Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2021 - Page 250


Page 250 of 510

Evolution -- two routes to the same destination

Researchers found that fruit flies Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila virilis use different mechanisms for dosage compensation. The primary components MSL2 and CLAMP are present in both species, but their binding sites on the X chromosome have evolved differently.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalGenes & Development·DateJun 18, 2021

Princeton-led team discovers unexpected quantum behavior in kagome lattice

A team led by M. Zahid Hasan discovered a new type of ordering in electric charge in a superconducting material with a kagome lattice structure. The researchers used advanced scanning tunneling microscopy to find evidence for topological-type charge order in AV3Sb5, a previously unknown pattern of electronic charge distribution.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 18, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Greenhouse gas data deep dive reaches new level of 'reasonable and true'

Researchers developed county-level nitrogen application datasets for corn, improving the accuracy of greenhouse gas calculations. The new approach found excess nitrogen application in most US corn-producing counties, particularly in the Midwest and Northern Plains.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateJun 18, 2021

Inflammation of the eye after drug withdrawal in children with arthritis

Children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) are at high risk for uveitis relapses after discontinuing disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). The study found that patients are more likely to experience uveitis events within the first 3-24 months after DMARD withdrawal.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·DateJun 18, 2021

Atomic-scale tailoring of graphene approaches macroscopic world

Scientists have successfully controlled graphene at an atomic scale using a novel experimental setup and machine learning algorithms. The breakthrough enables the creation of large-scale structures with tailored properties, opening up new avenues for materials design.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 18, 2021

Wind and waves: A step toward better control of heavy-lift crane vessels

Researchers developed a new modeling system to enhance dynamic positioning, allowing ships to stay fixed in challenging sea conditions. The approach includes a digital observer that translates wind or wave disturbances into specific measurements, enabling the vessel to respond in a reasonable timeframe.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateJun 18, 2021

The end of Darwin's nightmare at Lake Victoria?

Researchers from the University of Liège found that Lake Victoria's phytoplankton biomass decreased by seven times since the 1990s, while nutrient levels remained stable. Climate conditions, including wind intensity, significantly impact phytoplankton growth and food chain dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalFreshwater Biology·DateJun 18, 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.

Dragonflies: Species losses and gains in Germany

A nationwide analysis of dragonflies and damselflies in Germany between 1980 and 2016 found both losses and gains, with cold-adapted species declining due to habitat loss and degradation. Meanwhile, warm-adapted species increased, likely due to climate change.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateJun 18, 2021

Cognitive care using medicinal plant peptides

Researchers have identified cyclic peptides from the butterfly pea plant as potential therapeutic solutions for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's. The peptides protected neurons against β-amyloid toxicity and oxidative stress in transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans.

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateJun 18, 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.

Study reveals new therapeutic target for C. difficile infection

Researchers have identified a unique binding site between Clostridioides difficile toxin B and chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4, revealing a potential therapeutic avenue for combating hypervirulent strains. A CSPG4-mimicking decoy could neutralize major TcdB variants, offering a superior alternative to existing antibody therapeutics.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 18, 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.

An acceleration of coastal overtopping around the world

Researchers found that coastal overtopping is set to increase exponentially by 2050, with a 50-fold increase possible under high emission scenarios. Global warming will exacerbate flooding risks in tropical areas and other hotspots, necessitating adaptation measures.

SourceInstitut de recherche pour le développement·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 18, 2021

Graphene drum: Researchers develop new phonon laser design

Graphene drum technology induces coherent emission of sound energy quanta, enabling new quantum optomechanical sensors and transducers. The device amplifies external vibrations at specific frequencies, showing potential applications in classical and quantum sensing.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalOptics Express·DateJun 18, 2021

Sweet sorghum: Sweet promise for the environment

A new sweet sorghum variety called KIT1 has been developed by Dr. Adnan Kanbar, accumulating particularly high amounts of sugar and thriving under temperate climate conditions. The estimated sugar yield per hectare is over 4.4 tons, corresponding to almost 3,000 liters of bioethanol.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalIndustrial Crops and Products·DateJun 18, 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.

Use rewards effectively to boost creativity

A new study by Rice University found that offering a set of rewards allows employees to choose the most effective incentive, leading to increased creative ideas and improved creativity levels. The study also discovered that rewards aimed at helping others can be particularly powerful in boosting creativity.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateJun 18, 2021

Expanding the family of quantum droplets

New research adds lattice potential to quantum droplet analysis, producing stable fundamental and vortical modes. The study improves understanding of BEC dynamics and opens door for new species creation.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Physics·DateJun 18, 2021

First trial of faecal microbiota transplantation for people with active peripheral psoriatic arthritis shows no advantage

A double-blind trial found that faecal microbiota transplantation did not improve treatment outcomes or reduce symptoms in patients with active peripheral PsA. The study suggests that FMT may not be an effective treatment option for this condition, and future research is needed to explore its potential benefits.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·DateJun 18, 2021

Earlier flood forecasting could help avoid disaster in Japan

Researchers from The University of Tokyo Institute of Industrial Science have developed a new flood forecasting system that can predict extreme flooding events with a 32-hour lead time. This system is based on models of land surface and river routes, combined with meteorological data and statistical analysis.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 18, 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.

Team describes science-based hiccups intervention

Researchers from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio developed a new tool to stop hiccups, FISST, which showed nearly 92% success rate in relieving symptoms. Users reported high degrees of effectiveness and ease of use, with most finding it easy to use and very happy with results.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 18, 2021

Organic farming could feed Europe by 2050

A study by CNRS scientists proposes a balanced coexistence between agriculture and the environment. Implementing an organic, sustainable system involves changing diet, generalizing long crop rotation systems, and bringing together crops and livestock to reduce synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.

