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Science News Archive August 2021 - Page 33


Page 33 of 38
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.

To advance human rights, consult neuroscience

Researchers at Brown University introduce 'dignity neuroscience,' arguing that universal rights are rooted in human brain science. The concept posits five core elements - agency, autonomy, and self-determination; freedom from want and fear; uniqueness; and unconditionality - which reflect fundamental features of the human brain.

SourceBrown University·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 5, 2021

This touchy-feely glove senses and maps tactile stimuli

The MIT-designed tactile glove can map subtle changes in pressure across the palm, helping to restore motor function after stroke. The glove's sensors can also track pulse and vital signs accurately, even during movement.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 5, 2021

COVID-19 boost for baby sleep

A new study published in Sleep Medicine has found that the COVID-19 pandemic brought about increased infant sleep duration and decreased daytime drowsiness in parents. However, it also introduced more screen time for babies and mild increases in depressive symptoms among parents.

SourceFlinders University·JournalSleep Medicine·TypeObservational study·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.

Antibody findings spark ideas for pan-coronavirus vaccine

Scientists identified five human monoclonal antibodies that can neutralize multiple beta-coronaviruses by targeting a conserved structure in the spike protein. These antibodies showed promise in reducing viral load and enhancing immune responses in hamsters, providing potential inspiration for broadly protective vaccines.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

Retinoblastoma resource: Researchers create more accurate research model

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have developed a more accurate laboratory model for studying retinoblastoma, a rare pediatric eye cancer. The models closely mimic the biology of patient tumors and provide an important resource for studying the earliest stages of the disease as well as screening new therapies.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 5, 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.

Drier, warmer night air is making some Western wildfires more active at night

Research by University of Washington and US Forest Service scientists reveals a dramatic shift in nighttime air's drying power over the Western US, increasing wildfire activity. This shift is not captured in climate models, with some areas experiencing water loss doubling up on warmer nights.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateAug 5, 2021

Exotic property of ‘ambidextrous’ crystals points to new magnetic phenomena

Scientists at Skoltech and KTH Royal Institute of Technology predict the existence of antichiral ferromagnetism, a nontrivial property of some magnetic crystals. This phenomenon could lead to unique magnetic domains and skyrmions, distinct from conventional chiral textures.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalPhysical Review B·DateAug 4, 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.

Study finds improvement for those receiving medication for opioid use disorder with contingency management used

Contingency management has been shown to be efficacious in addressing key clinical problems among patients receiving medication for opioid use disorder. The study found that CM improved outcomes on psychomotor stimulant use, polysubstance use, illicit-opioid use, cigarette smoking, therapy attendance, and medication adherence.

SourceLarner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 4, 2021

Up in smoke

Researchers developed a method combining meteorological models with NASA satellite data to estimate smoke height and predict its downward spread. This can help forecasters issue accurate warnings for nearby residents, protecting those with lung and heart conditions.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Atmospheres·DateAug 4, 2021

Study links high lipid levels in early pregnancy with congenital heart disease in children

A study published in Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica found that pregnant women with elevated blood lipids, particularly triglycerides and Apolipoprotein-B, were more than twice as likely to deliver children with congenital heart disease. The research highlights the importance of maintaining good health during pregnancy an...

SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateAug 4, 2021

Enzyme from Amazon fungus could enhance efficiency of second-generation ethanol production

Researchers discovered an enzyme from Amazon fungus Trichoderma harzianum capable of breaking down diverse plant biomass sugars, enhancing the efficiency of second-generation ethanol production. The enzyme's industrial use is now viable at low cost due to genetic engineering techniques.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeNews article·DateAug 4, 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.

Researchers track how microbiome bacteria adapt to humans via transmission

A new study published in Genome Biology found that the ability of gut bacteria to produce spores is associated with their adaptation to humans. Bacteria that can produce spores have larger genomes and are less abundant in the gut, while those that cannot have smaller genomes and are more adapted to human hosts.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalGenome Biology·DateAug 4, 2021

New review finds non-invasive brain stimulation may reduce smoking

A systematic review found evidence that non-invasive brain stimulation can reduce smoking frequency in nicotine-dependent smokers. High-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) of the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex was associated with the greatest reduction in smoking frequency.

