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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 19


Page 19 of 510

Australian GenesisCare doctors co-author world-first international consensus statement on Cardio-Oncology

The international consensus statement provides critical recommendations for the cardiovascular management and follow-up of patients undergoing radiation therapy. The paper highlights the need to identify and address cardiovascular risk factors to prevent cardiotoxicity, emphasizing the importance of regular screening and treatment for ...

SourceGenesisCare·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 13, 2021

A missing genetic switch at the origin of malformations

Researchers from UNIGE found that a single missing genetic switch can lead to clubfoot and other malformations by disrupting cellular activation. The study highlights the crucial role of genetic switches in developmental disorders, suggesting that flaws in these mechanisms may be responsible for numerous malformations.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021

Life arose on hydrogen energy

Researchers at HHU reconstructed LUCA's metabolism and found almost all chemical steps used by primordial life are energy-releasing reactions. The team identified the long-sought source of energy as hydrogen gas, which releases energy from within metabolism itself.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateDec 13, 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.

Wind turbines kill mostly female and juvenile bats

A study by Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research found that juvenile Nathusius' pipistrelle bats are killed more frequently than adults at wind turbines, with females also being disproportionately affected. This highlights the need to implement schemes to mitigate wind turbine mortality and protect migratory bat populations.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalEcological Applications·TypeSurvey·DateDec 13, 2021

Swirling bacteria mimic Van Gogh’s ‘The Starry Night’

Researchers from Rice University and the University of Wyoming discovered self-organization into circular aggregates in Myxococcus xanthus, a model system for social cooperation. The circular behavior is linked to TraAB protein overexpression, which creates a sticky bond between cells, preventing reversals.

SourceRice University·JournalmSystems·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021

Significant energy savings when electric distribution vehicles take their best route

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed an algorithm that learns optimal energy usage for electric delivery-vehicles. By focusing on overall energy usage instead of just distance travelled, the vehicles can reduce their energy consumption by up to 20% and minimize battery usage.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalTransportation Research Part E Logistics and Transportation Review·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 13, 2021

Big-headed ancient fish had land on its mind

Researchers used CT scanning to study the cranium of Cladarosymblema narrienense, a 330-million-year-old fish that may have evolved into first four-limbed vertebrates. The analysis suggests a significant brain role in regulating endocrine glands and supports the monophyletic group of megalichthyid fish.

SourceFlinders University·JournalPeerJ·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists develop an RNA-based breath test to detect COVID-19

Researchers developed an RNA-based breath test called the Bubbler that can detect SARS-CoV-2 in exhaled breath, revealing a more direct indicator of current infection. The test also provides additional information on viral load and strain identity.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021

NTU Singapore scientists give new lease of life to e-waste plastics

Researchers at NTU Singapore have developed a new use for e-waste plastics by repurposing them as an alternative to laboratory cell culture containers. The team found that over 95% of human stem cells seeded on e-waste plastics remained healthy after a week, comparable to cells grown on conventional plates.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateDec 13, 2021

Your perception of self becomes blurrier over time

Researchers found that our concept of self becomes increasingly indistinct as we think about ourselves farther in the past or future, affecting decision-making and memory recall. The 'temporal self-compression' effect challenges traditional notions of identity and time perception.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 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.

UCLA-led study provides first indirect evidence that PSMA PET/CT surpasses conventional imaging in detecting occult prostate cancer spread and predicting long-term course and outcomes

A recent UCLA-led study provided indirect evidence that PSMA PET/CT improves risk-stratification and prognostic capabilities for high-risk prostate cancer patients. The study found that PSMA nomogram outperformed existing tools in predicting clinical outcomes, suggesting its significance in disease course prediction.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2021

Stress, by itself, can lead to excessive drinking in women but not men

A study by Arizona State University found that stress alone can lead to excessive drinking in women, while men only drink more when they've already consumed alcohol. The research highlights the importance of studying sex differences in alcohol consumption and challenges existing models developed primarily for men.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPsychology of Addictive Behaviors·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 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.

New study in primary liver cancer calls for novel strategies targeting a dynamic landscape of heterogeneous tumors

Researchers have described a dynamic genomic landscape of tumour heterogeneity in hepatocellular carcinoma, highlighting the need for novel strategies targeting heterogeneous tumors. The study, published in National Science Review, used multi-omic data to reveal variations in genetic and transcriptomic profiles across patients.

SourceSingHealth·JournalNational Science Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 12, 2021

The changing patterns of DNA microcapsules

Researchers at Tohoku University have successfully created capsule-like DNA structures using two different types of nanostructures that can stick together. These structures can form water-in-oil droplets with patch-like patterns depending on the concentration of each type, and can be used to carry substances to specific target organs o...