SourceCNRS·JournalOne Earth·DateJun 18, 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.

Meringue-like material could make aircraft as quiet as a hairdryer

A team of researchers at the University of Bath has developed a lightweight, meringue-like material made from graphene oxide and polyvinyl alcohol that can significantly reduce aircraft engine noise. This innovative aerogel could be used as insulation within aircraft engines to improve passenger comfort and fuel efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 18, 2021

A key player in cell death moonlights as a mediator of inflammation

Researchers from Kanazawa University found that gasdermin D forms pores in the cell membrane, allowing factors to flow in and activating IL-1® maturation. This study provides insight into the essential functions of the human immune system and the regulation of immune function.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 18, 2021

Depression in dads of preemies deserves more attention

A large study found that depression symptoms in fathers of premature infants persist after discharge from the NICU, affecting their ability to engage in positive parenting activities. The researchers emphasize the need for increased attention to mental health support for new fathers during this critical period.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 18, 2021

Surprising spider hair discovery may inspire stronger adhesives

A new study in Frontiers in Mechanical Engineering found that the hairs on spider legs exhibit unique adhesive properties, with each hair showing different strengths and weaknesses on various surfaces. The researchers believe this diversity may be key to how spiders can climb diverse surfaces.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Mechanical Engineering·DateJun 18, 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.

Pregnancy outcomes are affected by both maternal and paternal inflammatory disease

Women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have an increased likelihood of pre-term birth and small babies. High maternal disease activity during pregnancy strengthens these associations. In contrast, paternal inflammatory disease is associated with a higher risk of miscarriage, particularly in pregnancies conceived after the father's diagno...

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·DateJun 18, 2021

Undiagnosed and untreated disease identified in rural South Africa

A comprehensive health-screening program in rural northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, has identified a high burden of undiagnosed or poorly controlled non-communicable diseases. The study found that four out of five women over the age of 30 were living with chronic health conditions, highlighting the need for urgent interventions.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateJun 18, 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.

AI app could help diagnose HIV more accurately

Researchers developed an AI-powered app to improve the accuracy of HIV test results, particularly for laypeople. The app achieved 98.9% accuracy in classifying images, reducing errors compared to traditional interpretation.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 18, 2021

Stop-motion photons: Localized light particles on the road

Scientists at the University of Rostock have made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of quantum mechanics. Localized light particles have been observed on long optical fibers, transcending the mechanism previously considered by Phil Anderson's theory of Anderson localization. This new class of disorder allows for the abrupt transp...

SourceUniversity of Rostock·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 18, 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.

Paderborn University hosts 'HEART'21'

The symposium will explore the latest research findings on computer systems and methods in HPC, focusing on achieving optimal computing performance and energy efficiency. Researchers from top institutions will present their work, including keynotes and special sessions on up-to-the-minute topics.

SourceUniversität Paderborn·DateJun 18, 2021

Impact of a national tender system on biologic and targeted drug costs in Norway

The national tender system in Norway has significantly reduced the cost of biologic and targeted drugs for rheumatoid arthritis patients. Over a 10-year period, the average annual costs were lowered by approximately 50%, with current users experiencing a 50% reduction and new patients seeing a 75% decrease.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·DateJun 18, 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.

EULAR is working to accelerate gender-equitable career advancement in academic rheumatology

The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) has established a framework to address the unmet need for support of female rheumatologists and other healthcare professionals in academic rheumatology. The framework outlines six thematic areas with 29 potential interventions to accelerate gender-equitable career advancement.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·DateJun 18, 2021

Does cannabis affect brain development in young people with ADHD? Too soon to tell, reports Harvard Review of Psychiatry

A review published in Harvard Review of Psychiatry found that cannabis use by young people with ADHD does not appear to have additional adverse effects on brain development or functioning. However, the authors note a need for further research to clarify possible effects and consider factors such as potency and frequency of use.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalHarvard Review of Psychiatry·DateJun 18, 2021

Study examines symptoms before and after kidney transplantation

Patients waiting for a kidney transplant who experienced various symptoms had a higher risk of dying while on the waitlist. However, those who underwent transplantation saw an improvement in symptoms, with overall 10% reduction and significant declines in fatigue and itchy skin.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJun 18, 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.

COVID-19 morbidity and mortality in people with rheumatic diseases

A population-based cohort study in Catalonia, Spain, found positive associations between RA and COVID-19 diagnosis and hospitalization. In contrast, no association was observed between RA and worsening from outpatient to hospital or death. Further research is needed to address comorbidities and immunosuppressive medications.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·DateJun 18, 2021

Separating natural and man-made pollutants in the air

A new study separated the impact of anthropogenic and natural pollutants on air quality during the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers found that 72% of nitrogen oxides emissions in urban centers came from traffic and factories, while agricultural activities in rural areas contributed to faster recovery after lockdown.

SourceResearch Institute for Humanity and Nature·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 18, 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.

Phytoplankton -- the discovery of a missing link

A team of biologists identified a family of algae as a living missing link in the microscopic domain. The discovery sheds new light on the evolution of these organisms and clarifies their evolutionary history.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 18, 2021

Researchers dig deeper into how cells transport their waste for recycling

Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys have gained insight into the process of autophagy, where cells degrade and recycle cellular components. The study reveals that a chemical modification helps direct the transport of autophagosomes to cellular recycling plants, potentially leading to new targets for age-related diseases.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 18, 2021