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Science News for December 17, 2021


Earthquake depth impacts potential tsunami threat

Researchers discovered a connection between earthquake characteristics and tsunami size, finding that shallow rupture can produce larger tsunamis. This study suggests reevaluating the use of earthquake magnitude in estimating tsunami threats.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 17, 2021

A more targeted therapy to treat inflammatory bowel disease

Researchers at UC Riverside have discovered that targeting the TNFR1 receptor may be a more effective approach to treating inflammatory bowel disease. By selectively blocking TNFR1, they found significant benefits in mice with Crohn's-like ileitis, suggesting this approach could offer a new opportunity for healing.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Crohn s and Colitis·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 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.

Testosterone drives the dark side of meerkat success

In meerkat societies, testosterone-driven aggression enables cooperative breeding by creating a hierarchy where subordinates help raise the matriarch's pups. Researchers found that matriarchs' high testosterone levels drive their aggressive behavior, which maintains group structure.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateDec 17, 2021

Major US electric utility companies may reduce power sector emissions by one-third, if they stick with their climate pledges

A recent study found that major US electric utility companies' voluntary climate pledges could lower net emissions by roughly 560 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent, an amount equal to one-third of 2018 US power sector emissions. This reduction is on top of existing policies and could play a vital role in climate change mitigation.

SourceCell Press·JournalOne Earth·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 17, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Gene mutation leads to epileptic encephalopathy symptoms, neuron death in mice

Researchers found that a genetic mutation associated with severe congenital epilepsy also leads to neural degeneration, inflammation and behavioral symptoms in mice. The study suggests the mutation as a potential target for treatment.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2021

Selective separation could help alleviate critical metals shortage

Researchers at MIT developed a selective separation process using sulfidation to target rare metals like cobalt in lithium-ion batteries. The approach reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional liquid-based separation methods.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateDec 17, 2021

Inequities in use of diabetes medications

A study of 1.1 million patients with type 2 diabetes found disparities in the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists by racial and ethnic groups, as well as by sex and socioeconomic status. The findings highlight concerns about unequal access to effective diabetes care.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateDec 17, 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.

Visuals increase attention; now science explains why

Researchers at UT Health San Antonio discovered that norepinephrine release in the visual cortex is tied to processing of imagery and cells' activation. This local regulation enhances sensory-specific attention and may represent a mechanism to enhance focus.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2021

Pioneering new technique to barcode cells

Scientists have developed a pioneering new technique to barcode individual cells more accurately and efficiently. The method combines artificial intelligence with microfluidics, allowing for real-time analysis of single cells and enabling the efficient sorting and counting of cells.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateDec 17, 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.

Well insured: Forests with many tree species grow more consistently

Research found that forests with diverse tree species exhibit higher growth stability and biomass production under fluctuating climate conditions. This is due to the diversity of species characteristics, such as asynchrony in growth patterns and drought-tolerance strategies, which counterbalance negative impacts of extreme weather events.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateDec 17, 2021

General anaesthesia impacts brain functioning less than other patient risk factors, data spanning 12 years suggests

A Dutch study of over 1,800 adults found that repeated general anaesthetics have little impact on long-term cognitive decline compared to patient factors such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, smoking, and educational level. Cognitive decline was more strongly linked to these factors than to the number of surgeries under general...

SourceThe European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC)·JournalEuropean Journal of Anaesthesiology·DateDec 17, 2021

AI points the way to better doctor-patient communication

Researchers analyzed hundreds of thousands of secure email messages between doctors and patients to find that most doctors use language too complex for their patients' low health literacy. Effective communication can improve patient outcomes by tailoring electronic messages to match the complexity of the patient's language.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 17, 2021

ETRI protects the safety of citizens with Visual AI

A Korean research team developed a technology for detecting humans lying on the road in real-time using Visual AI 'DeepView'. This technology can prevent safety accidents and respond promptly to emergencies. DeepView recognizes human behavior by analyzing detailed joint points and postures, increasing accuracy and detection time.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·DateDec 17, 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.