SourceTohoku University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 12, 2021

The future is here: Technion researchers and Sheba Medical Center have succeeded in engineering an ear

Researchers at Technion and Sheba Medical Center have developed a new technology for fabricating custom-made ear implants for microtia patients. The biodegradable auricle scaffold is 3D-printed using the patient's own cells, reducing the risk of complications and discomfort associated with traditional methods.

SourceTechnion-Israel Institute of Technology·JournalBiofabrication·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2021

First standardization of black carbon measurements in the Arctic

Researchers have standardized black carbon measurements in the Arctic, improving our understanding of climate change. By correlating absorption coefficients with COSMOS measurements, they derived reliable conversion factors for various instruments, enabling more accurate climate modeling and air quality assessments.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalAtmospheric Measurement Techniques·DateDec 12, 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.

The sky’s the limit: Using airborne DNA to monitor insect biodiversity

Researchers at Lund University have successfully detected insect DNA in the air, offering a novel approach to monitoring terrestrial biodiversity. This method, known as airborne DNA metabarcoding, allows for the detection of multiple species from single samples and could accelerate biodiversity surveys.

SourceBritish Ecological Society·DateDec 12, 2021

Zooming in on tiny defects

Scientists from OIST and University of Cambridge discovered distinct types of defects in state-of-the-art perovskite thin films, which may hinder solar cell efficiency. The most detrimental defects were grain boundaries and polytypes, while lead iodide defects had a benign impact on performance.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 12, 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.

How can a protein help us remember?

Researchers have discovered the Apterous protein's crucial role in retaining memories through its interaction with the Chi cofactor and regulation of neurotransmitters. In fruit flies, Ap plays a double role in long-term memory consolidation, highlighting potential new treatment approaches for memory-related disorders.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 11, 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.

Statistical models predict benefit of non-intensive AML therapy

A team developed statistical models to predict the risk of early death in patients with non-intensive AML therapy. The models incorporated various health measures and quality-of-life scores, showing modest success in predicting outcomes.

SourceSWOG Cancer Research Network·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 11, 2021

Moffitt study shows lymphoma patients can benefit from receiving CAR T sooner

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that using CAR T therapy as a second-line treatment provided better outcomes compared to standard care in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The two-year follow-up data showed a median event-free survival of 8.3 months in the CAR T arm versus 2 months in the s...

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 11, 2021

Researchers find climate change record in clam shells

Scientists have discovered a way to extract monthly and weekly ocean temperature records from the shells of tiny surf clams, revealing clues to Earth's past climate. The study uses a species of short-lived clam that has not been used before, allowing researchers to reconstruct sea surface temperatures and past climates with precision.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalChemical Geology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 11, 2021

Axi-cel CAR T cell therapy shows enhanced responses and continued benefit for high-risk lymphoma patients

Researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center demonstrated axi-cel's efficacy in treating high-risk lymphoma patients with enhanced responses and prolonged survival benefits. The study showed improved outcomes for patients with indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma, with an estimated 81% overall survival rate at 24 months.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 11, 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.

A step toward “living biotherapeutics”

The coating protects bacteria during the freeze-drying and manufacturing process, allowing them to be used therapeutically. The researchers tested the coating on a strain of E. coli and another species that aids in digestion of plant starches.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 10, 2021

Nasal vaccine may aid fight against new viral variants

A new study found that intranasal vaccination provides broad-based protection against respiratory viruses in mice, while systemic immunization did not. The nasal vaccine triggers a localized immune response through IgA antibodies, which can be used to add reinforcements at the source of infection.

SourceYale University·JournalScience Immunology·DateDec 10, 2021

New biomarkers could predict rheumatoid arthritis susceptibility

Researchers identified epimutations in cheek cells that can predict rheumatoid arthritis susceptibility. The discovery could lead to a non-invasive diagnostic test for the disease. Biomarkers were found in both Caucasian and African-American women with rheumatoid arthritis, suggesting a strong signal for the disease.

SourceWashington State University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 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.

New phenomenon: Forest mammals eavesdrop on messy monkeys

Researchers discovered that forest mammals eavesdrop on monkey meals to access fruit dropped by messy eaters. This eavesdropping strategy is crucial for these animals' survival, particularly during periods when almond trees produce abundant food.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalBiotropica·DateDec 10, 2021

Human-like brain helps robot out of a maze

Researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology developed a robot that can learn to move through a labyrinth using a human-like brain. The robot, based on the Mindstorms EV3 kit, uses synapses to 'tune' its resistance and navigate the maze in 16 runs. Its ability to generalize its learning makes it suitable for various applications.

