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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 182


Page 182 of 510

Unlocking the AI algorithm ‘black box’ - new machine learning technology to find out what makes plants and humans tick

Researchers developed an AI-powered machine learning technology to analyze complex circadian gene expression patterns in plants, aiming to improve plant growth and yields. The approach also sheds light on human diseases, providing new avenues for research.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 9, 2021

How to increase vaccination rates among Black people in Canada

A team of Black female clinicians and researchers propose an Afrocentric health-promotion approach to combat vaccine hesitancy among Black Canadians. The LEAPS framework encourages providers to respect patients' values, views, and concerns when offering vaccine recommendations.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·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.

NSF awards funding for next-generation VLA antenna development

The Next Generation Very Large Array (ngVLA) will be a key tool for answering important scientific questions in astrophysics, offering sensitivity and resolving power 10 times greater than the current VLA. Construction could begin by 2026 with early scientific observations starting in 2029.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateAug 9, 2021

Late decarbonizers face mounting economic risks

Countries lagging behind in renewable energy adoption risk lower industrial competitiveness and economic instability. Uneven transition patterns can exacerbate existing international tensions, making it difficult for late decarbonizers to catch up with early movers.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalEnvironmental Science & Policy·TypeSurvey·DateAug 9, 2021

Combination of muscle strengthening and aerobic exercises can reduce cancer mortality

A systematic review of epidemiological studies found that muscle strengthening exercises associated with aerobic activities can significantly reduce cancer mortality. The analysis suggested that strength training twice a week can protect against cancer, with the benefit being even greater when combined with aerobic activities.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 9, 2021

UNM scientists address flawed Born–Oppenheimer approximation in molecular collisions

Researchers used full-dimensional quantum dynamics to investigate the non-adiabatic quenching of OH radicals by H2, finding good agreement with experimental results and resolving a theoretical flaw. The study highlights the importance of accurate modeling in understanding complex chemical reactions.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·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.

Coping with COVID-19 through music

A global study found that people use music as a coping mechanism for emotional and social stress, with music listening helping to regulate depression and fear. Music making also provides a sense of community and self-reflection, while 'coronamusic' reveals the power of collective creative responses during times of crisis.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalHumanities and Social Sciences Communications·DateAug 8, 2021

Growing evidence of vitamin K benefits for heart health

Researchers found that people who eat more vitamin K-rich foods have a lower risk of heart disease and peripheral artery disease. Vitamin K2 intake was also associated with reduced hospitalization rates for cardiovascular disease.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeSurvey·DateAug 8, 2021

Neurons that respond to touch are less picky than expected

A new study from Northwestern University found that primary touch-sensitive neurons respond to multiple types of touch and varying degrees. Researchers developed a comprehensive technique to stimulate rats' whiskers in three dimensions while recording brain activity, revealing that these neurons communicate touch in a more complex manner.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2021

Study identifies link between sedative and PTSS in children

A four-year cohort study identified a significant link between midazolam exposure and elevated posttraumatic stress symptoms in children. Symptoms were found to be persistent for up to 12 months, highlighting the need for early intervention and psychosocial support.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalAustralian Critical Care·DateAug 8, 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.

Gel drops for regenerative medicine

Researchers developed gel drops from four amino acid peptides that support cell growth and induce blood vessel formation. The microgels were successfully used to grow endothelial cells on their surfaces, which then extended into tubular blood vessels.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2021

Researchers determine active sites of Cu-ZnO catalysts for water gas shift and CO hydrogenation reactions

The study found that Cu-ZnO-Al2O3 catalysts have two active sites: CuCu(100) hydroxylated ZnO interface for water gas shift reactions and Cu(611) Zn alloy for CO hydrogenation to methanol. The researchers used in situ characterization technology and theoretical calculation to determine the active site structures.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 7, 2021

True cost of sickle cell disease: $1.5 billion in lost productivity per year

A new study by Virginia Commonwealth University quantifies the financial impact of sickle cell disease, revealing $15k in lost wages per year per person, totaling $650,000 over a lifetime. The research found that 97% of respondents experienced severe and debilitating pain attacks from sickle cell.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalValue in Health·TypeSurvey·DateAug 7, 2021

Sediments tell monsoon precipitation mechanism in central Eastern China

Researchers analyzed sediments from Lake Nvshan to reconstruct a high-resolution model of the monsoon precipitation in the Jiang-Huai region. They found large fluctuations of sediment redness over the past 1800 years, indicating wetter and drier periods during the Little Ice Age and Medieval Warm Period.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalGeology·DateAug 7, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A database of 3,000 lead isotope analyses in geological and archaeological samples from the Iberian Peninsula

A database of 3,000 lead isotope analyses has been compiled for the Iberian Peninsula, providing a comprehensive resource for geological and archaeological research. The IBERLID database includes standardized data on minerals, rocks, and metallic objects, facilitating comparison and analysis.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalOre Geology Reviews·TypeNews article·DateAug 6, 2021

New technology will allow important metals to be made more efficiently

University of Minnesota researchers have developed a cheaper, safer, and simpler technology to produce stubborn metals into thin films. This innovation enables better materials with atomic precision at lower temperatures, making it easier to scale up production.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2021

Novel molecular imaging technique casts complex coordination molecules in a new light!