Lung cancer death decline associated with screening, earlier diagnosis, and surgery

A recent study found that a substantial decline in lung cancer deaths is associated with earlier diagnosis of lung cancer through increased screening via computed tomography (CT) and follow-up scans. This approach can lead to surgical interventions, which can often be curative for precancerous nodules.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 17, 2021

A novel model helps to tell risk of high blood pressure in early stage

Researchers from Hefei Institutes of Physical Science developed a novel model to assess hypertension risk based on simple risk factors. The model achieved an AUC of 0.92, outperforming traditional methods, and identified top risk factors including Body Mass Index, age, and family history.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateDec 17, 2021

h-BN/NiS2/NiS nanocatalysts for removing rhodamine B and Cr(VI) in wastewater

The h-BN/NiS2/NiS nanocatalyst exhibits high photocatalytic performance for removing Cr(VI) and rhodamine B from wastewater, with a synergistic effect enhancing its activity and stability. The composite material displays uniform dispersion of NiS2/NiS nanocrystals, increased specific surface area, and enhanced light absorption.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Chemical Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2021

Unfolding the blindness proteins through fly eyes

Scientists have identified a crucial mechanism for Rhodopsin production in fruit flies, which may lead to a better understanding of retinitis pigmentosa and vision loss. The study reveals that the EMC protein complex is essential for the proper folding and insertion of Xport-A, a key chaperone of Rhodopsin.

SourceInstituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier da Universidade NOVA de Lisboa ITQB NOVA·JournalEMBO Reports·DateDec 17, 2021

How populists’ election results lead to far-right demonstrations

A study by Dr. Felix Hagemeister found a significant link between right-wing populist party victories and an increase in far-right protests, particularly in areas with relatively liberal attitudes.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalEuropean Journal of Political Economy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 17, 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.

Mirror-image peptides form ‘rippled sheet’ structure predicted in 1953

A team of researchers at UC Santa Cruz has created an unusual protein structure known as a ‘rippled beta sheet’ by mixing mirror-image peptides. The study used x-ray crystallography to obtain images of the structure, which closely matches predictions made in 1953 by Linus Pauling and Robert Corey.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2021

Archaeology: The smoke that lingers

Researchers found evidence of lignite smoke inhalation in Bronze Age dental calculus, revealing its early use in kilns. This discovery suggests the Mycenaean Greeks produced high-quality ceramic vessels and bronzes on an industrial scale, with systematic lignite use enabling mass production.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 17, 2021

After thousands of years, an iconic whale confronts a new enemy

A recent study reveals that narwhals are highly affected by noise pollution from ships and seismic airgun pulses, triggering stress and altering their behavior. Researchers hope that better management of noise pollution will protect these unique Arctic animals.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalBiology Letters·DateDec 17, 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.

Perovskite solar cell with ultra-long stability

Researchers from Forschungszentrum Jülich have developed a perovskite solar cell with exceptional stability, retaining 99% of its initial efficiency after 1450 hours of operation. The new design features a double-layer polymer structure that protects the contact point and ensures stable conductivity.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2021

Pain and anxiety impact breathing on a cellular level

A Salk Institute team has uncovered a neural network in the brain that connects breathing rhythm with feelings of pain and fear. This discovery could lead to the development of an analgesic that prevents opioid-induced respiratory depression, a major cause of overdose deaths.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNeuron·DateDec 17, 2021

Professor Li Faxin’s group develops world's first DMA for hard materials

The Li Faxin Research Group at Peking University has developed the world's first dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA) suitable for hard materials. This instrument measures Young's modulus, shear modulus, and internal friction under variable temperature conditions, offering accurate and quick analysis of material properties.

SourcePeking University·JournalScripta Materialia·DateDec 17, 2021

Redrawing the lines: Growing inexpensive, high-quality iron-based superconductors

Researchers at Nagoya University developed a scalable method to produce high-temperature superconductors with artificial pinning centers, improving their properties. The technique, known as grain boundary engineering, can help develop stronger, inexpensive, and high operating temperature superconductors.

SourceNagoya University·JournalNPG Asia Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 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.