SourceEindhoven University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

Tumor evolution

Researchers analyzed 140 neuroblastoma samples to understand the genetic changes associated with the disease. They found that mutations can disappear and reappear, occurring in distinct sections or individual cells, making targeted therapy less effective.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 10, 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.

Grip or slip; robots need a human sense of touch

A recent study published in PNAS reveals that humans can instantly estimate slipperiness of a surface by detecting radial strain in the fingertip skin during initial contact. This innovation has significant implications for robotics and prosthetics design.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 10, 2021

River animals just go with the flow

Researchers observed diverse aquatic biota in post-flood communities, with changes in flow dynamics and water chemistry supporting biological adaptation. The study highlights the role of floods in shaping floodplain ecosystems.

SourceKyoto University·TypeObservational study·DateDec 10, 2021

Aging stiffens the blood vessels but their flexibility also fluctuates based on a woman’s hormone state

A study found that arterial stiffness increases with age, but hormonal fluctuations also play a role. Women's hormone levels, particularly estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone, were associated with stiffer arteries, while older women had stiffer vessels regardless of hormone status.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalFrontiers in Endocrinology·DateDec 10, 2021

AI models microprocessor performance in real-time

A new AI algorithm, APOLLO, accurately predicts microprocessor power consumption by analyzing just 100 signals out of millions, offering potential to improve efficiency and develop new processors. The technique has been validated on high-performance microprocessors and could help designers inform future chip design.

SourceDuke University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 10, 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.

A longer-lasting COVID vaccine? UCLA study points the way

Researchers at UCLA have identified rare T cells capable of targeting a protein found in SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses. By adding a fragment of this protein to vaccines, they hope to create a longer-lasting immune response and increase protection against new variants. This breakthrough could lead to more effective COVID-19 vaccines.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

Potentially serious side effect seen in patient after immunotherapy

A case study published in Nature Medicine reports a patient experiencing progressive neurological features resembling Parkinson's disease after CAR-T cell therapy, suggesting potential neurotoxicity. The study highlights the importance of monitoring for neurotoxicity in patients receiving BCMA-targeted CAR-T therapies.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 10, 2021

Access and equity around biodiversity data is at the forefront of international negotiations

The article highlights the importance of access and equity in sharing biodiversity data, with scientists warning that unequal distribution of genetic data and benefits is hindering innovation and conservation efforts. The CBD and Plant Treaty need reform to address this issue.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalPlants People Planet·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 10, 2021

Development of a high-energy-resolution, LaB6 nanowire-based field emission gun

A team of researchers from NIMS and JEOL have developed a lanthanum hexaboride (LaB6) nanowire-based field emission gun for high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The gun achieves an energy resolution of 0.2 eV, enabling atomic-level observation.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

Infant stars identified at the center of our galaxy

Three young stars have been discovered at the center of our galaxy, contradicting initial assumptions about a gas and dust cloud called G2. The unusual temperature of G2 has sparked debate among astronomers, but new observations reveal it is actually composed of three evolving young stars.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateDec 10, 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.

MicroRNAs: Biological indicators of the physiological status of animals

Researchers have discovered microRNAs that can detect ovulation and egg quality in fish, and also identify growth signatures. These findings could lead to the development of non-invasive biomarkers for monitoring animal physiological states, enabling cost-effective and accessible information on health.

SourceINRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment·JournalBMC Biology·DateDec 10, 2021

Anaerobic digestion: NMR, a fast and reliable method for assessing the gas production potential of organic waste

Researchers used NMR analysis to determine lipid content in organic waste, achieving higher accuracy and speed than Soxhlet method. The new technique is faster, more accurate, and environmentally friendly, paving the way for improved anaerobic digestion processes.

SourceINRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment·JournalWaste Management·DateDec 10, 2021

New understanding of plant nutrient response could improve fertilizer management strategies

A new study reveals that balancing iron and phosphorus levels is crucial to prevent chlorosis, a condition associated with yellowing leaves. The research team found that removing phosphorus can help restore photosynthesis, highlighting the need for more environmentally friendly agricultural practices.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

Did the Lockdown Lead to More or Fewer Non-COVID Deaths?

Research finds lockdowns led to significant reductions in non-COVID mortality, with a decrease of 12.5% after loosening measures, resulting in the prevention of 293,000 deaths. Improved air quality and increased sanitizing surfaces also contributed to fewer deaths from infectious diseases.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateDec 10, 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.

HKU teams develop the first anti-COVID-19 stainless steel

Researchers created anti-COVID-19 stainless steel with alloying elements, inactivating viruses on its surface. The material can replace frequently touched public products to reduce COVID-19 transmission risk.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateDec 10, 2021