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Science News for September 7, 2021


Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Insect protein has great potential to reduce the carbon footprint of European consumers

Researchers found that insect protein has great potential to reduce global warming associated with food consumption in Europe, especially when used in broiler meat production. Using edible insects or low-value food industry side stream products can increase the carbon footprint benefits of using insect protein over soybean meal protein.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateSep 7, 2021

Scientists discover chemical signals in starfish that stop them eating

Researchers found that injecting SK/CCK-type neuropeptides into starfish retracts their stomachs and makes them less inclined to eat, even with food in front of them. This discovery sheds light on the evolutionary conservation of feeding regulation mechanisms across animals.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Pivotal discovery of nanomaterial for LEDs

Researchers have developed a stable perovskite nanocrystal material for LEDs, enabling bright and long-lasting light sources. The new material is made using a metal-organic framework structure, which keeps the nanocrystals separate and prevents degradation.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Photonics·DateSep 7, 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.

Eliminating cash could benefit average U.S. families

A new study from the University of Georgia suggests that eliminating physical currency could benefit average Americans as long as certain taxes are lowered too. The research finds that reducing cash transactions would lead to lower tax evasion, allowing governments to reduce other taxes and boost overall well-being.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalEuropean Economic Review·DateSep 7, 2021

Helping semiconductors find a cooler way to relax

A study from KAUST found that interface and bandgap engineering can significantly slow down the relaxation of 'hot' electrons in semiconductors, increasing their lifetimes. This innovation has potential applications in solar cells, which could improve efficiency by reducing heat loss.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Researchers use deep learning to predict breast cancer risk

A new study uses deep learning to predict breast cancer risk from mammograms, outperforming clinical risk factors in distinguishing between women who will develop cancer and those who won't. The findings have significant implications for breast cancer management, suggesting a potential role for AI as a second reader for radiologists.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateSep 7, 2021

Association between police contact, health, well-being of Black youth

A review of 29 studies with nearly 20,000 participants reveals an association between police exposure and adverse health outcomes for Black youth. The current body of evidence suggests that police contact may be a significant risk factor for poor health and well-being in this demographic.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 7, 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.

Under loading ceramics self-heal cracks by forming kink-bands

Researchers have discovered that MAX phases ceramics can form kink-bands under loading, which can effectively stop cracks from growing and even close and heal them. This self-healing mechanism makes MAX phases suitable for a variety of advanced structural applications, including efficient jet engines and safer nuclear reactors.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalScience Advances·TypeNews article·DateSep 7, 2021

Tropical crops could suffer as climate change brings longer dry spells

A new study predicts that climate change will lead to longer dry spells in tropical regions, causing important global crops like coffee and cocoa to suffer. This could result from hotter temperatures, increased number of dry days, and longer dry spell lengths, particularly during the dry season.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalJournal of Hydrometeorology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 7, 2021

Tea time gets flavor boost from thin film, impure water

Researchers found that thin films in black tea are strengthened by chemically hardened water, making it suitable for packaged tea beverages. Conversely, acidic components like citrus reduce film visibility and add flavor to dried tea mixes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateSep 7, 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.

Eco-friendly process for synthesizing organic materials developed for high-performance materials industry

Researchers at CeMM have developed an eco-friendly process to synthesize organic materials using water instead of toxic solvents, achieving cost savings of up to 25% and improving material properties. The process involves heating molecules in water under pressure to create high-performance materials with unique structures and properties.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateSep 7, 2021

Putting a price on climate change

A new study improves climate change cost estimates by considering annual climate variability and persistent economic damages. This advancement highlights the urgent need for climate action to mitigate the damage caused by greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateSep 7, 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.

