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Science News Archive December 2021 - Page 10


Page 10 of 33

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
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.

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

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
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.

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
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.

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

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
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.

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

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
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.

Seed microorganisms override soil microorganisms when colonizing plants

Researchers found that seed microorganisms have more staying power than soil microorganisms when colonizing plants. The study suggests that modifying the seed microbiome could lead to more sustainable agriculture and increased crop yields and quality.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2021

Here’s the beef: More protein, calories and fat in meat burgers

A University of Massachusetts Amherst analysis found that packaged beef burgers contain more calories, protein, and fat than imitation and veggie burgers. Veggie burgers, on the other hand, are lower in fat and higher in vitamin A and C.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalInternational Journal of Food Science and Nutrition·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 16, 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.

Muslim comedy tackles popular misconceptions using humor and empathy, new Concordia research shows

A new study by Concordia PhD student Lamiae Aidi examines how Muslim stand-up comedians use incongruity, performativity, and everydayness to demystify their community. By sharing personal experiences and poking fun at stereotypes, these comedians aim to create awareness around problems of discrimination and misunderstandings.

SourceConcordia University·JournalReligions·TypeContent analysis·DateDec 16, 2021

New imaging technique for early detection of blood trauma

A new imaging technique can detect early signs of blood trauma in red blood cells, which could aid in the development of markers to prevent damage. The technique, developed by researchers at Shibaura Institute of Technology and Griffith University, uses high-speed cameras to visualize changes in RBC shape under stress.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 16, 2021

New smart-roof coating enables year-round energy savings

Scientists developed an all-season smart-roof coating that automatically switches between cooling and heating, outperforming commercial cool-roof systems in energy savings. The technology uses vanadium dioxide to regulate its rate of radiative cooling, overcoming the problem of overcooling in winter.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 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.

First double-lung transplant after COVID-19 performed in Portugal

A 61-year-old man received a double lung transplant after suffering severe post-COVID-19 respiratory failure, marking the first such procedure in Portugal. He had undergone extensive treatment, including ECMO and ECCO2R, before qualifying for transplant due to his young age and healthy status.

SourceThe European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC)·JournalEuropean Journal of Anaesthesiology·DateDec 16, 2021

Series of preclinical studies supports the Army’s pan-coronavirus vaccine development strategy

Recent preclinical study results demonstrate the Spike Ferritin Nanoparticle (SpFN) COVID-19 vaccine developed by WRAIR elicits potent immune responses and offers broad protection against SARS-CoV-2 variants and other coronaviruses. The SpFN vaccine uses a ferritin platform to present multiple copies of the coronavirus spike protein, i...

SourceThe U.S. Military HIV Research Program (MHRP)·JournalScience·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 16, 2021

Shark antibody-like proteins neutralize COVID-19 virus, help prepare for future coronaviruses

Researchers have discovered unique antibody-like proteins from sharks that can prevent the COVID-19 virus and its variants from infecting human cells. These shark-derived protein 'VNARs' are a promising new tool in the fight against SARS-CoV-2, with potential applications for future coronavirus outbreaks.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 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.

Cough or fever first? Study analyzes order of COVID-19 symptoms

A new study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that the order of COVID-19 symptoms varies depending on the SARS-CoV-2 variant. In the USA, cough was most likely to be the first symptom, while fever and diarrhea were more common third symptoms.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 16, 2021

UMass Lowell scientist pioneers new class of semiconductors

A new class of faster and more powerful semiconductors is being developed by UMass Lowell scientists to enhance wireless communication and digital imaging. The $1.7M NSF project aims to improve infrared optoelectronic devices, enabling better intracellular imaging, night vision, and quantum and 5G communication.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateDec 16, 2021

Study links eczema to rare gene variants

Researchers identify eleven rare genetic variants associated with eczema, accounting for over 20% of the disease's heritability. The variants are found in genes that code for proteins involved in inflammatory reactions, providing promising targets for new therapeutic approaches.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 16, 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.

New research may identify infants who face high asthma risk after viral lung infections

Researchers found that the risk of developing asthma in infants depends on a complex interplay among the infecting virus, airway microbial composition and function, and the infant's immune response. Infants with distinct metatranscriptome profiles had unique risks of developing asthma by age five.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·TypeObservational study·DateDec 16, 2021

Omicron may cause 100,000 cancelled operations in England this winter

A new study warns that Omicron could lead to 100,273 fewer elective operations performed over the three winter months due to increased hospital admissions and COVID-19 patients. The model used NHS England data from September 2020 to July 2021 to project elective surgery activity based on the number of COVID-19 patients in hospital.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 16, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

For IBS, specific diets are less important than expected

A new study found that a specific type of carbohydrate called ‘fodmaps’ can aggravate intestinal problems, but its impact is not as significant as previously believed. IBS symptoms were found to be influenced more by psychological factors and individual differences in metabolism and intestinal flora.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 16, 2021

New study identifies most effective face-mask practices to reduce spread of infection

A new study published in the American Journal of Infection Control identified specific face mask combinations and modifications that can improve mask fit and performance, thereby reducing the spread of respiratory infectious pathogens. The study found that layering a three-ply cloth mask over a medical mask or securing a medical mask w...

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2021

NIH scientists urge pursuit of universal coronavirus vaccine

The NIH urges a collaborative effort to characterize coronavirus genetic diversity in multiple species, better understand disease pathogenesis, and develop long-lasting vaccines; permanent immunity remains unknown for COVID-19 vaccines

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 16, 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.

Visceral surgery: Gut bacteria aggravate adhesions after abdominal surgery

Researchers have discovered that intestinal bacteria can lead to more severe adhesions after abdominal surgery. The study found that mesothelial cells and EGFR signaling play a crucial role in the formation of these adhesions. The findings suggest that targeting EGFR may be a potential approach to reducing adhesion risk.

SourceInselspital, Bern University Hospital·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 16, 2021
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.

PET scans help guide drug to best treat orthopaedic implant bacterial infections

Researchers used PET scans to quantify antibiotic levels in orthopaedic implants, discovering rifampin penetration is only about 14% as much as previously believed. A higher dose of rifampin achieved higher bacterial killing and fewer antibiotic-resistant strains, suggesting a shorter treatment regimen may be effective.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 16, 2021

A quantum view of ‘combs’ of light

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a miniaturized frequency comb that can generate non-classical light, enabling the study of quantum entanglement and opening up new pathways for quantum computing. The microcomb's precise spacing allows for detailed measurement of its finer features.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Photonics·DateDec 16, 2021

Color-sorting metalenses boost imaging sensitivity

Researchers have developed a new metalenses technology that enables filter-free color image sensors with enhanced signal levels. This innovation could improve low-light and fast imaging capabilities for smartphones and autonomous vehicles, leading to better night view capture and high-speed object detection.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 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.

QuTech takes important step in quantum computing with error correction

Researchers at QuTech have successfully integrated high-fidelity operations on encoded quantum data with a scalable scheme for repeated stabilization. They demonstrate that it is possible to compute as well as encode and stabilize qubits, a crucial step towards developing fault-tolerant quantum computers.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2021

Belzutifan offers hope for patients with von Hippel-Lindau disease

Patients with von Hippel-Lindau disease may benefit from Belzutifan, a daily oral medication that shrinks tumors and keeps patients from undergoing surgery. The drug targets the molecular defect in the VHL gene, producing few side effects and showing long-lasting anti-cancer effects.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 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.