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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 170


Page 170 of 510

Package delivery robots' environmental impacts: Automation matters less than vehicle type

A University of Michigan study found that package delivery robots and automation contribute less than 20% to a package's carbon footprint, while the vehicle itself is the largest contributor. The researchers suggest that switching to electric vehicles and reducing electricity intensity can have the biggest impact on sustainable parcel ...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 18, 2021

WVU researcher studies inflammatory effects of toxic chemicals

The researcher is investigating the inflammatory responses produced by exposure to chemical agents, comparing different chemical exposures at both whole-body and tissue levels. The study aims to develop a common treatment for chemical exposures and diagnose the responsible chemicals.

SourceWest Virginia University·DateAug 18, 2021

Wind turbine night noise

Researchers find wind turbine night noise contains 'amplitude modulation' (AM) sound that worsens sleep and annoyance after sunset. The 'swoosh' sound is detected up to 60% of the night-time at distances around 1 km from a wind farm.

SourceFlinders University·JournalApplied Acoustics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Plastics aren’t what we think. New study finds they’re a tad rubbery, paving the way for better products

Researchers at the University of South Florida discovered that glassy polymers, or plastics, have a soft, rubbery layer on their surface that can be controlled. This breakthrough could lead to improved properties such as adhesion and scratch resistance in materials like automobile paint and cellphone screens.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2021

Tailoring wearable technology and telehealth in treating Parkinson's disease

A new UBCO study determines that wearable technology and telehealth can tailor treatment plans for Parkinson's disease by identifying peak times of symptoms. The research found positive experiences and health outcomes for patients using wearable devices in combination with telehealth appointments.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalParkinsonism & Related Disorders·DateAug 18, 2021

Delivering packages at transit stations: Considering accessibility and equity in site placement

Researchers at Portland State University propose a multiple-criteria approach to ensure equitable distribution of common carrier parcel lockers at transit facilities. The study evaluates accessibility and equity metrics, including ridership, mode of transportation, and sociodemographic profiles, to identify high-potential locations for...

SourceSAGE·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateAug 18, 2021

Researchers devise simple, fast method to diagnose sleep disorders among stroke survivors

A new study from Boston University School of Medicine has found that a portable sleep testing device can accurately diagnose sleep apnea in stroke patients. The researchers screened over 80% of their patients for mild or severe sleep apnea and found that it was common among non-white racial and ethnic populations.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 18, 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.

First 3D-bioprinting of entire active tumor

Researchers at Tel Aviv University successfully printed the first entirely active and viable glioblastoma tumor using a 3D printer. The 3D-bioprinted model includes functional blood vessels that simulate a real tumor, making it a promising tool for predicting treatment efficacy and drug development.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 18, 2021

Impact of telehealth: Addressing the needs of underserved populations

A special issue of Telemedicine and e-Health explores the impact of telehealth on underserved populations, highlighting increased patient satisfaction and utilization. Studies show that telehealth improves access to care, especially for rural and low-income communities.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTelemedicine and e-Health·TypeCase study·DateAug 18, 2021

How people manipulate their own memories

Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum explain how people construct memories of important events, influenced by positive or negative feelings, narrative self-image, and descriptive language. This process shapes memories to protect the positive self and mitigate negative memories that don't fit the self-image.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalReview of Philosophy and Psychology·DateAug 18, 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.

Empathy training could cut crime figures

Research by Anglia Ruskin University suggests that empathy training programs can reduce antisocial behavior and crime. Programs targeting young people have been shown to increase empathy and decrease cyberbullying behavior, while pre-natal training for parents and social-emotional learning programs in schools may also be effective.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalPsychology Crime and Law·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 18, 2021

Immigrants to Canada may have lower rate of stroke than long-term residents

A study by the American Academy of Neurology found that immigrants to Canada have a significantly lower rate of stroke compared to long-term residents. The researchers analyzed medical records of over 8 million people and found that immigrants had a 33% lower risk of stroke, with the greatest reduction seen among older immigrants.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateAug 18, 2021

Health­care mu­si­cians can up­lift fam­i­lies with pre­ma­ture in­fants dur­ing in­ten­sive care, re­search sug­gests

Research suggests that healthcare musicians can help families cope with premature infants in intensive care by creating an intimate atmosphere and improving their relationship. Music practitioners work collaboratively with medical staff to provide emotional support and create a sense of calm during difficult times.