New autism marker discovered in kids

Scientists have discovered a brain protein, CNTNAP2, that quiets overactive brain cells and is at abnormally low levels in children with autism. The protein can be detected in cerebrospinal fluid, making it a potential biomarker for diagnosing autism and treating epilepsy.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2021

Sauropod dinosaurs were restricted to warmer regions of Earth

Sauropod dinosaurs were restricted to warmer, drier habitats than other dinosaur types, which could thrive in Earth's polar regions. The researchers found that sauropods' range was more limited during colder periods, suggesting a unique physiology closer to being 'cold-blooded'.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 17, 2021

Physicians over-relying on a commonly used laboratory test can miss liver cirrhosis

Research from MUSC suggests that physicians should be cautious when using laboratory tests to diagnose alcoholic cirrhosis due to false negative results. Patients with advanced liver disease often show subtle signs and symptoms in the early stages of cirrhosis.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalThe American Journal of the Medical Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateDec 17, 2021

Rollercoaster of emotions: Exploring emotions with virtual reality

A recent study at the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences used virtual reality to simulate emotionally engaging situations, allowing researchers to measure brain activity and find a correlation between alpha oscillations and emotional arousal. This discovery has implications for psychological therapy and treatment.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2021
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.

Research breakthrough could see HIV drugs used to treat low-grade brain tumours

Researchers have discovered that HIV drugs may be effective in treating low-grade brain tumours, specifically meningioma and acoustic neuroma. High levels of HERV-K proteins were found to stimulate the growth of these tumours, and targeted drugs have been identified to reduce their growth.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalCancer Research·TypeObservational study·DateDec 17, 2021

Unveiling substructures at the edge of the Galaxy

An international team of astronomers has created a new map of the Milky Way's outer disc, showing remains of tidal arms excited from interactions with satellite galaxies in the distant past. The map reveals numerous previously unknown filamentary structures at the edge of the disc.

SourceKavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateDec 17, 2021

Ocean acidification and warming disrupts fish shoals

Researchers found that ocean acidification and global warming alter fish behavior in groups, affecting their ability to acquire food and evade predators. This disruption could lead to species extinction as tropical fish struggle in new temperate areas.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateDec 17, 2021

In need of new reproductive cells? This marine worm shows a way

Researchers have discovered that marine worms must develop a certain number of body segments before forming their original reproductive cells. This finding could have major implications for human stem-cell research and infertility treatments.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalJournal of Experimental Zoology Part B Molecular and Developmental Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 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.

In last 15 years, deforestation made outdoor work unsafe for millions

Researchers estimate that people living in deforested locations have lost nearly 5 million hours of safe work time due to increased local temperatures, with at least 2.8 million people affected by heavy physical labor. Deforestation accelerates heat exposure and increases the risk of heat-related illnesses.

SourceCell Press·JournalOne Earth·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 17, 2021

Understanding cobalt’s human cost

Researchers studying cobalt mining in the DRC found associations with violence, substance abuse, and health challenges. The study highlights the need for social life cycle assessments to understand emerging technologies' impact on human well-being.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalOne Earth·TypeCase study·DateDec 17, 2021

California spotted owls benefit from forest restoration

Forest restoration reduces severe fire risk by half, safeguarding California spotted owl habitats. This study suggests that targeted forest management can mitigate climate change impacts on species conservation.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Rocky Mountain Research Station·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 17, 2021

Voluntary pledges could cut utility GHG emissions by a third

A study analyzing major US electric utility pledges suggests that if implemented, these reductions could lower power sector emissions by 30% by 2050. However, about one-seventh of the pledged cuts are redundant and would be required under existing state regulations.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalOne Earth·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 17, 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.

Smooth hydrophobic coatings may be more effective for aircraft de-icing

The study found that plate wettability had no impact on the performance of anti-icing fluids, contradicting previous research. Smooth hydrophobic coatings were shown to prevent ice accretion and reduce water adhesion.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalInternational Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer·DateDec 17, 2021

Loneliness among emerging adults increased slightly

A recent study found that loneliness among emerging adults (18-29 years old) has increased by about 0.56 standard deviations on the UCLA Loneliness Scale over a 43-year period. This slight increase is considered a warning signal for the need to design prevention and intervention measures against loneliness.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPsychological Bulletin·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 17, 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.

Using ergonomics to reduce pain from technology use

A Texas A&M University study suggests that ergonomic interventions can reduce pain from technology use, particularly among college students. The researchers found that posture and stress are key factors in pain reporting, rather than device type.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalBMC Public Health·TypeNews article·DateDec 17, 2021

Forests with rich tree species grow more consistently

Researchers found that species-rich forests produce more wood and are less affected by extreme weather conditions. The main reason for this stability is the diversity of functional characteristics among tree species, which helps counterbalance fluctuations in climate.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2021

Production of electricity on the Moon is in the hands of Estonians

Researchers at TalTech in Estonia have developed monograin layer solar cell technology that can be used to generate electricity on the Moon. The technology uses pyrite, a mineral found in lunar regolith, and has the potential to provide sustainable power for future lunar outposts.

