Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive 2021


Page 211 of 510

Pandemic layoffs pushed hospitality workers to leave industry

A Washington State University study found that pandemic-induced layoffs caused financial strain, depression, and social isolation among young hotel and restaurant workers. The study suggests that the younger generation may be less likely to return to the industry due to perceived instability and lack of personal control.

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.

Bioengineering discovery paves way for improved production of bio-based goods

Researchers have developed a way to control multiple genes in yeast cells, paving the way for more sustainable production of bio-based products. The study demonstrates the use of dCas12a to regulate gene expression in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, unlocking its potential for producing pharmaceuticals, fuels, and food additives.

Heart problems resolve in majority of kids with COVID inflammatory syndrome

A recent study published in Pediatrics found that heart problems in children hospitalized with multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) mostly resolved within a few months. The study, which followed 45 patients, showed that most cardiac and immunologic abnormalities returned to normal within weeks after hospital discharge.

Arrival of land plants changed Earth's climate control system

A new study published in Nature found that the arrival of plants on land about 400 million years ago may have altered the Earth's natural climate regulation. The researchers discovered a shift in the global formation of clay, which led to reduced carbon dioxide levels and a cooler planet.

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.

Repairs using light signals

A smart microparticle developed by FAU researchers can identify defective components in electrical appliances using light signals. The particles measure component identity and temperature history, allowing for faster and more accurate repairs.

For people with kidney disease, there is no safe amount of lead in drinking water

A new study found that lead contamination in drinking water can have detrimental effects on individuals with advanced kidney disease, affecting hemoglobin levels and requiring higher doses of medications. The study also revealed concerning inequities, with higher water lead levels observed for Black patients compared to white patients.

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.

Guiding principles for work shift duration published by AASM and SRS

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and Sleep Research Society (SRS) have published guiding principles for determining optimal work shift durations. The principles consider factors such as physical and mental fatigue, job requirements, safety risks, lifestyle factors, and health to find a balance between competing goals.

Chemical reactions break free from energy barriers using flyby trajectories

Researchers at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign discover that applying mechanical force can deliberately alter chemical reactions, allowing for increased chemical selectivity. By manipulating atomic motions, chemists can overcome energy barriers and achieve desired outcomes, opening up new possibilities for chemical production.

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.

Human waste contaminating urban water leads to 'superbug' spread -- study

A new study in mSystems finds human waste contaminating urban lakes, rivers, and surface water in Bangladesh is driving the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The research highlights the importance of improving access to clean water, sanitation, and sewerage infrastructure to reduce antimicrobial resistance.

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.

Science snapshots from Berkeley Lab

Berkeley Lab's Partnership for Advanced Window Solutions accelerates nationwide adoption of highly efficient windows. Researchers also discover unique microbial signatures in cities worldwide and investigate oxygen loss in lithium-ion batteries.

Wildfire smoke exposure linked to increased risk of contracting COVID-19

A new study published in the Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology found a significant association between wildfire smoke exposure and an increased risk of contracting COVID-19 in Reno, Nev. During a prolonged 2020 wildfire smoke event, PM2.5 levels were associated with a 17.7% rise in COVID-19 cases.

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.

Routine screening for BI-RADS lesions on automated whole-breast ultrasound

A prospective study found that returning to routine screening for BI-RADS 3 lesions on supplemental automated whole-breast ultrasound substantially reduces the recall rate, with no increase in adverse outcomes. The study involved 2,257 women and showed a 3.8% recall rate, 0.5% biopsy rate, and 58.3% positive biopsy rate.

Inherited social networks shape spotted hyena society and survival

A new study reveals that inherited social networks passed from mothers to offspring are essential to spotted hyena life and survival. The strength of the maternal relationship affects social inheritance and is positively correlated with long-term survival for both mother and offspring.

A noninvasive test to detect cancer cells and pinpoint their location

Researchers at MIT have developed a new diagnostic nanoparticle that can detect cancerous proteins in urine and pinpoint tumor locations. This technology has the potential to monitor tumor recurrence after treatment or perform routine cancer screenings, potentially leading to earlier detection and improved patient outcomes.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study finds promising therapeutic target for colitis

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences identifies Neuraminidase 3 (Neu3) as a key enzyme responsible for colitis, a chronic digestive disease. Inhibiting Neu3 with Relenza breaks the chain of inflammation, and augmenting intestinal alkaline phosphatase appears to be equally beneficial.

