’

A new study from Cornell University has found that the antimicrobial properties of certain stem cell proteins can effectively reduce the viability of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in skin wounds. The treatment also stimulates the surrounding skin cells to build up a defense against the bacterial invader.

SourceCornell University·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateSep 16, 2021

Study findings could provide blueprint for regulating lab-developed diagnostic tests

Researchers found that validating accuracy of in vitro diagnostic tests carried costs and had higher true limits of detection than reported. The study suggests mechanisms for expanded regulatory oversight by the FDA, including technology certification to assess performance of complex diagnostic tests.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 16, 2021

Childhood maltreatment alters the HOA-axis activity in early stages of life

A study published in Psychological Medicine confirms that childhood maltreatment disrupts HPA-axis activity, leading to altered stress regulation and increased risk of mental disorders. The study found a dose-response relationship between the severity of maltreatment experiences and HPA-axis dysfunction.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalPsychological Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 16, 2021

A novel malaria vaccine vector – target to the liver

Researchers at Kanazawa University have identified a new vaccine platform that targets liver cells to induce anti-malaria immunity. The AAV8 vaccine platform was found to be more effective in eliciting a T cell-mediated response in the liver, providing sterile protection against malaria in a murine model.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateSep 16, 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.

Study suggests earliest use of bone tools to produce clothing in Morocco 120,000 years ago

Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered a worked bone assemblage found near the Atlantic Coast of Morocco dating back to 120,000 years ago, suggesting the manufacture of clothing during this period. The find provides strong evidence for the emergence of complex culture and specialized tool manufacture in early humans.

SourceArizona State University·JournaliScience·TypeObservational study·DateSep 16, 2021

UTSW scientists reveal how vitamin a enters immune cells in the gut

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have discovered that LRP1 is the vehicle by which retinol enters myeloid cells, suggesting a potential target for treating inflammatory diseases such as Crohn's disease. The study also found that inhibiting this process could boost immune activity, making oral vaccines more effective.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalScience·DateSep 16, 2021

How to catch a perfect wave: Scientists take a closer look inside the perfect fluid

Researchers have discovered a new technique to locate the diffusion wake's signal in the quark-gluon plasma, a subatomic soup that flowed like a friction-free fluid after the Big Bang. This breakthrough may help scientists understand how matter emerged from this perfect fluid.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 16, 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.

‘Spice’ withdrawal symptoms more severe than cannabis – new study

A new study by University of Bath psychologists suggests that Spice, a synthetic drug, is more harmful than cannabis and causes more severe withdrawal symptoms. Participants who tried to quit Spice reported experiencing sleep issues, irritability, and low mood, among other symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalPsychopharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

UCF researchers identify food products that could reduce COVID transmission

Researchers at the University of Central Florida have identified food products that can alter a person's saliva to reduce the transmission potential of airborne pathogens. By adding ingredients like ginger, cornstarch, and xanthan gum to food products, people may be able to make masks more effective or even reduce their need for them.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

AI system identifies buildings damaged by wildfire

Researchers developed DamageMap, an AI system that uses machine learning to identify building damage from post-wildfire images, achieving 92% accuracy. The system can analyze satellite and aerial photos to pinpoint damaged buildings, providing immediate results for first responders and fire victims.

SourceStanford University·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·DateSep 16, 2021

Ground-breaking bacteria-killing viruses unite with antibiotics to fight devastating antibiotic-resistant bacteria

Scientists have developed a new therapy that combines bacteriophages with antibiotics to treat antibiotic-resistant infections, specifically targeting Mycobacterium abscessus. The treatment, using the bacteriophage 'Muddy', showed significant improvement in survival rates and severity of infections when paired with rifabutin, demonstra...

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

PFAS exposure can affect women’s ability to breastfeed

A recent study found that women with higher levels of PFAS in their system are 20% more likely to stop breastfeeding early. This is significant because almost every human on the planet is exposed to these endocrine-disrupting chemicals, which can have detrimental effects on reproductive health.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateSep 16, 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.

