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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 270


Page 270 of 510

A Computational Look at How Genes Change the Human Brain

Researchers are developing innovative computational tools to illuminate how genetic factors impact brain structure and function, particularly in Alzheimer's disease. The goal is to accelerate the discovery of robust imaging biomarkers of neurological disorders.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateJun 7, 2021

Conserving coastal seaweed: a must have for migrating sea birds

New research highlights the importance of coastal seaweed for migratory shorebirds, providing shelter and microclimates that regulate their body temperatures. Removing beach-cast sea wrack can have devastating impacts on bird populations.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJun 7, 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.

Social structure and genome size in snapping shrimps

A study found that social behavior in snapping shrimps influences genome size, with eusocial species having larger genomes and more transposable elements. Genome size varies widely between species and is generally unrelated to complexity.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 7, 2021

Study supports gene therapy as a promising treatment for soft bone disease

A preclinical study supports AAV8-TNAP-D10 as a single-dose treatment for hypophosphatasia, extending the life span of mice with minimal side effects. The therapy may provide an alternative to current medication injections, benefiting patients with severe skeletal and dental abnormalities.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateJun 7, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers find toxin from maple tree in cow's milk

A study by Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg found that cows can ingest hypoglycin A toxin from sycamore maple trees through their pasture, which is then transferred to their milk. Low concentrations of the toxin were detected in raw milk samples from northern Germany.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalToxins·DateJun 7, 2021

Saudi Arabians: Somatic mutations in breast cancer: New opportunities

A study on Saudi Arabian breast cancer patients identified somatic mutations in tumor suppressor genes, including BRCA1, BRCA2, and PIK3CA. The findings highlight the importance of routine genetic sequencing for precision therapies in the region. Novel mutations were also discovered, with potential implications for targeted treatments.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJun 7, 2021

Mandating vaccination could reduce voluntary compliance

A new study suggests that mandating COVID-19 vaccination could decrease voluntary compliance by reducing people's desire to be vaccinated, particularly among those with low trust in public institutions. The research found increased opposition when participants were asked about legally required vaccinations, despite higher support for v...

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 7, 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.

Infrared imaging leaves invasive pythons nowhere to hide

Researchers developed a near-infrared camera system that can detect Burmese pythons up to 1.3 times farther away than traditional visible-wavelength cameras, providing a new tool for removal efforts and expanding detection capabilities day and night.

SourceOptica·JournalApplied Optics·DateJun 7, 2021

RUDN University chemists created anti-hantavirus drugs 5 times more efficient than existing drugs

Researchers at RUDN University have synthesized a new class of compounds that inhibit the replication of the deadly Hantaan virus, which causes acute haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. The resulting substances are 5 times more effective than existing antiviral drugs and show promise for treatment development.

SourceRUDN University·JournalBioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters·DateJun 7, 2021

Visualizing cement hydration on a molecular level

Researchers have developed an imaging technique that visualizes cement hydration on a molecular level, offering insights into the complex chemical reactions that shape concrete. This advancement may lead to more sustainable concrete production and improved 3D printing capabilities.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJun 7, 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.

10,000-year-old DNA pens the first tales of the earliest domesticated goats

The study provides clues to how early agricultural practices shaped the evolution of these animals. Genetic analyses show that the ancient goats fell at the base of the domestic goat lineage, suggesting they were closely related to the animals first recruited during domestication.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 7, 2021

Trying not to overeat? How you eat matters

A new study by the American Society for Nutrition found that people who eat faster or take larger bites tend to consume more food. The researchers suggest that being aware of portion sizes, slowing down while eating, and taking smaller bites can help avoid overconsumption.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJun 7, 2021

A new disease called halo blight threatens Michigan hop production

A new disease called halo blight is threatening Michigan's hop production, causing yield losses and altering hop quality. Genetic testing revealed a novel fungal pathogen, Diaporthe sp. 1-MI, which can infect healthy hop plants and cause yellow margins on leaf lesions and browning of cones.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·DateJun 7, 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.

Diets that promote inflammation could increase breast cancer risk

A large-scale study analyzing dietary patterns in over 350,000 women found that consuming pro-inflammatory foods increases breast cancer risk, with the strongest associations seen among premenopausal women. The study suggests that adopting an anti-inflammatory diet may help lower this risk.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJun 7, 2021

A targeted treatment for IgA nephropathy at last?

Researchers have identified the alternative complement pathway as a key driver of IgA nephropathy, a chronic kidney disease. Iptacopan, an oral inhibitor of Factor B, has been shown to significantly reduce proteinuria and stabilize renal function in patients with IgAN, offering a new therapeutic approach.

SourceERA – European Renal Association·DateJun 7, 2021

Innovative batteries put flying cars on the horizon

Researchers at Penn State have designed and tested prototype batteries for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles, which require high energy density and rapid charging. The batteries can sustain over 2,000 fast-charges and retain some charge to ensure safety in the air.

SourcePenn State·JournalJoule·DateJun 7, 2021

Traces of goat domestication in the Zagros Mountains

Researchers in the Zagros Mountains have discovered ancient DNA evidence suggesting goats were domesticated around 8200-7600 BCE, with genetic analysis revealing distinct herds from hunted wild goats. The domestication of goats in this region may represent the earliest known examples of goat herding.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 7, 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 molecular underpinnings of immune cell migration

Researchers at Osaka University identified a molecular mechanism governing immune cell motility, involving the lysosomal Ragulator complex. This process enables immune cells to migrate and elicit an immune response, with implications for treating autoimmune disorders and cancer.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 7, 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.