Accurate protein structure prediction now accessible to all

Researchers at the University of Washington have developed RoseTTAFold, a freely available AI tool that can predict protein structures in just 10 minutes. This breakthrough accelerates research into cancer, COVID-19, and other diseases, and has already been used by over 140 independent research teams.

Teasing out the impact of Airbnb listings on neighborhood crime

A study found that Airbnb listings were associated with increased violence in Boston neighborhoods, but not with public social disorder or private conflict. The researchers suggest that the presence of short-term rentals may erode local social dynamics and lead to increased violence over time.

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.

Quantum physics helps destroy cancer cells

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered a way to enhance radiation therapy using iodine nanoparticles, which trigger cancer cell death when exposed to X-rays. The study reveals that the optimal energy level for X-ray irradiation is 33.2 keV, causing double-strand breaks in DNA and leading to programmed cell death.

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Hard to swallow: Coral cells seen engulfing algae for first time

Scientists have observed individual stony coral cells engulfing single-celled photosynthetic algae, crucial for keeping corals healthy. Around 40% of coral cells incorporated the algae in 30 minutes and remained healthy for a month, providing insights into the partnership between corals and dinoflagellates.

Early perceptions of COVID-19 in Pennsylvania

A March 2020 survey of central Pennsylvania adults found early concern for COVID-19 outmatched concern for influenza, with respondents trusting CDC guidelines and healthcare websites. Knowledge about COVID-19 was generally high, with a majority intending to follow social distancing recommendations.

July/August 2021 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

Primary care physicians provide the largest share of vaccinations and clinical visits for COVID-19 testing, showcasing their crucial role in immunization programs. Researchers highlight the importance of integrating social care practices into healthcare delivery to address patients' economic and social needs.

Smartphone photos can be used to detect anemia

A new study published in PLOS ONE suggests that smartphone photos of the inner eyelid can be used to screen for anemia. The algorithm achieved accuracy rates of up to 94.4% in predicting anemia, making it a potential tool for early diagnosis and treatment in low-resource settings.

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.

How does exhaled heated tobacco aerosol behave in the air?

Research finds that exhaled heated tobacco aerosol particles are droplets comprised of 75-85% water, evaporating quickly and not impacting indoor air quality. The aerosol is mostly composed of water droplets, unlike cigarette smoke, which lingers in the air and exceeds IAQ standards.

Melanoma of the eye: Preclinical tests show path toward treatment

A preclinical study identifies a small molecule inhibitor, KCN1, that dampens tumor drivers and limits disease progression. The study showed KCN1 to be well-tolerated and effective at reducing metastasis, suggesting potential as a treatment for metastatic uveal melanoma.

Small molecule plays outsize role in controlling nanoparticle

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a method to control the shape of nanoparticles using small molecule adsorption. By varying the concentration of an individual ligand, they can change the particle's shape, opening up new possibilities for applications such as removing micropollutants from the environment.

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.

Understanding our perception of rhythm

Researchers found that rhythm perception relies on two separate decisions: grouping and prominence, which are mutually informative. These decisions lead to our rhythmic intuitions, suggesting that speech processing involves complex inferences.

Dogs may not return their owners' good deeds

In an experiment, dogs were paired with two unfamiliar humans - one helpful and one unhelpful. Despite the humans' behavior, the dogs showed no preference for the helper or did not reciprocate by acting more favorably towards them. The study suggests that dogs may not be able to understand the connection between human help and reward.

New spray could someday help heal damage after a heart attack

Scientists have developed a minimally invasive exosome spray that helped repair rat hearts after myocardial infarction, outperforming traditional injection methods. The spray lasted longer and healed injuries better than injected exosomes, with promising results for heart repair

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 health workers identify health-related social needs in patients

A qualitative study found that community health workers are integral to identifying patients' social needs, with roles shifting from screener to implementer. However, social needs screening data is often not integrated into electronic health records or used for population health management, and sites face barriers to its implementation.

Ultra-processed food linked to higher risk of IBD

A study published in The BMJ found a strong association between ultra-processed food intake and the risk of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Consuming five or more servings of ultra-processed food per day was linked to an 82% increased risk of IBD.

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.