A team of researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a novel imaging method using metal-atom tracers in HAADF-STEM to determine the conformational structures of complex polynuclear coordination compounds. The technique achieves accurate visualization of highly branched molecules, filling a gap in structural analysis.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 6, 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.

An artificial ionic neuron for tomorrow's electronic memories

Researchers have created an artificial neuron that uses ions instead of electrons for information transmission, achieving a similar energy efficiency as the human brain. The device's ion channels and clusters replicate those found in neurons, allowing for the emission of action potentials and transmission of information.

SourceCNRS·JournalScience·DateAug 6, 2021

Small fungus formulations could make big difference to protect moose from winter ticks

Researchers at the University of Vermont have developed granular formulations of insect-killing fungi that effectively killed up to 98% of winter tick larvae under laboratory conditions. The findings provide proof of concept for a safe and effective management strategy to protect moose from the devastating impact of winter ticks.

SourceMorris Animal Foundation·JournalBiocontrol Science and Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 6, 2021

Report outlines how to improve healthcare access for sex workers

Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago outline strategies to enhance healthcare access for sex workers, including holistic wellness exercises and destigmatizing healthcare practices. The study emphasizes the importance of provider training and responsiveness to patient needs.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateAug 6, 2021

Do vitamin D supplements offer kidney-related benefits for individuals with high diabetes risk?

A recent clinical trial found that vitamin D supplementation had no significant effects on kidney outcomes in adults with pre-diabetes. However, among those not taking any vitamin D, the supplement was associated with a lower amount of urine protein over time, suggesting potential benefits for kidney health.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 6, 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.

New device can diagnose COVID-19 from saliva samples

A new tabletop diagnostic device can detect COVID-19 from saliva samples in about an hour, with accuracy comparable to PCR tests. The device uses CRISPR technology and can be programmed to detect specific variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 6, 2021

Partnering with clergy to prevent domestic violence

Researchers developed an online training program for Korean American clergy to support victims of domestic violence. The program, Religious Leaders for Healthy Families, uses interactive case simulations to build confidence and self-efficacy among faith leaders.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalHealth Promotion International·DateAug 6, 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.

Mountain lions moved less, downsized territory during LA’s pandemic shutdown

During the pandemic, mountain lions in Greater Los Angeles occupied smaller territories and traveled shorter distances. This suggests that humans were a major deterrent to their movement, with even reduced traffic not enough to overcome the barrier effect of large roads like freeways.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalEcological Solutions and Evidence·DateAug 6, 2021

Physicians are likelier to test for a particular condition if recent patients they saw were diagnosed with the same thing

A study of 7,400 emergency department physicians found that those who recently saw patients with a pulmonary embolism were 15% more likely to test subsequent patients for the condition. The 'availability heuristic' may influence physicians' care decisions.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 6, 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.

A test that detects COVID-19 variants in your spit

The Minimally Instrumented SHERLOCK (miSHERLOCK) test uses CRISPR-based technology to detect multiple COVID-19 variants in saliva samples, providing faster and more accurate diagnoses. The low-cost device, costing $6 per assay, can be assembled using a 3D printer and provides results within one hour.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 6, 2021

Miller School researcher publishes breakthrough findings on nanoparticle delivery of HIV/AIDS medications to brain

A University of Miami researcher has discovered a polymer chain nanoparticle that can deliver antiretroviral drugs to the brain, reducing HIV/AIDS viral reservoirs. The breakthrough could improve the treatment of brain cancers and other diseases, particularly in HIV-positive individuals with neurological problems.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 6, 2021

Face masks protect against aerosolized toxins from algal blooms, study finds

A new study by University of Miami scientists found that low-cost face masks and AC filters are effective at filtering out toxic algae in the air. Face masks filtered out over 90% of toxin-containing particles, while AC filters with high filter performance ratings reduced airborne toxins by 20-90%.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalAerosol and Air Quality Research·TypeObservational study·DateAug 6, 2021

Nitrogen inputs in the ancient ocean

Researchers have found that purple sulfur bacteria in a modern-day lake can fix nitrogen very efficiently, even at low molybdenum concentrations. This discovery provides the first indication that these bacteria may have played a significant role in nitrogen fixation in the Proterozoic ocean.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 6, 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.