SourceUniversity of the Arts Helsinki·TypeCase study·DateAug 18, 2021

Antibiotic resistance is a global health challenge that can't be ignored

A study found that COVID-19 restrictions led to a 36% drop in antibiotic dispensing rates in Australia, primarily for respiratory tract infections. The decline continued into winter and was seen across all age groups, suggesting it was not due to reduced access to healthcare.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 18, 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.

Scientists develop alternative cement with low carbon footprint

Researchers at MLU and Brazilian University of Pará create climate-friendly cement alternative by replacing limestone with Belterra clay, a previously unused overburden from bauxite mining. The new cement is just as stable as traditional Portland cement and reduces CO2 emissions during production.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalSustainable Materials and Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2021

Grieving spouses should focus on the body, study suggests

A new study published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology found that a six-week progressive muscle relaxation program significantly improved grief severity and yearning in widows and widowers. This approach was more effective than mindfulness training, which also showed improvements but not to the same extent.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 18, 2021

NIH study shows no significant benefit of convalescent plasma for COVID-19 outpatients with early symptoms

A NIH study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that administering convalescent plasma to outpatients with early symptoms of COVID-19 did not prevent disease progression. The trial, which enrolled over 500 participants, showed a significant reduction of less than 2% in disease progression.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 18, 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 dig deep to understand the effects of population pressure on violence levels

Researchers found a positive correlation between population pressure and higher levels of violence during the Middle Yayoi period in northern Kyushu, Japan. Despite peak population pressures in some regions, lower frequency-of-violence values were observed, suggesting other factors may have influenced violence levels.

SourceOkayama University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 18, 2021

Shedding light on past human histories

Researchers reconstructed genetic histories and social organization in two ancient Croatian sites, uncovering a diverse population with little biological kinship. The study found that individuals from different burial rites had similar genetic ancestry, but also identified endogamous mating practices and patrilocal social organization.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 18, 2021

Water-driven soft actuator developed

A POSTECH research team developed a water-driven self-operating soft actuator that exceeds the strength and speed of conventional soft actuators. The actuator is inspired by the mutable collagenous tissue of sea cucumbers, which can change shape in response to water uptake.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateAug 18, 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.

Scientists discover novel mechanism of CircRNA inhibiting gastric cancer metastasis

Researchers identified a novel mechanism by which circURI1 suppresses gastric cancer metastasis through hnRNPM decoy and alternative splicing modulation. This study provides new insights into the molecular basis of cancer metastasis and suggests circURI1 as a potential therapeutic target for diagnosis and treatment.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2021

Study highlights challenges of encouraging skepticism in auditors

A recent study found that rewarding costly skepticism in auditors may not be effective and can even lead to a decrease in red flag investigation. Instead, supporting skepticism from supervisors and promoting a culture of investigative mindset can encourage auditors to identify and pursue potential problems.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalThe Accounting Review·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2021

One in five researchers globally report being pressured by funders to delay, alter, or not publish the findings of “unfavorable” health behavior intervention trials

Researchers worldwide experience funder suppression of negative health behavior intervention trials, with one in five reporting pressure to delay, alter, or not publish results. Funders' influence can distort research outcomes, hindering the development of effective public health strategies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateAug 18, 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.

Nanostructure based lasers for information and communication technologies

Laser technology utilizing nanostructures like quantum dots and dashes enables high-speed data transmission and low-latency communications. Scientists highlight the importance of these devices for industry and society, particularly in applications such as coherent communication and quantum key distribution.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateAug 18, 2021

The case for onboard carbon dioxide capture on long-range vehicles

A Northwestern University research team proposes a practical way to make ships CO2-neutral using solid oxide fuel cells. The technology can store and utilize captured CO2, enabling CO2-negative emissions from cargo ships. This method is more viable than battery electric or hydrogen fuel cell options for long-range vehicles.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 18, 2021

Paleontologists discover three new species of primitive ungulates

Three new fossil mammal species, including Beornus honeyi, Miniconus jeanninae, and Conacodon hettingeri, have been discovered at an ancient riverbed site in southern Wyoming. The species lived after a mass extinction event and were ancestors of today's hoofed animals.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of Systematic Palaeontology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 18, 2021

Sounds and words are processed separately and simultaneously in the brain

Researchers found that auditory and speech processing occur in parallel, with areas of the STG responding as fast as the primary auditory cortex when sentences were played. This challenges the traditional hierarchy model of speech processing and may offer new insights into conditions like dyslexia.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 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.

