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Science News Archive August 2021 - Page 16


Page 16 of 38

Skipping simple urine test leaves high-risk groups with untreated kidney disease

A large study found that people with hypertension or diabetes often lack a simple urine test for protein in the urine, despite being at high risk of chronic kidney disease. The researchers suggest widening albuminuria testing to detect early chronic kidney diseases and emphasize the importance of treatment.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalHypertension·DateAug 19, 2021

Groundbreaking visualization of atomic movements

A novel method for imaging vibrations and movements of atoms in catalysts has been developed by a collaboration of internationally leading researchers. The new analytical method reveals a dynamic behavior of the atoms, contrary to the long-held expectation that atoms in nanoparticles are static during observations.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 19, 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.

Antibodies block specific viruses that cause arthritis, brain infections

Researchers at WashU Medicine have identified two antibodies that protect animals from disease caused by alphaviruses, which could form the basis of treatments or serve as a template for a universal vaccine. The antibodies worked against all tested alphaviruses and prevented arthritis and brain infections in animals.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Tracking water storage shows options for improving water management during floods and droughts

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin tracked water storage in 14 major US aquifers over 15 years, finding that irrigation habits can be managed more effectively in humid regions. The study highlights the importance of surface water in replenishing groundwater, which helps dampen the impacts of irrigation.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 19, 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.

Genetic profile of tumor can indicate best treatment for brain cancer patients

A study by the Center for Cell-Based Therapy in São Paulo, Brazil, has discovered a set of biomarkers that can be used to predict which patients with glioblastoma may have tumors resistant to radiation therapy. The genetic signature helps doctors choose the best treatment option for these patients.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Oncology·DateAug 19, 2021

Junctional pacemaker may replace the sinoatrial node

Researchers propose using junctional pacemakers to replace the sinoatrial node in patients with bicuspid aortic valve and sinoatrial node dysfunction. This innovative approach offers a new treatment strategy for managing daily life while avoiding the need for sinoatrial node replacement surgery.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateAug 19, 2021

Study suggests solutions to criminal justice involvement among people experiencing homelessness, serious mental illness

A new study from Simon Fraser University found that nearly 60% of people experiencing homelessness and serious mental illness in Metro Vancouver have had a criminal conviction. The study identified factors associated with criminal convictions, including irregular income assistance payments, drug addiction, and psychiatric hospitalization.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 19, 2021

Rivers are largest global source of mercury in oceans

A new study by Yale University researchers reveals that rivers are the main source of mercury in coastal areas, rather than atmospheric deposition. The Amazon River, Ganges, and Yangtze are among the top contributors, with levels highest in August and September.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 19, 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.

Efficacy and renal tolerability of ultrafiltration in acute decompensated heart failure: A meta-analysis and systematic review of 19 randomized controlled trials

A meta-analysis of 19 randomized controlled trials found that ultrafiltration is superior to control treatments for weight loss (WMD 1.24 kg) and fluid removal (WMD 1.55 L), but associated with increased serum creatinine levels. The use of ultrafiltration in ADHF patients is efficient for fluid management but less safe renally.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateAug 19, 2021

Key mental abilities can actually improve during aging

New research from Georgetown University Medical Center found that certain brain functions associated with attention and executive control can improve in older individuals. These improvements may be due to lifelong practice and skill-building.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeObservational study·DateAug 19, 2021

Longest study of its kind reveals how gender-affirming hormone therapies impact obesity among U.S. transgender individuals

The study found that transgender patients taking gender-affirming hormone therapy should be monitored for changes in body weight and BMI. Transmasculine individuals experienced significant weight gain within two to four months of starting hormone therapy, while transfeminine individuals saw weight gain beyond 12 months.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateAug 19, 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.

Measuring electric current in soil could provide answers on soil health

Researchers at Washington State University have created a sensor that can measure the electric current produced by tiny microbes in soil, allowing for real-time assessments of soil health and potential. This breakthrough could provide farmers with valuable insights into soil productivity, enabling data-driven management strategies.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Mount Sinai researchers uncover the biology and treatment behind a rare autoinflammatory disease

A rare rheumatoid-like autoinflammatory condition is found to be treatable with FDA-approved TNF inhibitors due to the absence of a protein that activates antiviral defenses. Researchers confirm its underlying biology and mechanisms of autoinflammation, leading to quick and substantial clinical improvement.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCell·TypeObservational study·DateAug 19, 2021