Defying body clock linked to depression and lower wellbeing

A new study published in Molecular Psychiatry found that people whose sleep pattern goes against their natural body clock are more likely to have depression and lower levels of wellbeing. Being genetically programmed to be an early riser is protective against major depression, and improves wellbeing.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJun 7, 2021

Study compares heart benefits of low-fat and plant-centered diets

A recent study published by the American Society for Nutrition compared the effects of low-fat and plant-centered diets on cardiovascular health. The research found that a plant-centered diet was associated with a lower long-term risk for cardiovascular disease, although both diets were linked with lower LDL levels.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJun 7, 2021

Lead halide perovskites -- a horse of a different color

Researchers develop new methodology to study lead halide perovskites' photophysics, revealing the limitations of existing theories. The method provides a complete representation of the material's photophysical processes, allowing for the examination of theory validity and exploration of new explanations.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 7, 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.

Considering the potential and pitfalls of "Dr. GPT-3" in a clinic near you

Artificial intelligence natural language computer applications hold promise for health care, but their potential and pitfalls need thoughtful exploration. The authors identify realistic applications such as relieving routine tasks and improving customer service, but also emphasize the need for 'serious guardrails' to prevent harm.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalDigital Medicine·DateJun 7, 2021

Zoonotic potential of MERS coronaviruses in Africa

African MERS-CoV strains show lower replication rates and virulence compared to Saudi Arabian strains. Spike protein differences contribute to the disparity, raising concerns about increased transmission and global outbreak risk.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 7, 2021

Quantifying the role of chance in professional football

A study analyzing 7,263 English Premier League goals found that random influence is present in almost every second goal (46%). Weaker teams and draw situations see a higher proportion of chance goals, with the occurrence dependent on match situation.

SourceGerman Sport University·JournalJournal of Sports Sciences·DateJun 7, 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.

African great apes to suffer massive range loss in next 30 years

A new study predicts massive range declines of African great apes (85-94%) due to climate change, land-use changes, and human population growth. The authors warn that effective conservation strategies require careful planning for protected areas and connectivity between habitats.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateJun 7, 2021

The Journal of the Bulgarian Geographical Society revamped on ARPHA Platform

The Journal of the Bulgarian Geographical Society has moved to the ARPHA Platform, offering fast-track publishing, machine-readable XML format, automated data export, and web-service integrations. The journal now covers all fields of geography and interrelated sciences with a focus on Southeastern Europe and the Balkans.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalJournal of the Bulgarian Geographical Society·DateJun 7, 2021

Math education and brain development

A study found low GABA levels in adolescents associated with lack of math education, leading to poorer performance on math tests. Math education was linked to increased brain plasticity, suggesting implications for educational policies and access to opportunities.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 7, 2021

Mortality and social support

A study of US adults found that those who received more social support than they gave had a higher mortality risk. Individuals who gave excessive social support also exhibited a higher risk of death.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 7, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Football and team handball training may increase health span and, ultimately, lifespan

A Danish-Swedish study found that football and team handball training have a positive effect on telomere length and mitochondrial function in women, potentially increasing their health span and lifespan. The research involved 129 healthy women and showed that elite football players had longer telomeres compared to untrained controls.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 7, 2021

Controlling insulin production with a smartwatch

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a molecular switch that can be activated by green light from a smartwatch, producing insulin or other substances. The system uses HEK 293 cells and is linked to a gene network, which can be configured to produce specific substances.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 7, 2021

Indigenous peoples were stewards of the Western Amazon

New study finds no evidence of widespread forest clearing by Indigenous populations in western Amazonia before European arrival. Instead, researchers suggest a history of sustainable use and minimal impact on ecosystem biodiversity.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 7, 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.

Oncotarget: Infiltration in human skin squamous-cell carcinoma

Researchers analyzed 36 patients with skin squamous-cell carcinoma, finding that CD8+ T cells infiltrated tumors with lymphatic endothelial cells. Perineural infiltrated sSCC without metastasis showed low lymphatic endothelial cell density, suggesting a link to tumor microenvironment biology.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJun 7, 2021

Largest-ever pre-adolescent brain activation study reveals cognitive function maps

A new study provides valuable information on the cognitive processes and brain systems underlying adolescent development. The data from the largest longitudinal neuroimaging study to date reveals which brain regions are involved in key psychological processes, including cognitive control, reward processing, and social/emotional function.

SourceLarner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJun 7, 2021

Monoclonal antibody prevents HIV infection in monkeys, study finds

A lab-made monoclonal antibody, leronlimab, has been shown to completely prevent nonhuman primates from being infected with the monkey form of HIV. The results inform a future human clinical trial evaluating leronlimab as a potential pre-exposure prophylaxis therapy.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 7, 2021

Correcting misperceptions about, and increasing empathy for, migrants

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania found that Americans dramatically overestimate the number of migrants affiliated with gangs and children being trafficked. Researchers developed interventions to address this misinformation and increase empathy, resulting in improved attitudes toward immigrants.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJun 7, 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.

Mice fathers pass down stress responses to offspring via sperm

New research reveals that stressed male mice can pass on their stress behaviors to their offspring through changes in the sperm's genetic code. This finding indicates that sperm transmits short-term environmental information to offspring, influencing their stress responses.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJun 7, 2021

Procedure using ultrasound energy found to treat high blood pressure

A global multicentre clinical trial found that a one-hour ultrasound-based procedure called 'renal denervation' significantly reduced blood pressure in resistant hypertension patients. The study, published in The Lancet, suggests this procedure could offer hope to patients who do not respond to recommended treatments.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 7, 2021

Chip mimicking bovine endometrium used in study of factors that can jeopardize pregnancy

The device was used to culture two maternal endometrial cell types, revealing the effects of glucose and insulin level alterations on uterine environment. High levels of glucose altered protein expression and secretion, while insulin changes triggered quantitative changes in protein secretion without significant gene transcription.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEndocrinology·DateJun 7, 2021
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.