Age at diagnosis of diabetes by race, ethnicity

Researchers found significant disparities in diabetes diagnosis ages among US racial and ethnic groups. Younger Hispanic individuals were more likely to be diagnosed at a younger age compared to non-Hispanic whites and other racial groups.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 7, 2021

Recent cannabis use linked to heart attack risk in younger adults

Researchers found that frequent cannabis users were 2 times more likely to have had a heart attack compared to non-users. The study also found an association between recent cannabis use and myocardial infarction across different forms of consumption.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 7, 2021

Boom in social stress may contribute to population decline

A University of Massachusetts Amherst scientist suggests that rising social stress may contribute to the projected global population decline starting in 2064. Stress from social media and other social interactions may be leading to changes in reproductive behavior and physiology, resulting in decreased reproduction rates.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalEndocrinology·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 7, 2021

UCF researchers create water-repellent nanomaterial inspired by nature

Researchers at UCF's NanoScience Technology Center created a new nanomaterial that repels water and stays dry even when submerged underwater. The discovery has the potential to develop more efficient water-repellent surfaces, fuel cells, and electronic sensors.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 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.

Hopkins med news update

Researchers found that remnant cholesterol levels above 24 micrograms per deciliter were associated with a 40-50% higher risk of major heart disease or stroke. The study suggests using remnant cholesterol as an additional metric for predicting cardiovascular disease and stroke risk, in addition to LDL cholesterol levels.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateSep 7, 2021

Valley Fever more common in Utah than previously thought, researchers find

Researchers found a higher incidence of Valley Fever since the last report, with most cases occurring in southwestern Utah. The disease can resemble symptoms of the flu or COVID-19 and is caused by a fungus that becomes airborne when dust is disturbed.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 2021

Study identifies potential target for treating systemic inflammation in obesity

Researchers have found that blocking DHPS, an enzyme necessary for activating elF5A, can reduce inflammation and improve glucose control in mice. The study suggests macrophages play a key role in inflammation in obesity, and targeting this pathway may be a promising approach to treating the condition.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 7, 2021

Neanderthal genes tell us about how old our ancestors were when they had children

A new study using Neanderthal fragments suggests that generation intervals have fluctuated over the past 40,000 years, with human life history changing in response to environmental and cultural factors. The research found that Eurasian populations reproduced at a younger age than those in Europe, indicating a difference of 3-5 years in...

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 7, 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.

The warming climate is causing animals to "shapeshift"

Researchers are studying how climate change is forcing animals to evolve and adapt, with changes in beak and ear sizes reported in birds and tail length increases in mice, experts warn that these changes may have unintended ecological consequences

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 7, 2021

HKUST and PolyU researchers develop an in-vitro vesicle formation assay to reveal mechanistic insights into the secretory pathway

Scientists from HKUST and PolyU develop an in-vitro vesicle formation assay to study cargo clients and factors that mediate vesicular trafficking. The study reveals cytosolic proteins associated with vesicle membranes, including FAM84B and PRRC1, and uncovers novel cargo proteins dependent on GTP hydrolysis.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Planned surgery in independent sector linked to shorter hospital stays and fewer readmissions than in NHS

Research finds that patients undergoing planned surgery in independent sector hospitals have shorter hospital stays and lower readmission rates than those treated in NHS hospitals. The study analyzed data from over 3.5 million patients and found significant differences in length of stay, emergency transfers, and readmissions.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Quality & Safety·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 2021

‘ASCENT’ makes it easier to study the electrical stimulation of nerves

Researchers at Duke University have developed an open-source software platform called ASCENT that allows non-experts to create patient-specific, 3D models of nerves being electrically stimulated. This enables more accurate predictions and potentially new therapies for diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 7, 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.

Next gen 3D printed catalysts to propel hypersonic flight

Researchers at RMIT University developed highly versatile, cost-effective 3D printed catalysts that could tackle the challenge of overheating in hypersonic aircraft. The new catalysts show promise for fuelling the future of hypersonic flight by simultaneously cooling the system.

SourceRMIT University·JournalChemical Communications·DateSep 7, 2021

Efficiency leap in separating para-xylene using new carbon membranes

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology developed improved carbon membranes that can efficiently separate para-xylene from its siblings, reducing energy consumption by up to three times. The breakthrough could lower energy costs in producing commodity chemicals and fuels.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 7, 2021

Some like it hot: temperature determines the antiviral effect of Wolbachia

Researchers found that temperature during insect development impacts the protective effect of Wolbachia against viruses. Lower temperatures reduce protection, while higher temperatures enhance it. This discovery has significant implications for initiatives like the World Mosquito Program and understanding Wolbachia biology.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalmBio·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Why do people with diabetes develop severe COVID-19?

