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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 180


Page 180 of 510

Lyme Disease Heightens Risk of Mental Disorders, Suicidality

Patients with Lyme disease have a 28% higher rate of mental disorders and are twice as likely to attempt suicide compared to those without the diagnosis. The study reveals that having multiple episodes of Lyme disease is associated with a higher risk of mental health problems, including depression and suicidal behavior.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 10, 2021

New solvents to break down plant cellulose for bioethanol

Researchers at Kanazawa University have developed new solvent mixtures containing positive and negative charges to break down plant cellulose for bioethanol production. These solvents are more environmentally friendly and reduce toxicity compared to current methods, enabling the conversion of unused biomass into fuel.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalCarbohydrate Polymers·DateAug 10, 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.

MTU engineers clean up water pollution with sunlight

Michigan Tech researchers developed a model to calculate how particular chemicals break down in surface water using singlet oxygen, which degrades contaminants and helps protect our waterways. The study's findings can aid environmental engineers and scientists in estimating half-lives of chemicals and predicting their degradation rates.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 10, 2021

Biosensor permits ultra-fast and cheap detection of SARS-CoV-2

A new genosensor, developed by a Brazilian research team, can detect the genetic sequence of SARS-CoV-2 in saliva or other body fluids with high sensitivity. The device can analyze samples in 30 minutes for a cost of less than $1 per genosensor.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMaterials Chemistry Frontiers·DateAug 10, 2021

Detecting COVID-19 by analyzing lung images using artificial intelligence models

Researchers developed an image-based detection system using artificial intelligence models to diagnose COVID-19 from chest X-rays. The model accurately differentiated between COVID-19, pneumonia, and healthy patients, showing great promise for precision medicine.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalJournal of Clinical Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 10, 2021

How snakes got their fangs

Researchers from Flinders University discovered that snakes developed venomous fangs by modifying normal tooth structure, creating a 'dental origami' effect. This evolutionary adaptation allowed snakes to inject venom through deepened wrinkles at the base of their teeth, making them highly potent and deadly.

SourceFlinders University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 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.

Covid-19 booster jab in the autumn will offer better protection against variants of concern, suggests new study

Researchers found that a second dose of the Pfizer vaccine, especially in those with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, dramatically increased virus variant neutralising antibody responses. This additional boost increases potential protection against existing and future variants of concern.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateAug 10, 2021

Consumption of ultraprocessed foods among US kids, teens

A national survey study found that children and teenagers in the US increased their consumption of ultraprocessed foods over two decades. The researchers estimate that the proportion of calories from these foods has risen significantly, posing potential health risks for young people.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 10, 2021

Readiness to punish others for selfish behaviour explained by functional brain connections

Researchers found that stronger functional brain connections between the temporoparietal junction and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex are associated with lower levels of punishment for unfair behavior. This suggests that individuals with stronger connectivity in these areas may be less inclined to punish others for selfish actions.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalNeuroscience·DateAug 10, 2021

Why sunflowers face east

A study by researchers at the University of California, Davis found that sunflowers facing east produce more offspring due to increased morning warmth attracting bees. East-facing flower heads also tend to be warmer in the morning and release pollen earlier, coinciding with bee visits.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 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.

Urban experimentation can help develop sustainable policies

The study highlights the importance of urban sustainability observatories that leverage urban experimentation for effective policy-making. Researchers discuss challenges and potential partnerships between universities, communities, and industries to establish successful observatories.

SourcePortland State University·JournalHarvard Data Science Review·DateAug 10, 2021

NIH small business funding boosts Alzheimer’s science advances

The National Institute on Aging's $280 million investment in small businesses has advanced research on care interventions, diagnostic tools, and therapies for Alzheimer's disease. This funding has enabled the commercialization of technologies such as ActivePERS and PrecivityAD, which aim to improve care and diagnosis.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 10, 2021

Less stress for women who know their genetic risk for breast cancer

A recent UNSW study found that women who received their polygenic risk score (PRS) for breast cancer experienced minimal regret and reduced distress compared to those who declined. The researchers also discovered that more women reported regret about not knowing their PRS score, highlighting the importance of providing clear informatio...

