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Science News Archive December 2021 - Page 16


Page 16 of 33

A longstanding mystery in manufacturing has been solved

Researchers at Aarhus University have developed a simple analytical model to predict chip formation and optimize surface finish in manufacturing processes. The study reveals the critical cutting depth for almost every material, tool geometry, and running conditions, minimizing tool wear and improving product quality.

SourceAarhus University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 14, 2021

Researchers develop platform to screen for new class of coronavirus antiviral compounds

Researchers developed a high-throughput platform to screen for new class of coronavirus antiviral compounds, targeting the macrodomain protein. The platform identified existing drugs that block macrodomain activity, including dasatinib, which shows promise as a potential treatment for COVID-19 and other coronaviruses.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateDec 14, 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 model accurately describes COVID-19 waves and plateaus: Adding random nature of social activity to traditional model, graphs match waves and plateaus of regional US data

A new epidemiological model, the stochastic social activity (SSA) model, combines real-world observations with mathematical equations to accurately describe COVID-19 wave and plateau dynamics. The model suggests that COVID-19 may become endemic in the global population, like the common cold or flu.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournaleLife·DateDec 14, 2021

Magnetic Tunnel Junction Technology for the Angstrom Semiconductor Era

A research group at Tohoku University has successfully engineered relaxation time to achieve fast switching in sub-five-nm magnetic tunnel junctions, reaching 3.5 ns. This breakthrough enables the development of STT-MRAM-based semiconductor ICs with improved performance and power consumption.

SourceTohoku University·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 14, 2021

Global percentage of asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections

A review of 95 studies revealed that the percentage of asymptomatic COVID-19 cases varies significantly between individuals with confirmed infections and those who underwent testing. The analysis provides valuable insights into the prevalence of asymptomatic infections worldwide.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 14, 2021

Improving drug options for colorectal cancer patients

Researchers have discovered that a common class of targeted therapies can help more colorectal cancer patients than previously thought. By analyzing cell studies and computer modeling, the team identified 10 distinct RAS mutations that do not preclude the use of EGFR inhibitors, which are already approved for other uses.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 14, 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.

Implementing sustainable nitrogen use in smallholder rice

Research comparing site-specific nutrient management approaches to existing farmer fertilization practices shows SSNM improves average rice yield by 644 kg/ha, increases profitability, and reduces N losses. SSNM also promotes better nutrient balance and considers micronutrients like zinc and iron.

SourceAfrican Plant Nutrition Institute·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Food Systems·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 14, 2021

Menus need to be at least 75% vegetarian for meat eaters to choose plant-based food, study finds

A recent study by the University of Westminster found that meat eaters are more likely to choose vegetarian meals when they make up a majority of food offered. The choice tipping point occurred at 75% vegetarian menu options. Increasing plant-based food availability influences consumers' choices, promoting sustainable eating behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Westminster·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·DateDec 14, 2021

Cancer-spotting AI and human experts can be fooled by image-tampering attacks

Researchers simulated an attack that falsified mammogram images, fooling both AI breast cancer diagnosis models and human radiologist experts. The study highlights the need to develop ways to make AI models more robust to adversarial attacks, which could lead to incorrect cancer diagnoses.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 14, 2021

Understanding phase change materials for thermal energy storage

Researchers from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Georgia Institute of Technology, and the University of California, Berkeley, describe advances in understanding phase change materials for thermal energy storage. Better understanding liquid state physics may help accelerate technology development for the energy sector.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateDec 14, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Reframing Aging Initiative launches new website

The Reframing Aging Initiative has launched a new website to improve public understanding of aging and reduce ageism. The initiative, led by the Gerontological Society of America, provides resources, tools, and strategies for individuals and organizations to adopt bias-free language and promote positive narratives about aging.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateDec 14, 2021

Primary care clinicians adjust recommendations for colorectal cancer screening to accommodate patient needs and preferences, study finds

A study found that primary care clinicians prefer noninvasive options for patients who are unwilling to undergo invasive procedures, concerned about work time, or unconvinced of the need for screening. The researchers suggest tailoring recommendations to patient preferences to improve adherence to colorectal cancer screening.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateDec 14, 2021

Boosting anti-cancer action by driving up immunity at tumor site

Researchers developed nanoparticles that activate key cancer fighters by driving up immunity at the tumor site, improving interactions with antibody therapies. The technique left six of 10 mice with lymphoma tumor-free and was effective in melanoma when combined with existing immune response amplifiers.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 14, 2021

The first map showing the risk of exposure to the Crimean-Congo virus in deer populations in Spain

A research study has developed the first national map showing the risk of exposure to the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus in Spain's deer populations. The study, which analyzed over 1,500 deer from 82 populations, identified hot spots where most tick bites leading to human cases have occurred.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalTransboundary and Emerging Diseases·TypeNews article·DateDec 14, 2021

Stroke therapy: Learning from nematodes

A molecule found in a nematode worm has shown promise in protecting the brains of stroke patients by reducing cell death and decreasing affected region size. Experimental treatments using glycolic acid have successfully salvaged threatened tissue in animal models, offering potential for reduced mortality and disability in stroke patients.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalAdvanced Science·DateDec 14, 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.

