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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 292


Page 292 of 510

COVID-19 mortality associated with 2 signs easily measured at home

A study of 1,095 patients with COVID-19 found abnormal blood-oxygen levels and breathing rates are strong predictors of poor patient outcomes. Researchers recommend monitoring for these signs at home or seeking medical attention earlier to potentially save lives.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalInfluenza and Other Respiratory Viruses·DateMay 24, 2021

Researchers identify the causes of the extreme drought that affected the Pantanal

The study reveals that the 2019-20 drought was caused by a meteorological phenomenon, atmospheric blocking, which prevented raincloud formation. The Pantanal's severe drought had devastating effects on the biome due to high temperatures, low humidity, and exacerbated by human activities like deliberate burning of vegetation.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Water·DateMay 24, 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.

Analyzing the impact of college gameday homes in the American south

A study by Georgia State University's Taylor Shelton found that vacant gameday homes drive up housing prices, displacing permanent residents in small college towns. The study analyzed data from over a dozen college towns and suggests changes to zoning and tax laws could ease the impacts.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalCities·DateMay 24, 2021

USC study reveals potential new treatment target in the fight against COVID-19

Researchers at Keck School of Medicine of USC have identified GRP78 as a molecular chaperone that plays a crucial role in the spread of SARS-CoV-2, offering a potential new therapy to combat COVID-19. Targeting GRP78 with therapies could provide additional protection against COVID-19 and its variants.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 24, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Infertility poses major threat to biodiversity during climate change, study warns

A new study by University of Liverpool ecologists finds that climate change will see some species succumb to infertility earlier than thought. The research used fruit fly species to predict temperature tolerance and found that almost half of the species become sterile at lower temperatures, making conservation more difficult.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 24, 2021

A seedy slice of history: Watermelons actually came from northeast Africa

A new study in PNAS reveals that domesticated watermelons come from wild crop progenitors in northeast Africa. The research uses DNA from hundreds of watermelon varieties to confirm the correct origin, correcting a long-held misconception about their South African roots.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

Metabolic hormone ‘leptin’ linked to vaccine response

A University of Queensland study has found that reduced levels of metabolic hormone leptin are associated with poor vaccine antibody responses in both young and older individuals. The research could lead to the development of new strategies for improving vaccine protection in vulnerable populations.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2021

Storytelling, oxytocin, and cortisol

Researchers found that storytelling significantly increased oxytocin levels and decreased cortisol and pain levels in hospitalized children. The study showed a positive effect on emotional well-being and found higher positive emotions following the storytelling intervention compared to the riddle game.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

Facilitating speech comprehension in rare inherited hearing loss patients

Scientists have discovered a novel deafness gene, TMEM43, linked to auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder (ANSD), a rare form of hearing loss that affects speech comprehension. The treatment involves cochlear implants, which have successfully restored speech discrimination in patients, offering new hope for those affected.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 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.

COVID-19 infection rates of dentists remain lower than other health professionals

A recent study found that COVID-19 infection rates among US dentists are significantly lower than those of other healthcare professionals, with a cumulative infection rate of 2.6%. The monthly incidence rate varied between 0.2% and 1.1%, indicating effective infection control measures.

SourceAmerican Dental Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateMay 24, 2021

Simple diagnostic tool predicts individual risk of Alzheimer's

A simple diagnostic tool has been developed to predict the individual risk of developing Alzheimer's disease with over 90% accuracy. The algorithm combines data from a simple blood test and brief memory tests, and has been shown to be significantly more accurate than clinical predictions by dementia experts.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 24, 2021

Decolonising ecology? How to adopt practices that make science more equitable

Researchers propose five interventions to promote equitable ecology practices, including amplifying diverse expertise, addressing data sovereignty issues, and deconstructing biases in research teams. These actions aim to connect with existing anti-colonial and anti-racist struggles and promote ecological justice.

SourceUniversity of Cape Town·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 24, 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.

