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Science News Archive December 2021


Page 1 of 33

Natural feedback or human activities? A new study points to agricultural and industrial sources as the main cause to the soaring atmospheric methane

A new study confirms that emissions from anthropogenic sources, including agriculture, landfill/waste, and fossil fuel industry, are the driver for the renewed rise of potent greenhouse gas since 2007. Global wetlands play a minor role with less than 20% contribution to atmospheric methane.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateDec 31, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Direct/indirect effects of aerosols and their separate contributions to a tropical cyclone approaching the continent: Eyewall versus peripheral rainbands

Researchers found that aerosols had a significant impact on tropical cyclone TC Lupit as it approached the Asian continent. Direct aerosol-radiation interactions (ARI) weakened convection in the eyewall, while indirect aerosol-cloud interactions (ACI) enhanced convection and intensified the typhoon.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateDec 31, 2021

Non-Einsteinian gravitational wave background in NANOGrav 12.5-year data set

Researchers detected strong Bayesian evidence for a spatially correlated process with scalar transverse correlations, suggesting an alternative theory of gravity beyond Einstein's general relativity. The study uses the North American Nanohertz Observatory for Gravitational Waves' 12.5-year data set.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Physics Mechanics and Astronomy·DateDec 31, 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.

Changes in calorie content of menu items after calorie labels mandate

Researchers evaluated changes in calorie content at 59 large restaurant chains before and after implementing mandatory menu labels. After label implementation, restaurants reduced average calorie per item by 11%. The study aimed to understand the impact of labeling on menu nutrition.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 30, 2021

UCSF-led study uncovers unique stem cell trajectory in lungs damaged by COVID-19 and pulmonary fibrosis

Researchers discovered that human lung stem cells can undergo abnormal differentiation in response to injury from diseases like COVID-19 and pulmonary fibrosis. This aberrant process prevents the restoration of normal lung function, but the study also identified a potential therapeutic target for reversing damage.

SourceUniversity of California San Francisco Medical Center·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 30, 2021

Possible chemical leftovers from early Earth sit near the core

New research suggests that ultra-low velocity zones in the deep mantle may be regions made of different rocks than the rest of the mantle, with compositions potentially linked to the early Earth. The study's findings imply the presence of layered structures within these zones, shedding light on their origin and evolution.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 30, 2021

From the past to the present: How do irregular oceans close? How do curved orogenic belts develop?

Researchers propose a new plate tectonic model explaining the closure of irregular oceans and formation of curved orogenic belts through rollback subduction and rotation of convergent blocks. The study provides critical constraints on the Central Asian Orogenic Belt using digital mapping and giant 'tightly folded' magmatic belts.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateDec 30, 2021

Reasons for missing medical care during pandemic

A survey study investigated the prevalence of missing medical care among Medicare beneficiaries during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study found that the gap in healthcare access has persisted and worsened over time, highlighting ongoing concerns about social determinants of health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateDec 30, 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.

‘Cryobioprinting’ serves up towers of frozen cells

Researchers have developed a technique called cryobioprinting that combines bioprinting with cryopreservation to create frozen, complex structures. The technology allows for the fabrication of anisotropic tissues with microscale pores aligned in specific directions, opening up new possibilities for muscular tissue engineering and beyond.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 30, 2021

Leveraging space to advance stem cell science and medicine

Researchers at Cedars-Sinai have identified opportunities to use microgravity in space for large-scale stem cell production, disease modeling, and biofabrication. This could lead to breakthroughs in regenerative medicine and the development of new treatments.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateDec 30, 2021

Charité experts support Colombian SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic efforts

Experts from Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin will deliver SARS-CoV-2 tests and train laboratory staff to monitor the Mu variant, which has spread widely throughout Colombia. The team will also support local authorities with antibody testing and knowledge transfer to inform pandemic control decisions.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·DateDec 30, 2021

High-resolution lab experiments show how cells ‘eat’

A new study published in Developmental Cell reveals the mechanism of membrane curvature that allows cells to form pockets to capture substances. The researchers used high-resolution fluorescence imaging to watch these pockets form within live cells, providing a clearer understanding of how cells 'eat' and consume substances.

SourceOhio State University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateDec 30, 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.

The tallest Begonia species in all Asia found in Tibet, China

The newly discovered Begonia giganticaulis, a type of plant genus Begonia, has been found to be the tallest species in Asia, reaching heights of up to 3.6 meters. Its conservation status is currently listed as Endangered due to its fragmentary distribution in southern Tibet.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalPhytoKeys·DateDec 30, 2021

Cancer deaths rose to 10 million worldwide in 2019

The study found that cancer was the second leading cause of death globally in 2019, accounting for 10 million deaths and 23 million new cases. Despite increases in absolute burden, global age-standardized mortality and incidence rates decreased by 5.9% and 1.1%, respectively.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 30, 2021

Russian scientists named biomarkers of a long-lasting PTSD

Researchers at South Ural State University have identified biomarkers for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans with long-lasting symptoms. Gamma-aminobutyric acid levels were found to be the most sensitive indicator, differing from reference values even years after traumatic events.