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalGenetics in Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateAug 9, 2021

COVID-19 during pregnancy associated with preterm birth

A large study found that COVID-19 infection during pregnancy is associated with a higher risk of very preterm birth and all preterm births. People of color face disproportionate infection risk while pregnant. Researchers recommend vaccination to reduce COVID-19 infection and prevent preterm birth.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Americas·DateAug 9, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Insects beware! This west coast plant wants to eat you

Researchers discovered a new carnivorous plant species on the West Coast of North America, Triantha occidentalis, which traps insects with sticky hairs on its flowering stem. The plant balances carnivory and pollination by only trapping small midges and not harming its pollinators.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 9, 2021

Drug-resistant bacteria found in the guts of lemurs who live around humans

A study by Duke University researchers found antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the guts of lemurs living close to humans. The closer the contact, the more resistant bugs were found. Proximity to humans determined the type and abundance of resistance genes acquired.

SourceDuke University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateAug 9, 2021

How society’s inequalities showed up in COVID outcomes

A new study from University of Utah researchers explores how socioeconomic inequalities, particularly in Utah's Salt Lake County, contributed to racial minority groups being unequally affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The study found that residents of affluent areas had lower rates of infection compared to those in low-income zip codes.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalCOVID·TypeObservational study·DateAug 9, 2021

New podcast to focus on life-saving newborn screening research and practice: NBSTRN launches newborn screening SPOTlight

The Newborn Screening Translational Research Network (NBSTRN) has launched a new podcast called Newborn Screening SPOTlight, which shares stories of how newborn screening research saves lives every day. The podcast is co-hosted by Drs. Amy Brower and Kee Chan and features interviews with experts in the field.

SourceNewborn Screening Translational Research Network·DateAug 9, 2021

Graphene binds drugs which kill bacteria on medical implants

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a method to prevent bacterial infections on medical implants by covering graphene with bactericidal molecules, which are released in a controlled manner. The new material has shown promising properties and paves the way for more effective antibacterial protection.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 9, 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.

Bio-inspired, blood-repelling tissue glue could seal wounds quickly

A new adhesive, inspired by barnacles' sticky substance, can form a tight seal within seconds of application on wet surfaces, including blood-covered tissues. This bio-inspired tissue glue shows promise in rapidly controlling bleeding and may offer a more effective treatment for traumatic injuries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateAug 9, 2021

Researchers find a ‘fearsome dragon’ that soared over outback Queensland

A new species of pterosaur, Thapunngaka shawi, was discovered in Queensland with a 7-meter wingspan, showcasing the fearsome beast's spear-like mouth and powerful flight capabilities. The fossil, found on Wanamara Country, near Richmond, contributes to Australia's understanding of pterosaur diversity.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateAug 9, 2021

LiftPose3D: Turning 2D images into 3D models

EPFL scientists developed LiftPose3D, a deep learning-based method that can reconstruct 3D animal poses using only 2D poses from one camera. This tool allows for the study of brain mechanisms controlling body movements in freely moving animals.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Methods·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 9, 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.

Shift away from earthen homes ‘environmentally damaging’

A recent study warns that abandoning earthen homes could lead to increased carbon emissions and further climate change. Researchers argue that a balanced approach is needed, considering the environmental benefits of earth materials while also promoting safe and affordable housing options.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalBuilding Research & Information·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 9, 2021

Record-breaking extreme heat and cold events may result from similar underlying mechanisms

Researchers studied record-breaking cold air outbreaks in China and North America, finding links to sudden stratospheric warming, polar vortex shifts, and anomalous ocean temperatures. The study suggests that global warming and ocean changes may drive extreme weather events, highlighting the need for further research.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateAug 9, 2021

Microplastics: A trojan horse for metals

Researchers have discovered that microplastics can serve as a transport vehicle for metals in the environment, accumulating and releasing these pollutants. The study found significant differences in metal accumulation between different types of plastics, with some metals attaching almost entirely to microplastics.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

Undocumented immigrant women are more likely to use health services than men

Research reveals undocumented immigrants and immigrant women face similar obstacles to accessing public health services, except for those victimized by gender-based violence. Free clinics provide essential care and defend the right to health, highlighting the need for culturally appropriate care.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalGlobal Health Action·DateAug 9, 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.

