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Science News Archive August 2021 - Page 32


Page 32 of 38

Ocean current system seems to be approaching a tipping point

A new study suggests that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) may be losing stability, with potentially catastrophic consequences for global and European weather patterns. The AMOC is responsible for mild temperatures in Europe and influences tropical monsoon systems.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 5, 2021

Polymer coating accelerates fuel production

Researchers from University of Tsukuba and Osaka University developed a polymer-coated metal catalyst that accelerates CO2 conversion into formate, a useful carbon-based fuel. The PEG-coated Sn catalyst showed a 24 times higher formate production rate than conventional Sn plate electrodes.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalACS Catalysis·DateAug 5, 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.

Scientists discover inherited neurodegenerative disease in monkeys

Researchers identified a genetic mutation in nonhuman primates that closely resembles Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease, a rare and progressive disorder affecting the central nervous system. The discovery was made possible by a massive genomic database built at OHSU's Oregon National Primate Research Center.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNeurobiology of Disease·TypeObservational study·DateAug 5, 2021

Up to 85 per cent of historical salmon habitat lost in Lower Fraser region

Researchers have mapped out the extent of habitat loss for salmon in the Lower Fraser River, revealing that up to 85% of historical floodplain habitat has been lost due to infrastructure. The study found that over 1,200 barriers block access to approximately 2,224 kilometers of streams, a major contributor to current salmon declines.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalEcosphere·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 5, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

What were Italian firms discussing at the beginning of the pandemic?

A new study analyzed Italian firms' Twitter conversations during the pandemic, revealing a focus on environmental sustainability and digital transformation. The research highlights the importance of corporate social responsibility and stakeholder engagement on these themes.

SourceIMT School for Advanced Studies Lucca·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 5, 2021

SCAI releases proceedings from expert consensus roundtable on renal denervation treatment for use in hypertension patients

Renal denervation (RDN) may complement medical therapy and lifestyle interventions for patients with uncontrolled hypertension. The procedure has shown consistent reductions in blood pressure in sham-controlled trials, highlighting its potential as a device-based therapy.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateAug 5, 2021

Ancient herbal medicine may offer relief to veterans with Gulf War Illness

A study from the University of South Carolina's Environmental Health & Disease Laboratory found that andrographolide successfully restored bacteriomes and viromes, increasing beneficial bacteria and decreasing harmful bacteria. The treatment also decreased gut inflammation and neuroinflammation in veterans with Gulf War Illness.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalBrain Sciences·DateAug 5, 2021

Eye injuries after Port of Beirut blast

The study describes a range of eye injuries resulting from the Port of Beirut blast, including conjunctival lacerations and foreign body injuries. Researchers highlight the need for emergency care and medical attention for those affected.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateAug 5, 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.

New drug molecules could prevent skin ageing caused by sun exposure

Two new molecules have been found to prevent skin aging after being exposed to ultraviolet light, generating minute amounts of hydrogen sulfide to correct energy production and usage in skin cells. This could pave the way for a new way to protect deeper layers of skin using these compounds.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAntioxidants and Redox Signaling·DateAug 5, 2021

Call to increase participation of women in cardiovascular clinical trials

Cardiovascular diseases affect women just as much, if not more, than men, yet current guideline-directed therapies are based on data predominantly including male patients. The European Society of Cardiology calls for increased diversity in research teams and targeted interventions to boost attendance.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateAug 5, 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.

Children of heavy drinkers are at risk for a wide range of harms

A new review suggests children of parents who drink heavily are at elevated risk of poor outcomes including mental health disorders, hospitalizations and criminal behavior. Register-based studies provide a fuller picture of the harm caused by family members' drinking.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 5, 2021

Decades of research brings quantum dots to brink of widespread use

A new Science article assesses the technological progress of colloidal quantum dots, which have become industrial-grade materials for a range of technologies. Advances include first demonstration of colloidal quantum dot lasing, discovery of carrier multiplication and pioneering research into LEDs and luminescent solar concentrators.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateAug 5, 2021

Venom contributed to the species diversity of insects and fishes

A recent study published by Swansea University found that venomous fish and insects diversified faster than their non-venomous counterparts. This is attributed to the use of venom as a means of repelling predators or catching prey, leading to increased opportunities for species to exploit their environment.

SourceSwansea University·JournalBMC Ecology and Evolution·DateAug 5, 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.

