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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 2


Page 2 of 510

Study shows how ovarian cancer starts in high-risk women

Researchers have discovered that ovarian cancer begins with cancerous lesions in the fallopian tube linings of women with BRCA-1 mutations. The study's findings hold promise for predicting which women will develop ovarian cancer years or decades in advance, allowing for early detection and prevention strategies.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 28, 2021

Challenging ‘rule breakers’ – children will confront their peers, but how they do so varies across cultures

A new study reveals that children globally will confront peers when rules are broken, but their approach differs across cultures. Children from rural areas tend to use verbal protests more than urban kids, who may rely on indirect methods like reputation to enforce compliance.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateDec 27, 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.

Penn Medicine awarded $14 million NIH grant to apply CAR T immunotherapies to match more patients in need of kidney transplants

A clinical trial will harness synthetic chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells to deplete immune B cells and plasma cells producing donor-specific antibodies, aiming to achieve a compatible kidney match for patients with pre-existing antibodies. The NIH-funded study, led by Penn Medicine, intends to begin enrolling patients in 2022.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateDec 27, 2021

How DNA is preserved in archaeological sediments for thousands of years

Scientists successfully extracted DNA from sediment blocks stored up to 40 years ago, providing access to a vast untapped repository of genetic information. The study reveals that specific sediment features are more conducive to ancient DNA preservation than others.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 27, 2021

Doesn't an excessive intake of simple sugar affect higher brain function?

A study published in Science Advances found that high-sucrose diets contribute to brain angiopathy with impaired glucose uptake, leading to psychosis-related higher brain dysfunctions in mice. The researchers created a novel mouse model exhibiting mental disorder-like symptoms after excessive sugar intake at puberty.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 27, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Antarctic oceanographers use seals to do research where ships fear to go

Oceanographers replaced ship-based studies with sensors attached to seals to navigate icy waters, revealing seasonally varying water flows and their impact on biological production. The study found that warm, low-salinity water appears during autumn, positively affecting seal foraging behavior and potentially enhancing prey availability.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateDec 27, 2021

Stopping dementia at the nose with combination of rifampicin and resveratrol

A new combination therapy using rifampicin and resveratrol administered intranasally has shown to improve cognitive function in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy bodies. The treatment effectively reduces oligomer accumulation and restores brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 27, 2021

AAN issues guideline for treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy

The American Academy of Neurology has issued a guideline on oral and topical treatments for painful diabetic neuropathy, updating the 2011 AAN guideline. The guideline recommends several drug classes, including tricyclic antidepressants, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, gabapentinoids, and sodium channel blockers.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 27, 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.

Sleeping mice show busy brains

A new study reveals that the superior colliculus, a lesser-studied region responsible for saccades and facial recognition, dynamically changes its clustering of neurons depending on the mouse's conscious state. This finding suggests that the brain optimizes visual information processing based on its awake or anesthetized state.

SourceKyoto University·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 27, 2021

When a kidney transplant fails, retransplantation may offer better survival over dialysis

A recent study published in CJASN found that patients who undergo retransplantation after a failed first kidney transplant have a longer average survival time compared to those on dialysis. The study analyzed data from 2,346 adults and showed that retransplantation resulted in an additional 5.8 months of life expectancy.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 27, 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.

Physics analogies help gamify classroom quizzes and enhance student learning

A study by researchers at JAIST found that adding score-based incentives for quick answers led to higher learning gains, while varying difficulty levels boosted the thrill factor. Gamification strategies improved classroom activity, but exceeded a certain threshold, students felt disengaged.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalHeliyon·DateDec 27, 2021

Study demonstrates a novel approach to target enhancer-addicted cancers

Researchers discover a chromatin degrader that blocks cancer-causing genes, offering potential treatment for over 90% of prostate cancers. The study found that blocking the SWI/SNF complex slowed cancer cell growth and induced cell death, especially in tumors driven by FOXA1 or androgen receptor.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 27, 2021

Nano-chocolates that store hydrogen

Researchers have created nanoparticles that can store hydrogen, reducing the need for pressurized tanks and cooling. The discovery could enable climate-friendly fuels and production methods for airplanes, ships, and steel.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalACS Nano·DateDec 27, 2021

Penn Medicine researchers develop structural blueprint of nanoparticles to target white blood cells responsible for acute lung inflammation

Researchers at Penn Medicine have developed a structural blueprint for nanoparticles that can target and deliver treatment to white blood cells, such as neutrophils, that contribute to acute lung inflammation. The findings represent a significant step in understanding the condition and function of the immune system.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 27, 2021

Biomolecular explosion

Scientists have observed that ionizing radiation can cause intermolecular Coulombic decay in organic molecules, leading to damage in DNA and proteins. This new understanding could lead to the development of more effective substances for radiation therapy and improve knowledge of how radiation damages healthy tissue.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Chemistry·DateDec 27, 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.