A study from Michigan Medicine found that people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop a cytokine storm during coronavirus infection due to the enzyme SETDB2. Administering interferon beta increased SETDB2 and decreased inflammatory cytokines in diabetic mice, offering potential therapy for severe COVID-19.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 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.

Apologizing to customers after product failures can encourage repurchase, stave off lawsuits

A study by Binghamton University found that companies that express remorse in the wake of a product failure are more likely to encourage customers to repurchase from them. The researchers also discovered that remorseful statements can help stave off retaliatory actions such as lawsuits by framing messages that match consumers' natural ...

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Consumer Marketing·DateSep 7, 2021

Optical techniques offer fast, efficient COVID-19 detection

Researchers developed lab-on-a-chip optical biosensors for real-time COVID-19 detection, overcoming low viral load challenges. These sensors utilize light beam interactions to detect viruses, enabling faster diagnosis and controlling outbreaks.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateSep 7, 2021

Scientists develop AI to predict the success of startup companies

A study using machine-learning models trained on over 1 million companies reveals that AI can accurately predict the success of startups. The tool, developed by researchers, has the potential to help investors make informed decisions and avoid significant losses.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalThe Journal of Finance and Data Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 7, 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.

Educational Workshops May Bolster Women's Empowerment

Researchers found educational workshops improved women's household decision-making and financial literacy in Nigeria. The programs were most effective in areas where women were less active, but showed inconsistent results in other domains.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalDevelopment in Practice·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 7, 2021

Nature’s archive reveals Atlantic tempests through time

Researchers are using tree rings and sediments to reconstruct Atlantic hurricane history over millennia. By combining these natural archives with global climate model simulations, they aim to refine the record of history's hurricanes.

SourceRice University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 7, 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.

Trial finds childhood weight management program effective for Hispanic children from low-income families

A randomized clinical trial shows that a community-based weight management program delivered at health centers improved BMI in Hispanic children aged six to 12. The program, which included text messaging and connections to community resources, also reduced sugary beverage consumption, increased physical activity, and led to healthier l...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 7, 2021

Emoji are proposed as a powerful way for patients and doctors to communicate

A Massachusetts General Hospital physician suggests that emoji could facilitate communication between patients and doctors, particularly in emergency medical settings. The use of emoji has the potential to improve patient-doctor communication, especially for those with disabilities or language barriers.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 7, 2021

New York Tech researcher earns NSF grant to solve cosmic mystery

Physicist Eve Armstrong aims to understand the origins of elements heavier than iron using weather prediction technique data assimilation. With a two-year NSF EAGER grant, she and her team will predict whether supernova stardust gave rise to these heavy elements.

SourceNew York Institute of Technology·DateSep 7, 2021

How do pathogens evolve novel virulence activities and why does it matter?

Scientists are still unraveling how pathogens adapt to changing conditions, including climate change and global trade. Genome sequencing and big data technologies have revealed that dramatic events like hybridization between pathogen species can lead to rapid evolution of virulence on new host plants.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 7, 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.

Untapped potential for agrobiodiversity to contribute to food system sustainability

The Agrobiodiversity Index reveals that globally, biodiversity and agrobiodiversity are in decline, with only a fraction of species contributing to crop production. Maintaining diversity is vital for achieving sustainable food systems.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalNature Food·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 7, 2021

These fridge-free COVID-19 vaccines are grown in plants and bacteria

Researchers at the University of California - San Diego have developed COVID-19 vaccine candidates made from plant viruses and bacteriophages, which can be stored and shipped without refrigeration. These vaccines trigger high production of neutralizing antibodies in mice, offering a potential solution for global distribution efforts.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

New method makes it easier to predict algae blooms

A new method improves forecasting of toxic algae blooms by analyzing chemical markers from zooplankton in mussels, allowing for earlier warnings and more accurate predictions.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Flexible origami-based tubular polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell

Researchers developed a lightweight and flexible passive air-breathing PEMFC with simplified components. The new design allows for easy assembly and folding, reducing the number of parts and increasing power output when connected in series.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 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.

