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Science News Archive August 2021 - Page 28


Page 28 of 38

Why sunflowers face east

A study by researchers at the University of California, Davis found that sunflowers facing east produce more offspring due to increased morning warmth attracting bees. East-facing flower heads also tend to be warmer in the morning and release pollen earlier, coinciding with bee visits.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 2021

Urban experimentation can help develop sustainable policies

The study highlights the importance of urban sustainability observatories that leverage urban experimentation for effective policy-making. Researchers discuss challenges and potential partnerships between universities, communities, and industries to establish successful observatories.

SourcePortland State University·JournalHarvard Data Science Review·DateAug 10, 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.

NIH small business funding boosts Alzheimer’s science advances

The National Institute on Aging's $280 million investment in small businesses has advanced research on care interventions, diagnostic tools, and therapies for Alzheimer's disease. This funding has enabled the commercialization of technologies such as ActivePERS and PrecivityAD, which aim to improve care and diagnosis.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 10, 2021

Less stress for women who know their genetic risk for breast cancer

A recent UNSW study found that women who received their polygenic risk score (PRS) for breast cancer experienced minimal regret and reduced distress compared to those who declined. The researchers also discovered that more women reported regret about not knowing their PRS score, highlighting the importance of providing clear informatio...

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalGenetics in Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateAug 9, 2021

COVID-19 during pregnancy associated with preterm birth

A large study found that COVID-19 infection during pregnancy is associated with a higher risk of very preterm birth and all preterm births. People of color face disproportionate infection risk while pregnant. Researchers recommend vaccination to reduce COVID-19 infection and prevent preterm birth.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Americas·DateAug 9, 2021

Insects beware! This west coast plant wants to eat you

Researchers discovered a new carnivorous plant species on the West Coast of North America, Triantha occidentalis, which traps insects with sticky hairs on its flowering stem. The plant balances carnivory and pollination by only trapping small midges and not harming its pollinators.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 9, 2021

Drug-resistant bacteria found in the guts of lemurs who live around humans

A study by Duke University researchers found antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the guts of lemurs living close to humans. The closer the contact, the more resistant bugs were found. Proximity to humans determined the type and abundance of resistance genes acquired.

SourceDuke University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateAug 9, 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.

How society’s inequalities showed up in COVID outcomes

A new study from University of Utah researchers explores how socioeconomic inequalities, particularly in Utah's Salt Lake County, contributed to racial minority groups being unequally affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The study found that residents of affluent areas had lower rates of infection compared to those in low-income zip codes.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalCOVID·TypeObservational study·DateAug 9, 2021

New podcast to focus on life-saving newborn screening research and practice: NBSTRN launches newborn screening SPOTlight

The Newborn Screening Translational Research Network (NBSTRN) has launched a new podcast called Newborn Screening SPOTlight, which shares stories of how newborn screening research saves lives every day. The podcast is co-hosted by Drs. Amy Brower and Kee Chan and features interviews with experts in the field.

SourceNewborn Screening Translational Research Network·DateAug 9, 2021

Graphene binds drugs which kill bacteria on medical implants

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a method to prevent bacterial infections on medical implants by covering graphene with bactericidal molecules, which are released in a controlled manner. The new material has shown promising properties and paves the way for more effective antibacterial protection.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 9, 2021

Bio-inspired, blood-repelling tissue glue could seal wounds quickly

A new adhesive, inspired by barnacles' sticky substance, can form a tight seal within seconds of application on wet surfaces, including blood-covered tissues. This bio-inspired tissue glue shows promise in rapidly controlling bleeding and may offer a more effective treatment for traumatic injuries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateAug 9, 2021

Researchers find a ‘fearsome dragon’ that soared over outback Queensland

A new species of pterosaur, Thapunngaka shawi, was discovered in Queensland with a 7-meter wingspan, showcasing the fearsome beast's spear-like mouth and powerful flight capabilities. The fossil, found on Wanamara Country, near Richmond, contributes to Australia's understanding of pterosaur diversity.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateAug 9, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

LiftPose3D: Turning 2D images into 3D models

EPFL scientists developed LiftPose3D, a deep learning-based method that can reconstruct 3D animal poses using only 2D poses from one camera. This tool allows for the study of brain mechanisms controlling body movements in freely moving animals.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Methods·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 9, 2021