Rice expert: Using carbon is key to decarbonizing economy

Pasquali proposes splitting hydrocarbons to produce clean hydrogen energy and solid carbon materials, which could replace materials with large carbon footprints. This transition would generate robust growth in manufacturing jobs and improve production efficiency.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 5, 2021

Scientists ID enzyme for making key industrial chemical in plants

Researchers have discovered an enzyme that enables the accumulation of p-hydroxybenzoic acid in plant cell walls, a potential game-changer for sustainable industrial chemical production. By controlling the expression of this enzyme, plants can be engineered to produce more of this valuable chemical building block.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

New method opens the door to efficient genome writing in bacteria

MIT researchers have created a new DNA writing technique called HiSCRIBE that can record interactions between cells and store spatial information. This approach offers a way to edit genes in the human microbiome, potentially revolutionizing the field of genome editing.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Systems·DateAug 5, 2021

New study finds frequent shedding of infectious pathogens in healthcare settings outside patient rooms

A six-month observational study found significant MRSA shedding during outpatient visits and appointments, with 38.5% of carriers shedding MRSA to the environment. The presence of a culture-positive wound was the only factor significantly associated with shedding.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeObservational study·DateAug 5, 2021

The first real snapshot of algal bloom toxins in Lake Erie

A new study by Ohio State University provides the most accurate estimates of microcystin toxins in Lake Erie's western basin, revealing fluctuating concentrations over short distances. The research emphasizes the importance of frequent data collection to improve water safety and forecasting for the lake's estimated 11 million people.

SourceOhio State University·JournalHarmful Algae·TypeObservational study·DateAug 5, 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.

Stem cell-derived corneal endothelial cells, a possible alternative to donor-tissue in transplant surgeries

Researchers developed a sustainable source of corneal endothelial cells from pluripotent stem cells, reversing corneal transparency loss and promoting regrowth in rabbits and monkeys. The study suggests that stem cell-derived CECs may be a viable treatment option for patients with corneal endothelial dysfunction.

SourceInternational Society for Stem Cell Research·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateAug 5, 2021

North American model of wildlife conservation gets a cultural refresh

A revised model of wildlife conservation, I-NAM, incorporates Indigenous histories, perspectives, and knowledge systems into the original NAM framework. The new approach emphasizes continuous learning, listening, and respecting diverse views to improve wildlife management.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalFACETS·DateAug 5, 2021

‘Bacterial arch-enemy’ paves the way for new gene editing

Researchers have mapped the structure of CRISPR-Cas12j3 from bacteriophages, a discovery that reveals how it works and solves packaging problems for genome editing. The new system has vast potential for precise genome editing with improved efficiencies and alternative targeting mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

The need for affordable and accessible blood tests for Alzheimer's disease

Advances in therapeutics for Alzheimer's disease have highlighted the need for simple, affordable blood tests to ensure accurate diagnosis and track therapeutic progress. The development of blood-based biomarker tests could enable quick screening and monitoring of AD progression in patients.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 5, 2021

Toxin sponges may protect poisonous frogs and birds from their own poisons, study suggests

Researchers have discovered that toxic animals produce 'toxin sponges' to mop up deadly toxins and prevent them from binding to vital proteins. This alternative autoresistance strategy may offer a general means of toxin protection, including the development of antidotes against various toxic agents.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 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.

AI knows where your proteins go

Researchers from Nara Institute of Science and Technology developed a machine learning program that accurately predicts the location of proteins related to actin in cells. The program achieved a high degree of similarity with actual images, showing promise for future applications in cell analysis and artificial cell staining.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology·DateAug 5, 2021

Surprising insights into the migration pattern of world’s farthest-migrating species

Researchers found that Arctic terns take similar routes on both southbound and northbound migrations, with coastal routes driven by food availability and oceanic routes influenced by wind. The study's findings suggest the establishment of mobile marine protected areas to conserve Arctic tern populations.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·TypeObservational study·DateAug 5, 2021

NIST’s quantum crystal could be a new dark matter sensor

Researchers at NIST have created a quantum crystal sensor that can measure electric fields with unprecedented sensitivity, potentially revolutionizing dark matter detection. By entangling the mechanical motion and electronic properties of tiny ions, the sensor can detect subtle vibrations caused by dark matter particles.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 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.

Tourist-tourist rapport: SFU expert on why it matters

A new study by Simon Fraser University researchers found that building rapport among tourists can significantly increase satisfaction with guided group tours. The study identified four key aspects of tourist-tourist rapport and showed that high levels of rapport lead to improved overall experience, while low levels decrease satisfactio...

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalTourism Management·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

Achieving equitable access to energy in a changing climate

A new study analyzes how access to modern energy services evolves over time under different socioeconomic growth scenarios and policy scenarios that meet climate mitigation goals. The researchers found that socioeconomically diverse households in different regions have distinct preferences for energy services, highlighting the need for...

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Energy·DateAug 5, 2021

Organ transplant recipients significantly protected by COVID-19 vaccination

A recent study published in Transplant Infectious Disease found that COVID-19 vaccination provides strong protection against the virus for solid organ transplant recipients, with an almost 80% reduction in symptomatic cases. The study examined data from over 2,150 transplant patients and showed that nearly 70% of vaccinated patients re...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalTransplant Infectious Disease·DateAug 5, 2021

Scientists mail freeze-dried mouse sperm on a postcard

Researchers in Japan have created a method to preserve mouse sperm by freeze-drying it on a plastic sheet, enabling easy transportation via postcard. The 'sperm book' stored at -30°C, can hold thousands of sperm samples, and the mailing method has shown promising results with high offspring rates.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 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.

