Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2021 - Page 111


Page 111 of 510

Cell “quakes” may help cells respond to the outside world

Researchers discovered that cytoquakes, rapid rearrangements of the cytoskeleton, occur due to slow buildup and sudden release of mechanical energy. These disturbances may aid cells in responding quickly to signals from their environment.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 4, 2021

Study: New Pacific Ocean circulation findings may hold key to better predicting impact of El Niño and La Niña

Researchers at York University have discovered a conveyer-like motion of heat across the equator in the Pacific Ocean called the Cross Equatorial Cell (CEC), which influences El Niño and La Niña. This finding may lead to improved prediction of year-to-year disruptions to weather patterns, benefiting countries worldwide.

SourceYork University·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Oceans·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 4, 2021

JILA’s comb breathalyzer is now a thousandfold more sensitive to disease biomarkers

Researchers at JILA have enhanced the sensitivity of their decade-old frequency comb breathalyzer to detect four biomarkers of disease in human breath. The upgraded system can also identify six additional chemicals, with potential implications for COVID-19 testing and real-time health monitoring.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 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.

Mount Sinai opens The Charles Lazarus Children’s Abilities Center

The Charles Lazarus Children’s Abilities Center at Mount Sinai offers cutting-edge treatments for children with disabilities, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy. The center features state-of-the-art equipment and a multidisciplinary team of experts providing comprehensive care to children from birth to age 21.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·TypeNews article·DateOct 4, 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.

Treating severe depression with on-demand brain stimulation

Researchers created a customized device that targets unique brain circuits associated with depression, providing immediate relief. The approach uses neural biomarkers to personalize therapy and has shown long-term efficacy in treatment-resistant patients.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 4, 2021

Reducing plastics in gardens

A new study by Flinders University and The University of Newcastle reveals that microplastics from various sources can contaminate garden soil after seven years, posing a risk to household environments. The research suggests that careful design and gardening practices can reduce contamination in suburban backyards.

SourceFlinders University·JournalFrontiers in Environmental Science·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 4, 2021

Restructuring biology: New study shows protein hydrophobic parts do not hate water

A new study by Okayama University scientists shows that proteins' hydrophobic parts do not repel water as previously thought. The researchers used computational methods to find that the van der Waals force between hydrophobic parts stabilizes the unfolded structure, leading to folding.

SourceOkayama University·JournalProtein Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 4, 2021

At-risk teens may face increased online threats

Research finds that at-risk teen girls who have experienced sexual abuse are more likely to be cyberbullied and experience heightened offline sexual activities. Targeted intervention strategies using algorithm-based approaches could help these teens navigate the Internet safely.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeObservational study·DateOct 4, 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.

Travelling fires pose an underestimated risk to open building spaces

Travelling fires, which burn locally and spread across entire floors over time, can cause significant structural damage in large open-plan spaces. Researchers at Imperial College London have found that these lesser-known fires are a concern for buildings with fuel-rich environments, such as warehouses and offices.

SourceImperial College London·JournalFire Technology·DateOct 4, 2021

More memory B cells exist in those fully vaccinated with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, study says

A study by University of Minnesota Medical School researchers found that fully vaccinated individuals with a previous SARS-CoV-2 infection have a stronger immune response, producing more memory B cells. This increased immune response may reduce the risk of breakthrough infections and potentially fewer doses needed for booster shots.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 4, 2021

Specific UV light wavelength could offer low-cost, safe way to curb COVID-19 spread

A specific wavelength of Far ultraviolet-C light has been discovered that is both safe for humans and highly effective in killing the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This breakthrough could lead to affordable systems for reducing viral spread in crowded public spaces, complementing ventilation, mask wearing, and vaccination.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateOct 4, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Why extinctions ran amok in ancient oceans, and why they slowed down

A new Stanford University study suggests that rising oxygen levels may have slowed down ancient ocean extinctions. The research found that oxygen levels beyond 40% of present atmospheric levels expanded viable ocean habitat and reduced extinction rates. This discovery has implications for understanding the fate of ocean creatures in to...

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 4, 2021

Supercomputers reveal how X chromosomes fold, deactivate

Researchers used supercomputer-driven dynamic modeling to study the process of X chromosome inactivation in female mammal embryos. The model revealed the role of RNA and chromosome structure in regulating gene expression, providing new insights into epigenetics and potential pathways for drug treatments.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 4, 2021

Do ‘Dear CEO’ letters make a difference?

