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Science News Archive August 2021 - Page 24


Page 24 of 38

Progress in algorithms makes small, noisy quantum computers viable

Hybrid classical/quantum algorithms enable the use of limited qubits and error-prone hardware for tasks such as simulations, factoring numbers, and big-data analysis. Researchers have developed variational quantum algorithms that adapt to hardware constraints.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Reviews Physics·DateAug 12, 2021

Genetic enigma solved

A team of researchers has cracked the code on dog coat color patterns by identifying five distinct genetic variants that cause different colors. These variants originated in an extinct species and were introduced into modern dogs through hybridization events.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2021

August issues of American Psychiatric Association journals

The latest August issues of The American Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Services explore the use of neuroimaging and machine learning in psychiatry. Researchers highlight both the benefits and limitations, including advancements in understanding and practice, as well as service inequities among underserved groups.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateAug 12, 2021

From blood to brain: Delivering nucleic acid therapy to the CNS

Researchers develop a drug delivery platform that efficiently delivers antisense oligonucleotides to the central nervous system, overcoming the blood-brain barrier. This breakthrough has significant implications for treating neurodegenerative diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy and other CNS disorders.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 12, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Isotopes reveal the lifetime mobility of an Arctic woolly mammoth

Scientists reconstructed the life history of a woolly mammoth using isotopes from its tusk, revealing it traveled vast distances and covered an extensive range in Alaska. The analysis provides insight into the animal's preferred habitats and behavior, shedding light on one of the most iconic ice-age creatures.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 12, 2021

CDC’s “honor system” mask guidance threatened vulnerable communities

A CDC mask guidance update in May 2021 ignored realities that left vulnerable communities exposed to increased transmission of COVID-19. The guidance relied on the honor system to ensure unvaccinated individuals wore masks, but experts say this approach was flawed due to lack of verification methods.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 12, 2021

Novel nanotechnology found to enhance fight against colorectal cancer and melanoma

Researchers developed a nanotherapeutic platform that combines camptothecin with immune checkpoint inhibitors to increase effectiveness against aggressive tumors. The approach showed promising results in eliminating difficult-to-treat late-stage metastatic colorectal cancer and melanoma tumors.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2021

Skin cells from frontotemporal dementia patients may prove useful in revealing disease mechanisms and in biomarker and drug research

Researchers discovered that skin fibroblasts from FTD patients exhibit pathological RNA foci, p62 protein-containing vesicles, and defective energy metabolism, which could lead to the development of novel biomarkers and treatments. These findings may also be useful in testing drug effects on FTD patients.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalMolecular Neurobiology·DateAug 12, 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.

New blood: Lab-grown stem cells bode well for transplants, aging research

Scientists at University of California San Diego School of Medicine have developed a method to keep cultured hematopoietic stem cells healthy, positive news for patients seeking stem cell transplants. The findings also hint at a new way to ward off aging by super-activating the heat shock pathway.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateAug 12, 2021

Study reveals missing link between high-fat diet, microbiota and heart disease

A high-fat diet causes inflammation and damages intestinal epithelial cells, leading to the growth of harmful microbes and increased production of trimethylamine-N-oxide, a metabolite associated with cardiovascular disease. Researchers found that restoring intestinal function with a drug can blunt this effect.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2021

The Wendelstein 7-X concept proves its efficiency

The Wendelstein 7-X stellarator has demonstrated reduced neoclassical energy transport, lowering plasma energy losses. The optimised magnetic field successfully minimises these losses, a major weakness in conventional stellarators.

SourceMax-Planck-Institut für Plasmaphysik (IPP)·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 12, 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.

New marmoset species discovered in Brazilian Amazon

Scientists have discovered a new marmoset species, Schneider's marmoset (Mico schneideri), in the Brazilian Amazon. The discovery sheds light on the high levels of land clearing and fires in the region, where conservation efforts are urgently needed to protect this threatened group of monkeys.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalScientific Reports·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 12, 2021

In HIV prevention, worsening disparities among states

A new study found that states with low initial use of HIV-prevention drugs continue to fall behind in usage among people at risk for the disease. Researchers urge federal and state governments to close gaps by implementing successful policies from early-adopting states, such as telehealth programs and expanding Medicaid.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateAug 12, 2021

People in the Philippines have the most Denisovan DNA

Researchers found Philippine Negrito ethnic group, Ayta Magbukon, possess the highest level of Denisovan ancestry in the world. Their Denisovan DNA is up to 46% greater than that of Australians and Papuans.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 12, 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.

Harnessing sunlight to fuel the future through covalent organic frameworks

Researchers highlight the potential of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) in solar-to-fuel production, converting sunlight into hydrogen and other fuels. COF-based photocatalysts have shown promising properties, including improved catalysis and electron delocalization, making them a viable solution for future energy needs.