Wolves and road safety

A study in Wisconsin found that wolf introduction reduced deer-vehicle collisions by 24%, with an economic benefit of 63 times the harm caused by livestock predation. The study suggests that wolves' impact on prey behavior is a key factor in collision reduction.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

Researchers find semimetal that clings to a quantum precipice

Scientists have discovered a semimetal, CeRu4Sn6, that is naturally at the quantum critical point without external influences. This finding has significant implications for developing powerful new quantum technologies and discovering new phases of matter.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 24, 2021

Accurate evaluation of CRISPR genome editing

Researchers developed a novel software tool to quantify potential CRISPR-induced errors, including adverse translocation events that can cause cancer. The tool, CRISPECTOR, analyzes next-generation sequencing data and applies statistical modeling to determine editing activity.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2021

Electromagnetic anomalies that occur before an earthquake

A joint research project by Shinshu University and Genesis Research Institute found that electromagnetic anomalies occur before earthquakes due to gas-electric interactions. The anomalies are caused by the trapping of fluid in a fault-valve, which eventually cracks and releases charged gas, generating a large current.

SourceShinshu University·DateMay 24, 2021
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.

Ludwig Cancer research study finds way to revive potent immune cells for cancer therapy

A Ludwig Cancer Research study has discovered how to revive terminally exhausted T lymphocytes, found within tumors, for cancer therapy by using an immune factor called interleukin-10. This revival restores their potent anti-cancer activity, leading to tumor regression and cures in mouse models of melanoma and colon cancer.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalNature Immunology·DateMay 24, 2021

Dengue immune function discovery could benefit much-needed vaccine development

Researchers at the University of Vermont have discovered new biomarkers for predicting clinical and immune responses to dengue virus infection. These findings could aid in the development of more effective vaccines against all four dengue strains, a crucial step in combating this deadly disease.

SourceLarner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2021

Microscopic fossils record ancient climate conditions

Researchers analyzed magnetic fossil particles to decode environmental changes during the ancient warming event. The study found that oxygen levels declined rapidly in the New Jersey coast and fluctuated thereafter.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPaleoceanography and Paleoclimatology·DateMay 24, 2021

Plasma jets reveal magnetic fields far, far away

Researchers observed plasma jets interacting with magnetic fields in a massive galaxy cluster 600 million light years away. The findings can help clarify how such galaxy clusters evolve, providing new insights into the structure of intracluster magnetic fields.

SourceNagoya University·JournalNature·DateMay 24, 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.

Intermittent fasting in mice effective at promoting long term memory retention

A study from King's College London found that intermittent fasting increased Klotho gene expression and promoted adult hippocampal neurogenesis in mice, leading to improved long-term memory retention. The researchers hope to replicate the study with human participants to further explore the effects of IF.

SourceKing's College London·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 24, 2021

Pristine quantum criticality found

A team of physicists from Rice University and colleagues discovered that quantum fluctuations may give rise to topological phases of matter. The study used magnetic susceptibility, specific heat, and inelastic neutron scattering measurements to show that the material CeRu4Sn6 is quantum critical without fine-tuning.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 24, 2021

Researchers discover oligodendrocyte loss and subtype alteration in CTE brains

A study by Boston University School of Medicine researchers has identified significant alterations in white matter, including loss of oligodendrocytes and changes to oligodendroglial subtypes, in CTE brains. These findings may lead to new treatments for the progressive brain disease associated with repetitive head trauma.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateMay 24, 2021

Researchers find greenland glacial meltwaters rich in mercury

Researchers discovered high concentrations of mercury in Greenland glacial meltwaters, comparable to those found in industrial China. This finding raises concerns about the impact on coastal ecosystems and the seafood industry, which is a significant export for Greenland.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 24, 2021
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.

Defective gene slows down brain cells

Researchers found that the defective Cullin 3 gene leads to increased levels of Plastin 3, causing neurons to migrate slower and accumulating in the cortex. This study provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying autism spectrum disorder and may pave the way for therapeutic treatments.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2021

Plant-microbe homeostasis: A delicate balancing act

Research finds that a balance between immune-suppressive and non-suppressive bacterial strains in the plant microbiota is crucial for maintaining microbe-plant homeostasis. This balance allows plants to promote growth while preventing excessive defense, reducing disease susceptibility.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research·JournalNature Plants·DateMay 24, 2021

Prebiotic ethanolamine found in space

Researchers found prebiotic ethanolamine in a molecular cloud near the center of our galaxy, suggesting it may have formed in space and was incorporated into meteorites and planetesimals. This discovery supports the idea that the molecule could have contributed to the assembly and evolution of primitive cell membranes on early Earth.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 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.

