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Science News Archive 2021


Page 285 of 510

Video platforms normalize exotic pets

Researchers analyzed YouTube comments on exotic animal videos and found overwhelmingly positive reactions to human-animal interactions. The study highlights concerns about the normalization of exotic pets and the exotic pet trade due to platform portrayals.

Moon research to expand lunar measures beyond Apollo missions

Researchers from Simon Fraser University and Canadian Space Agency will develop a new system to capture detailed seismic and gravimetric models of the lunar subsurface. This project aims to advance our understanding of the moon's geophysical properties and inform future exploration, potentially enabling human settlement.

Research news tip sheet: Story ideas from Johns Hopkins Medicine

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found long-term exposure to PM2.5 increases the risk of losing one's smell by nearly twice, potentially due to airborne pollutants reaching the olfactory nerve. The study also highlights the need for better air pollution management, especially in vulnerable populations.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sleep warning for older men

A study published in the Journal of Sleep Research found that disrupted slumber can be associated with cognitive dysfunction in middle-aged and older men. The research suggests that optimal attention and cognitive speed may be affected by poor sleep, particularly in day-to-day activities such as driving and physical activities.

Escape from oblivion: How the brain reboots after deep anesthesia

A team of researchers studied how the brain recovers from general anesthesia, finding that recovery unfolds over time and higher cognition recovers first. After anesthetizing 30 healthy adults for three hours, they discovered that abstract problem-solving abilities return before reaction time and attention.

Shedding new light: A new type of immunosensor for immunoassay tests

Researchers developed a novel immunosensor called BRET Q-body, which works on the bioluminescence resonance energy transfer principle. The sensor detects antigens by inducing fluorescence through an enzyme-luminescent substrate reaction, allowing for simple and accurate immunoassay tests.

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.

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.

Recruiting bacteria to build catalysts atom by atom

Scientists have discovered a way to synthesize highly active single-atom catalysts using iron-breathing bacteria, promising a cheap and reliable method for hydrogen production. The innovation utilizes the bacterium's metal-reducing ability to conduct electrons and produce single atoms of catalytically active metals.

Why is it so hard to withdraw from some antidepressants?

New research identifies persistent Gαs associated signaling changes in lipid rafts following drug withdrawal as the cause of antidepressant withdrawal syndrome. This finding has significant implications for developing personalized treatment for depression.

Spacetime crystals proposed by placing space and time on an equal footing

A Penn State scientist has developed a new mathematical formula that may solve the decades-old problem of spacetime in Einstein's theories of relativity. By placing space and time on an equal footing, Gopalan's approach removes the negative sign problem, allowing for traditional Euclidean geometry to be applied.

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.

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.

Effects of nanoplastics on Canadian and Guadeloupean oysters

A recent study found that nanoplastics and arsenic exposure affects oyster biological functions, with increased bioaccumulation of arsenic in Canadian Crassostrea virginica oysters compared to Guadeloupean Isognomon alatus oysters. Gene deregulation was also observed in C. virginica.

Quark-gluon plasma flows like water, according to new study

A new study highlights the surprising similarities between quark-gluon plasma, the first matter thought to have filled the early Universe, and ordinary liquids. The ratio of viscosity and density is crucial in determining fluid flow, and researchers found that this ratio is the same for both quark-gluon plasma and water.

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.

To give astronauts better food, engineers test a fridge prototype in microgravity

A team of engineers from Purdue University, Air Squared Inc., and Whirlpool Corporation has developed a refrigerator prototype that can operate effectively in microgravity. The prototype aims to provide astronauts with a supply of food that could last five to six years, overcoming the challenges of traditional refrigeration systems in ...

It takes some heat to form ice!

Researchers track water molecule movement using Helium Spin-Echo technique, revealing repulsion between water molecules on graphene surface is crucial for ice formation. This discovery challenges previous understanding of ice nucleation and provides new insights into controlling ice formation.

Fight against antibiotic-resistant bacteria has a glowing new weapon

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed chemical probes to detect an enzyme that breaks down antibiotics, making bacteria resistant to treatment. The probes can also be used to study nutritional immunity and may help find alternative treatments for resistant bacteria.

The new species of bacteria killing palms in Australia

A new species of bacteria, Candidatus Phytoplasma dypsidis, has been found to cause a fatal disease in palms in Queensland, Australia. The bacterium is thought to be spread by insects and poses a significant threat to Australia's ornamental palm industry.

Dark energy survey releases most precise look at the universe's evolution

The Dark Energy Survey has released its most precise look at the universe's evolution, using data from 226 million galaxies observed over nearly one-eighth of the sky. The results confirm the current best model of the Universe, but hint that the Universe today is a few percent less clumpy than predicted.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

How more inclusive lab meetings lead to better science

A new paper provides ten guiding principles for structured lab group meetings that are more inclusive and productive, leading to better science. The guidelines aim to create diverse and inclusive lab environments, increasing individual and collective productivity.

COVID-19 kept our parks busy, but not everyone ventured outside

Despite increased public use of parks and reserves, 26% of people reduced their visits during lockdowns, highlighting the need for inclusive urban planning policies. The study found that lockdown periods motivated new users to explore green spaces, which foster good mental health and serve as a nature-based coping mechanism.