Officials leading hurricane response need ‘risk literacy’

A new study suggests that emergency management officials often lack the numeracy skills needed to make best evacuation decisions based on data. The most numerate officials provided additional evacuation times to their coastal communities, while less numerate ones gave less advance warning and over-evacuated tens of thousands more people.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Atom by atom: Scientists simulate a step in hepatitis B viral infection to help develop therapies targeted at capsid disassembly

Researchers successfully simulated the capsid disassembly step of hepatitis B viral infection at an unprecedented atomic level, identifying specific regions of the capsid protein that contribute to breakage. This high-accuracy simulation can help design drugs to interrupt these processes and prevent chronic infection.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 7, 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.

Computer model may offer way to limit the spread of MRSA in hospitals

A new computer model developed by Columbia University researchers accurately predicts the likelihood of individuals being colonized with MRSA in hospital settings. The model identifies asymptomatic carriers, who are responsible for most of the spread, and suggests targeted interventions to control infections.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 7, 2021

Safeguarding clean water for spaceflight missions

A team of researchers characterized different bacterial populations isolated from the International Space Station's potable water system, exploring their functional properties and long-term interactions. The study aimed to improve microbial risk assessments for human-built environments in space and on Earth.

SourceArizona State University·Journalnpj Biofilms and Microbiomes·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Simple creation of a super multi-element catalyst homogeneously containing 14 elements

Researchers developed a nanoporous super multi-element catalyst containing 14 elements through de-alloying. This alloy exhibits excellent water electrolysis properties due to the multi-element superposition effect. The breakthrough creation has potential for future development into an omnipotent and versatile catalyst.

SourceJapan Science and Technology Agency·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Bird malaria spreading via global ‘hotspots’

Researchers have identified global hotspots where bird malaria is spreading rapidly, with significant impacts on bird populations. The study found that climate and forest conditions play a crucial role in predicting infection risks, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect bird species from this deadly disease.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateSep 7, 2021

Stable memory test scores for Alzheimer’s patients with omega-3 intake

Researchers found that patients taking omega-3 supplements showed stable memory function compared to those in the control group. However, no significant differences were observed in biomarkers in spinal fluid samples. The study provides valuable insights into the potential effects of omega-3 on Alzheimer's disease.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 7, 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.

Artificial intelligence could help diagnose lung cancer a year earlier

Researchers have developed an AI program that can spot signs of lung cancer up to a year before diagnosis using CT scans. The program was trained on 888 patients and tested on a separate set of 1179 patients, achieving a 97% accuracy rate in detecting malignant tumours.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 2021

Walking with coffee is a little-understood feat of physics

Researchers at Arizona State University studied the physics behind humans balancing coffee while walking, revealing a natural mode of flexibility that mimics human motion. The findings can be used to design smart robots to adaptively handle complex objects in changing environments.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPhysical Review Applied·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

New study puts focus on early symptoms of Huntington’s disease

A new study from Lund University reveals that psychiatric and cognitive symptoms emerge at an early stage in Huntington's disease, highlighting the importance of targeting the emotional brain. Researchers identify changes in oligodendrocytes and white matter in the limbic system, suggesting a need for new treatment approaches.

SourceLund University·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateSep 7, 2021

Aging: It’s more complicated than we thought

A study found that boosting a cellular response to misfolded proteins actually shortens lifespan, contradicting previous research. The discovery highlights the complexity of aging and suggests new targets for disease prevention.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 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.