Opioid prescribing declines, but cuts are not uniform

Per capita morphine milligram equivalents (MME) volume declined most in metropolitan counties and counties with higher fatal opioid overdoses. Clinical specialties showed significant declines, except for some states' counties with both increases and decreases.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 27, 2021

Scientists identify antibodies that can neutralize omicron

Researchers identified antibodies targeting conserved sites on the spike protein, showing promise against future variants. Antibodies from vaccinated individuals retained some activity, while those with prior infection had reduced effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 27, 2021

Kidney damage as a result of coronavirus infection

Researchers found scarring in COVID-19 patients' kidneys, which may lead to long-term kidney outcomes. The virus directly causes cell damage, independent of the immune system, according to a new study published in Cell Stem Cell.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 27, 2021

Kilohertz label-free non-contact quantitative mapping of optical properties for strongly turbid media

A team developed a new optical imaging method that can quantify optical properties of strongly turbid media at high-speed (e.g., kHz) capabilities. The halftone spatial frequency domain imaging technique projects sinusoidal light patterns onto the sample and collects reflectance images, increasing the measurement speed by approximately...

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateDec 26, 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.

Cylindrical vector beam multiplexer/demultiplexer using off-axis polarization control

Researchers have proposed a new method for controlling the polarization of cylindrical vector beams (CVBs) using a metal-dielectric-metal metasurface. This enables independent modulation of the left- and right-handed circularly polarized components, allowing for efficient multiplexing and demultiplexing of CVBs.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateDec 26, 2021

Angular-spectrum-dependent interference

Scientists observe increased ring-like fringes with higher optical-path-difference, outperforming equal-inclination interference. The ASD interference exhibits improved sensitivity and accuracy for measuring small displacements and refractive index changes.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateDec 26, 2021

The future of 3D display and the emergence of holographic television

Recent advancements in machine learning and neural networks enable real-time computer-generated holograms, overcoming data transmission challenges. Larger spatial light modulators and improved rendering hardware are also bringing holographic projection systems closer to consumer market.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateDec 26, 2021

Fluorescence lifetime imaging for studying DNA compaction and gene activities

Researchers developed a new fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) technique to study DNA compaction and gene activities in live cells. The method enables fine measurements of DNA compaction, revealing differences in compaction between gene-rich and gene-poor chromatin domains.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateDec 26, 2021

New potential target molecule for fatty liver disease therapy

A study by Kanazawa University researchers found that the chemokine CCL3 plays a significant role in inducing inflammation as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease develops. The presence of CCL3 increased liver macrophage accumulation, leading to liver inflammation and scarring.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalMetabolism·DateDec 26, 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.

Lipid droplets as endogenous intracellular microlenses

Researchers discover that lipid droplets can be used as endogenous intracellular microlenses to enhance fluorescence imaging in living cells. This technique reduces the required excitation power by up to 73% and enables efficient detection of fluorescent signals from extracellular environments.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateDec 26, 2021

Transmissive-detected laser speckle imaging for blood flow monitoring in thick tissue

Researchers have developed a new laser speckle imaging technique that can monitor blood flow velocity in thick tissue without the need for surgical windows or optical clearing. This non-invasive method uses transmission detection to improve signal-to-background ratio and enables individual-vessel resolution in human subjects.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateDec 26, 2021

Researchers develop a smart probe for early tumor diagnosis

A new smart probe has been developed to enhance tumor photoacoustic imaging using a cathepsin B biomarker. The probe shows a 4.9-fold PA signal enhancement in cancer cells and tumors compared to unmodified probes.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 24, 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.

Researchers construct a framework to solve bound and scattering state problems in quantum mechanics education

A research team from USTC has constructed a theoretical framework and thinking mechanism model to help students solve bound and scattering state problems in quantum mechanics. The study found three key nodes of difficulty: recognizing Schrodinger equations, selecting energy constants, and using superposition forms.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalPhysical Review Physics Education Research·DateDec 24, 2021

International team of scientists proposes a global network—International Meridian Circle Program—to monitor major threats on our environment

An international team of scientists proposes a global network to monitor hazards threatening Earth's ecosystems and human activities. The International Meridian Circle Program aims to track space weather events, geomagnetic field changes, and atmospheric disturbances using a diverse range of instruments.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateDec 24, 2021

COVID-19 outbreak convergence thru an SIR model

Researchers used an SIR model to show COVID-19 convergence in Japan, with growth rates initially high then decreasing as cumulative infected people increase. The study aims to control infections and mitigate economic impact through risk management.