SourceEstonian Research Council·TypeNews article·DateDec 17, 2021

An element of surprise is the recipe for creating false memories

A team of researchers at Duke University found that surprise can disrupt the stability of patterns in the hippocampus, leading to more false memories. This study has implications for understanding learning and memory, as well as how people recall events and faces.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 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.

Using sparse data to predict lab quakes

A Los Alamos National Laboratory team uses transfer learning to predict fault slip in laboratory earthquakes from limited field observations. The approach shows promise for predicting fault-slip behavior and possibly earthquakes in the field.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 17, 2021

Limited brain capacity in humans and birds

Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum investigated bird brains to understand working memory limitations. They found that birds and monkeys share the same central mechanisms and limits of working memory, with a capacity of about four items of information simultaneously.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournaleLife·DateDec 17, 2021

Controlling the metabolism of cancer cells

Researchers at Leipzig University have discovered that cancer cells need the succinate receptor to control their metabolic rate. The receptor is found on the surface of various types of tumors and plays a crucial role in the survival of cancer cells.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalCancer Letters·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 17, 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.

Heart disease-protective diabetes drug not used equitably, study finds

A recent study found significant inequities in the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA), a medication typically used for treating diabetes, among different racial and ethnic groups. The study, published in JAMA Health Forum, showed that Black patients were 19% less likely to have a GLP-1 RA prescription compared to white patients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateDec 17, 2021

Voice technology for the rest of the world

A team of Harvard researchers has created a diverse multilingual speech dataset that spans languages spoken by over 5 billion people. The Multilingual Spoken Words Corpus offers a vast pool of keywords and audio examples for voice-enabled applications, enabling broader global access to voice technology.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·DateDec 17, 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.

The inaugural WHO classification of childhood tumors will provide a unified, updated resource for the diagnosis of pediatric cancers

The inaugural WHO classification of childhood tumors presents a single, updated compendium of all tumor entities in childhood or adolescence, divided by organ sites. This classification incorporates traditional morphology, immunohistochemistry, and molecular characteristics to provide essential criteria for definition of tumor types.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Discovery·DateDec 17, 2021

Science snapshots from Berkeley Lab

Researchers have created a new approach to edit genes within specific bacteria in a community using CRISPR-Cas9, enabling targeted genetic modifications. This technology could be used to track edited microbes and potentially treat diseases like digestive issues or create more resilient crops.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2021

Meta-analysis of two types of molecular stresses reveals common factors

Researchers from Hiroshima University analyzed 839 collections of genetic material to identify common features of oxidative stress. They found two genes, CRIP1 and CRIP3, downregulated during oxidative stress, suggesting a relationship with zinc homeostasis. The study also identified shared biological processes between the two types of...

SourceHiroshima University·JournalBiomedicines·DateDec 17, 2021
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.

First genome-wide ancient human DNA from Sudan shines new light on Nile Valley past

The study of 66 individuals from Kulubnarti, Sudan, reveals that people lived during a period of cultural and social change without strong relationships between social status and biological relatedness. Genetic analysis also shows that some second-degree relatives were buried across the cemetery divide, indicating fluidity among groups.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 17, 2021

Magnetic ‘hedgehogs’ could store big data in a small space

Researchers at Ohio State University discovered a new zoo of magnetic patterns that can store big data in a small space, using a material called manganese germanide. The discovery could lead to next-generation data storage with increased energy efficiency.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience·DateDec 17, 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.

Critically ill COVID-19 patients with acute kidney injury more likely to die than those with pre-existing chronic kidney disease

A new study presented at Euroanaesthesia found that critically ill COVID-19 patients with acute kidney injury are more likely to die in the ICU than those with pre-existing chronic kidney disease. The study also showed that dialysis treatment has little impact on survival rates for these patients.

SourceThe European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC)·JournalEuropean Journal of Anaesthesiology·DateDec 17, 2021

Parents underestimate teens’ social media use during pandemic

A new study found significant discrepancies in estimates of social media use among teenagers and their parents, with parents underestimating the time spent on social media. The study also found larger discrepancies in families of color, single parents, and low-income families.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAcademic Pediatrics·TypeSurvey·DateDec 17, 2021