Exotic matter is in our sights

Physicists at the University of Tokyo have created a new spectroscopic method, Rabi-oscillation spectroscopy, to study exotic atoms and improve our understanding of the material universe. This technique allows for faster observation and greater precision than conventional methods.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 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.

Brain connectivity can build better AI

A new study demonstrates that artificial intelligence networks based on human brain connectivity can perform cognitive tasks efficiently. Researchers created a brain connectivity pattern and applied it to an artificial neural network, which performed cognitive memory tasks more flexibly and efficiently than other benchmark architectures.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 9, 2021

New CRISPR/Cas9 technique corrects cystic fibrosis in cultured human stem cells

Researchers from the Hubrecht Institute have successfully corrected mutations that cause cystic fibrosis in cultured human stem cells using prime editing. The technique is safer than CRISPR/Cas9 and shows promise for application in patients, potentially leading to a cure or prevention of genetic diseases.

SourceHubrecht Institute·JournalLife Science Alliance·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

New carnivorous plant must balance trapping prey and being pollinated

Researchers have discovered a new carnivorous plant, Triantha occidentalis, that traps insects near its insect-pollinated flowers, avoiding the death of potential pollinators. The plant's sticky hairs only entrap small midges and insects, allowing larger bees and butterflies to act as pollinators.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 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.

Overcoming the limitations of scanning electron microscopy with AI

A joint research team from POSTECH and KIMS developed a faster and more accurate microstructure imaging technique using deep learning. The technique enhanced the resolution of existing microstructure images up to 4, 8, or 16 times, reducing imaging time by up to 256x compared to conventional SEM systems.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateAug 9, 2021

Taking microscopic shape without a microscope

Scientists from Nara Institute of Science and Technology have created a simple and fast method for detecting cell shape as they pass through a microfluidic channel. The team used changes in electrical impedance to measure the asymmetry of individual cells, which may greatly accelerate biological experiments.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateAug 9, 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.

What a song reveals about vocal imitation deficits for autistic individuals

A new study comparing pitch and duration imitations in speech and song has found that autistic individuals perform differently in two categories: relative pitch and absolute pitch. Autistic children and adults showed better performance with relative pitch, while struggling with absolute pitch across both domains.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalAutism Research·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 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.

Incomplete polyp removal strongly associated with postcolonoscopy colorectal cancer

A multicenter cohort study found that incomplete polyp removal is strongly associated with postcolonoscopy colorectal cancer. Researchers analyzed medical records for 233 participants and found that patients with incompletely removed polyps were more likely to develop metachronous neoplasia, including advanced tumors.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 9, 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.

Residential mobility is key social determinant of health in people with spinal cord injury

Researchers found that one in four people with spinal cord injury relocated over a five-year period, often to high-poverty areas, increasing health risks. The study highlights the importance of considering residential mobility as a key social determinant of health for this population.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalArchives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 9, 2021

Colleges fall short on mental health outreach to Asian, Latino students

A recent study reveals that colleges struggle to provide adequate mental health support to Asian and Latino students due to interdependent cultural values and shame. The study suggests that culturally tailored treatment services addressing these issues can improve help-seeking behaviors.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

National parochialism is widespread around the world

A study of 42 countries reveals that most participants prefer to collaborate with fellow citizens rather than with people from other countries. The tendency towards in-group bias is driven by factors such as education level and gender, but not by cultural differences or national cohesion.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 9, 2021

Medicaid expansion of dental care can increase access

Research by Jason Huh found that Medicaid expansion can increase the number of dentists per capita in low-income counties, with a 13% increase. This growth is driven by private practice dentists responding to financial incentives offered by expanded coverage.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalJournal of Public Economics·DateAug 9, 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.

Some past sea levels may not have been as high as thought, says study of rising and sinking landmasses

A new study finds that global sea levels during the last interglacial may have been as low as 1.2 meters higher than today, rather than the previously accepted 6-9 meters. This suggests that ice sheet melting was not as extensive as thought, but also raises concerns about future projections.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 9, 2021

Speed and absorption key to optimizing new type of rechargeable battery

Researchers at OIST developed a hybrid material to improve lithium sulfur battery performance, reducing polysulfide dissolution and increasing efficiency. The new design resulted in shorter charging times, longer life between charges, and improved overall lifespan.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021