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Science News Archive August 2021


Page 11 of 38

Climate change threatens seal hunting by Indigenous Alaskans

The Iñupiaq people's seal hunting season has shrunk by about one day per year over the past 17 years due to sea ice decline. This reduction in flexibility affects hunters' ability to prepare and hunt, as they now have less time to adapt to changing conditions.

Correlative chemical imaging directly in neurons

Researchers use super-resolution infrared imaging combined with X-ray fluorescence nano-imaging to study amyloid toxicity on a subcellular level. They found that the distribution of trace elements in neurons is related to molecular mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease, offering new insights into preventing neuronal damage.

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.

Research sheds new light on decreased performance under pressure

Researchers from Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh conducted a study on three Rhesus monkeys, finding that their performance declined by up to 25% when offered a jackpot reward. The team also discovered a link between sensory motor processing and emotional processing in the monkeys' brains.

CT scans suggest possible lung destruction in some asthmatics

A novel CT scan-based approach detects changes in lung tissue indicating emphysema and airway constriction in patients with asthma. This finding may explain why conventional anti-inflammatory treatments are ineffective in some asthmatics, paving the way for personalized management of the disease.

High cholesterol fuels cancer by fostering resistance to a form of cell death

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center identified a mechanism where breast cancer cells use cholesterol to develop tolerance to stress, allowing them to resist ferroptosis and proliferate. This finding highlights the importance of lowering cholesterol in preventing cancer progression and offers new approaches for treatment.

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.

Unlocking the secrets to sorghum’s adaptability

A reservoir of genes allowing sorghum to adapt to environmental stresses has been identified from 13 contrasting genomes. This genetic diversity is valuable for breeders, enabling them to improve crop yield and resilience. The analysis, led by the University of Queensland, provides unprecedented insights into the genome's dynamic nature.

Thinking of plastic surgery? Zoom in on this first

A study published in Marketing Letters found that analytical thinkers are more likely to undergo plastic surgery, while holistic thinkers are more forgiving of imperfections. The researchers suggest taking a holistic approach to consider the long-term impact of procedures on one's life.

High-quality crystals reveal new physics of topological insulators

Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas have produced large, high-quality bismuth iodide crystals that demonstrate the existence of weak topological insulators. The crystals undergo a phase transition into a novel structure at room temperature, altering their electronic properties.

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.

Diabetes among US children, teens

The prevalence of type 1 and type 2 diabetes among US children and teens rose significantly from 2001 to 2017. Researchers estimated an increase in diabetes cases across all age groups during this period, with the largest increases seen among younger populations.

Patient page: Screening for prediabetes, type 2 diabetes

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, particularly in high-risk individuals. The guidelines aim to detect and prevent these conditions through early detection and intervention.

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.

Seeing the inner workings of centrioles in early land plants

Researchers study mosses and find unique centriole assembly process, with a 'unique symmetry break' that allows for regulation. This discovery provides insights into centriole development across the tree of life and has implications for our understanding of evolution.

Developing clinically relevant human-scale living organs

A team of researchers has created a bioink that can reduce toxicity and improve cell survival, enabling the fabrication of clinically relevant human-scale organs. The development paves the way for regenerative medicine applications.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Evolutionary ‘arms race’ may help keep cell division honest

Research from the University of Pennsylvania suggests that certain proteins have evolved to reduce biased chromosome inheritance, potentially avoiding mistakes and birth defects. The study found a parallel pathway suppressing selfish chromosomes, indicating an evolutionary arms race.

Using your smartwatch to reduce stress

Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a smartwatch technology that can monitor and help lower stress levels by detecting changes in skin conductance response. The device sends reminders to listen to relaxing music when stress is detected, forming a closed-loop system.

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.

NSF taps Danforth Center to lead new institute

The New Roots for Restoration Biology Integration Institute aims to integrate plant traits, communities, and the soil ecosphere to advance restoration of natural and agricultural ecosystems. The project seeks to understand how root traits influence plant interactions with each other and with the soil.

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.

Stress from rising population numbers may cause a decline in human fertility

A review article published in the Endocrine Society's journal Endocrinology predicts a peak in population numbers in 2064 followed by a 50% drop by the end of the century. Stress from less quality social interactions is believed to suppress sperm count, ovulation, and sexual activity, contributing to declining reproduction rates.

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.

Human, swine waste pose dual threats to water quality after flooding

A study by North Carolina State University found that surface waters in eastern North Carolina were more likely to face dual contamination from human and swine waste after Hurricane Florence. The presence of Arcobacter, a pathogen not associated with human or swine fecal markers, was also discovered.

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.

How firefighters deal with heat stress and fatigue

A new study asked over 470 firefighters about their recovery methods in extreme heat, finding that simple strategies like finding shade and drinking water are often used. The research suggests potential for better cooling and recovery protocols to improve firefighter safety and performance.

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.

Two studies seek to go beyond the GIST of intestinal tract cancer

Gastrointestinal stroma tumors (GIST) are rare cancers that can be problematic to detect and treat. Researchers have identified the mutational drivers for GIST in the stomach and found a potential drug therapy, temozolomide, which showed promising results in treating patients with specific mutations.

Record-breaking lithium-metal cell

Researchers at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology have developed a record-breaking lithium-metal battery with an energy density of 560 Wh/kg, retaining 88% capacity after 1000 cycles. The battery features a nickel-rich cathode and a dual-anion ionic liquid electrolyte, which significantly improves stability.

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.

Turning hazelnut shells into potential renewable energy source

Researchers found that wood vinegar and tar fraction in bio-oil produced from hazelnut shells pyrolysis at 400 C to 1,000 C contain high concentrations of phenolic substances, which contribute to their antioxidant activity. The study suggests using these fractions as a potential renewable energy source.

USPSTF lowers recommended screening age for type 2 diabetes

The USPSTF has lowered the recommended starting age of screening for type 2 diabetes from 40 to 35. Screening is now recommended for adults with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, particularly those aged 35-70 who are overweight or obese. This recommendation aims to detect and treat these conditions earlier.

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.

There’s a bright side to being a ‘Debbie Downer’

A new study published in the Journal of Gerontology finds that engaging in diverse daily activities is associated with a diverse set of emotions. Individuals who regularly participated in a broad range of activities experienced more diverse positive emotions, particularly those between ages 33-44.

What effect does early social contact have on dairy calves’ welfare?

A new study found that early socialization of dairy calves does not negatively affect their behavior, performance, or health, and may even benefit their early-life health by reducing scours. Calves housed in pairs after birth showed greater comfort with pen-mates and a reduced risk of diarrhea.

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.

Study could lead to new treatments for neuroblastoma

Researchers have identified a new potential treatment for neuroblastoma by targeting the ALT mechanism, which is responsible for chemotherapy resistance. The study found that activating ATM kinase at telomeres promotes chemotherapy resistance in ALT neuroblastoma and suggests a cancer-specific approach to treating this disease.

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.

Speedy Evolution

Researchers from Harvard University find that the earliest tetrapods acquired new adaptive traits at fast rates of anatomical evolution, but species diversification was slow initially. The study suggests a decoupling between evolutionary rates and species diversity, with a delay in colonization of land and diversification into new niches.

Eight predictors of upper gastrointestinal bleeding after heart attack

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified eight primary factors that increase the risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding after heart attack. The study, published in European Heart Journal - Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy, found that smoking, blood pressure, and blood glucose are among the new predictors.