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Science News Archive August 2021 - Page 7


Page 7 of 38

Why companies invest in local social media influencers

Researchers found a positive link between online influence and geographical proximity, with followers more likely to heed an influencer's recommendation when they live closer. This study suggests that local influencers may have a leg up in the influence game due to their proximal connections.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateAug 26, 2021

Brazilian physicists create a model to predict mutations in SARS-CoV-2

Researchers created a model to estimate viral population variability using epidemiological data, predicting the emergence of novel variants. The study suggests that lack of vaccination increases mutation frequency and spread.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 26, 2021

COVID-19 in children with cancer: Severe disease and disrupted treatment

A recent study found that 20% of children with cancer infected with SARS-CoV-2 developed severe infections, compared to 1-6% in general pediatric patients. The Global Registry of COVID-19 and Childhood Cancer also showed that cancer care was disrupted, with 56% of patients having modified treatment and 45% having chemotherapy withheld.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalThe Lancet·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.

Understanding and targeting prostate cancer metabolism

Researchers at Flinders University have identified a protein called 6PGD that supports the survival of prostate cancer cells when challenged with hormonal therapy. The study found that 6PGD inhibitors can kill cancer cells in lab dishes and real tumours, offering new hope for targeted therapies

SourceFlinders University·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2021

Plants evolved ability to actively control water-loss earlier than previously thought

Scientists have discovered that ferns can actively close their stomata in response to low humidity or the hormone ABA, similar to flowering plants. This finding confirms that the earliest land plants were able to control water loss through stomata, providing valuable insights into plant evolution and climate change adaptation.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Can a piece of sticky tape stop computer hackers in their tracks?

Researchers from University of Technology Sydney have developed new technology that integrates quantum sources and waveguides on chip using hexagonal boron nitride and adhesive tape. This innovation paves the way for future everyday use of quantum communications, improving online security and privacy.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalACS Photonics·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.

Cystic Fibrosis – Increasing numbers of patients benefit from improved treatment

A clinical trial has shown that a triple combination therapy consisting of elexacaftor, tezacaftor, and ivacaftor is safe and effective in cystic fibrosis patients with rare genetic defects. The treatment improves CFTR function, lung function, and quality of life in these patients.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 26, 2021

Engineers create double layer of borophene for first time

Researchers at Northwestern University have successfully created a double layer of atomically flat borophene, a feat that defies the natural tendency of boron to form non-planar clusters. The material maintains its electronic properties while offering new advantages, including potential applications in energy and chemical storage.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Corona masks protect but hide feelings

Researchers warn that face masks could worsen social communication among elderly and those with dementia, leading to accelerated cognitive decline. The study suggests transparent masks and explicit conversation methods as potential solutions.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 26, 2021

Researchers investigate the causes of kidney dysfunction in HFRS

Researchers at the University of Helsinki discovered a potential contributing mechanism to kidney dysfunction in acute hantavirus infection by investigating the body's response to the virus. Elevated levels of free light chains were found to be associated with kidney problems and may play a role in other infectious diseases.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalPLOS Pathogens·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.

Russian scientists have found a way to reduce the spread of COVID-19

Researchers from South Ural State University have conducted a CFD study to analyze droplet flows and determine effective barrier placement in enclosed areas. The approach allows for simulation of real classroom situations, enabling the establishment of strategies to minimize COVID-19 transmission.

SourceSouth Ural State University·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·DateAug 26, 2021

More efficient electricity distribution thanks to new insulation material

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new insulation material that can significantly improve the performance of high-voltage direct current cables. By adding a tiny amount of poly(3-hexylthiophene) to polyethylene, they were able to lower electrical conductivity by up to three times.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateAug 26, 2021

Extreme precipitation has increased significantly in arid Northwest China

Researchers found extreme precipitation events are the primary contributor to total precipitation in Northwest China. The region's westerly and plateau zones have seen a significant increase in EPE frequency and occurrence, starting earlier and lasting later. In contrast, monsoon regions of Southeast China experience opposite trends.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateAug 26, 2021

AI algorithm solves structural biology challenges

Researchers have developed an approach that predicts accurate structures computationally, overcoming the problem of determining molecular shapes. The algorithm succeeds even when learning from only a few known structures, making it applicable to difficult-to-determine molecules.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·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.