The 'phytoplankton factory' -- from nutrients to algae growth

A new model has been developed to study phytoplankton growth in the ocean, providing insights into the basis of the marine ecosystem. The model suggests that cumulative cellular costs determine how environmental conditions affect phytoplankton growth rates, with potential implications for predicting fish stocks and global climate change.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 6, 2021

Newly developed, bioinspired cell delivery vehicles

Researchers at the University of Münster have developed new, biocompatible nanocontainers made from biological materials that can deliver substances into cells. The containers use natural processes to enter cells and release their cargo, with a degradable shell that is broken down by enzymes in the cell's endosomes.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalAdvanced Science·DateAug 6, 2021

Scientists meld Twitter and satellite views to understand epic impact

Researchers from Michigan State University combine social media posts with satellite images to monitor the effects of large-scale infrastructure projects on the environment. By analyzing online discussions and satellite data, scientists can gain insights into how human activities affect ecosystems.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Policy·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 6, 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.

Mental health patients will answer when asked about firearms

A Kaiser Permanente study published in JAMA Health Forum found that 83% of primary care patients and 92% of mental health clinic patients answered the question about their access to firearms. The study suggests that asking about firearm access could support suicide prevention by creating opportunities to discuss safety planning, includ...

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateAug 6, 2021

Breast cancer screening during pandemic

A recent study evaluated the association between COVID-19 and breast cancer screening in a San Francisco safety-net hospital. The researchers found that during the pandemic, there was a significant decrease in breast cancer screening rates, which had implications for patient health outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 6, 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.

Licensed drug could reduce SARS-CoV-2 infection by up to 70 per cent, reveals study

A licensed drug normally used to treat abnormal levels of fatty substances in the blood, fenofibrate, has been shown to significantly reduce SARS-COV-2 infection in human cells in laboratory settings. The reduction of infection was obtained using safe and achievable concentrations of the drug.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 6, 2021

Home Hospital increased in-patient capacity during the COVID-19 surge

A research team from Brigham and Women's Hospital found that delivering acute care at home for non-COVID patients freed up substantial inpatient capacity during the COVID-19 surge. The Home Hospital program provided care for 65 acutely ill patients, amounting to 419 bed-days, over a 3-month period.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateAug 6, 2021

Emergent magnetic monopoles controlled at room temperature

Researchers have developed a 3D artificial spin ice lattice that allows them to control emergent magnetic monopoles at room temperature. This breakthrough enables the study of these monopoles on more accessible platforms, paving the way for new generation of quantum computing and storage technologies.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateAug 6, 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.

Recycling a cell’s energy centers to ward off Parkinson's disease

Scientists discovered a new mitochondrial recycling pathway that may help prevent Parkinson's disease. The study, published in Science Advances, reveals that genes associated with Parkinson's disease play key roles in this process and that disruptions can contribute to neurodegeneration.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 6, 2021

Scientists create a new ultrafast, low-power machine learning algorithm for big data processing

Scientists at CiTIUS have developed a new fast support vector classifier (FSVC) that significantly improves data classification using Machine Learning techniques. The FSVC is much faster and operates with less memory than traditional approaches, making it suitable for large-scale classification problems.

SourceCiTIUS·JournalIEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 6, 2021

Comparing DNA changes in blood stem cells and leukemia cells could help pick out children with high-risk AML

A new study published in Blood Cancer Discovery reveals that children with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who have more DNA changes in their blood stem cells are more likely to survive. The researchers hope that this finding can be used as a tool to identify high-risk patients and improve treatment outcomes.

SourcePrincess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology·JournalBlood Cancer Discovery·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 6, 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.

Groundwater resources off the coast of Malta

A team of scientists from GEOMAR and the University of Malta discovered a groundwater reservoir off the coast of Malta using innovative methods. The research found evidence of an isolated freshwater body in limestone formations three kilometers from the coast, which could represent a new source of drinking water for the islands.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateAug 6, 2021

A technique to improve the performance of autonomous mobile robots proposed at LETI

The proposed scan matching algorithm reduces data processing time and improves robot performance by filtering out unnecessary data. The technique allows robots to redirect computational resources to other tasks, enabling faster processing and improved accuracy in applications such as SLAM and SfM.

SourceSaint Petersburg Electrotechnical University LETI·JournalRobotics and Autonomous Systems·DateAug 6, 2021

How social norms influence consumer behavior

A recent meta-analysis of existing research on social norms reveals new generalizations about their impact on consumer behavior. The study found that descriptive forms of social norms are more effective than injunctive ones in promoting socially approved behaviors, such as mask wearing and eco-friendly practices. Effective communicatio...

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateAug 6, 2021

Potential COVID-19 medication found among tapeworm drugs

A modified salicylanilide compound has been re-engineered to fight both COVID-19's cytokine storm and viral replication, with the compound passing into the bloodstream without toxicity. The antiviral mechanism blocks the virus from getting out of the endosome, preventing new viral particles from being made.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalACS Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 6, 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.