A study by University of Georgia researchers found that BlackRock's 'Dear CEO' letters have a significant effect on portfolio firms, influencing their language in financial disclosures. The research suggests that institutional investors are impacting corporate decisions through broad-based public engagement.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalReview of Accounting Studies·DateOct 4, 2021

Legacy of racism in housing policies continues to impact maternal health

A new study by researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center found that historic redlining policies continue to impact maternal health, with higher rates of pre-terms birth and maternal complications in Black women. The study used digitized HOLC maps to examine the relationship between housing policies and health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateOct 4, 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.

The first neuroscience evidence of team flow as a unique brain state

Researchers found a unique signature of team flow in brain activity, characterized by increased beta and gamma waves in the middle temporal cortex. This study provides a framework for understanding and enhancing team performance through objective neural methods.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournaleNeuro·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 4, 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.

Leipzig tethered balloon in action on Spitsbergen

Researchers from TROPOS and Leipzig University are using a tethered balloon to study the Arctic air layers, which play a key role in climate change. The measurements aim to better understand the strong warming of the Arctic and improve climate models.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS)·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·TypeObservational study·DateOct 4, 2021

Acute myocarditis following COVID-19 mRNA vaccination in adults

A population-based study of 2.4 million people found rare cases of acute myocarditis after COVID-19 mRNA vaccination in young men. The study suggests that the signal of increased myocarditis warrants further investigation into the relationship between COVID-19 vaccines and cardiac complications.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 4, 2021

Tractor efficiency increased, thanks to Purdue hydraulics research

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a three-phase approach to optimize the hydraulic systems of tractors and implements. The team built a simulation model and tested it in a lab before conducting real-world tests on a tractor-planter combo. The results show improved efficiency, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

SourcePurdue University·DateOct 4, 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.

Ketone supplement might be a novel therapeutic for boosting brain function in obesity

A new study found that ketone supplements enhanced blood flow to the brain and improved aspects of cognitive function, such as working memory and processing speed, in adults with obesity. This suggests that ketone supplements may be a novel therapeutic strategy for protecting and improving brain health in people with obesity.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2021

Linker histones tune the length and shape of chromosomes

Linker histones play a crucial role in controlling the number of chromatin loops and ultimately the shape of chromosomes. By regulating loop formation, linker histones allow cells to fine-tune chromosome size for optimal growth and reproduction.

SourceRockefeller University·JournaleLife·DateOct 4, 2021

The hidden talent of fungi

Researchers at TU Wien propose a new method to interpret and mine fungal genomes to predict essential genes for the production of valuable substances. The FunOrder method identifies co-evolved genes that are functionally necessary, distinguishing them from gap genes.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 4, 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.

Study supports theory that dragonflies migrate across the Indian Ocean

Researchers at Lund University used models and simulations to investigate the theory that dragonflies can migrate across the Indian Ocean. The study found that globe skimmer dragonflies can make the journey, but require favourable winds and store enough energy in their bodies to do so.

SourceLund University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateOct 4, 2021

WVU researchers hope to open an ocean of opportunities for the underserved

West Virginia University researchers aim to create better connections with underserved populations to the blue economy, which defines sustainable use of ocean resources. They will analyze data and explore ways to package it in a way that encourages these traditionally underserved groups to utilize the blue economy.

SourceWest Virginia University·DateOct 4, 2021

Depression rates tripled and symptoms intensified during first year of COVID-19

A new study found that depression rates among US adults tripled during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, with those experiencing multiple stressors and lower incomes being disproportionately affected. The study used data from over 5,000 respondents to track changes in depression prevalence before and during the pandemic.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Americas·TypeObservational study·DateOct 4, 2021

The unique brain state of team flow

Researchers discovered a distinct brain signature associated with team flow, characterized by increased beta and gamma waves in the middle temporal cortex. This neural pattern is linked to enhanced information processing and synchronization between teammates during the team flow state.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateOct 4, 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.

Finding better ways to deliver medicine in the body

University of Delaware chemical engineer Catherine Fromen aims to improve the delivery of therapeutic medicines to the body by studying how they interact with mucosal interfaces. Her research focuses on designing medicines that can overcome natural defenses in the lungs and gut, with potential applications for diseases such as lung can...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateOct 4, 2021

Cancer breakthrough: Exercise may stop disease in its tracks

A clinical trial found that obese prostate cancer patients who underwent regular exercise training for 12 weeks had increased levels of anti-cancer myokines, which suppressed tumour growth and helped fight cancerous cells. The study suggests exercise may be a key weapon in cancer patients' battle against the disease.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 4, 2021

Brain-circuit discovery may help explain sex differences in binge drinking

A preclinical study found that female mice are more susceptible to binge drinking due to a brain circuit called the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST). The BNST is more excitable in females, requiring stronger inhibition to curb excessive alcohol consumption. This natural 'brake' mechanism may also contribute to sex differences...