Study shows uptick in U.S. alcohol beverage sales during COVID-19 pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. alcohol retail store sales increased compared to usual trends, indicating a rise in home drinking and potential higher alcohol consumption. The study found that beer, wine, and liquor store sales increased by 17%, while food services and drinking places sales decreased markedly.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAlcohol·DateAug 19, 2021

Expanding mRNA delivery using mammalian retrovirus-like protein

Researchers develop SEND system, which uses PEG10 to package and deliver specific RNAs into target cells. This approach expands applications for nucleic acid therapy, targeting specific cell types with minimal immunogenicity.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 19, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NTU Singapore scientists develop ‘greener’ way to make fertiliser

Researchers at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore have devised a new method for producing urea, a key compound in fertilisers, through electrocatalysis. This approach produces urea five times more efficiently than previous methods and has the potential to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Researchers discover hidden SARS-CoV-2 ‘gate’ that opens to allow COVID infection

Scientists have discovered a hidden 'gate' in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein that allows the virus to infect cells. The discovery reveals a glycan mechanism that opens the gate, enabling the virus to enter host cells. This breakthrough could lead to new therapeutics to counter COVID infection.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 19, 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.

How ions get their electrons back

Researchers created highly charged ions by removing 20-40 electrons from atoms and studied their interaction with solid materials. They found that the ions capture electrons from the material to become electrically neutral, a process that can be explained by simple laws.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Nutrient-rich human waste poised to sustain agriculture, improve economies

A new study characterizes human urine-derived nutrients for sustainable agriculture, revealing three supply-demand typologies across the globe. Countries with co-located supply-demand, like India and Uganda, can reuse nutrients locally, while dislocated countries, such as the US and Australia, need concentrated fertilizer production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 19, 2021

Study identifies patterns in bird-plane collisions

Researchers from Cornell University have identified key factors in bird-plane collisions, including the time of year and species size, to inform collision avoidance strategies. The study predicts that risk for damaging strikes during periods with high migration intensity increases by up to 700%.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 19, 2021

Restoring healthy gut bacteria through blood stem cell transplantation

Researchers found that hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) normalizes the gut microbiota of patients with IBD associated with XIAP deficiency. The study revealed that HCT decreases gut inflammation and restores diversity in gut microbiota, improving symptoms and quality of life for affected individuals.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·DateAug 19, 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.

Existing drugs kill SARS-CoV2 in cells

Researchers have identified several drug contenders that can block or reduce SARS-CoV2 infection in cells, including lactoferrin and MEK-inhibitors. These findings suggest potential efficacy against COVID-19 variants, with ongoing clinical trials to examine their ability to reduce viral loads and inflammation.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Faster and cheaper ethanol-to-jet-fuel on the horizon

A new catalyst and microchannel reactors improve efficiency and cost in converting alcohol into jet fuel. The process reduces complexity, improves efficiency, and lowers capital costs for renewable energy production.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Baby bat babbling strikingly similar to human baby babbles

A new study reveals that baby bat babbling is strikingly similar to human infant babbling, characterized by eight shared features. Researchers hope their findings will lead to further investigation into the cognitive mechanisms underlying this complex behavior.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 19, 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.

Association of maternal prenatal weight, brain development of offspring

Higher maternal weight during pregnancy may be associated with poorer offspring brain development into adolescence. The observational study found a positive correlation between maternal weight and brain development in offspring, suggesting potential long-term effects on cognitive function.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 19, 2021

Rare gene variant increases susceptibility to zoonotic H7N9

A new study found that rare single-nucleotide variants in the MX1 gene increase human susceptibility to zoonotic H7N9 avian influenza infection. These genetic vulnerabilities may act as incubators for transmission of virulent new IAV subtypes, posing a risk for pandemic viruses.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 19, 2021

A master gear in the circadian clock

Researchers have identified a gene called Npas4 that appears to influence hundreds of other genes for timekeeping in the brain. The study suggests that Npas4 is a master regulator of many light-induced genes, which could lead to new treatments for managing challenges such as jet lag and sleep disorders.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateAug 19, 2021

Flawed quality control in the brain

Scientists developed a new mouse line to study protein balance and quality control in the mammalian brain. The research revealed that different neurodegenerative diseases have distinct protein misfolding patterns, offering insights into potential therapeutic options.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateAug 19, 2021
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.