Long COVID symptoms in children rarely persist beyond 12 weeks

A recent review of international studies found that persistent symptoms after COVID-19 infection were most common among children with pre-existing health conditions. However, symptoms rarely lasted beyond 12 weeks in young people, suggesting long COVID may be less concerning than in adults.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalPediatric Infectious Disease·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 16, 2021

Researchers improve optical tissue clearing method to diagnose cancer

A Japanese research team has improved an optical tissue clearing method to diagnose cancer, enabling 3D visualization of tumor tissues in just a week. The new approach uses zwitterionic hydrogels to rapidly remove fats from tissues, reducing processing time and improving diagnosis accuracy.

SourceOsaka Prefecture University·JournalMacromolecular Bioscience·TypeNews article·DateSep 16, 2021

How climate change could impact algae in the global ocean

A new study predicts that climate change will cause a sudden shift in algae distribution pole-wards over the next 100 years, affecting marine ecosystems. The UK is among the areas most likely to be severely impacted due to its warm waters, with changes potentially occurring before previously thought.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 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.

Ancient bone tools found in Moroccan cave were used to work leather, fur

Researchers found 62 bone tools at Contrebandiers Cave, Morocco, with shaping and use marks indicating they were used for scraping hides to make leather and furs. The discovery highlights the pan-African emergence of complex culture and provides evidence for the earliest clothing in the archaeological record.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·TypeObservational study·DateSep 16, 2021

Mistrust of government tops reasons for vaccine hesitancy

An Australian study found that trust in government approval of safe COVID-19 vaccines is the primary driver of vaccine uptake. Perceived effectiveness in protecting others was also a significant factor. The study revealed lower rates of vaccine uptake among younger, unemployed individuals and those with lower altruistic beliefs.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalVaccine·TypeSurvey·DateSep 16, 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.

Working Smarter: Leveraging Machine Learning to Optimize CO2 Adsorption

A recent study employs machine learning to guide the design of novel materials for CO2 capture, identifying elemental composition and textural properties as key factors. The research team's findings suggest prioritizing adsorption parameters and surface area optimization for high CO2 adsorption efficiency.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Parental alienation, partner abuse: Two sides of same coin, says CSU social psychologist

A new study by CSU social psychologist Jennifer Harman finds that parental alienating behaviors closely resemble coercively controlling violence, intimate terrorism, and battery. The research highlights power imbalances in families affected by parental alienation, emphasizing the need to treat it similarly to other forms of abuse.

SourceColorado State University·JournalPersonal Relationships·TypeContent analysis·DateSep 16, 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.

Grow and eat your own vaccines?

Researchers aim to produce enough mRNA vaccines from spinach and lettuce to rival traditional shots. They're exploring chloroplasts as a key to making plant-based mRNA vaccines that can be stored at room temperature.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateSep 16, 2021

Climatically driven landscape evolution during warm periods

A comprehensive investigation of a lake landscape in southern Wendland reveals that strong rises and falls in water levels were caused by climate changes, soil erosion, and vegetation. The study provides valuable insights into how landscapes respond to climatic shifts and offers clues for predicting future changes.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalEarth Surface Processes and Landforms·DateSep 16, 2021

Advanced model and field data add up to better cover crop management

A new University of Illinois study integrates field data and advanced mathematical modeling to understand how cover crops affect soil water, nitrogen, and oxygen dynamics. The research finds that proper management of cover crops can balance their benefits with cash crop yields, while ignoring the impacts without optimization.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalField Crops Research·DateSep 16, 2021

A new species of otter discovered in Germany

Researchers have discovered a new species of otter in Germany that dates back to 11.4 million years ago. The Vishnu otter genus was previously known only from Asia and Africa, but this finding suggests they also occurred in Europe.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateSep 16, 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.

True behavior of the ‘pleasure molecule’ will reshape how we treat psychiatric diseases and addiction

Research reveals that dopamine levels increase with stressful stimuli, rewriting the 'pleasure molecule' narrative, and suggesting new treatment approaches for psychiatric diseases and addiction. The discovery has significant implications for understanding dopamine's role in behavior and developing evidence-based treatments.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 16, 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.