How we measure the effects of methane matters for climate policy

A new study published in Nature Food highlights the importance of methane abatement options in slowing down agriculture's contribution to global warming. The research shows that focusing on short-term effects of methane can lead to greater emission reductions, making low-meat diets a powerful mitigation mechanism.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Food·DateDec 14, 2021

Cannabis oils: do they really contain what their packaging claims?

Researchers at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg developed a rapid and precise method to analyze CBD oils, detecting both CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) with high accuracy. Twelve out of twelve tested samples contained about as much or slightly more CBD than indicated on their packaging.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalResults in Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2021

Finding new tools for leukemia treatment

Researchers found that mutations in IL-7R are sufficient to trigger acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a common and aggressive cancer in children. The study suggests that drugs targeting this protein may offer new therapeutic options for patients.

SourceInstituto de Medicina Molecular·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 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 research could hold the key to tackling global crisis of malnutrition

A new research project, SYSTAM CHINA-SEACS, aims to develop systemic solutions to tackle both undernutrition and overweight, obesity or diet-related NCDs. The study will be piloted in the Chinese city of Fang Cheng Gang and has the potential to improve the health and living conditions of billions of people.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·TypeObservational study·DateDec 14, 2021

Creating the human-robotic dream team

A team of UBC Okanagan researchers has developed a system to enhance interactions between humans and robots in industrial settings. The system uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to capture and analyze the environment, allowing robots to respond in a timely manner to ensure human safety.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalRobotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 14, 2021

Einstein wins again

Researchers have conducted a 16-year experiment to challenge Einstein's theory with pulsars, revealing relativistic effects for the first time and confirming predictions with precision. The study uses the unique Double Pulsar system, which consists of two orbiting radio pulsars, providing an ideal laboratory for testing gravity theories.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalPhysical Review X·DateDec 14, 2021

Surgical procedure helps cancer patients face themselves again

Researchers at UCSF developed a new technique using skin grafts with 'privacy glass' to provide a better facial color match for cancer patients. The study found that the technique resulted in a better match than other methods, with an average delta-E calculation of 6.3.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalThe Laryngoscope·DateDec 14, 2021

Extreme weather research shows household income impacts of Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy, need for more equitable climate resilience planning for cities

A new analysis found that low-income households in New Orleans lost nearly 35% of their income after Hurricane Katrina, while high-income households in NYC lost only 5.8%. The study highlights the need for diversified income sources to mitigate economic harm from extreme weather events.

SourceIllinois Institute of Technology·JournalApplied Geography·DateDec 14, 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.

Unique data creates 'fair and robust' online exams

Researchers developed a new way to create unique datasets during online exams, boosting their fairness and robustness. The technique uses bespoke lab videos, smart worksheets, and realistic data to provide instant feedback and aid marking.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Chemical Education·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 14, 2021

Researchers enhanced thermoelectric performance of SnTe

Scientists at Hefei Institutes of Physical Science found that As/Sb elements can improve the band structure and band gap of SnTe, enhancing its thermoelectric properties. The results show that Ge-As co-doping in SnTe improves Seebeck coefficients, power factor, and conversion efficiency.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateDec 14, 2021

Advanced analysis of Apollo sample illuminates Moon’s evolution

A new study published in Nature Communications reveals chemical heterogeneities in Apollo 17 sample troctolite 76535, indicating an early rapid cooling of the Moon. This finding challenges previous estimates of a 100-million-year cooling duration and supports initial rapid cooling of magmas within the lunar crust.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 14, 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.

Ramping up point-of-care diagnosis for COVID-19 and beyond

A KAUST-led team developed a biosensor that can detect biomolecules, including the COVID-19 spike protein, with high sensitivity and selectivity. The device uses solid-state metal oxide transistors and can be used to diagnose multiple diseases quickly and easily.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 14, 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 using data from the Gaia space mission. The findings reveal many previously unknown coherently rotating filamentary structures at the edge of the disc.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateDec 14, 2021

Greater odds of overall satisfaction three months after lumbar fusion when surgery is minimally invasive

Researchers found that minimally invasive spinal fusion surgery (MIS) was associated with significantly greater odds of patient satisfaction 3 months post-operatively, but not at 12 months. MIS procedures were also linked to less disability and pain at both time points.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery Spine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 14, 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.

NCAR’s new mini-satellite will measure howling winds high in Earth’s atmosphere

NCAR's new WindCube mini-satellite will measure the intense heating of the Sun at high altitudes, improving models of the upper atmosphere. The satellite's data will help scientists better predict impacts on communication systems and satellites due to disruptions in Earth's upper atmosphere.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateDec 14, 2021

Study finds that classrooms with more Black and Latinx students receive lower quality of teaching

A new study by researchers at New York University Steinhardt found that classrooms with higher percentages of Black and Latinx students receive lower quality of teaching. The study, which analyzed data from the Measures of Effective Teaching database, suggests that racial biases among teachers contribute to these disparities.

