Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2021 - Page 165


Page 165 of 510

How to double voter turnout and increase representation during local elections

A new study by UC San Diego researchers finds that moving local elections to on-cycle races increases voter turnout and makes the electorate more representative of the population, particularly in terms of race, age, class, and partisanship. The study analyzed California elections over an eight-year period and found significant effects ...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·DateAug 23, 2021

Food claiming to have ‘wild mushrooms’ rarely does

A study found that 95% of fungal species on Earth remain undescribed, leading to inconsistent regulations and potential health risks. The researchers tested 16 food products labeled as containing 'wild mushrooms' and discovered most consisted of cultivated species, including poisonous varieties.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPeerJ·DateAug 23, 2021

ME associated with cellular energy strain

Researchers found biochemical changes in ME patients' blood, supporting the theory that ME is linked to impaired cellular energy supply. The study identified distinct metabolic signatures and adaptations among patients, which may relate to disease severity.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalJCI Insight·DateAug 23, 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.

Common workflows for computing material properties with various quantum engines

Researchers have developed a common workflow interface for various quantum codes, enabling accurate predictions of system properties and promoting the wider use of density-functional theory. The interface allows users to optimize structures using any code without defining parameters, providing reusable results.

SourceNational Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) MARVEL·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateAug 23, 2021

Surrey student makes a discovery that could improve the reliability of future smart electronics

A University of Surrey undergraduate has developed a method to suppress hot-carrier effects in devices, leading to more reliable performance and increased power efficiency. This breakthrough uses a multimodal transistor architecture, which could enable high-performance amplifiers for environmental and biological sensor applications.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 23, 2021

NSF awards to Wayne State to impact air quality

Wayne State University researcher Yaoxian Huang received $332,689 for a three-year research study to improve understanding of reactive nitrogen from snowpack and transportation. The project aims to provide scientific support for air quality management and promote air quality education for future generations.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateAug 23, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Statistics say large pandemics are more likely than we thought

A new study estimates the intensity and frequency of extreme novel pandemics, finding that large pandemics like COVID-19 are relatively likely due to growing risks. The study suggests that a pandemic similar in scale to COVID-19 is likely within 59 years, highlighting the need for adjusted perceptions of pandemic risks.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 23, 2021

Birmingham scientists discover new piece of clotting puzzle

Researchers identify novel mechanism of formation of procoagulant platelets activated by S100 A8/A9 binding to the GPIbα receptor, a previously unknown target for anti-coagulant therapies. This discovery may lead to new treatments and prevention strategies for inflammatory and thrombotic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·DateAug 23, 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.

Mathematical model predicts best way to build muscle

A mathematical model developed by researchers at the University of Cambridge can predict the optimum exercise regime for building muscle. The model takes into account individual physiology and optimizes exercise regimes based on user input, promising to maximize athletes' potential.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBiophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 23, 2021

A novel function of noncoding RNA in senescence and cancer

Researchers discovered that noncoding RNA derived from pericentromeric repetitive sequences upregulates SASP-like inflammatory gene expression by disturbing chromatin interactions. hSATII RNA is highly detectable in cancer cells and supports tumor development via small EVs, highlighting a new role in age-related pathologies.

SourceJapanese Foundation For Cancer Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2021

Survival strategy of starving spruces trees: The critical role of reserves

Trees continue to form reserves even during long periods of starvation, contrary to the assumption that they only form when photosynthetic conditions are favorable. As CO2 starvation progresses, trees stabilize their reserve levels and divert resources to storage, allowing them to survive climate extremes.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 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.

To understand future habitat needs for chimpanzees, look to the past

A new study provides insight into where chimpanzees avoided climate instability during glacial and interglacial periods in Africa over the past 120,000 years. The findings help increase understanding of how climate change impacts biodiversity and how to mitigate predicted biodiversity loss.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Primatology·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 23, 2021

Bringing order to chaotic bubbles can make mining more sustainable

Researchers at Columbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science have developed a new technique to structure chaotic bubbles, enabling more efficient separation of useful metals from useless particles. This method uses vibrations to control the motion of bubbles, leading to reduced energy and water usage in mining.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 23, 2021

Berkeley Lab mathematicians build an algorithm to ‘do the twist’

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have created a new mathematical algorithm to decipher the rotational dynamics of twisting particles in complex systems. By analyzing X-ray scattering patterns, they can gain insights into the function and properties of materials.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 23, 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.