Jaws; or, how an African ray-finned fish is helping to rethink the fundamentals of evolution

New research reveals that the evolution of cichlid jaws is linked across multiple levels, challenging a quarter-century-old assumption. This finding highlights the importance of evolutionary constraints in shaping biodiversity, and suggests that they may play a wider role in the evolutionary success of species around the world.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 2021

Researchers identify tube-forming proteins in mycobacterial outer envelope

Scientists have identified tube-forming proteins in mycobacterial outer envelope that enable protein secretion. The discovery, using x-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy, reveals a novel method for studying substance transport mechanisms in pathogenic mycobacteria.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 16, 2021

Pyrrole chemistry: Good things come in threes

Researchers have successfully formed rings made of three pyrroles for the first time, which could be used to produce compounds with unique properties. The discovery explains why tripyrrolic macrocycles were not observed before due to strain issues.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Researchers reveal multi-path mechanism in electrochemical CO2 reduction

A research group synthesized a Pb-alloyed Cu catalyst, showing high activity for electrochemical CO2 reduction with selectivity to formate. The study reveals a multi-path mechanism for CO2 reduction through COOH* and HCOO* intermediates.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 16, 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.

A blue food revolution

Global demand for aquatic foods is set to double by 2050, with aquaculture production expected to meet the majority of this growth. This 'blue food revolution' has the potential to tackle malnutrition, lower environmental footprints and provide livelihoods, particularly in regions where people rely heavily on these systems.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateSep 16, 2021

Friend or foe? Researchers investigate the mysterious microbes living inside corals

A team of researchers has discovered a new group of coral-infecting microbes called Corallicolida. Despite lacking photosynthetic genes, they express chlorophyll genes and may still play a role in their host cells. The authors propose that Corallicolida could be an ancient parasite that lost its photosynthetic machinery.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 16, 2021

Studies biased toward white genomes still predict cancer risk in diverse groups

A new study found that genome-wide association studies (GWAS) results from people with European ancestry can still be applied to predict breast and prostate cancer risk in diverse groups. However, the findings emphasize the need for more diverse participants in GWAS analyses to realize the full potential of polygenic risk scores.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Statins may be effective treatment for patients with ulcerative colitis

Researchers found statins significantly decrease the rate of surgical treatment, anti-inflammatory medication use, and hospitalization for patients with ulcerative colitis. Patients taking statins had a 50% lower risk of colectomy and were less likely to be hospitalized.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 16, 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.

Selectively staining neutrophils in white blood cells

A new fluorescent probe, NeutropG, selectively stains healthy neutrophils in blood samples, allowing for accurate quantification. The Metabolism-Oriented Live-cell Distinction (MOLD) method enables the selective identification of active neutrophils without affecting their native functions.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 16, 2021

Patients with multiple sclerosis show robust T-cell responses to mRNA COVID-19 vaccines

Researchers found that patients with MS receiving aCD20 treatment generated robust CD4 and CD8 T cell responses to the COVID-19 vaccination. The study measured both antibody and T cell responses in 20 patients with MS who were undergoing aCD20 treatment, compared to those in a group of healthy controls.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 16, 2021

Link between inflammation and pancreatic cancer development uncovered

Pancreatic cells display adaptive response to repeated inflammatory episodes, reprogramming gene expression and epigenetic regulation that cooperates with mutant KRAS to promote tumor formation. Inflammation drives long-term changes in epithelial cells that select for cancer-causing mutations.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Missing the reef for the corals

A new study reveals unexpected trends in coral reef condition and its environment, contrary to prevailing scientific expectations. The authors found that local threats such as pollution do not lead to a decrease in coral cover, and biogeophysical forcings poorly predict ecosystem-scale coral reef condition.

SourceBermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 16, 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.

