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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 168


Page 168 of 510

The dream artificial photosynthesis technology ventures from the laboratory

Korean researchers have developed a nanometer-sized branch-shaped tungsten-silver catalyst that can acquire carbon monoxide in high yields from the electrochemical carbon dioxide conversion system. The catalyst exhibited a high sunlight-to-compound conversion efficiency of 12.1% when combined with commercialized silicon solar cells.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalApplied Catalysis B Environment and Energy·DateAug 19, 2021

Comet atlas may have been a blast from the past

Astronomers discovered that comet ATLAS shares the same orbital track as an ancient comet from 1844, suggesting it's a sibling from a parent comet. The comet disintegrated while farther from the Sun than Earth, defying conventional wisdom about comets.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·DateAug 19, 2021

Discrimination, abuse and harassment in emergency medicine residency training

A survey study found that emergency medicine residents experience high rates of workplace mistreatment, including suicidal thoughts, and identify common sources of mistreatment as supervisors, colleagues, and patients. The study highlights the need for improved workplace culture and support systems to address these issues.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 19, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rattlesnake rattles trick human ears

Researchers discover rattlesnakes' high-frequency rattle fools humans into thinking they're closer than they are, allowing for a 'distance safety margin'. The study suggests snakes evolved this smart signal to avoid being stepped on by large mammals.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 19, 2021

CRISPR screening tool identifies new drug target for leukemia

A CRISPR screening tool identified ZMYND8, an epigenetic regulatory protein, as a potential new therapeutic target for acute myeloid leukemia. Inhibiting ZMYND8 has been shown to leave cancer cells with smaller tumors and better survival in mouse models.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 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.

Latinos' beliefs about social status may affect their cardiovascular health, study finds

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that Hispanic and Latino adults who perceive themselves as having higher social status are more likely to have ideal markers of cardiovascular health. The study suggests that subjective markers of social status may have stronger effects on the cardiovascular h...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 19, 2021

Scientists harness human protein to deliver molecular medicines to cells

Researchers have developed a new way to deliver molecular therapies to cells using a programmable system called SEND, which harnesses natural proteins in the body to encapsulate and deliver different RNA cargoes. This could lead to safer and more targeted delivery of gene editing and other molecular therapeutics.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateAug 19, 2021

Nanopores: the how and the why (and hopefully the where)

Researchers studied electrical conduction through membranes during Controlled Breakdown, a technique to fabricate single nanopores. They found that redox reactions occur at the membrane-electrolyte interface, allowing localization of pore formation using metal microelectrodes.

SourceInstituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier da Universidade NOVA de Lisboa ITQB NOVA·JournalSmall Science·DateAug 19, 2021

Adoptive transfer of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes may be less effective in patients with pretreated metastatic melanoma

Patients with relapsed metastatic melanoma who received prior anti-PD-1 therapies had a lower response rate to adoptive cell transfer of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (ACT-TIL). ACT-TIL was less effective in these patients compared to those who had never received anti-PD-1 therapy. The study found that the objective response rate and ...

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateAug 19, 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.

Skipping simple urine test leaves high-risk groups with untreated kidney disease

A large study found that people with hypertension or diabetes often lack a simple urine test for protein in the urine, despite being at high risk of chronic kidney disease. The researchers suggest widening albuminuria testing to detect early chronic kidney diseases and emphasize the importance of treatment.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalHypertension·DateAug 19, 2021

Groundbreaking visualization of atomic movements

A novel method for imaging vibrations and movements of atoms in catalysts has been developed by a collaboration of internationally leading researchers. The new analytical method reveals a dynamic behavior of the atoms, contrary to the long-held expectation that atoms in nanoparticles are static during observations.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 19, 2021

Antibodies block specific viruses that cause arthritis, brain infections

Researchers at WashU Medicine have identified two antibodies that protect animals from disease caused by alphaviruses, which could form the basis of treatments or serve as a template for a universal vaccine. The antibodies worked against all tested alphaviruses and prevented arthritis and brain infections in animals.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 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.

Tracking water storage shows options for improving water management during floods and droughts

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin tracked water storage in 14 major US aquifers over 15 years, finding that irrigation habits can be managed more effectively in humid regions. The study highlights the importance of surface water in replenishing groundwater, which helps dampen the impacts of irrigation.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 19, 2021

Genetic profile of tumor can indicate best treatment for brain cancer patients

A study by the Center for Cell-Based Therapy in São Paulo, Brazil, has discovered a set of biomarkers that can be used to predict which patients with glioblastoma may have tumors resistant to radiation therapy. The genetic signature helps doctors choose the best treatment option for these patients.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Oncology·DateAug 19, 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.