Study: Benefits outweigh risks for autonomous vehicles - if they are regulated

A North Carolina State University panel of experts assesses AV deployment risks and benefits, predicting substantial benefits if well-regulated. The study's findings suggest regulations could limit urban use of AVs and commercial fleet ownership, reducing risk and increasing benefits.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeContent analysis·DateAug 23, 2021

TSIM: A model for telehealth

The Telehealth Service Implementation Model (TSIM) offers a comprehensive approach to developing and sustaining successful telehealth programs. TSIM addresses key challenges such as provider and patient engagement, technical, financial, regulatory, and administrative burdens.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalTelemedicine Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 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.

Moving emergency care patients to other hospital departments prone to high mishap rate

A recent study at a large Australian hospital found nearly 4 out of 10 patient transports to be marred by incidents, including limb entrapment, collisions, and issues with infusion pumps. Patient agitation was also a common factor in these mishaps, highlighting the need for improved transport training and preparation.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalEmergency Medicine Journal·TypeObservational study·DateAug 23, 2021

CUNY SPH and the NYC Health Department to study long-acting antiretroviral therapy for HIV

The APPLI study aims to assess the perceptions and preferences of people living with HIV on long-acting injectable antiretroviral therapies. The study will explore how to support adherence and integrate these therapies into Ryan White HIV care settings, potentially improving health outcomes for those struggling with daily oral medicati...

SourceCUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy·DateAug 23, 2021

Volcanoes acted as a safety valve for Earth’s long-term climate

Scientists discovered that volcanic arcs, including chains like the Andes and Cascades, played a crucial role in regulating atmospheric CO2 levels over the past 400 million years. This natural feedback mechanism helped maintain a stable climate, but recent human-driven emissions have disrupted this balance.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 23, 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.

Would we still have severe thunderstorms over North America if the Gulf of Mexico were filled in with land?

A Purdue University study suggests that the eastern half of the US is a hotspot for severe thunderstorms due to high terrain, while the Gulf of Mexico plays a relatively weak role. Removing the Gulf would shift storm patterns eastward into Illinois and reduce them over southern Texas.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Climate·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 23, 2021

Eyes provide peek at Alzheimer’s disease risk

A new study from University of California - San Diego suggests that protein deposits in the retina and brain may be a sign of Alzheimer's disease risk. Retinal imaging may potentially serve as an early biomarker for detecting AD risk, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional brain scans.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateAug 23, 2021

Volcanism drove rapid ocean deoxygenation during the time of the dinosaurs

Research from UBC and HKU Earth scientists reveals that massive volcanism played a key role in triggering oceanic anoxia, with CO2-induced environmental warming creating 'dead zones' over short timescales. The findings provide important insights into the sensitivity of the Earth system to global biogeochemical cycles and marine biology.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalGeology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 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.

Scientists develop brain organoids with complex neural activity

Researchers at UCLA developed brain organoids that mimic human brain structure and function, allowing for the study of neurological disorders like Rett syndrome. The organoids showed organized waves of activity similar to those found in living brains and responded to treatment with an experimental drug.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2021

Reversal of lung fibrosis in mouse model suggests a novel therapeutic target for pulmonary fibrosis

Researchers reverse lung fibrosis in a mouse model using Bcl-2 inhibitor ABT-199, suggesting a novel therapeutic target to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The study finds that monocyte-derived macrophages play a key role in fibrosis progression and that targeting the Cpt1a-Bcl-2 interaction modulates apoptosis resistance.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalCell Death and Differentiation·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2021

Scientists develop an energy harvesting technology based on ferromagnetic resonance

Researchers at Osaka City University have successfully stored electricity using ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) in ultra-thin magnetic films. The team found that two alloys, Ni80Fe20 and Co50Fe50, generated varying amounts of electricity under FMR, with Co50Fe50 showing a steady increase in energy storage over time.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalAIP Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 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.

