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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 21


Page 21 of 510

A career built on the strongest force in the universe

Latifa Elouadrhiri received the 2021 Jesse W. Beams Research Award for her fundamental contributions to nuclear science. Her team made a groundbreaking measurement of proton pressure distribution, opening up new directions in particle physics research.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateDec 9, 2021

NIH study traces molecular link from gene to late-onset retinal degeneration

A NIH study has identified a molecular link between a gene mutation and late-onset retinal degeneration, a rare eye disease. The researchers found that the diabetes drug metformin and gene therapy may be effective treatments for the condition, which can cause abnormal blood vessel growth and deposits of apolipoprotein E.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 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.

SET2,3 index can be prognostic in HR+ breast cancer, independent of recurrence score

Researchers discovered that the SET2,3 index provides complementary prognostic information about breast cancer outcomes, particularly for patients with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. The study suggests that using both clinical and molecular information from a patient's tumor can guide treatment decision-making.

SourceSWOG Cancer Research Network·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 9, 2021

Circular economy: Researchers show how synthetic rubber raw material can be degraded

Researchers have successfully degraded synthetic polyisoprene using enzyme LCPK30, a breakthrough that could enable recycling of car tires and production of new plastics. The method involves creating an emulsion with the polymer, allowing the enzyme to break down long molecular chains into smaller fragments.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalGreen Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021

Study: Fire hastens permafrost collapse in Arctic Alaska

A new analysis of 70 years of data reveals that tundra fires significantly contribute to the decline of permafrost integrity in Arctic Alaska. The study found that fire was responsible for more than 10% of thermokarst formation, despite only burning 3% of the Arctic landscape.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalOne Earth·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 9, 2021

Stretchy, washable battery brings wearable devices closer to reality

Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a flexible and washable battery that can withstand repeated use and laundry cycles. The battery's construction creates an airtight seal and uses safer chemistry, making it suitable for wearable devices worn next to the skin.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021

A novel 3D imaging platform using optical fibers as small as a hair

Researchers created a 3D imaging system using multimode optic fibers, overcoming limitations of scrambling and enabling high-resolution imaging. The system can scan a scene at nearly 23,000 points per second and record near-real-time 3D video.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 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.

New consensus care guideline will significantly improve quality of life for adults with Duchenne muscular dystrophy

The Adult North Star Network's guidelines aim to improve quality of life for adults with Duchenne muscular dystrophy by addressing complex medical needs such as cardiac failure, weight loss, and renal dysfunction. The consensus-based recommendations also highlight gaps in current care and call for further research.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Neuromuscular Diseases·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 9, 2021

A new super-cooled microwave source boosts the scale-up of quantum computers

Researchers at Aalto University have developed a precise microwave source that operates at extremely low temperatures, potentially removing the need for high-frequency control cables. The new device could enable larger quantum processors with more qubits, increasing their potential applications in fields like computing and sensing.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021

New biosensors shine a light on CRISPR gene editing

Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed a self-detect solution to monitor CRISPR gene editing tools in organisms. The system uses a biosensor guide RNA and reporter protein to trigger the technology's reveal itself, enabling real-time detection of CRISPR activity.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateDec 9, 2021

The long-term consequences of sepsis: years of treatment and care needs

A retrospective analysis of anonymized health claims data reveals that three in four sepsis survivors experience post-sepsis morbidity, with over half of those under 40 developing new diagnoses. Average treatment costs for the first three years after discharge are €29,000.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 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.

Fiery dragon’s breath may scorch young planets

A supermassive filament eruption has been observed on a Sun-like star, EK Draconis. The filament was large and fast, posing severe impacts on planetary environments. This finding sheds light on the origins of life on Earth and potential life on other planets.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateDec 9, 2021

Mini-jet found near Milky Way's supermassive black hole

A mini-jet has been found near the Milky Way's supermassive black hole, indicating periodic outbursts. The discovery was made using multi-wavelength observations from various telescopes and suggests that the black hole is not a sleeping monster but rather dynamically variable.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateDec 9, 2021

Researchers identify brain signals associated with OCD symptoms, paving way for adaptive treatment

A team of researchers has recorded electrical signals in the human brain associated with ebbs and flows in OCD symptoms over an extended period. The study could lead to an emerging therapy called deep brain stimulation that adjusts to everyday changes in OCD symptoms, potentially providing more relief and fewer side effects for patients.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Natural variability in Pacific Ocean drives decade-long intensification in Pacific walker circulation

A new study reveals that natural decadal variability related to the Pacific Ocean played a significant role in modulating the Pacific Walker circulation change. The research found that the Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation (IPO) could explain 63% of the observed strengthening trend in the Walker circulation between 1980-2015.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 9, 2021