Shiny mega-crystals that build themselves

Scientists have created mega-crystals with unique properties by mixing different shapes of nanocrystals. These 'Lego materials' form long-range ordered dense lattices called superlattices, which exhibit superfluorescence and can be used for technical applications.

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.

Mathematical model developed to prevent botulism

A new mathematical model predicts Clostridium botulinum growth and toxin production in chilled food products, reducing the need for costly laboratory experiments. The model's comprehensive approach considers multiple factors, including storage temperature, pH, salt, and preservatives, to ensure food safety.

Pertussis more common in Europe than previously thought

A new Finnish study reveals pertussis is more prevalent among middle-aged adults in European countries than previously assumed, leading to concerns about underdiagnosed cases. The study also highlights the low levels of antibodies against diphtheria, indicating decreasing herd immunity.

Socioeconomically disadvantaged adolescents' diets worsened during lockdown

A recent study published in Nutrients found that socioeconomically disadvantaged adolescents' diets worsened significantly during the COVID-19 lockdown. The study, which involved 303 Catalan young people aged 12-18, revealed a 21% greater risk of worsening diet among those from less advantaged socioeconomic backgrounds.

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.

Scientists earn early career awards

The US Department of Energy has awarded $500k in funding to PNNL researchers Marcel Baer, Nathan Tallent, and Ben Loer. Baer will explore protein structures for new materials, while Tallent aims to accelerate data flow between computers and scientific instruments. Loer will focus on reducing radiation impact on quantum computing.

Roots of major depression revealed in all its genetic complexity

A new study has identified 178 gene variants linked to major depression, providing insights into the disorder's genetic complexity and potential treatments. The findings may help identify individuals most at risk of depression and inform personalized treatment approaches.

When cancer cells "put all their eggs in one basket"

Researchers discovered that acute myeloid leukemia cancer cells depend on the Fanconi anemia pathway, which can be inhibited to kill cancer cells. This finding could lead to more effective and safer cancer treatments.

DNA vaccines for COVID-19 effective in mice, hamsters

Researchers developed a DNA vaccine encoding SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, which induced long-lasting antibodies in mice and hamsters. The vaccine showed protective efficacy against COVID-19 infection in hamsters, with no loss of body weight or viral RNA in their lungs.

Engineered defects in crystalline material boosts electrical performance

Researchers found that engineered defects in oxide crystals can increase electrical performance by five-fold and 19-fold in dielectric and piezoelectric properties, respectively. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more efficient capacitors with improved environmental and health benefits.

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 deep dive into the brain

Researchers have developed a new fluorescence microscopy technique that allows for high-resolution images of microcirculation in the brain without invasive surgical methods. This breakthrough has the potential to reveal new insights into neurological disorders and facilitate early detection and treatment.

Fungus fights mites that harm honey bees

A new fungus strain, developed by Washington State University researchers, has shown promise in controlling varroa mites that harm honey bees. The fungus, Metarhizium, can survive in warm environments common in honey bee hives and kill mites without harming the bees.

Lactate reveals all about its antidepressant prowess

Researchers from Synapsy have identified lactate's key features, including NADH and neurogenesis, which contribute to its antidepressant effect. Lactate restores adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus, a region crucial for memory and depression.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Visits to 'crisis pregnancy centers' common in Ohio

A new study found that nearly one in seven Ohio women of reproductive age has visited a crisis pregnancy center, which are often funded by state dollars but not regulated by the medical board. This can lead to concerns about access to proper medical care and potential misinformation about reproductive health.

AJR: Ultrasound, MRI aid placenta accreta diagnosis

Placental bulge sign on prenatal ultrasound or MRI significantly aids diagnosis of severe placenta accreta spectrum disorder, warranting hysterectomy over conservative management. The sign's accuracy and sensitivity are notable, making it a valuable tool for maternal counseling.

Resilience of fisheries following Tohoku tsunami

A small Japanese fishing community recovered from the 2011 Tohoku tsunami through cooperative activity, including joint operations and fixed-net fishing. This phenomenon challenges the 'disaster utopia' concept, which suggests temporary collaborative behavior after emergencies.

Brain injury research to focus on moderate concussion

A new $2.3 million grant will support a five-year research project at UC Riverside, led by Viji Santhakumar, exploring the relationship between inflammation and abnormal neuron connections after brain injury. The study aims to identify potential early therapies to prevent epilepsy and memory issues following traumatic brain injury.

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.

Study upgrades one of the largest databases of neuronal types

Researchers have updated one of the world's largest databases on neuronal types, Hippocampome.org, with a comprehensive mapping between neural activity and identified neuron types. This may enable biologically meaningful computer modeling of the full neuronal circuit of the hippocampus.

Reaping the benefits of noise

Researchers at AMOLF discovered that introducing slow non-linearity can increase the efficiency of mechanical oscillators harvesting energy from noise. This phenomenon, known as stochastic resonance, becomes robust to variations in signal frequency when systems have memory.

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.

Vaccine target for devastating livestock disease could change lives of millions

Scientists have identified a promising vaccine target for animal African trypanosomiasis (AAT), a disease causing significant economic impact on livestock in Africa and South America. The vaccine candidate showed long-lasting protection against infection in mice, offering a potential solution to the devastating effects of AAT.