Physical activity associated with better cognition in breast cancer patients

A new study from WashU Medicine found a strong association between high physical activity and maintaining cognitive function among breast cancer patients treated with chemotherapy. The research suggests that moderate to vigorous exercise may help ward off 'chemo brain,' a decline in cognitive function common during cancer treatment.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 18, 2021

NIST's emberometer could gauge threat of wildfire-spreading embers

The NIST-developed emberometer uses digital cameras to track embers in mid-air and reconstruct their 3D shapes. This tool helps researchers understand the behavior of embers, which can aid in developing better protection for structures during wildfires.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalExperiments in Fluids·DateAug 18, 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.

Both early experiences and gene expression influence impulsivity in chicks

A study on red junglefowl chicks found that early experiences can affect impulsivity, contradicting initial expectations. The researchers also discovered a link between gene expression and impulsivity, suggesting that genetic factors contribute to individual differences in impulsive behavior.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAnimal Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2021

From mathematics to medicine: Applying complex mathematics to analyze fMRI data

A Wayne State University researcher is applying topological data analysis to functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data to discover hidden brain structures. This collaboration aims to provide medical researchers with new tools for analyzing complex fMRI data.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 18, 2021

New study provides insight into tailoring exercise therapy to each heart failure patient

A recent study published in European Heart Journal: ESC heart failure shows that increased oxidative stress during exercise adversely affects heart failure prognosis. Tailoring exercise therapy to individual patients based on their level of oxidative stress may be more effective than conventional exercise therapies.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalESC Heart Failure·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 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 shows millets can reduce risk of developing cardiovascular disease

A new study found that consuming millets can significantly lower total cholesterol, triglycerides, and BMI, as well as decrease blood pressure in people who were overweight or obese. The study used meta-analysis to analyze data from 19 studies with nearly 900 participants.

SourceInternational Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT)·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 18, 2021

Progress continues in ensuring safety for nation’s high school athletes

The Korey Stringer Institute has made significant progress in ensuring safety for nation's high school athletes, with 38 states adopting life-saving measures since 2017. The institute's tailored approach to state meetings has led to a 10% increase in safety scores after implementation.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalThe American Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 18, 2021

Does Alzheimer’s disease start inside nerve cells?

A study from Lund University reveals that Alzheimer's protein accumulates inside nerve cells, leading to increased production and potentially devastating effects. The research suggests that targeting misfolded amyloid-beta within cells may be a more effective approach than focusing on plaques outside the brain.

SourceLund University·JournalActa Neuropathologica·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 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.

Thwaites glacier: Significant geothermal heat beneath the ice stream

Researchers have mapped significant geothermal heat beneath Thwaites Glacier in West Antarctica, revealing a new potential weak spot in the ice sheet's stability. This heat flow, estimated to be up to 150 milliwatts per square meter, could lead to easier sliding of the glacier and potentially accelerate its collapse.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·TypeObservational study·DateAug 18, 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.

Scientists reveal how landmark CFC ban gave planet fighting chance against global warming

Researchers measuring the impact of the Montreal Protocol found that banning CFCs preserved plant's ability to absorb CO2, preventing a further acceleration of climate change. The study predicts a 2.5°C rise in global temperatures without the ban, exceeding the 1.5°C limit seen as critical for avoiding climate damage.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 18, 2021

Prior training can accelerate muscle growth even after extended idleness

New research from the University of Arkansas finds that prior training can accelerate muscle growth and response even after extended idleness. Previously trained muscles in mice responded with more sensitivity and grew more rapidly than previously untrained muscles, thanks to epigenetic changes in DNA.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalFunction·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2021

The fewer forests, the more space giant anteaters need

A study found that giant anteaters in less forested habitats have larger home ranges, allowing them to access thermal shelters and regulate body temperature. Sex and body size also play a role in space use, with males using more space than females of similar size.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateAug 18, 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.

Cooperation under pressure: Lessons from the COVID-19 swab crisis

A team from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center created all-new swabs for COVID-19 testing in just three weeks by leveraging open-source collaboration and 3D printing. The swab crisis highlighted the importance of cooperation, openness, and scalability in solving complex problems.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·DateAug 18, 2021

Experimental confirmation of wave-particle duality

A team from the Institute for Basic Science used entangled photons to test wave-particle duality and complementarity. They confirmed that source purity is tightly bounded by entanglement with remaining degrees of freedom, and analyzed visibility and predictability in a double-path interferometer.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 18, 2021

New research may help scientists grow more complex and mature heart tissue in the lab

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed pre-epicardial cells from human induced pluripotent stem cells, which support embryonic heart formation and can be used to generate functioning heart tissue. This breakthrough could lead to novel therapies for heart failure, end-stage lung disease, and kidney disease.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 18, 2021