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Science News Archive August 2021


Page 7 of 38

Why companies invest in local social media influencers

Researchers found a positive link between online influence and geographical proximity, with followers more likely to heed an influencer's recommendation when they live closer. This study suggests that local influencers may have a leg up in the influence game due to their proximal connections.

COVID-19 in children with cancer: Severe disease and disrupted treatment

A recent study found that 20% of children with cancer infected with SARS-CoV-2 developed severe infections, compared to 1-6% in general pediatric patients. The Global Registry of COVID-19 and Childhood Cancer also showed that cancer care was disrupted, with 56% of patients having modified treatment and 45% having chemotherapy withheld.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Understanding and targeting prostate cancer metabolism

Researchers at Flinders University have identified a protein called 6PGD that supports the survival of prostate cancer cells when challenged with hormonal therapy. The study found that 6PGD inhibitors can kill cancer cells in lab dishes and real tumours, offering new hope for targeted therapies

Can a piece of sticky tape stop computer hackers in their tracks?

Researchers from University of Technology Sydney have developed new technology that integrates quantum sources and waveguides on chip using hexagonal boron nitride and adhesive tape. This innovation paves the way for future everyday use of quantum communications, improving online security and privacy.

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.

Engineers create double layer of borophene for first time

Researchers at Northwestern University have successfully created a double layer of atomically flat borophene, a feat that defies the natural tendency of boron to form non-planar clusters. The material maintains its electronic properties while offering new advantages, including potential applications in energy and chemical storage.

Corona masks protect but hide feelings

Researchers warn that face masks could worsen social communication among elderly and those with dementia, leading to accelerated cognitive decline. The study suggests transparent masks and explicit conversation methods as potential solutions.

Researchers investigate the causes of kidney dysfunction in HFRS

Researchers at the University of Helsinki discovered a potential contributing mechanism to kidney dysfunction in acute hantavirus infection by investigating the body's response to the virus. Elevated levels of free light chains were found to be associated with kidney problems and may play a role in other infectious diseases.

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.

Russian scientists have found a way to reduce the spread of COVID-19

Researchers from South Ural State University have conducted a CFD study to analyze droplet flows and determine effective barrier placement in enclosed areas. The approach allows for simulation of real classroom situations, enabling the establishment of strategies to minimize COVID-19 transmission.

More efficient electricity distribution thanks to new insulation material

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new insulation material that can significantly improve the performance of high-voltage direct current cables. By adding a tiny amount of poly(3-hexylthiophene) to polyethylene, they were able to lower electrical conductivity by up to three times.

Extreme precipitation has increased significantly in arid Northwest China

Researchers found extreme precipitation events are the primary contributor to total precipitation in Northwest China. The region's westerly and plateau zones have seen a significant increase in EPE frequency and occurrence, starting earlier and lasting later. In contrast, monsoon regions of Southeast China experience opposite trends.

AI algorithm solves structural biology challenges

Researchers have developed an approach that predicts accurate structures computationally, overcoming the problem of determining molecular shapes. The algorithm succeeds even when learning from only a few known structures, making it applicable to difficult-to-determine molecules.

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.

Inflammatory proteins help better diagnose progression of Alzheimer’s disease

A Rutgers study found that testing for specific inflammatory proteins can help diagnose the earlier onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease. The researchers identified two proteins, TNFR1 and TREM2, which are associated with slower decline in early-stage Alzheimer's, while another protein is only useful once dementia sets in.

Ultrafast electron microscopy leads to pivotal discovery

Researchers used ultrafast electron microscopy to study gold nanoparticles on graphene, discovering an unusual phenomenon where the plasmonic field concentrates near the edge region. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of new sensors and quantum devices.

Female hummingbirds avoid harassment by looking as flashy as males

Researchers found that over a quarter of female white-necked Jacobin hummingbirds exhibit showy colors similar to males, aiding in evasion of aggressive behaviors during feeding and mating. This study suggests that the display of flashy colors is driven by social selection rather than sexual selection.

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.

Brain tissue inflammation is key to Alzheimer’s disease progression

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have found that brain tissue inflammation is a key driver of Alzheimer's disease progression. By targeting neuroinflammation, they believe combination therapy could be more effective in reducing amyloid plaque formation and limiting tau fiber spread.

