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Science News Archive August 2021 - Page 6


Page 6 of 38

Aging-US: miRNAs generated from Meg3-Mirg locus are downregulated during aging

This study characterizes the aging-associated miRNA profile in murine cardiac fibroblasts, revealing a significant decrease in miRNAs generated by the Meg3-Mirg locus. The findings suggest that this repression is a common feature of aging across multiple organs, highlighting the robustness of miRNA modulation during this process.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·DateAug 27, 2021

Climate change challenge: Terminology used by scientists confounds public

A new study finds that U.S. residents have difficulty understanding terms frequently used by scientists to describe climate change, such as 'mitigation' and 'tipping point.' Participants suggested simpler language alternatives, highlighting the need for more accessible communication.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalClimatic Change·TypeSurvey·DateAug 26, 2021

A solid favor for researchers: A new way to investigate the electric double layer effect

Scientists at Tokyo University of Science develop a new methodology to investigate the elusive electric double layer (EDL) effect in all-solid-state batteries. The study reveals that the EDL effect is dominated by the electrolyte's composition and can be suppressed through charge compensation, leading to improved performance.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 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.

Lewis Katz School of Medicine researchers awarded prestigious grant from the NIH's Martin Delaney collaboratories for HIV cure research program

Researchers at Temple University's Lewis Katz School of Medicine have been awarded a prestigious grant from the National Institutes of Health to develop novel treatments for individuals living with HIV using CRISPR technology. The $4.8M grant will fund four major research laboratories working towards eliminating HIV DNA from infected c...

SourceTemple University Health System·DateAug 26, 2021

Fewer El Niño and La Niña events in a warmer world

A new study simulates global warming at unprecedented resolution, revealing that increasing CO2 concentrations will weaken the intensity of the ENSO temperature cycle. This could lead to fewer El Niño and La Niña events, with potential implications for rainfall extremes.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 26, 2021

Pfizer jab side effects in 12-15 year olds at high risk of COVID-19 complications, mild to moderate

A small study of 27 children aged 12-15 with neurological conditions found the Pfizer jab's side effects were mild to moderate and cleared up within a week. The vaccination was taken by parents who believed their children were at high risk of COVID-19 disease, highlighting its benefits in vulnerable groups.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 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.

Milestone in osteoarthritis research

A large study of over 825,000 individuals has identified new genetic risk factors for osteoarthritis and pinpointed potential drug targets. The research also found specific genetic changes that underpin the risk for all forms of osteoarthritis.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalCell·DateAug 26, 2021

Science-backed tips for maximizing play time with kids

Research highlights six core pillars of learning: active, engaged, meaningful, socially interactive, iterative, and joyful. Experts offer practical advice on transforming everyday spaces into playful learning environments that support children's growth.

SourcePenn State·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·TypeCase study·DateAug 26, 2021

HIV prevention treatment shows gaps among key populations

A Kaiser Permanente study found strong adherence to HIV-prevention drug therapy soon after prescription, but inconsistent use among vulnerable groups. The study suggests that targeted strategies are needed to support the effective use of PrEP in high-risk populations.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 26, 2021

Symptomatic COVID patients are more contagious

A new study by researchers at the University of Georgia found that symptomatic COVID-19 patients are more contagious than asymptomatic cases. The study identified a high-risk transmission window between two days before and three days after symptom onset, supporting interventions like contact tracing and masking.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 26, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

COVID-19 is advancing knowledge of airborne transmission of respiratory viruses

Recent studies on COVID-19 have revealed that many respiratory pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2, can spread through virus-laden microscopic respiratory aerosols. Improved ventilation, air filtration, and personal face mask design are among the strategies highlighted to mitigate aerosol transmission

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 26, 2021

New method visualizes blood flow in the brain down to 1 blood cell

Researchers have developed a dye-free method to visualize blood flow in the brain, allowing for detailed mapping of small capillaries and assessing blood flow rates. The technique has potential applications in understanding cardiovascular diseases, tumor growth, and targeted drug delivery.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Drones delivered defibrillators to patients with suspected cardiac arrests

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet successfully deployed drones to deliver defibrillators to patients with suspected cardiac arrests, with the drones arriving on target ahead of ambulances in most cases. The pilot study showed a median response time benefit of 1 minute and 52 seconds, improving survival rates.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateAug 26, 2021

Bidding on a better future

Co-authors James Salzman, Andrew Plantinga, and Christopher Costello propose changing the 'use it or lose it' stipulation in public resource laws. This would allow non-extractive interests to compete with traditional extractive interests in bidding for licenses and permits, potentially increasing biodiversity and ecosystem services.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateAug 26, 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.