The brain’s ‘prediction machine’ anticipates the future when listening to music

Researchers found that listeners use uncertainty to determine where a musical phrase ends. The study suggests the brain anticipates what comes next in a melody based on past experiences. This discovery sheds light on how humans acquire knowledge and parse complex input into manageable segments.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Peer-reviewed PETA paper exposes forced swim test flaws

A new PETA paper reviews data from over 15,000 animals subjected to the forced swim test, finding no correlation with human trials. The study suggests that the test is not a reliable method for identifying antidepressants.

SourcePeople for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)·JournalDrug Discovery Today·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 19, 2021

Effect of ‘eddy killing’ in oceans is no longer a matter of guesswork

A new method by University of Rochester scientists documents the impact of wind on mesoscale eddies, revealing a continual loss of 50 gigawatts of kinetic energy. This discovery provides a more detailed spatial analysis than existing methods and has significant implications for understanding ocean currents and climate.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 19, 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.

US influence on Australia’s illegal pet trade

A study by University of Adelaide researchers found that unregulated reptile trade in the US drives demand for illegal reptiles in Australia. Three reptile families had the highest probability of being smuggled, with species listed in CITES Appendices I having a higher smuggling probability

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalConservation Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 19, 2021

Researchers find circular RNA can inhibit metastasis of gastric cancer

A recent study by Chinese Academy of Sciences researchers found that circular RNA circURI1 inhibits the spread of gastric cancer cells. It achieves this by sequestering hnRNPM, modulating alternative splicing in gastric cancer cells. This breakthrough provides a new perspective on the molecular basis of cancer metastasis.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Blood-pressure drugs could improve colorectal cancer survival, study suggests

A large retrospective analysis of 14,000 patients with colorectal cancer found that common blood-pressure drugs like ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers were associated with decreased mortality. Patients who took their blood-pressure drugs consistently were less likely to die from their cancer.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalCancer Medicine·DateAug 19, 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.

Future pandemic response needs to consider cultural context: SFU research

Researchers analyzed COVID-19 case data from 107 nations and found that collectivist countries, high power distance nations, and those valuing group cooperation had lower case growth. Individualistic countries and low power distance nations experienced greater case growth.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalJournal of International Business Studies·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 18, 2021

Gender pay gaps: Self-sabotaging diversity and profits in Aussie firms

A new study from the University of South Australia reveals that Australian firms with large gender pay gaps are not only perpetuating inequality but also harming their overall performance. The research found that women executives in top management teams can lower a firm's annual return on assets by 2.2%.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalHuman Resource Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 18, 2021

Short hospitalizations hit hard for COVID patients

A US nationwide cohort study found that nearly 85% of hospitalized COVID-19 patients were not back to their pre-COVID lives one month later. The study also revealed significant factors driving people's inability to recover, including a lack of follow-up healthcare services and new disabilities preventing daily activities.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Hospital Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateAug 18, 2021

8 weeks of meditation studies can make your brain quicker

A new study from Binghamton University tracked how practicing meditation for just a couple of months changed the brain patterns of 10 students. The results show that meditation training led to faster switching between the brain's two general states of consciousness, indicating an effect on fast switching and maintaining attention.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 18, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

The new alchemy in carbon neutrality: turning water into ammonia with only renewable energy!

The Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials has developed a process to produce 'green ammonia' with zero carbon emissions, using renewable energy. The process involves combining water with nitrogen plasma, producing hydrogen and nitrogen oxides, which are then reduced to ammonia with high selectivity.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateAug 18, 2021

Biodiversity: Land use – Threat to and opportunity for bumblebees

Long-term simulations show that smart land management, such as organic farming and protected refuge areas, can help stabilize threatened bumblebee species. Climate change is expected to have the strongest total effect on bumblebees, threatening many species.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateAug 18, 2021

Factors affecting Japanese citizens’ desire for a long life include income level, having children and gender – with men expressing a stronger wish for longevity than women

A national survey in Japan found that men express a stronger wish for longevity than women, while having children and higher income levels also influence desires for a long life. The study sheds light on the individual attitudes toward longevity among Japanese citizens.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateAug 18, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

What if our history was written in our grammar?

An international team reconstructed language families spanning over 10,000 years by combining genetics, linguistics, and musicology data. Grammar was found to reflect population history more closely than other cultural features, highlighting the importance of the grammatical factor in understanding human cultural evolution.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 18, 2021