Cultural backlash: Is LGBTQ progress an attack on Christianity?

Studies reveal that zero-sum beliefs about Christianity and the LGBTQ community are most common among conservative Christians, shaped by Christian values and response to institutions. Researchers offer possible interventions to reduce such all-or-nothing beliefs.

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.

Research reveals how subtle changes in a microRNA may lead to ALS

A new study from Salk Institute researchers found that a critical threshold of miR-218 levels determines the development of ALS in animal models. The study sheds light on the complex control of gene expression and its implications for treating neurological disorders.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Qualitative fecal test: Empowering colorectal cancer screening

Researchers compared the accuracy of two types of fecal tests for detecting colorectal cancer, finding that both types are reliable when thresholds are adjusted. The study suggests that health providers should select the best type of test based on specific demands in screening settings.

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.

Some hummingbird females look like males to evade harassment

Research reveals nearly 20% of female White-necked Jacobin hummingbirds retain male-like plumage to avoid bullying and increase access to food. These birds visit feeders for about 35% longer than typical females, a significant advantage given their high metabolic rate.

Probiotics prove effective in treating antibiotics-induced dysbiosis in mice

A study by Kazan Federal University found that probiotics administered to antibiotic-treated mice improved behavior, reduced oxidative stress, and restored gut microbiota diversity. The researchers demonstrated a strong link between the gut microbiota and brain functioning, with potential therapeutic benefits for treating dysbiosis-rel...

Rehabilitation exercises improve knee health in osteoarthritis

A study published in Current Rheumatology Reviews found that rehabilitation exercises significantly improved functional strength and reduced weight in knee osteoarthritis patients. The researchers also noted an increase in exercise adherence among the rehabilitation group compared to the control group.

Allow "nonuse rights" to conserve natural resources

Researchers argue that current regulations limit environmental groups from conserving natural resources through market mechanisms. By introducing non-use rights, environmentalists can express their values in the marketplace, promoting more sustainable resource management.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

New study: Heat stress in dairy cows damages health of calves

A new study found that heat stress in pregnant dairy cows reduces fetal growth and influences the performance and immune development of offspring. Calves born to heat-stressed cows have lower birth weights, organ weights, and higher rates of cell death, suggesting compromised placental and fetal development.

Mild maternal infection promotes immunity and inflammation in offspring

A new study in mice reveals that mild maternal infections during pregnancy can promote enhanced immunity in offspring, but also increase susceptibility to inflammatory disorders. The research found that the mother's immune response to infection affected epigenetic changes in the fetal intestinal epithelium stem cells.

Discovery of two-phase superconductivity in CeRh2As2

The discovery of two-phase superconductivity in CeRh2As2 reveals the material has the highest critical magnetic field to transition temperature ratio of any known superconductor. Researchers found a clear transition between two different order parameters as the applied field is raised, leading to unique thermodynamic properties.

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.

Ending prices with “.99” can backfire on sellers

A new study from Ohio State University found that pricing just below a round number can lead consumers to perceive a product as cheaper and less likely to upgrade. This threshold-crossing effect was observed in various experiments, including coffee stands and car purchases.

Making waves in predicting aortic aneurysms and postpartum complications

A team of researchers is developing a smartphone-based device that can predict the size of aortic aneurysms and detect fluid overload in postpartum women. The device uses arterial waveforms, which can be easily recorded with a smartphone camera or smart scale, to provide a non-imaging solution for AA screening.

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.

Deleting DNA to treat mitochondrial diseases

Scientists at Kyoto University developed a chemical compound that can tag and remove mutant DNA sequences from mitochondria, potentially treating mitochondrial diseases. The approach overcomes existing problems with genetic material injection and antioxidant drugs.

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.

Growth-promoting, anti-aging retinal at the root of plant growth too

A new study reveals that retinoids trigger the development of plant lateral roots, which are regulated by a protein similar to those found in animal cells. This discovery showcases convergent evolution and opens up new avenues for understanding human development and finding medical treatments.

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.

Rapid measurement of vitamin concentration with nanopores

Scientists at the University of Groningen have created a nanopore system that can measure thiamine (vitamin B1) concentration in urine in under a minute. The system uses an engineered thiamine binding protein and can be adapted to measure other important molecules.