Environmental pollution may contribute to racial/ethnic disparities In Alzheimer’s disease risk, says new study

A recent study found that fine particle pollution, specifically PM2.5, may contribute to the disproportionate number of African American women affected by dementia. Despite adjusting for various risk factors, Black women still had double the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease compared to white women.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series A·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2021

Taking the pain out of kidney stone analysis

A team of scientists has reported a technique that provides the most detailed picture of kidney stone components yet. The researchers used a novel method to analyze kidney stones, revealing the distribution of three different proteins and their role in crystal growth.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2021

Forensic anthropological work dealing with ancestry may mistakenly support the idea that racial differences are biological

A new study examines the use of terminology in forensic anthropology, finding that research often fails to critically address racial and social constructs. The study suggests that using alternative terms like 'ancestry' can help reduce the perpetuation of white supremacy and biomedical claims based on biological differences.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalForensic Anthropology·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 26, 2021

One in three Americans had COVID-19 by the end of 2020

A study estimates that 103 million Americans had COVID-19 by the end of 2020, accounting for 31% of the population. Undocumented cases accounted for three-quarters of infections, which were often mild or asymptomatic.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 26, 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.

Families estimated to lose $18,000 a year in wages when they have to cut work hours or leave a job to care for their child’s health

A study of 14,000 families found that those caring for children with chronic health conditions lost an average of $18,000 per year in household income. Foregone family employment was reported by nearly 15% of families and was more common among younger caregivers and those living in poverty.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateAug 26, 2021

Study confirms virus variants reduce protection against COVID-19

A new study by OHSU researchers found that blood serum from vaccinated or infected individuals shows significantly reduced defense against two widely circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants. The findings emphasize the importance of vaccinations combined with maintaining public health measures to cut off the spread of the virus.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Carolina scientists developing contraceptive that stops sperm in its tracks

Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill engineered ultra-potent antibodies that effectively trapped and blocked over 99.9% of human sperm during animal testing. The promising results suggest an alternative non-hormonal option to prevent pregnancy may be available.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 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.

How migraines protect against diabetes

Researchers found that certain peptides associated with migraine pain can regulate insulin production in mice, potentially preventing type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that these peptides could be developed into therapeutic strategies to control blood sugar levels, while minimizing the risk of migraines.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 26, 2021

Artificial intelligence re-stained images of tissue biopsy expedite diagnoses

Researchers at UCLA have developed a computational technique powered by artificial intelligence that transforms images of tissue previously stained with H&E into new ones with added special stains. The process takes less than one minute per tissue sample, significantly improving diagnoses in medical conditions such as organ transpl...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

New deep learning approach greatly improves RNA structure prediction

A new machine learning method called ARES significantly improves the computational prediction of RNA structures, outperforming other approaches in a community-wide challenge. ARES learned to make predictions based solely on atomic structure and accurately predicted complex RNAs larger than those it was trained on.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 26, 2021

Highly conductive and elastic nanomembrane for skin electronics

Researchers at IBS developed a novel composite material consisting of metal nanowires within an ultrathin rubber film. The float assembly method creates a monolayer of nanowires in the rubber film, resulting in excellent physical properties such as high stretchability and metal-like conductivity.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 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.

New research: The internet does not turn people into trolls – it just makes real-life trolls more visible

A new study published in American Political Science Review finds that those prone to hostility in offline discussions are also hostile online. The researchers suggest that increasing the visibility of aggressive behavior online can exacerbate online hostility, rather than removing it through education or moderation.

SourceAarhus University·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·TypeSurvey·DateAug 26, 2021

MOGONET provides more holistic view of biological processes underlying disease

Researchers developed MOGONET, a novel multi-omics data analysis algorithm that integrates genomic, proteomic, metabolomic, and transcriptomic data to provide a holistic view of biological processes underlying human diseases. The framework outperforms existing methods in analyzing disease biomarkers and predicting patient outcomes.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 26, 2021

Researchers develop carbon spring with high compressibility and stretchability

A team of researchers from the University of Science and Technology of China developed a super-elastic porous carbon material called 'carbon spring' with both high compressibility and stretchability. This unique microstructure enables reversible tensile and compressive deformation, similar to a real metallic spring.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 26, 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.

Pusan University Researchers Develop ‘Super-Flexible’ Electroluminescent Devices

Researchers from Pusan University developed a super-stretchable, deformable, and durable material for 'super-flexible' alternating current electroluminescent devices. The material was successfully applied in devices that functioned with up to 1200% elongation, displaying stable luminescence over 1000 cycles.