Junctional pacemaker may replace the sinoatrial node

Researchers propose using junctional pacemakers to replace the sinoatrial node in patients with bicuspid aortic valve and sinoatrial node dysfunction. This innovative approach offers a new treatment strategy for managing daily life while avoiding the need for sinoatrial node replacement surgery.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateAug 19, 2021

Study suggests solutions to criminal justice involvement among people experiencing homelessness, serious mental illness

A new study from Simon Fraser University found that nearly 60% of people experiencing homelessness and serious mental illness in Metro Vancouver have had a criminal conviction. The study identified factors associated with criminal convictions, including irregular income assistance payments, drug addiction, and psychiatric hospitalization.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 19, 2021

Rivers are largest global source of mercury in oceans

A new study by Yale University researchers reveals that rivers are the main source of mercury in coastal areas, rather than atmospheric deposition. The Amazon River, Ganges, and Yangtze are among the top contributors, with levels highest in August and September.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 19, 2021

Efficacy and renal tolerability of ultrafiltration in acute decompensated heart failure: A meta-analysis and systematic review of 19 randomized controlled trials

A meta-analysis of 19 randomized controlled trials found that ultrafiltration is superior to control treatments for weight loss (WMD 1.24 kg) and fluid removal (WMD 1.55 L), but associated with increased serum creatinine levels. The use of ultrafiltration in ADHF patients is efficient for fluid management but less safe renally.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateAug 19, 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.

Key mental abilities can actually improve during aging

New research from Georgetown University Medical Center found that certain brain functions associated with attention and executive control can improve in older individuals. These improvements may be due to lifelong practice and skill-building.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeObservational study·DateAug 19, 2021

Longest study of its kind reveals how gender-affirming hormone therapies impact obesity among U.S. transgender individuals

The study found that transgender patients taking gender-affirming hormone therapy should be monitored for changes in body weight and BMI. Transmasculine individuals experienced significant weight gain within two to four months of starting hormone therapy, while transfeminine individuals saw weight gain beyond 12 months.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateAug 19, 2021

Measuring electric current in soil could provide answers on soil health

Researchers at Washington State University have created a sensor that can measure the electric current produced by tiny microbes in soil, allowing for real-time assessments of soil health and potential. This breakthrough could provide farmers with valuable insights into soil productivity, enabling data-driven management strategies.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Mount Sinai researchers uncover the biology and treatment behind a rare autoinflammatory disease

A rare rheumatoid-like autoinflammatory condition is found to be treatable with FDA-approved TNF inhibitors due to the absence of a protein that activates antiviral defenses. Researchers confirm its underlying biology and mechanisms of autoinflammation, leading to quick and substantial clinical improvement.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCell·TypeObservational study·DateAug 19, 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.

Study shows uptick in U.S. alcohol beverage sales during COVID-19 pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. alcohol retail store sales increased compared to usual trends, indicating a rise in home drinking and potential higher alcohol consumption. The study found that beer, wine, and liquor store sales increased by 17%, while food services and drinking places sales decreased markedly.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAlcohol·DateAug 19, 2021

Expanding mRNA delivery using mammalian retrovirus-like protein

Researchers develop SEND system, which uses PEG10 to package and deliver specific RNAs into target cells. This approach expands applications for nucleic acid therapy, targeting specific cell types with minimal immunogenicity.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 19, 2021

NTU Singapore scientists develop ‘greener’ way to make fertiliser

Researchers at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore have devised a new method for producing urea, a key compound in fertilisers, through electrocatalysis. This approach produces urea five times more efficiently than previous methods and has the potential to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 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.

Researchers discover hidden SARS-CoV-2 ‘gate’ that opens to allow COVID infection

Scientists have discovered a hidden 'gate' in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein that allows the virus to infect cells. The discovery reveals a glycan mechanism that opens the gate, enabling the virus to enter host cells. This breakthrough could lead to new therapeutics to counter COVID infection.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 19, 2021

How ions get their electrons back

Researchers created highly charged ions by removing 20-40 electrons from atoms and studied their interaction with solid materials. They found that the ions capture electrons from the material to become electrically neutral, a process that can be explained by simple laws.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 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.