SourceShinshu University·JournalEconomic Analysis and Policy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 24, 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.

Is energy the key to Alzheimer’s disease?

A team of researchers found a connection between energy production and Alzheimer's disease in zebrafish with mutated genes. They discovered that Alzheimer's disease affects the use of oxygen within cells to produce energy, leading to severe deficiency in brain function.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·TypeObservational study·DateDec 23, 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.

A new “epitope” for universal influenza vaccines

Researchers identify a previously overlooked site on the HA protein, known as the 'anchor epitope', which can neutralize a wide range of influenza strains. This discovery has significant implications for the development of universal influenza vaccines and antibody therapies.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature·DateDec 23, 2021

Disarming a blood-clotting protein prevents gum disease in mice

Researchers found that fibrin buildup triggers an overactive immune response, damaging gums and underlying bone. Suppressing abnormal fibrin activity could hold promise for preventing or treating periodontal disease.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 23, 2021

Immune memory less durable after severe COVID-19, study suggests

A new study found that infection-fighting B cells retain better memory of the coronavirus spike protein in patients who recover from less-severe cases of COVID-19 than those recovering from severe cases. This hints at subtle differences in the quality of immune response based on COVID-19 severity.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 23, 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.

The Lancet: Phase 3 trial reports one dose of Ad5-nCoV COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective, including against severe disease

A phase 3 trial has shown that one dose of the Ad5-nCoV COVID-19 vaccine is highly effective against severe disease, with an efficacy rate of 91.7% at 28 days post-vaccination. The vaccine has also been found to be safe, with no serious vaccine-related adverse events or deaths reported among trial participants.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 23, 2021

Strains -- not species -- of gut microbes hold key to health and disease

Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the human gut microbiome by focusing on bacterial strains rather than species. By using a new computational method, scientists can analyze the strains of bacteria present in a microbiome sample more quickly and affordably.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateDec 23, 2021

"Heavy" hydrogen stabilizes drugs

Researchers at the University of Bonn have developed a new method to introduce heavy hydrogen isotopes into drugs, potentially making them more effective. The technique involves the use of epoxides and a titanium-based catalyst, allowing for precise control over the placement of deuterium atoms.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateDec 23, 2021

‘Pop-up’ electronic sensors could detect when individual heart cells misbehave

Scientists have created a new tool that monitors the electrical activity inside individual heart cells using tiny 'pop-up' sensors. The device directly measures signal movement and speed within single heart cells and between multiple cells, offering potential breakthroughs in diagnosing arrhythmia and cardiac fibrosis.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 23, 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.

HIV infection: Better understanding the reservoir of virus in the body

Researchers create new method to genetically analyze resting CD4+ T cells, allowing targeted modifications and insights into HIV interaction. This enables the investigation of cellular factors playing a role in infection and the development of new therapeutic approaches for eliminating HIV from the body.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Methods·DateDec 23, 2021

UTEP team finds evidence of COVID-19 in Texas deer

A UTEP research team found SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies in over a third of Texas deer blood samples, indicating widespread infection among white-tailed deer. The study suggests that deer should not be neglected as a possible source of human infection.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·JournalVector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases·DateDec 23, 2021

Cochlear implant in deaf children with autism can improve language skills and social engagement

A study by Ann & Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago found that cochlear implantation can improve language skills and social engagement in deaf children with autism spectrum disorder. The study reported improved outcomes in 86% of children, including enhanced communication and interaction with families.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalOtology & Neurotology·DateDec 23, 2021

Say hello to a record-setting isotope

Researchers at Michigan State University's National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory have created the world's lightest version of magnesium, a highly unstable isotope that can help scientists better understand how atoms are made. This breakthrough is part of a larger effort to refine theories and models that explain the formation o...

SourceMichigan State University Facility for Rare Isotope Beams·DateDec 23, 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.

Researchers use electron microscope to turn nanotube into tiny transistor

Researchers from Australia, China, Japan and Russia successfully created a tiny transistor 25,000 times smaller than a human hair using an electron microscope. The innovation demonstrates the ability to control the electronic properties of individual carbon nanotubes, opening up new possibilities for the development of tiny transistors.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 23, 2021

How do children learn to trust an adult’s non-verbal cues?

Kids consider track record of accuracy and degree of access to knowledge when judging a communicator's trustworthiness. Children who received accurate non-verbal cues in the familiarization phase followed them in the test phase 83% of the time.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalCognitive Development·DateDec 23, 2021