Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive December 2021


Page 13 of 33

Molecular switch for addiction behavior

A research team at Heidelberg University and Paris discovered a protein called Npas4 that regulates the structure and function of nerve cells controlling addiction behavior. Reducing Npas4 levels led to weaker responses to cocaine in mice, suggesting a biological basis for addiction.

Using the Earth’s noise to see beneath the Greenland ice sheet

Researchers used Rayleigh waves to produce high-resolution images of the rocks underneath the ice sheet, identifying key factors controlling ice flow. The study provides a better understanding of processes contributing to accelerated ice discharge into the ocean and sea level rise.

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Human cost of COVID travel restrictions revealed in new study

A new study reveals the high human costs of COVID travel restrictions, affecting migrants, families, and international students with prolonged separation across geographical distances. The research highlights intensified experiences of foreignness, non-belonging, and precariousness, as well as threats to livelihoods and wellbeing.

Nursery rhymes can help teach the importance of safe play

Expert Declan Patton analyzes seven nursery rhymes to teach the importance of safe play and occupational hazards in preventing head injuries. The study highlights the role of biomechanics, impact surfaces, and protective equipment in reducing skull fractures.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Factors that determine the success of crowdfunding campaigns

A study of over 4,000 Brazilian crowdfunding campaigns found that cities with higher income inequality led to successful campaigns, while diverse rewards and lower fundraising targets improved outcomes. Researchers also developed an algorithm to predict campaign success using artificial intelligence.

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.

New liquid biopsy detects local immune activity

A new blood test developed at Hebrew University of Jerusalem detects immune and inflammatory activity in tissues by monitoring circulating DNA fragments. This method provides accurate information about immune processes in remote tissues, removing the need for invasive measures.

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.

Breakthrough in using CRISPR-Cas9 to target fat cells

Scientists have developed a new method using CRISPR-Cas9 to target specific fat cells, reducing the time and cost of genetic discovery in obesity research. The technique allows researchers to study genes in brown adipose tissue, which plays a crucial role in regulating body temperature.

Metal-organic-frameworks effectively treat H2O2-secreting bacteria

Researchers developed a new metal-organic framework treatment that effectively eliminates H2O2-secreting bacteria, alleviating pulmonary injury and preventing systemic sepsis. The treatment, nFMs@Amp, uses Fe3+-doped metal organic frameworks loaded with antibiotic ampicillin to target and kill the bacteria.

Making apple spirits taste better

Measuring apple liquors' conductivity can provide a more objective assessment of their processing, allowing for better flavor quality. The study found that monitoring conductivity during distillation can identify the best conditions for producing high-quality apple spirits.

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.

Double trouble for corals

Researchers found that marine heatwaves kill the largest and youngest coral colonies, raising concerns about reef reproductive future. The study suggests that heatwaves could restructure coral size distribution on reefs.

Study shows how HIV copies itself in the body

Researchers discovered that HIV chooses its viral RNA genome based on a two-nucleotide difference, which could be targeted by new drugs. This finding has implications for future HIV treatments and is an important scientific step towards understanding the virus's replication process.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Meltwater influences ecosystems in the Arctic Ocean

Freshwater from melting sea ice delays carbon absorption and storage in the Arctic Ocean. The study found that four months of organic carbon production were trapped above 50 meters, with more nutrients and biomass reaching the ocean floor.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Meditation affects people in different ways

A study published in PLOS ONE found that meditation can affect individuals in distinct ways, with experienced meditators exhibiting different physiological responses. While some practitioners displayed signs of relaxation, others showed mental concentration, highlighting the need for tailored approaches to assisted meditation.

E-waste recycling emits emerging synthetic antioxidants

Researchers detected emerging synthetic antioxidants in e-waste recycling dust, including hindered phenol and sulfur antioxidants. The study highlights the need for further research on their environmental behaviors and toxicities.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New tool models fairer electricity trade

Researchers propose a new model for electricity trade that balances economic interests and considers the stability of economic ties. The model suggests ways to improve cooperation between nations and prioritize transit country interests.

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.

Uncovered: Key to how exercise protects against consequences of ageing

Researchers from Monash University have discovered an enzyme called NOX-4 that enhances insulin responsiveness and promotes metabolic health. This discovery has opened up the possibility of developing drugs to target this enzyme and protect against age-related diseases like type 2 diabetes.

Experts offer a potted guide to the hazards of festive foliage

Christmas trees and ivy are generally safe, but holly's berries contain saponins that can cause stomach upset. Pears and mistletoe should also be avoided due to cyanide and viscotoxin content. Safe options include cyclamen species, Christmas Cactus, and poinsettia.

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.

Seagrass is not a miracle solution against climate change

Tropical seagrass meadows may not be as effective in absorbing carbon dioxide as previously believed. According to a new study, some of these ecosystems actually release more CO2 into the atmosphere than they store. This finding is significant for accurately calculating their climate protection potential.

A smart livestock farming solution

A team of researchers from the University of Groningen developed an AI-based system that can identify individual Holstein cows in a milking station based on their coat pattern. The system achieved a recognition rate of 99.7% and has several advantages, including non-invasiveness, cost-effectiveness, and scalability.

Gene therapy advance could reverse a common genetic cause of hearing loss

A novel gene delivery technique has successfully restored hearing in mice with a mutated STRC gene, which is the second most common genetic cause of hearing loss. The approach could be used to deliver other large genes and may provide a broad window of opportunity for treatment from babies to adults.

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.

Effective combination cancer treatment

Researchers at the Paul Scherrer Institute have discovered a combination of rapamycin and a radiopharmaceutical that can effectively inhibit tumour growth, improving treatment outcomes for medullary thyroid cancer. The new therapy uses mini-gastrin coupled with lutetium-177 to target cancer cells more efficiently.

Illegal gold mining continues to harm Amazon ecosystem

A major intervention against illegal river gold mining in Peru's Madre de Dios region was only partially effective, with mining activity continuing in surrounding areas. The operation halted environmental degradation in some protected zones but led to a rapid increase in mining outside the targeted zone.

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.

Scientists create stable materials for more efficient solar cells

Researchers developed a new process to produce stable formamidinium perovskite (FAPbI3) materials, which can be used to make more efficient and stable solar cells. The novel approach uses lower temperatures and eliminates additives, making it suitable for large-scale production and flexible solar cell applications.

Study of Antarctic ice’s deep past shows it could be more vulnerable to warming

A new study led by Imperial College London scientists has found that the West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS) was larger than previously thought during colder periods in the Miocene, contributing significantly to sea-level rise events millions of years ago. This insight will help researchers predict the future of the WAIS as the world warms.

‘Forever chemicals’ latch onto sea spray to become airborne

A field study found that sea spray aerosols contain pollutants like perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs), potentially harmful compounds known as "forever chemicals". The researchers estimated global emissions of PFAAs from oceans to air could be up to 756 U.S. tons annually.

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.

Daylight causes road damage

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have discovered that visible light, particularly in the blue and green range, accelerates the oxidation of bitumen, leading to cracking and damage to asphalt. This unexpected finding highlights the importance of considering solar radiation in estimates for road durability.