SourceShoolini University·JournalCoordination Chemistry Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 12, 2021

Early land plants evolved from freshwater algae, fossils reveal

A new study reconciles the molecular clock with the fossil record of plants by linking older spore-like microfossils to younger plant spores derived from charophyte algae, revealing the evolutionary assembly of the plant regulatory and developmental genome.

SourceBoston College·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2021

Advanced glycation end products and cognitive impairment in schizophrenia

A study found that plasma pentosidine levels, a marker of advanced glycation end products, were significantly associated with impaired processing speed in schizophrenia patients. The results suggest that reducing AGEs may contribute to improving cognitive function and promoting recovery in patients with schizophrenia.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 12, 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.

Batters move their heads to keep their eyes on the ball

Researchers found that batters keep their eye on the ball but move their head to direct their gaze. The study suggests that this movement may help reduce visual calculations needed for accurate bat placement. Further investigation is needed to determine if eye-gaze-based training can improve batting performance.

SourceOhio State University·JournalOptometry and Vision Science·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 12, 2021

Metabolism changes with age, just not when you might think

A new study reveals that metabolism peaks in infancy, followed by a gradual decline until age 60, with the biggest slowdown after 90. The research suggests that tissue metabolism is changing over time, contradicting previous assumptions about lifestyle and body composition.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 12, 2021

Black students disproportionately disciplined with suspensions and detentions in elementary school

A study of over 11,000 elementary school students found Black children are 3.5 times more likely to receive detentions or suspensions than their white peers, even after controlling for socioeconomic factors. This disparity suggests individual biases and systemic racism may be contributing to the findings.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateAug 12, 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.

Study investigates how arctic-alpine plants respond to global warming

Researchers analyzed nearly 500 million measurements of arctic-alpine plant growth, finding that deciduous species such as dwarf birch thrive in warmer winters, while evergreen species like crowberry struggle. The study suggests climate change may lead to an increase in greening of arctic-alpine regions.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalEcosphere·DateAug 12, 2021

Low-cost 3D method rapidly measures disease impacts on Florida’s coral reefs

Researchers from FAU Harbor Branch adapted Structure-from-Motion photogrammetry to generate 3D models for tracking lesion progression and impacts on diseased coral colonies. The study found that stony coral tissue loss disease prevalence varied significantly across location, but not through time.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateAug 12, 2021

A leap in understanding

A study published in PNAS uses CRISPR technology to understand how genetic mutations cause hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The research found that specific mutations can lead to changes in the movement of myosin proteins, which are essential for heart contraction. This new understanding has implications for preventing and treating HCM.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 12, 2021
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.

Red blood cell alterations contribute to lupus

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine found that defective red blood cells with retained mitochondria contribute to lupus inflammation. The study provides a new piece to the lupus puzzle and could lead to targeted therapies for patients.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalCell·DateAug 12, 2021

Over 260,000 kilometres of rivers at risk due to proposed hydro dams

A study by McGill University researchers found that planned hydropower dams could sever over 260,000 km of river, threatening free-flowing rivers globally. The dams would collectively generate less than 2% of the renewable energy needed by 2050 to keep global temperature increase below 1.5°C.

SourceMcGill University·JournalGlobal Sustainability·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 12, 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.

For psoriasis, targeting skin protein may help control inflammation

A Michigan Medicine study found that altering interferon kappa levels in mice with psoriasis-like lesions reduced disease severity. The research suggests using therapies to modulate interferon states may limit inflammation in psoriasis patients.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2021

Farmers help create ‘Virtual safe space’ to save bumblebees

The University of Exeter has developed a virtual safe space tool called BEE-STEWARD to test different land management techniques for bumblebee survival. The tool provides a computer simulation of bumblebee colony survival in a given landscape, allowing researchers and farmers to predict the impact of their decisions.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateAug 12, 2021

Touted as clean, ‘blue’ hydrogen may be worse than gas, coal

New research from Cornell and Stanford University suggests that 'blue' hydrogen, touted as a clean energy source, may have a larger carbon footprint than burning fossil fuels. The process of making blue hydrogen requires more energy than traditional methods, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceCornell University·JournalEnergy Science & Engineering·DateAug 12, 2021

Metabolism changes with age, just not when you might think

A new study reveals that metabolism increases rapidly during infancy, peaking at around one year old. After a gradual decline until the 20s, metabolism levels off and then slows down again after age 60, with older adults requiring fewer calories. The findings suggest that muscle loss and cellular changes contribute to this decline.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalScience·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 12, 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.

Remember: A personal dosimeter is waiting in your first aid kit!