Study identifies nearly 600 genetic loci associated with anti-social behavior, alcohol use, opioid addiction and more

A genome-wide association study has identified 579 locations in the genome linked to self-regulation disorders, including addiction and child behavioral problems. The study found a significant genetic risk score that predicts various life outcomes, such as education levels, obesity, and opioid use disorder.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 26, 2021

Inflammatory proteins help better diagnose progression of Alzheimer’s disease

A Rutgers study found that testing for specific inflammatory proteins can help diagnose the earlier onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease. The researchers identified two proteins, TNFR1 and TREM2, which are associated with slower decline in early-stage Alzheimer's, while another protein is only useful once dementia sets in.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Ultrafast electron microscopy leads to pivotal discovery

Researchers used ultrafast electron microscopy to study gold nanoparticles on graphene, discovering an unusual phenomenon where the plasmonic field concentrates near the edge region. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of new sensors and quantum devices.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 26, 2021

Female hummingbirds avoid harassment by looking as flashy as males

Researchers found that over a quarter of female white-necked Jacobin hummingbirds exhibit showy colors similar to males, aiding in evasion of aggressive behaviors during feeding and mating. This study suggests that the display of flashy colors is driven by social selection rather than sexual selection.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 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.

Brain tissue inflammation is key to Alzheimer’s disease progression

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have found that brain tissue inflammation is a key driver of Alzheimer's disease progression. By targeting neuroinflammation, they believe combination therapy could be more effective in reducing amyloid plaque formation and limiting tau fiber spread.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 26, 2021

Maternal obesity linked to higher risk of colorectal cancer in adult offspring

Research at UTHealth School of Public Health in Houston found that infants born to obese mothers have a heightened risk of developing colorectal cancer later in life. The study also linked timing and magnitude of maternal weight gain during pregnancy, as well as birth weight, to increased risk of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalGut·DateAug 26, 2021

For copepods, there is no free lunch when coping with climate change

A team of scientists found that a species of copepod can adapt to climate change, but at a limited cost. The researchers observed declines in population fitness after exposure to ocean acidification, highlighting the complexities of predicting responses to combined stressors.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Cultural backlash: Is LGBTQ progress an attack on Christianity?

Studies reveal that zero-sum beliefs about Christianity and the LGBTQ community are most common among conservative Christians, shaped by Christian values and response to institutions. Researchers offer possible interventions to reduce such all-or-nothing beliefs.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateAug 26, 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.

Research reveals how subtle changes in a microRNA may lead to ALS

A new study from Salk Institute researchers found that a critical threshold of miR-218 levels determines the development of ALS in animal models. The study sheds light on the complex control of gene expression and its implications for treating neurological disorders.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Old habit-controlling neurons may also help the brain learn new tricks

Researchers discovered that a brain area traditionally thought to specialize in old habits also plays a role in learning new actions. The study found that the dorsolateral striatum is involved in consolidating action learning immediately after the new action has been learned.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·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.

JNCCN study reveals neuroendocrine tumor mortality patterns to inform treatment decisions

A population-based cohort study in Canada identified mortality patterns for different types of neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), revealing varying risks of cancer-related and non-cancer death. The study found that small NETs can be safely monitored, while larger tumors may require more aggressive treatment.

SourceNational Comprehensive Cancer Network·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 26, 2021

Restoring “chaperone” protein may prevent plaque build-up in Alzheimer’s

Researchers at Penn Medicine discovered that restoring DAXX protein levels can prevent the misfolding of proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease and certain cancers. This finding could lead to new targeted approaches for treating these diseases, including reducing neurodegeneration and tumor growth.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 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.

Qualitative fecal test: Empowering colorectal cancer screening

Researchers compared the accuracy of two types of fecal tests for detecting colorectal cancer, finding that both types are reliable when thresholds are adjusted. The study suggests that health providers should select the best type of test based on specific demands in screening settings.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 26, 2021

Some hummingbird females look like males to evade harassment

Research reveals nearly 20% of female White-necked Jacobin hummingbirds retain male-like plumage to avoid bullying and increase access to food. These birds visit feeders for about 35% longer than typical females, a significant advantage given their high metabolic rate.

SourceCornell University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2021

Probiotics prove effective in treating antibiotics-induced dysbiosis in mice

A study by Kazan Federal University found that probiotics administered to antibiotic-treated mice improved behavior, reduced oxidative stress, and restored gut microbiota diversity. The researchers demonstrated a strong link between the gut microbiota and brain functioning, with potential therapeutic benefits for treating dysbiosis-rel...

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalLife·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 26, 2021

Rehabilitation exercises improve knee health in osteoarthritis

A study published in Current Rheumatology Reviews found that rehabilitation exercises significantly improved functional strength and reduced weight in knee osteoarthritis patients. The researchers also noted an increase in exercise adherence among the rehabilitation group compared to the control group.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Rheumatology Reviews·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Allow "nonuse rights" to conserve natural resources

Researchers argue that current regulations limit environmental groups from conserving natural resources through market mechanisms. By introducing non-use rights, environmentalists can express their values in the marketplace, promoting more sustainable resource management.

SourceProperty and Environment Research Center·JournalScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 26, 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.