SourceSociety for the Study of Addiction·JournalAddiction·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 4, 2021

A new way to treat PTSD?

Researchers discovered a new way to treat PTSD by targeting epigenetic modifications. Combining two natural products, SAMe and vitamin A, reversed PTSD-like behaviors in animals. This approach offers hope for a non-toxic treatment that addresses the underlying genetic cause of the disease.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateAug 4, 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.

Researchers discover new strategy for developing human-integrated electronics

Scientists at the University of Chicago have developed a new approach called click-to-polymer (CLIP) to attach functional units to polymer semiconductors, overcoming limitations in their functionality. The CLIP method enables the creation of multifunctional conjugated polymers for human-integrated electronics, including disease detecto...

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021

When vibrations increase on cooling: Anti-freezing observed

Researchers have observed a unique phenomenon where vibrations in a nickel oxide material increase with cooling, leading to the formation of faster fluctuations and ordered regions. This behavior is unusual and differs from the expected trend, which is that less thermal energy leads to more fluctuations freezing and order growing.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 4, 2021

Do cancer survivors experience accelerated aging?

A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that cancer survivors, especially older individuals, are more likely to experience accelerated functional decline. Cancer survivors had lower physical performance scores, steeper declines in grip strength and gait speed compared to non-cancer survivors.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 4, 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.

UBC Okanagan researcher creates device that lessens hand tremors

A new wearable device developed by UBC Okanagan researchers reduces hand tremors in people with Parkinson's and essential tremors, allowing for smoother movements without restricting hand or finger mobility. The device uses a magnetic mechanism that counters involuntary motion without filtering out voluntary movement.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·DateAug 4, 2021

Physical activity jolts brain into action in the event of depression

A new study confirms physical activity's dual benefits in depression: reducing symptoms and increasing the brain's ability to change. The exercise programme promoted motivation, social togetherness, and improved neuroplasticity, leading to decreased depressive symptoms.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·DateAug 4, 2021

Study links metabolic syndrome to poor health outcomes in adults with kidney disease

A study published in Journal of Internal Medicine found that 64.3% of adults with moderate chronic kidney disease also had metabolic syndrome, increasing their risk of premature death and cardiovascular problems. Patients with metabolic syndrome had a 26% higher risk of dying and a 48% higher risk of experiencing cardiovascular events.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateAug 4, 2021
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.

Why a tiny worm’s brain development could shed light on human thinking

Scientists have discovered four basic patterns of how connections are made in the brain of a tiny worm, which could provide insights into human brain development. The researchers used electron microscopes to reconstruct the full brain of eight individuals and found that new connections are added as animals grow older.

SourceLunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 4, 2021

Debt crises: Politics determine how developing countries borrow

A new study by researchers at Princeton University found that developing countries tend to borrow in domestic currencies when issuing sovereign bonds, allowing them to act on their domestic policy preferences. This choice affects the types of pressures creditors put on governments and the ease or difficulty in paying off debts.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalInternational Organization·DateAug 4, 2021

A new tool assesses the real-world relevance of academic marketing articles

A new tool measures the relevance of academic marketing articles to marketing practice, highlighting a profound disconnect between scholars and practitioners. The R2M Index finds that only 24% of published articles are relevant to both academia and practice, with most articles focusing on topics of little interest to managers.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateAug 4, 2021

Pandemic job search anxiety is common; how you channel it may make the difference

Researchers found that job seekers who channel their anxiety through problem-solving pondering are more likely to exert effort in productive ways, such as focusing on reevaluating and improving their job search behaviors. In contrast, those who engage in affect-focused rumination, feeling afraid or upset about their job search, are les...

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateAug 4, 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.

Older people reluctant to seek help for mental health concerns

A new study found that over 40% of older Australians with chronic diseases would be unlikely to seek mental health help even if needed. Internal beliefs about speaking with a doctor were the strongest predictor of seeking support.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalAustralian Journal of Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateAug 4, 2021

New AI-based image processing algorithm for accurate cervical cancer detection

Researchers from ETU LETI proposed an ensemble-based classification model using three Convolutional Neural Network architectures to detect cervical cancer. The model achieved high accuracy rates of up to 99.23% on publicly available benchmark datasets, outperforming state-of-the-art models.