Shift away from earthen homes ‘environmentally damaging’

A recent study warns that abandoning earthen homes could lead to increased carbon emissions and further climate change. Researchers argue that a balanced approach is needed, considering the environmental benefits of earth materials while also promoting safe and affordable housing options.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalBuilding Research & Information·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 9, 2021

Record-breaking extreme heat and cold events may result from similar underlying mechanisms

Researchers studied record-breaking cold air outbreaks in China and North America, finding links to sudden stratospheric warming, polar vortex shifts, and anomalous ocean temperatures. The study suggests that global warming and ocean changes may drive extreme weather events, highlighting the need for further research.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateAug 9, 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.

Microplastics: A trojan horse for metals

Researchers have discovered that microplastics can serve as a transport vehicle for metals in the environment, accumulating and releasing these pollutants. The study found significant differences in metal accumulation between different types of plastics, with some metals attaching almost entirely to microplastics.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

Undocumented immigrant women are more likely to use health services than men

Research reveals undocumented immigrants and immigrant women face similar obstacles to accessing public health services, except for those victimized by gender-based violence. Free clinics provide essential care and defend the right to health, highlighting the need for culturally appropriate care.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalGlobal Health Action·DateAug 9, 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.

Exotic matter is in our sights

Physicists at the University of Tokyo have created a new spectroscopic method, Rabi-oscillation spectroscopy, to study exotic atoms and improve our understanding of the material universe. This technique allows for faster observation and greater precision than conventional methods.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

Brain connectivity can build better AI

A new study demonstrates that artificial intelligence networks based on human brain connectivity can perform cognitive tasks efficiently. Researchers created a brain connectivity pattern and applied it to an artificial neural network, which performed cognitive memory tasks more flexibly and efficiently than other benchmark architectures.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 9, 2021
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.

New CRISPR/Cas9 technique corrects cystic fibrosis in cultured human stem cells

Researchers from the Hubrecht Institute have successfully corrected mutations that cause cystic fibrosis in cultured human stem cells using prime editing. The technique is safer than CRISPR/Cas9 and shows promise for application in patients, potentially leading to a cure or prevention of genetic diseases.

SourceHubrecht Institute·JournalLife Science Alliance·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

New carnivorous plant must balance trapping prey and being pollinated

Researchers have discovered a new carnivorous plant, Triantha occidentalis, that traps insects near its insect-pollinated flowers, avoiding the death of potential pollinators. The plant's sticky hairs only entrap small midges and insects, allowing larger bees and butterflies to act as pollinators.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

Overcoming the limitations of scanning electron microscopy with AI

A joint research team from POSTECH and KIMS developed a faster and more accurate microstructure imaging technique using deep learning. The technique enhanced the resolution of existing microstructure images up to 4, 8, or 16 times, reducing imaging time by up to 256x compared to conventional SEM systems.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateAug 9, 2021
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.

Taking microscopic shape without a microscope

Scientists from Nara Institute of Science and Technology have created a simple and fast method for detecting cell shape as they pass through a microfluidic channel. The team used changes in electrical impedance to measure the asymmetry of individual cells, which may greatly accelerate biological experiments.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateAug 9, 2021

What a song reveals about vocal imitation deficits for autistic individuals

A new study comparing pitch and duration imitations in speech and song has found that autistic individuals perform differently in two categories: relative pitch and absolute pitch. Autistic children and adults showed better performance with relative pitch, while struggling with absolute pitch across both domains.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalAutism Research·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 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.

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.

Incomplete polyp removal strongly associated with postcolonoscopy colorectal cancer

A multicenter cohort study found that incomplete polyp removal is strongly associated with postcolonoscopy colorectal cancer. Researchers analyzed medical records for 233 participants and found that patients with incompletely removed polyps were more likely to develop metachronous neoplasia, including advanced tumors.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 9, 2021

Residential mobility is key social determinant of health in people with spinal cord injury

Researchers found that one in four people with spinal cord injury relocated over a five-year period, often to high-poverty areas, increasing health risks. The study highlights the importance of considering residential mobility as a key social determinant of health for this population.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalArchives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 9, 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.