Cost of raising a child with rare genetic disorder significant but could be reduced by earlier diagnosis

A new study found that the economic burden of caring for children with rare genetic disorders such as Fragile X syndrome and Chromosome 15 imprinting disorders is significant. Earlier diagnosis and targeted interventions could reduce yearly costs by up to $734, depending on the child's intellectual functioning.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2021

New study: Heat stress in dairy cows damages health of calves

A new study found that heat stress in pregnant dairy cows reduces fetal growth and influences the performance and immune development of offspring. Calves born to heat-stressed cows have lower birth weights, organ weights, and higher rates of cell death, suggesting compromised placental and fetal development.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2021

Mild maternal infection promotes immunity and inflammation in offspring

A new study in mice reveals that mild maternal infections during pregnancy can promote enhanced immunity in offspring, but also increase susceptibility to inflammatory disorders. The research found that the mother's immune response to infection affected epigenetic changes in the fetal intestinal epithelium stem cells.

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

Discovery of two-phase superconductivity in CeRh2As2

The discovery of two-phase superconductivity in CeRh2As2 reveals the material has the highest critical magnetic field to transition temperature ratio of any known superconductor. Researchers found a clear transition between two different order parameters as the applied field is raised, leading to unique thermodynamic properties.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·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.

Ending prices with “.99” can backfire on sellers

A new study from Ohio State University found that pricing just below a round number can lead consumers to perceive a product as cheaper and less likely to upgrade. This threshold-crossing effect was observed in various experiments, including coffee stands and car purchases.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Development of Cd-Free Quantum Dot Synthesis Technology for overcoming the limitations of existing technology

Prof. Jong-Soo Lee's team creates green-emitting Cd-Free quantum dots with high color reproduction performance, suitable for HDR in ultra-high definition displays. The material has higher color purity and photostability than other luminescent materials.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

University of Kentucky study: Healthy dietary intake associated with lower brain iron, better cognition in older adults

A University of Kentucky study found that higher intake of specific nutrients is associated with lower brain iron concentration and better cognitive performance in older adults. The research team evaluated the relationship between nutritional intake, brain iron, and cognitive performance in a group of healthy, older adults.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Making waves in predicting aortic aneurysms and postpartum complications

A team of researchers is developing a smartphone-based device that can predict the size of aortic aneurysms and detect fluid overload in postpartum women. The device uses arterial waveforms, which can be easily recorded with a smartphone camera or smart scale, to provide a non-imaging solution for AA screening.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·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.

From couch to ultra-marathon – mental imagery technique can aid running challenge completion

A new study published in the Journal of Imagery Research in Sport and Physical Activity found that functional imagery training (FIT) significantly reinforced a person's motivation to complete a challenging goal. FIT, developed at the University of Plymouth, teaches people new ways of thinking about their immediate future to help them s...

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of Imagery Research in Sport and Physical Activity·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 26, 2021

Female hummingbirds look like males to avoid harassment

Researchers found that one-third of female hummingbirds resemble males, allowing them to feed without being attacked. This phenomenon suggests non-sexual social selection plays a role in the evolution of female ornamentation.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 26, 2021

Deleting DNA to treat mitochondrial diseases

Scientists at Kyoto University developed a chemical compound that can tag and remove mutant DNA sequences from mitochondria, potentially treating mitochondrial diseases. The approach overcomes existing problems with genetic material injection and antioxidant drugs.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateAug 26, 2021

It’s not just SARS-CoV-2: Most respiratory viruses spread by aerosols

A review finds that many respiratory viruses, including influenza and measles, spread through aerosol transmission, contradicting conventional wisdom. Implementing aerosol precautions and ensuring sufficient ventilation can protect against this route of transmission.

SourceNational Sun Yat-sen University·JournalScience·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 26, 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.

Growth-promoting, anti-aging retinal at the root of plant growth too

A new study reveals that retinoids trigger the development of plant lateral roots, which are regulated by a protein similar to those found in animal cells. This discovery showcases convergent evolution and opens up new avenues for understanding human development and finding medical treatments.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

How ocean temperature shapes marine biodiversity over geological time scales

A new study reveals a positive relationship between ocean temperature and increased species richness and functional redundancy in marine ecosystems. Over 40 million years, warmer waters harbored more species with similar functional roles, suggesting that climate change may bolster ecosystem resilience.

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

Altered Functional Brain Network Connectivity Associated with Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress in COVID-19 Survivors, Study Shows

A recent study found COVID-19 survivors exhibit abnormal patterns of brain connectivity associated with increased post-traumatic stress symptoms. The research team discovered three distinct states of functional connectivity in the brains of COVID-19 survivors, which are linked to symptom severity.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalNeurobiology of Stress·TypeData/statistical analysis·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.

Rapid measurement of vitamin concentration with nanopores

Scientists at the University of Groningen have created a nanopore system that can measure thiamine (vitamin B1) concentration in urine in under a minute. The system uses an engineered thiamine binding protein and can be adapted to measure other important molecules.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021