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 4, 2021

Story tips: Carbon goes to space, cybersecurity put to the test, fusion’s power trip, cost-cutting controls and fungal infusion

Researchers have developed a novel process to manufacture extreme heat-resistant carbon-carbon composites, which will be tested on a U.S. Navy rocket launching with NASA this fall. Additionally, they created a technology that more realistically emulates user activities to improve cyber testbeds and prevent cyberattacks.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 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.

Patients with “red flag” cancer symptoms not referred for urgent investigation in 6 out of ten cases

A new study found that six out of ten patients with common 'alarm' symptoms were not referred for urgent cancer investigation within two weeks, leading to a higher risk of delayed diagnosis. The study suggests that stricter adherence to guidelines and increased awareness of missed symptom groups could improve diagnosis rates.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBMJ Quality & Safety·TypeObservational study·DateOct 4, 2021

Hidden mangrove forest in the Yucatan peninsula reveals ancient sea levels

Researchers discovered an ancient mangrove ecosystem in the Yucatan Peninsula, revealing how coastal mangroves adapted to a warmer world with higher sea levels. The study provides insights into past climate change impacts and its relevance to future scenarios of relative sea-level rise.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2021

'Think twice' campaign could reduce risk of UK opioid epidemic

A 'think-twice' campaign for GPs has been found effective in reducing opioid prescribing in primary care, resulting in a net saving to the NHS of £700,000. The campaign led to a reduction of 15,000 fewer patients being given opioids over a year-long trial.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 4, 2021

Loneliness within older adults is more than the stereotype

A VUB researcher's study found that loneliness can be temporary and even provide opportunities for self-development, challenging the common view of loneliness as solely negative. The study also highlights the importance of addressing loneliness throughout one's life.

SourceVrije Universiteit Brussel·JournalAgeing International·DateOct 4, 2021

University of Limerick, Ireland, study reveals link between Crohn’s disease and fatty tissue in the gut

A study by University of Limerick researchers has found that Crohn's disease is associated with higher depositions of fat in the abdominal areas where the intestines are located. This suggests a direct link between fatty tissue and Crohn's disease, potentially leading to new diagnostic tests and treatments.

SourceUniversity of Limerick·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateOct 4, 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.

Electricity consumption reveals proactive community response to COVID-19 progression

A new study by NUS researchers found a strong positive correlation between household peak electricity consumption and newly reported COVID-19 cases in Singapore. This suggests that the local community reacted proactively by limiting risk factors, even before government mandates were implemented.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 3, 2021

Intestinal drug shown to boost memory and cognition

Researchers found that an existing drug, prucalopride, can improve cognitive function by enhancing activity in brain areas related to memory. In a study of 44 healthy volunteers, those taking prucalopride performed better on a memory test and showed increased activity in the hippocampus and right angular gyrus.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2021

Airborne antennas to address EMF concerns

Researchers propose a solution using tethered unmanned aerial vehicles (TUAVs) to receive signals while minimizing uplink exposure. The system uses low-power 'green antennas' that only receive signals and do not radiate EMF, offering increased data transfer speeds.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Green Communications and Networking·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 3, 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.

Sandwich-style construction: Towards ultra-low-energy exciton electronics

Australian researchers have made a significant step towards ultra-low energy electronics by demonstrating the dissipationless flow of exciton polaritons at room temperature. The breakthrough involves placing a semiconductor material between two mirrors, allowing the excitons to propagate without losing energy.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2021

Gas-related intestinal symptoms affect nearly all adults on a daily basis, and are associated with psychological distress and poorer quality of life, new multi-national survey finds

A multi-national survey of nearly 6,000 people found that gas-related symptoms are a common experience for most adults, with almost eight out of ten reporting symptoms in the previous 24 hours. The study also showed that these symptoms can have a significant impact on quality of life and mental health, particularly among younger people.

SourceBeyond·DateOct 2, 2021

Scientists find protein which indicates whether memories can be changed

Researchers have discovered a protein called "shank" that acts as a biomarker for modifiable memories. This discovery may lead to the development of new treatments for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) by identifying factors that make memories susceptible to change.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 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.

Depressed adolescents’ brains shown to mute distressing information

Researchers found that depressed adolescents' brains reduce activity in brain areas related to visual processing when shown distressing images. Antidepressant treatment restored brain activity to healthy levels, suggesting a potential vulnerability in adolescent brains.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 2021

Directly into the brain: A 3D multifunctional and flexible neural interface

A team of Korean researchers developed a novel, flexible neural interface that can measure neuronal activity while delivering drugs to the implant site. This breakthrough device has promising implications for brain-machine interfaces and treating neurological diseases.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalMicrosystems & Nanoengineering·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 1, 2021