Obesity protects against death in severe bacterial infection

A study published in PLOS ONE found that a higher BMI is associated with improved survival rates in patients hospitalized for severe bacterial infections. In the short and long term, patients with higher BMIs had significantly lower mortality rates compared to those with normal weights.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 24, 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.

UIC leads new collaborative to reduce COVID-19 disparities

The University of Illinois Chicago is leading a multi-center collaborative to improve community vaccinations, testing, and engagement in clinical research. The Chicagoland COVID Collaborative aims to bolster COVID-19 vaccine confidence and access among Black and Latino communities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateMay 24, 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.

Mason4C partnering medical societies and environmental justice groups

The Mason4C Medical Society Consortium on Climate & Health will expand its partnership with NMA fellows and community-based environmental justice groups. With funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, this collaboration aims to amplify the voices of doctors and other health professionals in addressing climate and health injustices.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateMay 24, 2021

Sustainable funding needed to provide nursery places

Researchers found that children who attended childcare outside the home during COVID-19 made greater gains in language and thinking skills, particularly among those from less advantaged backgrounds. The study recommends sustainable funding for nursery provision, promotion of funded places in target areas, and removal of administrative ...

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalInfant and Child Development·DateMay 24, 2021

Deep and extreme: Microbes thrive in transition

A diverse microbial community has adapted to an extremely salty environment deep in the Red Sea, with microbial cell densities more than double those found in normal deep Red Sea water and the brine below. The team sequenced the genome of a new microbe that suggests this transition zone is critical for nitrogen cycling.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateMay 24, 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.

Bile acids trigger satiety in the brain

Researchers at EPFL discovered that bile acids can trigger satiety in the brain by activating specific receptors. Bile acids reach the brain shortly after a meal and suppress food intake by blocking appetite-stimulating signals. This study suggests a new role for bile acids in regulating eating behavior.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Metabolism·DateMay 24, 2021

Built environments don't play expected role in weight gain

A recent study by the University of Washington found that living in a more densely populated neighborhood is associated with lower body weight and less obesity. However, proximity to fast-food restaurants or supermarkets did not have a significant impact on weight gain.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateMay 24, 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.

New research shows ridesharing services reduce sexual assault

New research shows that ridesharing services can significantly reduce the risk of sexual assault in neighborhoods with limited public transportation. The study found a 6.3% reduction in rape incidents after Uber entered a city, and a 3% decrease in likelihood for every 1% increase in Uber pickups.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateMay 24, 2021

How hepatitis C virus evades the immune system

Researchers discovered a novel molecular mechanism by which HCV interferes with the host's immune system, leading to chronic infection. The study found that HCV core protein is degraded via SPP and MHC class I proteins, impairing proper immune response and allowing infection to become chronic.

SourceOsaka University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

How tendons become stiffer and stronger

Researchers have deciphered how tendon cells adapt to physical demands, revealing a molecular force sensor that promotes stiffness. A gene variant associated with West African ancestry enhances jumping performance in humans by 13%, suggesting its potential role in elite athletic success.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateMay 24, 2021

Forensic analysis of visual patterns

A Perspective counters the DOJ's claim that forensic analysis of visual patterns is not metrology by highlighting biological sensory systems' ability to quantify patterns. This clarifies processes underlying human sensation and perception, potentially improving forensic accuracy.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

Can antibiotics treat human diseases in addition to bacterial infections?

A new study by UIC researchers shows that antibiotics designed for bacteria can also inhibit protein synthesis in human cells, potentially treating diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. The team engineered yeast ribosomes to be more bacterial-like, allowing them to respond to macrolide antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 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.

Storytelling reduces pain and stress, and increases oxytocin in hospitalized children

A new study by D'Or Institute for Research and Education found that storytelling can decrease cortisol levels and increase oxytocin production in ICU children. The results showed that the narrative activity was more effective than riddles, improving the quality of life for hospitalized kids.

SourceD'Or Institute for Research and Education·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021