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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 284


Page 284 of 510

New insights into switchable MOF structures

Researchers studied DUT-8, a switchable MOF structure that changes shape in response to guest molecules. The findings improve understanding of switching processes and gas exchange reactions in MOFs, paving the way for targeted development of functional materials.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMay 28, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Danish invention preserves muscle mass in COVID-19 patients

Researchers at Aarhus University developed biocompatible electrodes for electrical muscle stimulation and integrated them into medical support stockings. The study found that the stockings counteracted significant muscle loss in bedridden Covid patients, reversing a 10% decline in muscle mass after five to six days of hospitalization.

SourceAarhus University·DateMay 28, 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.

Helping doctors manage COVID-19

A new AI tool developed by researchers at the University of Waterloo uses deep-learning technology to assess the severity of lung infections in COVID-19 patients. The tool shows promising results, aligning well with expert assessments and potentially improving clinical efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 28, 2021

The properties of non-racemic dihydrofurans have been studied at Samara Polytech

Researchers at Samara Polytech developed a method to obtain non-racemic 4,5-dihydrofurans using Michael addition, which could lead to the creation of biologically active compounds. The study also explores the potential use of these compounds as treatments for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceSamara Polytech (Samara State Technical University)·JournalTetrahedron·DateMay 28, 2021

Better choice of contraceptives can prevent breast cancer

Researchers at EPFL found that certain progestins in hormonal contraceptives can stimulate cell proliferation in the breast, while others do not. This suggests that informed choices about contraceptive composition may help prevent breast cancer risk.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateMay 28, 2021

Tiniest of moments proves key for baby's healthy brain

A new study by University of Virginia researchers identifies the final step in cell division as crucial for proper brain growth and function. Understanding this process may lead to potential treatments for microcephaly, a birth defect affecting brain development.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·DateMay 28, 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.

Detecting skin disorders based on tissue stiffness with a soft sensing device

A research team from City University of Hong Kong has designed a simple electromechanical device that can detect skin disorders such as psoriasis by measuring tissue stiffness. The device provides real-time evaluations of deep tissue stiffness, allowing for accurate targeting of lesions and monitoring of skin health status.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateMay 28, 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.

When to release free and paid apps for maximal revenue

A new study suggests that the most common optimal launch strategy is to offer the paid version first, as it generates download revenues from the first day of sales. The researchers also find that the relative profitability of the free version tends to increase with app age, while that of the paid version declines.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMay 28, 2021

Proton's travel route in polymers could lead the way to clean fuels

A team of researchers from Japan discovered that high COOH concentration facilitates internal proton transport while lower concentrations favor interfacial transport. The study may contribute to developing bio-conductive materials for biological devices and eco-friendly fuel cells.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalElectrochemistry·DateMay 28, 2021

How retroviruses become infectious

Researchers at IST Austria have uncovered the crucial role of IP6 in stabilizing virus shells, preventing premature genome release. The study provides insights into the variability of capsid shapes and potential differences in infectivity.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 28, 2021

Horror films as a reimagined space for healing

Researcher Morgan Podraza examines the representation of trauma in horror films, arguing that the final girl trope can be reimagined as a space for healing and futures for people with trauma. The analysis highlights the need to acknowledge trauma and its ongoing effects, rather than just focusing on survival.

SourceOhio State University·JournalHorror Studies·DateMay 28, 2021

A non-invasive procedure allows obtaining archaeological information without excavating

Researchers led by Stefano Biagetti used portable X-ray fluorescence analysis to analyze anthropogenic sediments in Botswana, detecting patterns of livestock use, middens, and workshop areas. The non-invasive technique provides unprecedented insights into ancient settlement functions, confirming the potential for future archaeological ...

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 28, 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.

Applying private insurer rules to Medicare Part B

Researchers estimated the extent of Medicare Part B medical services subject to private insurer prior authorization under coverage policies. The study found that these restrictions would have resulted in significant spending savings, affecting healthcare delivery and policy.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateMay 28, 2021

Declining biodiversity in wild Amazon fisheries threatens human diet

A study in the Peruvian Amazon reveals that declining fish biodiversity poses a significant risk to human nutrition, particularly for iron and essential fatty acids. The researchers predict that a tipping point will be reached when 40 of 60 food species become scarce or extinct, leading to a nosedive in nutritional value.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 28, 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.

Scientists call for international investment to tackle major wheat losses

A new R-Gene Atlas would help identify genetic solutions to disease resistance in commercial wheat varieties, reducing global food security risks. The proposed platform would enable breeders to design gene stacks using computer modeling before starting breeding in the field, with a potential cost of £41 million.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalMolecular Plant·DateMay 27, 2021

Jebel Sahaba: A succession of violence rather than a prehistoric war

The Jebel Sahaba cemetery, 13 millennia old, was initially thought to be a testament to prehistoric warfare. However, recent analysis reveals a succession of violent episodes, likely exacerbated by climate change. The study found that individuals bore injuries from projectiles and repeated episodes of violence over their lifetimes.

SourceCNRS·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 27, 2021

Artificial neurons recognize biosignals in real time

Researchers developed a neuromorphic chip that can detect high-frequency oscillations and recognize complex biosignals in real time. The technology has the potential to improve neurosurgical interventions and monitor epilepsy outside of hospitals.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 27, 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.