Lunar samples solve mystery of the moon’s supposed magnetic shield

Researchers at the University of Rochester found that lunar samples do not show signs of magnetization from a magnetic shield. The lack of magnetization suggests that the moon has never had a prolonged dynamo field. Without this protection, solar wind implanted volatiles like helium 3 in the lunar soil.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

When robots become researchers

Researchers at OIST Graduate University develop robots capable of conducting complex experiments and analyzing data. The 'Nobel Turing Challenge' achieves significant advancements in scientific discovery by leveraging AI-driven robotics.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·Journalnpj Systems Biology and Applications·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 5, 2021

Using two CRISPR enzymes, a COVID diagnostic in only 20 minutes

Researchers at UC Berkeley created a rapid COVID-19 diagnostic test utilizing tandem CRISPR nucleases, which accelerates RNA detection and reduces sample handling. This innovation simplifies the assay process, making it faster and more efficient for SARS-CoV-2 virus detection.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

A warning system better suited to different heat waves

A new warning system has been proposed to address increasing heat waves due to climate change, taking into account evolving heat thresholds and longer hot seasons. The system aims to prevent heat-related mortality outside typical heat wave periods through health alerts.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalBMC Public Health·DateAug 5, 2021

Seeing (infra)red: Researchers develop software to enhance infrared imaging-based cancer diagnosis

A team of Beckman researchers developed software to boost infrared imaging-based cancer diagnosis, enhancing image resolution and accelerating recording speeds. The software integrates data analysis and reduces limitations associated with IR imaging, making it faster and more accurate.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalChemometrics and Intelligent Laboratory Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 5, 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.

Superflares may be less harmful to exoplanets than previously thought, study shows

A new study published in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society found that superflares on red dwarf stars occur at high latitudes, near the star's poles, which means they are not directed towards orbiting exoplanets. This reduces the danger to planetary atmospheres and habitability.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeObservational study·DateAug 5, 2021

Mapping the lake trout genome to ensure the species’ future

The study creates a reference genome for lake trout, enabling researchers to identify genetic differences between hatchery strains and locate genes associated with morphological and physiological diversity. The genome assembly will aid in developing effective conservation strategies for the iconic species.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalMolecular Ecology Resources·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

How innovative DNA from pills could snare drug syndicates

Researchers at Flinders University have developed a method to recover DNA from the surface of capsules containing illicit drugs, such as MDMA. This breakthrough enables law enforcement agencies to potentially link various drug seizures around the world and identify suspects through DNA profiling.

SourceFlinders University·JournalForensic Science International·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

Leaping squirrels! Parkour is one of their many feats of agility

Researchers from UC Berkeley studied squirrels' ability to leap and land successfully to develop more agile robots. They found that squirrels assess their biomechanical abilities based on branch flexibility and gap distance, allowing them to adjust their strategies with minimal attempts.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 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.

Mixing a cocktail of topology and magnetism for future electronics

Researchers explore joining topological insulators with magnetic materials to achieve quantum anomalous Hall effect, promising building blocks for low-power electronics. The 'cocktail' approach allows tuning of both magnetism and topology in individual materials, enabling operation closer to room temperature.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 5, 2021

Zoonotic threats must be integrated into global health security planning, say experts

Global health practitioners urge integrating surveillance of zoonotic diseases into health security intelligence systems to effectively handle future pandemics. Companion, zoo, and shelter animals pose significant risks due to limited monitoring and stress levels, leading to potential transmission of animal infections to humans.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateAug 5, 2021

Imagination exercise helps people get a grip on real pandemic risks

A Duke University study found that combining risk data with an imagination exercise helps participants make more realistic decisions about their own risky behaviors. The intervention, now integrated into a publicly accessible data dashboard, aims to improve public health decisions during the pandemic.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

Crop farmers face new disease pressures as climate changes

Research suggests climate change will increase disease pressure in some regions and reduce it in others. Model projections indicate that rising temperatures will boost yields in temperate areas while having little effect on tropical regions.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 5, 2021
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.

A more complete molecular picture of lung squamous cell carcinoma comes into view

A comprehensive molecular map of lung squamous cell carcinoma has identified potential new drug targets, including the gene NSD3, and highlighted immune regulation pathways that could help cancer evade immunotherapies. The study's findings have also revealed metabolic dysregulation and crosstalk between different cellular processes.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalCell·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 5, 2021

Trial tests new technique to manage mood swings within bipolar disorder

Researchers conducted a new trial to adapt Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DPT) for people with frequent Bipolar mood swings. The study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of this adapted therapy, finding that it has demand from individuals with Bipolar disorder.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalInternational Journal of Bipolar Disorders·DateAug 5, 2021

Poison frogs, birds, hold clues to antidotes for deadly toxins

A team of scientists discovered molecules called 'toxin sponges' in poison frogs and birds that can act as mops to clean up the poisons, potentially leading to a treatment for paralytic shellfish poisoning. The study found that captive-raised poison frogs were resistant to deadly toxins due to these toxin-sponging proteins.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateAug 5, 2021

Controlling chaos in liquid crystals, gaining precision in autonomous technologies

Researchers have developed a way to precisely control defects within active liquid crystals by changing the gradient of activity around them. This can be achieved through pulses of light or chemical composition changes, enabling controlled movement and behavior of these materials.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 5, 2021