Nutrient-rich human waste poised to sustain agriculture, improve economies

A new study characterizes human urine-derived nutrients for sustainable agriculture, revealing three supply-demand typologies across the globe. Countries with co-located supply-demand, like India and Uganda, can reuse nutrients locally, while dislocated countries, such as the US and Australia, need concentrated fertilizer production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 19, 2021

Study identifies patterns in bird-plane collisions

Researchers from Cornell University have identified key factors in bird-plane collisions, including the time of year and species size, to inform collision avoidance strategies. The study predicts that risk for damaging strikes during periods with high migration intensity increases by up to 700%.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 19, 2021

Restoring healthy gut bacteria through blood stem cell transplantation

Researchers found that hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) normalizes the gut microbiota of patients with IBD associated with XIAP deficiency. The study revealed that HCT decreases gut inflammation and restores diversity in gut microbiota, improving symptoms and quality of life for affected individuals.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·DateAug 19, 2021

Existing drugs kill SARS-CoV2 in cells

Researchers have identified several drug contenders that can block or reduce SARS-CoV2 infection in cells, including lactoferrin and MEK-inhibitors. These findings suggest potential efficacy against COVID-19 variants, with ongoing clinical trials to examine their ability to reduce viral loads and inflammation.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 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.

Faster and cheaper ethanol-to-jet-fuel on the horizon

A new catalyst and microchannel reactors improve efficiency and cost in converting alcohol into jet fuel. The process reduces complexity, improves efficiency, and lowers capital costs for renewable energy production.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Baby bat babbling strikingly similar to human baby babbles

A new study reveals that baby bat babbling is strikingly similar to human infant babbling, characterized by eight shared features. Researchers hope their findings will lead to further investigation into the cognitive mechanisms underlying this complex behavior.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 19, 2021

Association of maternal prenatal weight, brain development of offspring

Higher maternal weight during pregnancy may be associated with poorer offspring brain development into adolescence. The observational study found a positive correlation between maternal weight and brain development in offspring, suggesting potential long-term effects on cognitive function.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 19, 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.

Rare gene variant increases susceptibility to zoonotic H7N9

A new study found that rare single-nucleotide variants in the MX1 gene increase human susceptibility to zoonotic H7N9 avian influenza infection. These genetic vulnerabilities may act as incubators for transmission of virulent new IAV subtypes, posing a risk for pandemic viruses.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 19, 2021

A master gear in the circadian clock

Researchers have identified a gene called Npas4 that appears to influence hundreds of other genes for timekeeping in the brain. The study suggests that Npas4 is a master regulator of many light-induced genes, which could lead to new treatments for managing challenges such as jet lag and sleep disorders.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateAug 19, 2021

Flawed quality control in the brain

Scientists developed a new mouse line to study protein balance and quality control in the mammalian brain. The research revealed that different neurodegenerative diseases have distinct protein misfolding patterns, offering insights into potential therapeutic options.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateAug 19, 2021

The brain’s ‘prediction machine’ anticipates the future when listening to music

Researchers found that listeners use uncertainty to determine where a musical phrase ends. The study suggests the brain anticipates what comes next in a melody based on past experiences. This discovery sheds light on how humans acquire knowledge and parse complex input into manageable segments.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Peer-reviewed PETA paper exposes forced swim test flaws

A new PETA paper reviews data from over 15,000 animals subjected to the forced swim test, finding no correlation with human trials. The study suggests that the test is not a reliable method for identifying antidepressants.

SourcePeople for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)·JournalDrug Discovery Today·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 19, 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.

Effect of ‘eddy killing’ in oceans is no longer a matter of guesswork

A new method by University of Rochester scientists documents the impact of wind on mesoscale eddies, revealing a continual loss of 50 gigawatts of kinetic energy. This discovery provides a more detailed spatial analysis than existing methods and has significant implications for understanding ocean currents and climate.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 19, 2021

US influence on Australia’s illegal pet trade

A study by University of Adelaide researchers found that unregulated reptile trade in the US drives demand for illegal reptiles in Australia. Three reptile families had the highest probability of being smuggled, with species listed in CITES Appendices I having a higher smuggling probability

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalConservation Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 19, 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.

Researchers find circular RNA can inhibit metastasis of gastric cancer

A recent study by Chinese Academy of Sciences researchers found that circular RNA circURI1 inhibits the spread of gastric cancer cells. It achieves this by sequestering hnRNPM, modulating alternative splicing in gastric cancer cells. This breakthrough provides a new perspective on the molecular basis of cancer metastasis.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Blood-pressure drugs could improve colorectal cancer survival, study suggests

A large retrospective analysis of 14,000 patients with colorectal cancer found that common blood-pressure drugs like ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers were associated with decreased mortality. Patients who took their blood-pressure drugs consistently were less likely to die from their cancer.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalCancer Medicine·DateAug 19, 2021