New method helps fabricate tissue-like wet and slippery hydrogels

Researchers demonstrate an innovative chemical method to engineer diverse layered hydrogels with wet and slippery properties, suitable for tissue-like models, soft robots, and intelligent devices. The UV-SCIRP method enables the efficient construction of complex hydrogel patterns and non-flat arbitrary-shaped objects.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021

Previously unrecorded Chilean tsunami identified

A large earthquake off the coast of south-central Chile in 1737 may have caused a substantial tsunami that was absent from historical records. Researchers analyzed sediments and found evidence of widespread sandy layers, dating to the same time as the earthquake, similar to deposits made by tsunami waves in other areas.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalNature·TypeNews article·DateDec 9, 2021

Talk between immune cells could lead to new cancer vaccine

Yale scientists identified crucial ways immune system cells congregate and communicate to identify tumors, paving the way for new vaccines that could increase survival rates in several forms of cancer. Research found B cells interact with CD4 helper T cells to unleash a robust response by CD8 killer T cells.

SourceYale University·JournalCell·DateDec 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.

Burrowing snakes have far worse eyesight than their ancestors

Scientists found that seven genes associated with bright-light vision are absent in burrowing snakes, demonstrating extensive vision gene loss over millions of years. This challenges the hypothesis that all modern snakes evolved from extreme burrowers, suggesting a different evolutionary path for these subterranean snakes.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021

Breast cancer patients with estrogen receptor mutations may benefit from early switch to fulvestrant/palbociclib

A recent study found that patients with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer who experience rising ESR1 mutations before disease progression can benefit from an early switch to fulvestrant plus palbociclib. This approach yields a statistically and clinically significant gain in progression-free survival, potentially justifying its a...

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateDec 9, 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.

A tool to speed development of new solar cells

Researchers at MIT and Google Brain developed a system that predicts how changing materials or designs will improve solar cell performance. The new simulator, called differentiable solar cell simulator, provides information on which changes will provide desired improvements, increasing the rate of discovery of new configurations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalComputer Physics Communications·DateDec 9, 2021

New research on human brain development sheds light on neurodevelopmental disorders

Researchers have found consistent patterns in GABAergic neuron development between humans and mice, shedding light on the causes of neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and schizophrenia. The study uses single-cell RNA sequencing to create detailed maps of gene expression during human brain development.

SourceKing's College London·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateDec 9, 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.

Scientists solve the grass leaf conundrum

Researchers used computational modeling and developmental genetic techniques to study grass leaf formation, finding that current theories are likely incorrect and a 19th-century proposal is closer to the truth. The discovery sheds light on how simple growth rules can generate diverse leaf shapes.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 9, 2021

Chronic exposure to air pollution may increase risks for ICU admission or death among COVID-19 patients, study finds

Hospitalized COVID-19 patients with chronic exposure to higher particulate matter had increased risks for ICU admission and death. Chronic air pollution exposure was associated with an 11% higher risk of mortality and a 13% higher risk of ICU admission.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 9, 2021

An easy relationship between a beetle and its yeast symbiont

Scientists at Nagoya University discovered that Japanese lizard beetle larvae feed on yeast injected by their mothers, but the yeast only consumes simple sugars. The study found that the yeast grows on small molecule monosaccharides and not on complex sugars despite its ability to digest them.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 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.

DeepMind neural networks open new window to understanding electron interactions

Researchers used DeepMind's platform to develop a new functional 'DM21' that better models chemical reactions by addressing long-standing errors in density functional theory. This breakthrough enables more accurate simulations of matter at the nanoscale, potentially leading to improved material design and discovery.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 9, 2021

UToledo study finds K-12 teachers largely against arming educators

A University of Toledo study found that 70.8% of K-12 educators surveyed are against allowing teachers to carry guns in schools. Despite proposals to train and arm teachers, the majority of educators strongly disagree with the idea, citing concerns about safety and normalization of school shootings.

SourceUniversity of Toledo·JournalJournal of School Violence·TypeSurvey·DateDec 9, 2021

Dinosaurs’ last spring: Study pinpoints timing of Chicxulub asteroid impact

A groundbreaking study confirms the timing of the Chicxulub asteroid impact, which occurred during the spring-summer growth phase, leading to the extinction of dinosaurs and 75% of life on Earth. The research team used multiple lines of evidence, including fossil pollen, index fossils, and radiometric dating, to pinpoint the exact time...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021

Building a better dashboard for enhanced understanding of health

A new study published in BMJ Health & Care Informatics examines decades of dashboards designed to communicate health data, highlighting the need for user-centered design and effectiveness testing. The research aims to guide the development of dashboard enhancements and customizations that support informed decision-making.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalBMJ Health & Care Informatics·DateDec 9, 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.

Community of ethical hackers needed to prevent AI’s looming ‘crisis of trust’, experts argue

A global community of hackers and threat modellers is needed to stress-test the harm potential of new AI products. Companies can harness techniques like red team hacking, audit trails, and bias bounties to prove their integrity and earn public trust. The industry faces a 'crisis of trust' if it doesn't adopt these measures.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 9, 2021

Are scientists homing in on a cure for Parkinson’s disease?