SourceNew York University·JournalAmerican Journal of Education·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 14, 2021

Respiratory discovery could improve survival of COVID-19 intensive care patients

A clinical trial has revealed that COVID-19 patients on ventilators have less surfactant in their lungs due to the virus. The researchers suggest that giving extra surfactant for a longer period could help save lives by supporting breathing and allowing lung cells to repair after the infection passes.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 14, 2021

Researchers from Tel Aviv University identified the biological mechanism causing nerve destruction in the Motor Neuron disease ALS

Researchers from Tel Aviv University have identified the biological mechanism causing nerve destruction in ALS, a fatal neurodegenerative disease. They found that TDP-43 protein accumulation in neuromuscular junctions inhibits local protein synthesis and mitochondrial activity, leading to degeneration and death of motor neurons.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalNature·DateDec 14, 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.

Paxman KTP to create new device to prevent chemotherapy side-effect CIPN

A novel medical cooling system for preventing Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is being developed by the University of Huddersfield and Paxman. CIPN causes pain or sensitivity in hands and feet, delaying treatment. The new device uses 'Human Centred Design' to deliver stable cooling, tolerable over chemotherapy duration.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·DateDec 14, 2021

Journal of Nuclear Medicine supplement addresses personalization of patient treatment through radiopharmaceutical dosimetry

A new Journal of Nuclear Medicine supplement explores personalization of patient treatment through radiopharmaceutical dosimetry, addressing its benefits and challenges. The study reveals that tailoring drug dosage can enhance the efficacy of radiopharmaceutical therapy for cancer patients.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateDec 14, 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.

West African nations need to ramp up COVID-19 vaccination 10-fold

Despite low vaccine uptake, West Africa needs to boost vaccination efforts to achieve population-level immunity. To reach 50%, 60%, and 70% coverage after 9, 12, and 18 months, vaccination speeds must increase by 4, 7, and 10 times the current pace.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Global Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 14, 2021

A Zika hijacking with devastating impacts

Researchers from Duke-NUS Medical School found that Zika virus infection disrupts the glucose metabolism pathway in infected foetuses, leading to birth defects and death. A potential supplement, pyruvic acid, may protect foetuses from these impacts.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2021

Glioma invasion may be affected by the parietooccipital fissure and white matter fibers rather than being a random phenomenon

Research reveals that the parietooccipital fissure acts as an obstacle to glioma invasion, with tumor cells making a detour around it. This finding highlights the importance of this fissure in determining the invasion pattern of posterior medial temporal gliomas.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·TypeObservational study·DateDec 14, 2021

Debilitating human parasite transmitted via dogs eating fish

Researchers found that in 2020, 93% of Guinea worms detected worldwide were in dogs in Chad. Dogs eating infected fish carry the parasite larvae, which means they maintain the life-cycle and humans can still catch the disease.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 14, 2021

High pressure (hyperbaric) oxygen resolves severe COVID-19 breathing difficulties faster than standard therapy

A small clinical trial found that high-pressure hyperbaric oxygen treatment resolved severe COVID-19 breathing difficulties faster than standard therapy, with significant improvements in oxygen saturation and reduced risk of complications. However, further larger trials are needed to confirm the treatment's effects on survival.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalEmergency Medicine Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 14, 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.

Critical new funding for dementia project

Dr. Mario Masellis' international team is receiving $320,198 in funding to examine the interplay between genetic, demographic, and cardiovascular factors on dementia risk. The project aims to improve management and prevention of dementia, ultimately reducing its impact worldwide.

SourceBrain Canada Foundation·DateDec 14, 2021

Specific metabolic dependencies of cancer cells revealed by perturbation with tailored chemical library offer new therapeutic possibilities

Researchers identified specific metabolic vulnerabilities in leukemia cell lines, including sensitivity to PI3K and fatty acid synthase inhibitors. The study highlights the potential for targeted cancer therapy by exploiting these dependencies.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 14, 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.

"Crazy" light emitters: Physicists see an unusual quantum phenomenon

Physicists from the Technische Universität Dresden have confirmed an unusual movement of light-emitting particles in atomically-thin semiconductors. Excitons seem to move in opposite directions at the same time, a behavior previously known only for individual electrons.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 14, 2021

When the brain switches from hearing to listening

Researchers at the University of Basel traced the neuronal fingerprint of sound processing in mouse brains, finding ten distinct activity patterns that depend on factors like attention, arousal, and reward. These findings suggest that even simple sound detection is a cognitive process that profoundly shapes brain activity.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2021

Evidence for shared earthquakes between San Andreas and san Jacinto faults

Researchers have found evidence of joint ruptures, or shared earthquakes, between the San Andreas and san Jacinto faults in California. The Lytle Creek Ridge Fault, a small fault between the two major faults, acted as a passive marker during these events, with 20% to 23% of earthquakes on these faults being shared.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalGeology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 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.