Scientists from the Institute of Nuclear Physics PAS discovered that medicines like painkillers can be used as makeshift emergency dosimeters due to their composition and standardization procedures. This method is more personal and easier than previous methods, which require breaking down expensive devices.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalIEEE Sensors Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2021

NIH award to tackle early infant morbidity due to increasing incidences of food allergies

A Wayne State University researcher has been awarded a $1.93 million NIH grant to investigate the impact of maternal immunoglobulin D on infant immune protection against food allergies. The study aims to elucidate the mechanisms of placental IgD transfer and its potential as a prophylactic fetal immune education cue.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateAug 12, 2021

Widowers more likely to be diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer

A recent study published in European Journal of Epidemiology reveals that widowers are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer. The research highlights the importance of social environment and lifestyle factors in the development of the disease.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalEuropean Journal of Epidemiology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 12, 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.

UMD associate professor awarded $1.5 million to examine the role of copper in heat generation and fat burning, with implications for human health

The University of Maryland associate professor will use genetics, cell biology, and pharmacology to examine the mechanisms of copper transport and its connection to thermogenesis and fat burning. The research aims to improve human health by understanding how copper relates to hypothermia, obesity, and diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·DateAug 12, 2021

Crystals made to fit

Researchers have developed a novel type of soft hybrid ultramicroporous material that can change its pores to allow acetylene molecules to fit in perfectly. The material binds acetylene with unusual strength and allows for highly selective separation from other gases.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2021
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.

New study shows the potential of DNA-based data-structures systems

A new study by Newcastle University researchers has developed dynamic DNA data structures that can store and retrieve information in an ordered way. The study presents an in vitro implementation of a stack data structure using DNA polymers, which stores and retrieves information in a last-in-first-out order.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2021

Inequalities in education continued during second period of school closures

A new study found that school closures exacerbated existing inequalities in education, with disadvantaged families spending less time on learning at home. Despite increased home lessons, the gap between advantaged and disadvantaged families remained, with single-parent families showing a narrowing of the gap.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·TypeSurvey·DateAug 12, 2021

Report: How are states using Medicaid for the needs of autistic individuals?

Researchers found that states have implemented new autism-specific Medicaid programs, with the most common type being the 1915(c) waiver authority, providing home and community-based services. The study suggests that further replication of successful efforts is needed to improve access to services for individuals on the autism spectrum.

SourceDrexel University·JournalHealth Services Research·DateAug 12, 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.

Researchers identify neurons involved in overdose deaths

Researchers identified a group of neurons in the brainstem that plays a key role in opioid-induced respiratory depression, which causes overdose deaths. Blocking these receptors can restore breathing during an overdose, offering potential new treatment targets.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2021

Is it always right to save the lives of premature babies? A radical proposal.

A new proposal aims to enable parents to participate in decision-making about life-saving treatment for premature infants. This balance is crucial as treatment can do great harm, while without it, the infant dies. Guidelines vary between countries, with some allowing treatment up to gestational week 23.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalThe American Journal of Bioethics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 12, 2021

Weight fluctuations may predict poor outcomes in adults with kidney disease

A recent study found that weight fluctuations are associated with higher risks of cardiovascular-related problems and early death in adults with chronic kidney disease. The study included 84,636 patients with CKD who were listed in a national health screening database in South Korea.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 12, 2021

Origins of mutation

A new study has pinpointed nine processes that lead to most human genetic mutations, including inaccurate DNA copying and chemical damage. The research analyzed 400 million rare DNA variants and identified a set of biological processes responsible for heritable human mutations.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 12, 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.

Race and address may increase risk for diabetes-related amputation

A recent study found that rates of minor lower extremity amputations increased between 2009 and 2017 in rural and Western American residents, Native Americans, and Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders. Major LEAs rates remained steady during the period with notable increases in White populations and rural areas.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalDiabetes Care·TypeNews article·DateAug 11, 2021

A novel virtual reality technology to make MRI a new experience

Researchers from King's College London created a novel interactive VR system to make MRI scans more accessible for children, people with cognitive difficulties, and those with claustrophobia or anxiety. The system removes the sense of being inside the MRI scanner by providing an immersive VR environment that is continuous throughout th...

SourceKing's College London·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 11, 2021

The scale of the problem of VL in pregnancy is underestimated

Limited evidence on VL treatment during pregnancy highlights liposomal amphotericin B as a safer choice. Existing therapeutic guidelines are based on limited data and often rely on personal experience.

SourceInfectious Diseases Data Observatory·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 11, 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.

Protecting coral reefs more effectively from climate change

Researchers have identified different thermal tolerance mechanisms in corals, with some species exhibiting 'resilient' and 'resistant' responses to heat stress. The findings provide a toolbox for protecting coral reefs worldwide and inform conservation prioritization.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateAug 11, 2021

Fine aerosols emitted during talking and singing may play a crucial role in COVID-19 transmission: Singapore study

A new study found that fine aerosols generated during talking and singing can contain more viral particles than coarse aerosols, highlighting the importance of reducing exposure to these particles in indoor environments. The research suggests that these aerosols may play a significant role in SARS-CoV-2 transmission.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateAug 11, 2021