Researchers at the University of Bath have optimised a peptide that prevents alpha-synuclein misfolding, a key feature of Parkinson's disease. The new molecule, 4654W(N6A), has shown significant promise in lab experiments and could lead to the development of a disease-modifying treatment.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021

Machine learning decodes tremors of the universe

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems developed an algorithm that analyzes gravitational wave data in seconds, rather than hours or months. The system, called DINGO, uses a deep neural network to infer properties of binary black-hole sources with high accuracy.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021

Concerning rates of clarithromycin prescribing for H. pylori, despite increasing antibiotic resistance, uncovered in new Digestive Diseases & Sciences publication

A new study reveals widespread prescribing of clarithromycin-based regimens for H. pylori infection, defying increasing resistance and suboptimal eradication rates. Talicia, a rifabutin-based therapy, offers an alternative with higher eradication rates and fewer concerns over resistance.

SourceRedHill Biopharma·JournalDigestive Diseases and Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 9, 2021

Yale researchers find early developmental gene can cause deadly aneurysms

Researchers at Yale University discovered a key gene that contributes to the development of life-threatening brain aneurysms in adults. The study found that mutations in the PPIL4 gene are significantly more common in individuals with intracranial aneurysms, highlighting a potential new target for diagnosis and treatment.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 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.

Virtual conferences are better for the environment and more inclusive

Research finds virtual conferences lower costs, reduce travel commitments, and eliminate environmental costs associated with in-person events. Virtual attendance increased by up to 253% for women and 344% for students and postdoctoral scholars, making them more inclusive.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Sustainability·DateDec 9, 2021

Family dynamics can motivate and prevent talking about health

A new study from Iowa State University finds that open dialogue and reciprocal information sharing between parents and emerging adults reduces barriers for talking about health, leading to better health outcomes. The researchers identified three significant factors affecting health disclosures: relational quality, reciprocity, and conf...

SourceIowa State University·JournalWestern Journal of Communication·TypeSurvey·DateDec 9, 2021

China’s crops at risk: Climate change boosts spread of crop pests and diseases

A recent study by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research found that climate change has contributed to a four-fold increase in crop pest and disease occurrence in China since the 1970s. The researchers attributed this rise to warmer night temperatures, which can foster an increased chance for pests and diseases.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Food·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 9, 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 patient-specific zebrafish model for arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy

Researchers have created the first patient-specific zebrafish model for arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM), a heart disease caused by a genetic mutation. The model recapitulates the human form of ACM, including fat accumulation in the heart and changes in calcium levels, and shows promise for relieving symptoms.

SourceHubrecht Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021

Polariton parametric oscillator in perovskite microcavity

Researchers have developed a room-temperature perovskite polariton parametric oscillator, enabling scalable and low-threshold nonlinear devices. This breakthrough offers possibilities for the development of cost-effective and integrated polaritonic devices.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021

Mysterious STEVE light emissions emanate from Earth’s magnetosphere

Researchers have identified the source of mysterious STEVE light emissions as a narrow region in the magnetosphere, driven by strong waves and particle acceleration. The findings suggest that the ionosphere and magnetosphere may be coupled at lower latitudes, transporting vast quantities of energy and momentum.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateDec 9, 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.

Use of generic heart meds in Medicare Part D could save more than $600 million a year

A new study published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes Journal found that increasing the use of generic medications for heart and blood vessel diseases in Medicare Part D could save more than $600 million per year. This would lead to lower out-of-pocket costs for patients and improved adherence rates.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes·DateDec 9, 2021

New state of matter: Crystalline and flowing at the same time

Scientists have successfully created a new state of matter that combines crystalline order with fluidity, similar to traditional materials like copper and aluminum. The discovery uses DNA-based dendritic nanostructures to form cluster crystals with highly mobile particles.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 9, 2021

Exposure to toxic metals may increase risk of clogged arteries

Research published in ATVB Journal Report reveals that exposure to low-levels of toxic metals can increase the risk of plaque buildup in arteries in the neck, heart, and legs. The study focused on subclinical atherosclerosis and examined the impact of metal exposure on various artery regions.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateDec 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.

Finding the recipe for a larger, greener global rice bowl

The study analyzed 32 rice cropping systems and found that around two-thirds of them have yields below optimal levels, highlighting opportunities for improvement through better management and breeding programs. Sustainable intensification can help increase crop yields while minimizing environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 9, 2021

DeepMind simulates matter on the nanoscale with AI

DeepMind's neural network approach accurately describes electron interactions in chemical systems, overcoming long-standing challenges. The company's breakthrough enables researchers to explore material design, medicines, and catalysts at the nanoscale level.

SourceDeepMind·JournalScience·DateDec 9, 2021