Study reveals gophers’ biofluorescence

Researchers at the University of Georgia have found that pocket gophers are biofluorescent, emitting a colored glow when illuminated with ultraviolet light. The phenomenon has been documented in flying squirrels and opossums before, but this is the first time it has been observed in pocket gophers.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalThe American Midland Naturalist·DateSep 16, 2021

A simple way to get complex semiconductors to assemble themselves

Researchers developed a simple and fast way to create complex semiconductors by growing 2D perovskites precisely layered with other materials, resulting in crystals with wide electronic properties. The assembly takes place in vials where chemical ingredients tumble around in water, with barbell-shaped molecules directing the action.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 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.

Researchers establish a practical safety protocol for home visits in the era of COVID-19

A new protocol has been established to guide healthcare professionals on donning and doffing personal protective equipment during home visits. The protocol aims to address gaps in existing guidelines, providing a clear step-by-step process for healthcare workers interacting with patients potentially infected with COVID-19.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 16, 2021

Research reveals drug targets for memory enhancement

A Bristol-led research team has identified specific receptors for the neurotransmitter acetylcholine that re-route information flowing through memory circuits in the hippocampus. The discovery holds promise for developing new, safer treatments for conditions like Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateSep 16, 2021

Exploring the role of social relationships in Hispanic health

Researchers study social support networks and health outcomes of over 670 Hispanic and non-Hispanic lung cancer patients to understand the Hispanic Health Paradox. The study aims to identify cultural differences in social interactions that influence health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateSep 16, 2021

Reforestation could help save coral reefs from catastrophe

A University of Queensland-led study found that nearly 85% of coastal areas leach sediment to coral reefs, a major threat. Reforestation can help by reducing sediment transport, increasing light levels for coral growth and reproduction. Land restoration is crucial for building coral resilience.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateSep 16, 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.

Manic episodes in bipolar disorder linked to abnormal brain changes

Patients with bipolar disorder experiencing manic episodes show abnormal brain changes, including faster cortical thinning, compared to those without episodes. The study also found associations between brain ventricle enlargement and accelerated cognitive decline in bipolar patients.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 16, 2021

For some peptides, killing bacteria an inside job

Researchers have found that certain peptides can target the internal mechanisms of bacteria, making them effective against antibiotic-resistant microbes. The study suggests that these peptides could be used to design therapeutic agents that succeed where standard antibiotics fail.

SourceRice University·JournalInterface·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 16, 2021

Can fruit fly research help improve survival of cancer patients?

Researchers at UC Berkeley found that tumors release chemicals compromising the blood-brain barrier, leading to inflammation and tissue wasting. Blocking these chemicals could extend life span and improve health for cancer patients, reducing the need for toxic drugs.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 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.

Study: As a population gets older, automation accelerates

Researchers found that aging workforces, characterized by a higher ratio of workers 56 and older to those ages 21-55, are associated with increased robot deployment in 60 countries. This study suggests that automation adoption is partly driven by labor shortages, particularly middle-aged labor needed for blue-collar work.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Review of Economic Studies·DateSep 16, 2021

Ultrasound at the nanometre scale reveals the nature of force

Scientists used picosecond ultrasonics to measure atomic bonds in 2D materials without damaging them. The study found that sound travels at different speeds in different phases of the same substance, opening possibilities for designing materials with tunable properties.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Why salespeople avoid big-whale sales opportunities

Research reveals that salespeople conduct rational benefit–cost analyses when deciding which opportunity to pursue. They also use a calibration decision-making strategy for solution selling, which can lead to serious under- or overestimation of conversion rates. The findings highlight the importance of managing salespeople's avoidance ...

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateSep 16, 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.