Delayed care for juvenile new-onset type 1 diabetes

A Swedish study found that 43% of children with new-onset type 1 diabetes did not receive hospital treatment on the same day as primary care contact. Delayed care can lead to life-threatening conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis. Improved awareness and rapid treatment are crucial for preventing complications.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPediatric Diabetes·TypeCase study·DateAug 23, 2021

The science of ants' underground cities

Researchers at Caltech studied ant digging habits and uncovered mechanisms guiding their tunnel construction. Ants use efficient techniques to minimize work, digging straight tunnels along cup edges, and sensing force chains to avoid digging there.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 23, 2021

The Hobbit’s bite gets a stress test

A study on Homo floresiensis found its bite could exert around 1300 Newtons of force, comparable to modern humans and some extinct cousins. This suggests that the Hobbit might have been at greater risk of facial bone strain or dislocation when biting hard foods.

SourceDuke University·JournalInterface Focus·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 23, 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.

Alleviating inflammation by NO-scavenging and delivering drugs

A new hydrogel platform has been developed to alleviate inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis by selectively removing nitric oxide. The hydrogel, when injected into the affected area, collects and eliminates excessive NO, reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 23, 2021

Shorter weekly course of rifapentine-isoniazid associated with much higher treatment completion rates compared to longer daily course

A randomized trial found that a shorter course of rifapentine-isoniazid therapy resulted in significantly higher treatment completion rates compared to a longer daily course. The findings suggest that this regimens can be more effective for preventing tuberculosis disease in individuals with HIV, particularly in high-transmission areas.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 23, 2021

Layered graphene with a twist displays unique quantum confinement in 2-D

Scientists detected electronic and optical interlayer resonances in bilayer graphene by twisting one layer 30 degrees, resulting in increased interlayer spacing that influences electron motion. This understanding could inform the design of future quantum technologies for more powerful computing and secure communication.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 23, 2021

Interstellar comets like Borisov may not be all that rare

Astronomers Amir Siraj and Avi Loeb found that interstellar objects outnumber objects in our solar system's Oort Cloud. This discovery suggests that there could be substantially more visitors from other star systems.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society Letters·DateAug 23, 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.

Merit-based employment practices contribute to gender pay gap, study says

A longitudinal study of nearly 400,000 employees from Japanese firms over 12 years found that merit-based systems increased the gender bonus gap, but not total annual earnings. The research challenges the idea that merit-based practices reduce gender inequality.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalSocial Forces·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 23, 2021

New live analysis system for plant stomata, signals exciting progress in climate-change resistant crop development

Scientists have developed a new live analysis system for plant stomata, allowing for rapid and affordable identification of desirable traits. This innovation has the potential to accelerate crop development for climate-resistance, addressing future food shortages.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateAug 22, 2021

Digging into 400 Wh kg−1 Li–S batteries

High-energy-density Li–S batteries have been evaluated for their cycling lifespan, showing that considerable lithium polysulfides exist in the electrolyte despite high specific capacities. The actual capacity loss is mainly attributed to dissolved sulfur species rather than Li anode depletion.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateAug 22, 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.

Researchers develop high-selective pseudocapacitive electrode for water softening

Scientists at Hefei Institutes of Physical Science developed a pseudo-capacitive electrode with high absorption capacity, selectivity, and stability for electro-sorption of hardness ions. The hybrid capacitive deionization system shows superb electro-affinity and high hardness selectivity in multi-cation solution.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2021

Synthetic tissue model with blood vessels

Scientists create a cell culture system where blood vessels can grow within a framework made of synthetic materials. The team investigates material properties that promote blood vessel formation and refines the model to improve its performance, paving the way for growing implantable tissues.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2021

Solar gains stack up

Researchers have developed a new structure and materials for tandem solar cells, enabling more light to be captured and energy converted effectively. The n-i-p configuration achieved a significant improvement in power-conversion efficiency, exceeding 27%, surpassing previous best values.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 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.

Making nylon 6-6 ‘greener,’ and without zinc

A team of researchers has developed a method to produce nylon 6-6 without using the environmentally endangered element zinc. They achieved this by using alternative metals such as iron and cobalt, and harnessing the power of solar energy. The new process reduces energy consumption, saves water, and minimizes hazardous chemicals.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 22, 2021

Polymer electrolytes for all-solid-state batteries without dead zones

Researchers developed a novel block copolymer electrolyte that controls structure through electrostatic interactions, enhancing ionic conductivity. The new nanostructure enables significant enhancement in conductivity compared to typical two-dimensional structures, paving the way for safer all-solid-state batteries.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 20, 2021