Black and Mexican American adults develop diabetes at a younger age

A new study found that non-Hispanic Black and Mexican American adults are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at an average age of 46-47 years old, four to seven years earlier than non-Hispanic white adults. Preventive measures such as nutrition counseling and physical-activity programs can prevent or delay the onset of diabetes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 7, 2021

Older patients benefit from cancer immunotherapies

Researchers analyzed large datasets to find biomarkers that could help select immunotherapy treatment for older patients. The analysis suggests that factors such as mutational burden and immune checkpoint protein expression are associated with increased response to immunotherapies in older patients, despite lower general immunity.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 7, 2021

'Flying' geckos use their heads and tails to crash-land safely

A study published in Nature's Communications Biology reveals how geckos steer in mid-air and stabilise landings using their heads and tails. Researchers found that a shorter tail length results in increased adhesive foot force, crucial for successful vertical landing.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 2021

Experimental opioid vaccine is being tested at Columbia

Researchers are developing a vaccine to prevent oxycodone use disorder, which affects half of those treated with existing medications. The experimental vaccine has shown promise in preclinical studies and is now being tested in a phase 1a/1b clinical trial at Columbia University.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 7, 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.

Babies wanted: Males need not apply

Researchers at Kyoto University have made a groundbreaking discovery by creating functional sperm cells from mouse pluripotent stem cells. The breakthrough has significant implications for male fertility and reproduction, providing a new model for generating male germ cells in a test tube.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

How land birds cross the open ocean

Researchers tracked five species of large land birds flying nonstop over the open ocean, exploiting wind and uplift conditions to save energy. The study reveals that many land birds rely on atmospheric support to complete their migrations, making them vulnerable to climate change.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

RSNA publishes new QIBA profile for knee cartilage MRI

The new QIBA profile provides a framework for evaluating the reliability of cartilage compositional imaging measurements, including T1rho and T2 mapping. It establishes minimum detectable changes in these values, enabling early detection of cartilage abnormalities and potentially preventing osteoarthritis.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateSep 7, 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.

Some coral reefs are keeping pace with ocean warming

Researchers found that coral communities in the Phoenix Islands Protected Area (PIPA) are recovering from past heatwaves, with heat-tolerant offspring repopulating the reefs. This study provides a source of hope for coral reef conservation and restoration, highlighting the potential for some reefs to keep pace with ocean warming.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 2021

Environmental monitoring of organic pollutants using plants

Scientists at Kobe University have created plants that can identify polychlorinated biphenyls and endocrine-disrupting chemicals, which contaminate soil and water. The plant-based method offers a convenient and inexpensive way to monitor toxicity levels.

SourceKobe University·JournalChemosphere·DateSep 7, 2021

New VA Merit Review grant to research binge drinking

A $992,000 VA Merit Review grant will fund research on non-neuronal activity after binge drinking to understand its impact on synaptic dysfunction and alcohol use disorder. The study aims to identify novel mechanisms, specifically astrocytes, involved in the dysregulation of neuronal activity.

SourceMarshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine·DateSep 7, 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.

Surroundings affect rhythm of an individual’s walk, according to new study

A new study by University of Bristol researchers found that people's comfort in their surroundings affects their walking patterns, with those feeling relaxed having regular stepping patterns regardless of environment. The study suggests well-designed urban environments can benefit wellbeing, concentration, and attention similar to natu...

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 2021

Scientists develop films with tunable elongation and fracture for various uses

Researchers from Nagoya Institute of Technology synthesized elastic polymer films with versatile elongation and fracture properties using photo-modulus patterning. The films' Young's modulus can be controlled by post-preparation photo reaction, making them suitable for diverse applications.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·JournalPolymer·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation completes the largest coral reef survey and mapping expedition in history

The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation has completed the largest coral reef survey and mapping expedition in history, assessing over 1,000 reefs in 16 countries. The Global Reef Expedition provided a comprehensive dataset for coral reef conservation, highlighting the status and major threats to these ecosystems.

SourceKhaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 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.

Analyzing marijuana legalization, use among high schoolers

A new study published in JAMA Network Open analyzed the relationship between marijuana legalization and adolescent use, finding no significant association. The researchers used updated estimates from survey data, concluding that state-level marijuana legalization does not impact teenage marijuana use.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 7, 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.