Colleges fall short on mental health outreach to Asian, Latino students

A recent study reveals that colleges struggle to provide adequate mental health support to Asian and Latino students due to interdependent cultural values and shame. The study suggests that culturally tailored treatment services addressing these issues can improve help-seeking behaviors.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

National parochialism is widespread around the world

A study of 42 countries reveals that most participants prefer to collaborate with fellow citizens rather than with people from other countries. The tendency towards in-group bias is driven by factors such as education level and gender, but not by cultural differences or national cohesion.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 9, 2021

Medicaid expansion of dental care can increase access

Research by Jason Huh found that Medicaid expansion can increase the number of dentists per capita in low-income counties, with a 13% increase. This growth is driven by private practice dentists responding to financial incentives offered by expanded coverage.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalJournal of Public Economics·DateAug 9, 2021

Some past sea levels may not have been as high as thought, says study of rising and sinking landmasses

A new study finds that global sea levels during the last interglacial may have been as low as 1.2 meters higher than today, rather than the previously accepted 6-9 meters. This suggests that ice sheet melting was not as extensive as thought, but also raises concerns about future projections.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 9, 2021

Speed and absorption key to optimizing new type of rechargeable battery

Researchers at OIST developed a hybrid material to improve lithium sulfur battery performance, reducing polysulfide dissolution and increasing efficiency. The new design resulted in shorter charging times, longer life between charges, and improved overall lifespan.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021
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.

Biosensors: Transforming the diagnosis of infections in newborns

Researchers review advancements in biosensing technologies for neonatal sepsis diagnosis, highlighting the need for faster and more accurate methods. Biosensors offer a promising solution, detecting multiple parameters simultaneously with high sensitivity and accuracy.

SourceShoolini University·JournalClinica Chimica Acta·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

Switched on IR-active organic pigments

Researchers developed a modular organic molecular system with customizable properties, creating a potent dye that absorbs light in the near-infrared range. The pigments' electronic switchability makes them suitable for studying electron transfer in photosynthesis and as efficient electron-transporting materials.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

Brain structure in premature babies linked to emotional processing in preschool

New research published in eNeuro found that premature babies' brain connections at birth can predict their future emotional and social development. The study discovered a link between the strength of the uncinate fasciculus, a white matter tract involved in emotional regulation, and emotion moderation skills in preschoolers.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateAug 9, 2021

Slam the door shut: Improving building energy by evaluating building airflow

Scientists from Incheon National University identified interzonal airflow across household entrance doors as a dominant factor in calculating heating loads. They found that strong stack effect and weather-driven airflow rates were larger than external infiltration rates, making conventional airtightness measures unreliable.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 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.

What to call seafood made from fish cells

A new Rutgers study suggests that food companies use the terms "cell-based" or "cell-cultured" when labeling seafood products made from fish cells. The study found that both terms meet FDA regulations and help consumers understand the production process, while also recognizing potential allergens.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateAug 9, 2021

A novel implement of CPML for second-order acoustic wave equations

Researchers develop a new unsplit complex frequency-shifted perfectly matched layer (UCF-PML) method for simulating second-order acoustic wave equations. The TS-CPML implementation outperforms conventional CPML in terms of absorbing efficiency, leading to more accurate seismic wavefield simulations.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateAug 9, 2021

Youth, the pandemic and a global mental health crisis

A new study found that depression and anxiety symptoms have doubled in children and adolescents globally during the pandemic. The study recommends prioritizing recovery planning now to mitigate sustained mental health effects.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 9, 2021

Birds’ eye size reflects habitat and diet, may predict sensitivity to environmental change

A study reveals that birds' eye size reflects their environment, diet, and behavior, providing insights into conservation efforts. The research suggests that larger eyes are associated with closer proximity to the equator and foraging habits near the forest floor.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 9, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Earthquake forecasts move a step closer to reality

Scientists aim to develop computer models that can forecast earthquake chances and impact, like weather forecasting. The project will also train students and researchers from diverse backgrounds to work on computational geoscience.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateAug 9, 2021

SARS-CoV-2 infection among maternal-infant pairs in Ontario, Canada

A recent study found SARS-CoV-2 infection among maternal-infant pairs to be extremely rare in early infancy. The findings suggest that while transmission is uncommon, continued monitoring and vaccination efforts are necessary to protect newborns from COVID-19 and its variants.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 9, 2021