SourceSaint Petersburg Electrotechnical University LETI·JournalScientific Reports·TypeNews article·DateAug 4, 2021

Space scientists reveal secret behind Jupiter’s ‘energy crisis’

Astronomers create most-detailed map yet of Jupiter's upper atmosphere, confirming aurorae as responsible for planet-wide heating. Researchers use data from the Keck Observatory to reveal unprecedented detail in temperature maps, shedding light on long-standing puzzle.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateAug 4, 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.

Study identifies DNA signatures linked to heart disease

Researchers analyzed data from five large heart cohort studies to identify epigenetic changes associated with cardiovascular disease. The study found 33 common methylation sites linked to heart disease across diverse populations, providing a potential target for prevention and intervention.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Cardiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 4, 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.

Promoting biodiversity-friendly landscapes - beyond organic farming

A landscape mosaic of natural habitats and small-scale cultivated areas can promote biodiversity on a large scale. Contrary to organic certification, diverse cultivation can double species numbers and improve biological pest control.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 4, 2021

A study reveals what triggers lung damage during COVID-19

A KAIST study found that specific macrophages play a key role in lung damage during COVID-19. The research provides new insights into dynamic immunological changes and could lead to more precise use of immunosuppressive agents.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 4, 2021

New study exposes big differences amongst Amazonian countries in their rates of forest recovery as well as deforestation

A new study reveals significant differences in forest recovery rates across Amazonian countries, with some experiencing little to no recovery even 20 years after deforestation. The research highlights the need for targeted interventions to protect and restore remaining forests.

SourceBangor University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 4, 2021

Observatories assemble: NASA's Juno spacecraft joins w. M. Keck observatory and Japan's Hisaki satellite to solve “energy crisis” on Jupiter

A team of scientists assembled observations from NASA's Juno spacecraft, W.M. Keck Observatory, and Japan's Hisaki satellite to discover the source of Jupiter's thermal boost. They found that Jupiter's intense aurora is responsible for heating the entire planet's upper atmosphere, contrary to previous models.

SourceW. M. Keck Observatory·JournalNature·DateAug 4, 2021

Flexible, wearable X-ray detector doesn’t require heavy metals

Researchers have developed a flexible and wearable X-ray detector using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) that don't contain harmful heavy metals. The device shows high-sensitivity sensing and imaging capabilities, making it suitable for various radiation monitoring and medical imaging applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 4, 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.

Study reveals how smell receptors work

Olfactory receptors respond to a variety of odors by binding to large numbers of different molecules, rather than specific chemical features. The team discovered that the amino acids lining the pocket don't form strong chemical bonds with odorants, but instead recognize their general chemical nature.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateAug 4, 2021

New therapeutic target discovered for a number of aggressive cancers

Researchers have identified a promising therapeutic target, METTL1, to treat aggressive cancers by inhibiting an RNA-modifying protein. The study found that targeting METTL1 effectively destroys cancer cells in laboratory models and mice while leaving healthy cells unharmed.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalMolecular Cell·DateAug 4, 2021

Visualizing stress in plastics

A research team led by Prof. Dr. Michael Sommer has developed a new dye molecule that can visualize stress in plastics by changing color, allowing for the differentiation between stresses of different magnitude. This technology has great advantages for monitoring material integrity and could lead to improved mechanical properties.

SourceChemnitz University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021

The waste product which could help mitigate climate change

A new study found that biochar can increase crop yields by up to 42% and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Biochar also improves soil fertility, resistance to diseases, and tolerance to toxic metals, making it a promising tool for climate change mitigation in poor soils.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalGCB Bioenergy·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 4, 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 show a single catalyst can perform the first step of turning CO2 into fuel in two very different ways

Researchers at Stanford University and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have created a new catalyst that accelerates the first step in turning carbon dioxide into fuel in two different ways: with heat and electricity. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and sustainable production of chemicals and fuels by reducing greenh...

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021