$2 million grant will help at-risk students through parent-teacher partnerships

Researchers will provide training to teachers on effective parent engagement, creating class-wide communication plans and tailored interventions for struggling students. By fostering collaborative relationships between parents and schools, academics and behavioral issues can be addressed, ultimately improving student performance.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateSep 7, 2021

21.4% record efficiency for flexible CIGS solar cells

Scientists at Empa have pushed flexible solar cell efficiency to a new limit, achieving 21.4% conversion rate. The study's findings also show that the technology remains stable after exposure to combined heat and illumination.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·DateSep 7, 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.

Chemotherapy drug puts young children with cancer at high risk of hearing loss

A new study by UBC researchers found that chemotherapy drug cisplatin is more likely to cause hearing loss in young children, particularly those under five years old. The study, published in Cancer, shows that the hearing of these children is impacted early during treatment and is affected to a greater extent than older children.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCancer·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 7, 2021

Think climate change is bad for corn? Add weeds to the equation

Researchers found that late-season weeds had a significant impact on corn yields, with minimal control resulting in an average loss of 50% and exacerbating crop losses under hot or dry conditions. The study suggests that climate change is not the only factor affecting corn yield, but rather its interaction with weeds.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateSep 7, 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.

Mining waste could be used as an ingredient for cheaper hydrogen fuel production

Researchers have discovered a way to use mining waste as part of a potential cheaper catalyst for hydrogen fuel production. The new catalyst triggers water splitting reactions using aluminosilicate minerals found in mining waste, which could lead to lower production costs and increased efficiency.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Energy and Sustainability Research·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Singapore scientists develop AI-powered system to diagnose glaucoma using eye images

Researchers at Nanyang Technological University and Tan Tock Seng Hospital have developed an AI-powered system to diagnose glaucoma from stereo fundus images, achieving an accuracy of 97% in diagnosing the condition. The automated method could potentially be used in less developed areas where patients lack access to ophthalmologists.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalMethods·DateSep 7, 2021

History of traumatic brain injury linked to higher rates of prescription opioid use and misuse

Adults with a history of traumatic brain injury are at increased risk of using and misusing prescription opioids, with nearly 52% increased risk for use and over 65% increased risk for misuse. The findings support the 'Perfect Storm' hypothesis, suggesting that TBI increases vulnerability to pain and opioid risks.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateSep 7, 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.

Researchers identify a mechanism that can help guide the development of new STING-activating drugs using imaging

A new study found that STING-activating drugs significantly alter nucleotide metabolism in pancreas cancer cells, which can be visualized using [18F]FLT PET imaging. This provides a non-invasive tool to track the effects of these drugs and fine-tune treatments for hard-to-treat cancers.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 7, 2021

Injuries to youth by law enforcement

A recent study found that Black youth in California have significantly higher rates of injuries caused by law enforcement than their non-Black peers. The researchers used California emergency department and hospitalization data to examine the overall rates of such incidents.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 7, 2021

Physicists point out window of opportunity for manned Mars mission

Researchers at Skoltech have identified a favorable window of opportunity for manned Mars missions in the mid-2030s. The study suggests that launching during the decaying phase of solar activity can help shield astronauts from cosmic rays, allowing for longer flight durations.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalSpace Weather·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 7, 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.

Highly efficient vibration concentration by disordered metamaterials

Scientists at Huazhong University of Sci. & Tech. present a soft and disordered hyperuniform elastic metamaterial (DHEM) that achieves remarkably high efficiency vibration concentration in broad frequency band, reaching up to ~4000 enhancement factor. The DHEM design covers a range of frequencies from ~100 Hz to ~10 kHz.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateSep 7, 2021

Bacteria could learn to predict the future

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have discovered that bacteria can adapt to changing environments by learning statistical regularities, enabling them to predict the future faster than traditional evolutionary methods. The study reveals a simple regulatory architecture that allows bacteria to process information and mak...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournaleLife·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 7, 2021

The Vilcek Foundation awards $250,000 in prizes to immigrant scientists

The Vilcek Foundation has awarded four prizes worth $250,000 to foreign-born scientists in the United States. The prizes recognize outstanding career contributions to biomedical science and innovative research. This year's recipients include Vishva M. Dixit, Markita del Carpio Landry, Hani Goodarzi, and Harris Wang.

SourceVilcek Foundation·DateSep 7, 2021