SourcePusan National University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Promising candidates revealed for next-generation LED-based data communications

Researchers from University of Surrey and Cambridge have identified promising semiconducting materials for next-generation LED-based data communications. These organic semiconductors, colloidal quantum dots, and metal halide perovskites show potential for low-power and cost-effective solutions.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNature Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

When humans disturb marine mammals, it’s hard to know the long-term impact

A new study from the University of California, Santa Cruz, develops a comprehensive framework to determine when short-term changes in behavior caused by human activities have biological significance. The framework highlights the importance of life history traits and specific characteristics of disturbances in assessing vulnerability.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 26, 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.

Artificial intelligence to help predict Arctic sea ice loss

A new AI tool called IceNet has been developed to predict Arctic sea ice conditions with high accuracy. The system is almost 95% accurate in forecasting sea ice presence two months ahead, addressing the challenge of predicting Arctic sea ice forecasts for decades.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 26, 2021

Your sense of smell may be the key to a balanced diet

A Northwestern University study found that people become less sensitive to food odors after eating a meal, making it harder to choose healthier options. The research suggests an evolutionary benefit to this feedback loop, potentially improving nutrient intake and reducing disordered eating.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 26, 2021

Precipitation in central Asia shaped by sea surface temperature over tropical pacific and north Atlantic: Study

Researchers from the Institute of Atmospheric Physics found that tropical Pacific decadal variability and Atlantic multidecadal variability drive Central Asian precipitation changes. Warmer SSTs in these regions favor wetter conditions, especially in southern and northern parts of Central Asia.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Climate·DateAug 26, 2021

Keeping it random

Scientists created a reliable true random number generator using atomically thin two-dimensional films, overcoming long-term stability issues and power consumption concerns. The innovation uses memristors to produce fluctuating electronic signals with an exceptionally high degree of randomness.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 26, 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.

City of Hope study suggests adding the drug berzosertib to standard treatment for metastatic bladder cancer does not benefit patients

A Phase 2 trial found that combining cisplatin, gemcitabine, and berzosertib did not prolong progression-free survival in patients with urothelial cancer. The study suggests that berzosertib may have a negative impact on bone marrow, leading to reduced white blood cells and platelets.

SourceCity of Hope·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 26, 2021

LED material shines under strain

Berkeley Lab researchers developed a method to increase the efficiency of LED devices by applying mechanical strain to thin semiconductor films. This approach reduces exciton annihilation, allowing for high-performance LEDs even at high brightness levels.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Eye in the sky

The team used machine learning technique generative adversarial networks to digitally remove clouds from aerial images, generating accurate datasets of building image masks. This work may help automate computer vision jobs critical to civil engineering, enabling the detection of buildings in areas without labeled training data.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAdvanced Engineering Informatics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 26, 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.

Airflow cleans up the particulate matter in the classroom

A study developed an HVAC system with HEPA filters, reducing particulate matter removal time in classrooms. The system's optimized airflow control enables efficient PM removal and maintains even indoor air distribution.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalSustainability·DateAug 26, 2021

Breakthrough in sizing nanoparticles using fluid-filled tubes

Scientists from the University of Melbourne and MIT have discovered a simple mechanical tube method to measure nanoparticle mass and size simultaneously. This breakthrough enables the simultaneous measurement of these properties, which is crucial for various applications such as drug delivery and nano-optics.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 26, 2021

New study demonstrates significant carbon storage in African mountain forests

A new study published in Nature reveals that African tropical mountain forests store an average of 149.4 tonnes of carbon per hectare, significantly higher than previously estimated by the IPCC. This finding highlights the importance of preserving these carbon-rich ecosystems for climate protection.

SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 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.

Using yeast to create alternative petrochemical processes

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed optimized yeast extracts for cell-free biosynthesis, enabling faster and more efficient chemical production. This breakthrough integrates cellular engineering with cell-free systems, paving the way for sustainable alternatives to current petrochemical processes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 26, 2021

Comparing the pathogen numbers in backyard and commercial composts

A study found that commercial composts contain more airborne pathogens than backyard composts, while immature compost samples have high levels of antibiotic resistance genes. The researchers hope to improve their detection method to assess the threat to humans.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Stem cells model genetic risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers found that astrocytes carrying the AD-associated APOE4 gene released more cholesterol, leading to increased beta-amyloid production in neurons. This study suggests modulating brain cholesterol could be a potential treatment option for Alzheimer's disease.

SourceInternational Society for Stem Cell Research·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateAug 26, 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.

A new model for group decision-making shows how 'followers' can influence the outcome

Researchers developed a mathematical framework that captures the influence of multiple interactions among group members. The model predicts that social learners can impair collective performance if they are above a certain threshold, and committed minorities can be bolstered by these social learners.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 26, 2021