SourceSouth Ural State University·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Research·DateDec 30, 2021

Sloan Kettering Institute Scientists retool CAR T cells to serve as ‘micropharmacies’ for cancer drugs

Researchers have developed SEAKER cells, which combine target-seeking power with the ability to locally generate potent anticancer drug for double effect. The cells use an enzyme to release active prodrug at tumor site, killing both cancer cells and those nearby that do not contain the marker.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 30, 2021

Head impacts, cognitive, behavioral outcomes in youth tackle football

A study of 70 youth tackle football players aged 9-12 over four seasons found a significant association between head impacts and cognitive and behavioral outcomes. The research suggests that repeated head impacts in youth tackle football may lead to long-term consequences for young athletes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 30, 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.

Association of gestational weight gain with infant illness, death

A large US-based study found that optimal gestational weight gain ranges associated with lower infant illness and death risks exist for different maternal weight categories. The study used birth data to identify these ranges and provide insights into the relationship between maternal weight gain and infant health outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 30, 2021

Comparing response to radiation therapy for prostate cancer in Black, White men

The study combined seven randomized clinical trials with 8,000 patients to compare overall and treatment-specific outcomes of Black and white men with localized prostate cancer who received radiation therapy. The results showed that there were significant racial disparities in response to radiation therapy for prostate cancer.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 29, 2021

Safer carbon capture and storage

Researchers from the University of Oxford investigated the behavior of CO2 within a depleted hydrocarbon reservoir in Louisiana, USA. They found that up to 74% of CO2 was dissolved in groundwater, while microbial methanogenesis converted 13-19% of the injected CO2 to methane.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 29, 2021

COVID-19 can trigger self-attacking antibodies

Researchers found that people infected with COVID-19 develop a wide variety of autoantibodies up to six months after recovery, and these autoantibodies persist over time. The study suggests that understanding these autoantibody responses could help identify ways to treat and prevent long-term symptoms.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJournal of Translational Medicine·DateDec 29, 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.

Easy-to-take medicine better at suppressing HIV in children

A global trial led by UCL found that a dolutegravir-based regimen reduced treatment failure among young people aged three to 18 by around 40% compared to standard treatments. The study also showed better growth and lipid profiles in children receiving dolutegravir, making it an effective option for treating HIV in children.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 29, 2021

Association of weight loss surgery with severity of COVID-19

A study of nearly 12,000 obese patients found that substantial weight loss achieved through weight loss surgery was associated with improved outcomes after contracting COVID-19, including lower risk of severe disease. The results suggest that weight loss surgery may help mitigate the severity of COVID-19 in individuals with obesity.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateDec 29, 2021

Intestine ‘organoid’ grown in lab to see why bats live with viruses but don’t get sick

Scientists have grown rousette bat 'organoids' that reproduce intestines in vitro, providing a new model for studying virus-bat relationships. The organoids were found to be susceptible to certain viruses but not others, offering insights into why bats can host multiple pathogens without getting sick.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateDec 29, 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.

Healthy diet in early pregnancy reduces risk of gestational diabetes

A study conducted at the University of Turku found that following a healthy diet in early pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of developing gestational diabetes. The research revealed that a diet high in saturated fats and low in essential nutrients increases inflammation and raises the risk of gestational diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalEuropean Journal of Nutrition·DateDec 29, 2021

Study: Although they tend to be diagnosed with higher-risk prostate cancer, Black men undergoing radiation therapy have better outcomes than white men

A meta-analysis of seven randomized trials found that Black men with localized prostate cancer had lower recurrence, metastasis, and mortality rates compared to white men. The study challenges the common belief that Black men with prostate cancer have a worse prognosis.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 29, 2021

CNIO researchers shed light on the maturation of spliceosome, a cellular process involved in certain types of cancer

Researchers have shed light on the role of RUVBL1 and RUVBL2 proteins in the assembly and maturation of the spliceosome, a complex involved in cell splicing and alternative splicing. The study provides insights into the mechanisms responsible for the maturation of the splicing machinery.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 29, 2021

Substantial weight loss can reduce risk of severe COVID-19 complications

A Cleveland Clinic study found that prior weight loss achieved with bariatric surgery was associated with a 60% lower risk of developing severe COVID-19. Patients who underwent weight-loss surgery had better clinical outcomes, including reduced hospitalization and need for supplemental oxygen.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateDec 29, 2021

Orphanhood declines with rise in HIV antiretroviral therapy and male circumcision

Research found marked decreases in orphanhood, especially double orphanhood, among adolescents in Rakai, Uganda, corresponding with the rise of antiretroviral therapy and male medical circumcision. The study suggests that HIV combination prevention reduces mortality among adults and orphanhood among their adolescent children.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet HIV·DateDec 29, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Immune system can detect disease during pregnancy

Researchers have discovered a pattern of immune activity in normal pregnancies that can detect abnormalities and predict complications. The study found elevated immune activation in the first three months, followed by a calmer phase, and higher activity in the last three months, especially when childbirth is imminent.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 28, 2021