Checking out plastic surgeons on Instagram? Your perception may be biased

A new study finds that plastic surgeons' apparent gender and ethnicity can influence patient perceptions of their competence. However, the findings suggest more favorable perceptions of surgeons of the same racial/ethnic group, which may be crucial for cosmetic surgery patients in the US.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateMay 27, 2021

New microscopy method reaches deeper into the living brain

Researchers have developed a new technique called diffuse optical localization imaging (DOLI) that enables noninvasive imaging of the brain's microvasculature and neural activity at depths of up to 4 millimeters. This method uses the NIR-II window and is poised to bring new insight into how the brain works in health and disease.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateMay 27, 2021

Magnetized threads weave spectacular galactic tapestry

A new panorama of the Galactic Center builds on previous surveys, expanding Chandra's high-energy view. The image features X-ray and radio emission intertwined threads, bound by magnetic fields that may have formed through magnetic reconnection. This process drives galactic-scale outflows and affects cosmic rays and interstellar medium.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMay 27, 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.

Key early steps in gene expression captured in real time by CSU researchers

CSU researchers have observed early RNA transcription dynamics by recording where, when, and how RNA polymerase enzymes kick off transcription. The breakthrough technology has far-reaching potential, including sharpening understanding of basic biological processes and unveiling genetic underpinnings of certain diseases.

SourceColorado State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 27, 2021

Study sheds light on population history of northern east Asia

Researchers analyzed ancient DNA from 25 humans, revealing that the population dynamics between 40,000-9.5 ka were influenced by Ice Age climatic fluctuations. The study provides evidence for an Asian-specific variant associated with anthropogenic traits.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell·DateMay 27, 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.

NTU Singapore scientists turn aquaculture waste into new biomaterial for tissue repair

The researchers developed a biomaterial made from discarded bullfrog skin and fish scales that acts as a scaffold for bone-forming cells to multiply, leading to the formation of new bone. The biomaterial has shown low risk of triggering an inflammatory response and could be used to assist with bone growth around surgical implants.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalMaterials Science and Engineering C·DateMay 27, 2021

Using a DNA-led framework to reunite separated migrant families

A DNA-led framework is needed to reunite separated migrant families, prioritizing scientific rigor and rights protection. The proposed framework addresses trauma-informed protocols and existing standards for DNA technology, aiming to establish a global protocol for living family reunification.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 27, 2021

Families with a child with ADHD can benefit from mindfulness training

A study found that mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) improved mindful parenting, self-compassion, and mental health in parents of children with ADHD. The training also showed small effects on ADHD symptoms and anxiety in children, but a subgroup benefited from improved self-control.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateMay 27, 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.

Mixtures of two herbicides have less environmental impact when mixed in laboratories

A University of Córdoba study found that mixing two herbicides in laboratories results in a more effective and environmentally friendly method for controlling difficult-to-control weeds. The commercial mixture was shown to have a lower environmental impact than manual mixing, reducing risks and boosting effectiveness by 10-20%.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateMay 27, 2021

Bacterium causing rabbit fever remains virulent for months in cold water

Francisella tularensis can persist in a dormant state for over six months in cold water without nutrients, remaining fully virulent. This discovery changes the understanding of the bacterium's ecology, suggesting it spends most of its time outside a host and amplifies disease events in mammals.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateMay 27, 2021

Discovery may point to Parkinson's disease therapies

University of Guelph researchers have discovered how entangled proteins in brain cells enable Parkinson's disease to spread. Misfolded alpha-synuclein aggregates spread to other parts of the brain, impairing areas responsible for motor function and cognition.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 27, 2021

Soft drink ads target 'vulnerable'

A Flinders University study found participants with an automatic bias towards soft drinks were more responsive to TV ads than those without these tendencies. The researchers suggest targeting people who show cognitive vulnerabilities to reduce consumption of sugary drinks.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAppetite·DateMay 27, 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.

The robot smiled back

Researchers at Columbia Engineering have developed a new autonomous robot called EVA, which uses artificial intelligence to teach itself how to make appropriate reactive human facial expressions. This technology has the potential to improve interactions between humans and robots in various settings, such as nursing homes and factories.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateMay 27, 2021

Controlling magnetization by surface acoustic waves

A collaborative research group successfully controlled the magnetization of a ferromagnetic thin film using circular vibrations of surface acoustic waves. The discovery opens up new possibilities for combining and developing acoustic and magnetic devices.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 27, 2021
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.

Starting local

A new study suggests that managing local environmental conditions can help coral reefs persevere in the face of climate change. Local factors like macroalgae presence and nutrient pollution exacerbate coral loss, but also offer opportunities for management to boost reef resilience.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateMay 27, 2021

Biologists construct a 'periodic table' for cell nuclei

A team of biologists has developed a new classification system for cell nuclei, revealing how species can switch between different nuclear types. The researchers discovered that mutations in a protein called condensin II can convert human cells into fly-like nuclei, and created a computer program to simulate the effects.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalScience·DateMay 27, 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.

High-capacity electrodes by valence engineering developed for desalination

Researchers from Hefei Institutes of Physical Science created three manganese oxides with different Mn valences for high-capacity capacitive desalination. The results showed that these electrodes displayed high salt adsorption capacity and corresponding high salt adsorption rates surpassing other carbon materials.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNano Research·DateMay 27, 2021

Icebergs push back

Researchers at CU Boulder discovered that a sudden change in slushy iceberg aggregates can trigger calving events up to an hour before they occur. The findings may help scientists predict future sea-level rise scenarios and understand the forces determining how much ice discharges into the ocean.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 27, 2021

New research could pave the way for safer and more efficient COVID-19 testing

Researchers developed a portable saliva screening test that detects SARS-CoV-2 using infrared light technology, offering faster and more efficient testing than current gold standard RT-PCR. The new approach has significant advantages, including speed, ease of use, affordability, and reduced risk to patients and healthcare workers.

SourceMonash University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMay 27, 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.

Online survey successful in gathering COVID-19 data at scale

An online survey capturing COVID-19 symptoms received over 87,000 responses, providing important insight into the spread of disease. The survey revealed patterns of symptoms and correlations with testing rates in U.S. states.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateMay 27, 2021