The deforestation risk of making livestock systems greener

New research suggests that scaling up silvopastoral systems in Colombia's Amazon Rainforest can lead to deforestation if safeguards are not put in place. The study found that excess male cattle produced by these systems may be sold to farms in nearby areas, contributing to deforestation.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalConservation Science and Practice·DateSep 16, 2021

Research provides new insight into fundamental workings of the immune system in response to therapy to treat skin cancer

Researchers at the University of Birmingham discovered that T cells send messages from five specific genes in their immune response to drugs given to treat skin cancer. This finding suggests that an optimal level of stimulation is required for a strong immune response, and blocking certain immune brakes may re-awaken dormant T cells.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalImmunity·DateSep 16, 2021

Finding new alloys just became simpler

Researchers developed a theoretical model to predict the strength of millions of alloys at high temperatures. Experiments confirmed the predictions, highlighting the importance of edge dislocations in determining yield strength in complex high-entropy alloys.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 16, 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.

Climate change threatens base of polar oceans’ bountiful food webs

A new study suggests that climate change is displacing cold-water communities of algae with warm-adapted ones, threatening to destabilize the delicate marine food web. The research found a clear boundary between these communities at moderate water temperatures, highlighting the vulnerability of polar ecosystems.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 2021

How a new imaging tool helps to better stage men with prostate cancer

A new PSMA PET imaging technique can detect prostate cancer lesions throughout the body, enabling more precise treatment. The study shows that 64% of patients opted for alternative treatments after scanning due to detected metastasis outside the prostate.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateSep 16, 2021

Palaeontology: Fossilized footprints reveal prehistoric elephant nursery

Researchers discovered fossilized footprint tracks of straight-tusked elephants, indicating a Late Pleistocene nursery site in Huelva, Spain. The tracks suggest that young elephants, possibly up to two years old, were raised in this area, which may have provided a food source and reproductive habitat for female elephant herds.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 16, 2021

Staying young, from the cells on up

Researchers at Université de Montréal and McGill University have discovered a new multi-enzyme complex that reprograms metabolism and overcomes cellular senescence. The enzyme complex, named HTC, can inhibit cells from aging and has potential applications in treating various cancers.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 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.

Mushballs stash away missing ammonia at Uranus and Neptune

Researchers propose that giant hailstones called mushballs carry ammonia deep into the atmospheres of ice giants Uranus and Neptune, hiding it from detection. This process could explain the unexpected lack of ammonia in their atmospheres compared to other planets.

SourceEuroplanet·DateSep 16, 2021

Health: Therapeutic potential of Mozart for medication-resistant epilepsy

Researchers found that listening to Mozart's Sonata for Two Pianos in D Major (K448) for at least 30 seconds was associated with a significant reduction in epilepsy-associated electrical activity spikes. The study suggests that the therapeutic effects may be linked to positive emotional responses triggered by the music.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 16, 2021

Chemists provide a new look at the problem of energy efficiency in lithium-ion batteries

A new study refutes a long-standing explanation for low energy efficiency in lithium-ion batteries, suggesting that voltage hysteresis is caused by reversible electron transfer between oxygen and transition metal atoms. This phenomenon could be mitigated through manipulation of electron transfer barriers.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 16, 2021

Using organs-on-chips as models of drug efficacy

Organs-on-chips can assess drug efficacy better than traditional methods, reducing the risk of failed clinical trials. These systems enable human multi-cell-type models and personalized medicine by seeding with a patient's own cells.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 16, 2021

September/October 2021 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

The article highlights the need for financial and technological support to enable effective interprofessional teams in primary care. The authors suggest training community members to serve their communities and exploring how diversity impacts patient care outcomes. They also advocate for innovative payment models that allow primary car...

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 16, 2021

New meat analogue developed by Lithuanian scientists – healthier, more flavours and environmentally friendly

Researchers from Kaunas University of Technology and the University of Helsinki have developed a nutritious meat analogue using fermented okara, which can help alleviate digestive problems due to its probiotics. The product contains less salt and saturated fats than real meat while maintaining protein levels.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalEuropean Food Research and Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Scientists demonstrate pathway to forerunner of nanotubes that could lead to widespread industrial fabrication

Researchers at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have identified a chemical pathway to produce boron nitride nanotubes, a material with properties similar to carbon nanotubes but more difficult to produce. The breakthrough could lead to large-scale industrial production of the nanomaterial for various applications.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalNanotechnology·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 16, 2021