Scientists find ways to help perovskite solar cell "self-healing"

Researchers have successfully developed a type of self-healing perovskite solar cell by functional combination of PVP, which controls crystal growth and endows devices with self-healing ability in a moisture environment. The introduction of PVP also improves crystal growth with fewer defects and larger grains.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateDec 28, 2021

Scientists invent lead-free composite shielding material for neutron and gamma-ray

Researchers from Hefei Institutes of Physical Science have developed a lead-free composite shielding material with high shielding properties. The modified-gadolinium oxide/boron carbide/high density polyethylene composite shows excellent performance in shielding both neutrons and gamma rays.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNuclear Materials and Energy·DateDec 28, 2021

Microglial methylation “landscape” in human brain

A new study reveals distinct DNA methylation profiles of human microglia cells across different age groups, disease states, and brain regions. The researchers found that interindividual differences in methylation variability had a larger impact than regional or diagnostic differences.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 28, 2021

Association of e-cigarette use with quitting smoking

Researchers found that e-cigarette use is associated with higher rates of smoking cessation among smokers who were initially not planning to quit. The study suggests that e-cigarettes may be a viable tool for helping smokers quit tobacco products.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 28, 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.

Autism can be identified as early as the first year of life

Researchers found that infants with autism symptoms can show significant improvement in just a few months through targeted therapeutic interventions. The studies suggest that bridging the gap between early detection and intervention may significantly reduce the severity of lifelong developmental deviation.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalInternational Journal of Pediatrics & Neonatal Care·DateDec 28, 2021

Scientists from CNIO and Massachusetts General Hospital develop tools to visualize DNA repair as never before

Scientists from CNIO and Massachusetts General Hospital have developed new approaches to visualize DNA repair by analyzing hundreds of proteins at once. They discovered nine new proteins involved in DNA repair and identified key players in the process, which could lead to improved cancer treatments.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 28, 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.

Survival odds higher for breast cancer patients with access to integrative therapies

A new study published in the Journal of Oncology found that breast cancer patients treated at hospitals and health systems with integrative health services have a better chance of survival. These services include complementary and lifestyle therapies, such as nutrition and exercise counseling, in addition to medical cancer treatments.

SourceThe Reis Group·JournalJournal of Oncology·DateDec 28, 2021

New inoculation method can protect soybeans against devastating leaf blight

A new inoculation method can identify resistance against one of the CLB pathogens, allowing breeders to select candidates for genetic material against the disease. This method uses detached leaflets for inoculation and offers an advantage in small experimental designs, enabling screening of soybean genetic materials.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytoFrontiers™·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 28, 2021

Screen use, mental health symptoms in children during pandemic

A recent study by Xuedi Li and colleagues found that excessive screen time was associated with increased symptoms of depression, anxiety, and hyperactivity in children during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research suggests that parents should monitor their child's screen use to mitigate potential mental health effects.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 28, 2021

Scientists digitally ‘unwrap’ mummy of pharaoh Amenhotep I for the first time in 3,000 years

Researchers from Egypt used 3D CT scanning to 'digitally unwrap' the mummy of Pharaoh Amenhotep I, dispelling a theory that 21st dynasty restorers reused old royal burial equipment. The study revealed that the priests lovingly repaired injuries inflicted by tomb robbers and preserved the pharaoh's jewelry and amulets.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 28, 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.

HSE biologists prepare strategy for universal COVID test

Researchers have created a cheap and rapid COVID-19 test using isothermal amplification, making it possible to detect any COVID-19 variants. The new system combines existing LAMP technology with novel coronavirus genome markers, allowing for quick detection without specialized equipment.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalApplied Biochemistry and Microbiology·DateDec 28, 2021

Nits on ancient mummies shed light on South American ancestry

Scientists have developed a new technique to extract DNA from the 'cement' head lice that attached eggs to hairs of ancient humans. This method reveals clues about pre-Columbian human migration patterns in South America, allowing for the study of unique samples from mummified remains where bone and tooth samples are unavailable.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 28, 2021

Study shows how ovarian cancer starts in high-risk women

Researchers have discovered that ovarian cancer begins with cancerous lesions in the fallopian tube linings of women with BRCA-1 mutations. The study's findings hold promise for predicting which women will develop ovarian cancer years or decades in advance, allowing for early detection and prevention strategies.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 28, 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.

Challenging ‘rule breakers’ – children will confront their peers, but how they do so varies across cultures

A new study reveals that children globally will confront peers when rules are broken, but their approach differs across cultures. Children from rural areas tend to use verbal protests more than urban kids, who may rely on indirect methods like reputation to enforce compliance.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateDec 27, 2021

Penn Medicine awarded $14 million NIH grant to apply CAR T immunotherapies to match more patients in need of kidney transplants

A clinical trial will harness synthetic chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells to deplete immune B cells and plasma cells producing donor-specific antibodies, aiming to achieve a compatible kidney match for patients with pre-existing antibodies. The NIH-funded study, led by Penn Medicine, intends to begin enrolling patients in 2022.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateDec 27, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.