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Science News Archive December 2021 - Page 29


Page 29 of 33

Well-timed meals reduce risk of glucose intolerance despite mistimed sleep

A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that eating during the nighttime can lead to glucose intolerance due to a misalignment between central and peripheral circadian clocks. In contrast, limiting meals to the daytime maintains internal circadian alignment and prevents glucose intolerance in shift workers.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 3, 2021

Probiotics improve nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, according to new study

A new study published in the journal Nutrients found that probiotics can reduce nausea and vomiting during pregnancy by up to 33% and improve quality of life symptoms. The study also identified specific gut microbes associated with higher levels of nausea, suggesting potential biomarkers for future research.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNutrients·DateDec 3, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Republicans lost faith in 2020 election results; Fox News played pivotal role

A study found that Republicans who consumed and trusted Fox News less had more faith in the electoral process, while Democrats grew more confident as evidence of Biden's win accumulated. Cognitive dissonance theory explains how Fox News rationalized the outcome for Republicans, leading to decreased confidence in vote legitimacy.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateDec 3, 2021

HyVIS: Hybrid synapses to treat retinal dystrophies

The HyVIS project is a four-year European initiative that will develop bionic synapses for retinal prostheses, exploiting residual neuronal functionality to restore sensitivity to light. The approach involves plasmonic nanocannals and intelligent polymers to release neurotransmitters in response to light stimuli.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 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.

Two-dimensional bipolar magnetic semiconductors with high Curie-temperature and electrically controllable spin polarization realized in exfoliated Cr(pyrazine)2 monolayers

Researchers have realized a 2D intrinsic bipolar magnetic semiconductor material with room temperature ferrimagnetic ordering and electrically controllable spin polarization. The material exhibits a Curie temperature of 342 K, making it suitable for high-speed nanospintronic devices.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·DateDec 3, 2021

Treadmill exercise training shows promise for managing cognitive effects of multiple sclerosis

Researchers found improvements in verbal learning and memory and preservation of hippocampal volume in participants with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis after 12 weeks of supervised treadmill walking exercise. A targeted pilot randomized controlled trial demonstrated the effectiveness of this intervention for managing cognitive ...

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalContemporary Clinical Trials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2021

The placenta -- the smoking gun in cardiovascular disease

A study published in BMC Medicine found that maternal hypertension genes influence infant birth weight through effects on the placenta. The researchers analyzed fetal growth data and found a significant association between maternal genetic risk score and placental weight.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalBMC Medicine·DateDec 3, 2021

Bowel cancer patients at high risk of clinical levels of depression

A new study found that bowel cancer patients are at high risk of clinical levels of depression, with over a third experiencing symptoms up to five years after surgery. The study identified risk factors such as pre-existing depression and anxiety, low social support, and poor health.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalColorectal Disease·TypeSurvey·DateDec 3, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

To capture single photons, researchers create an interference ‘wall’

Theorists at the University of Chicago have developed a new scheme for trapping single photons in a cavity, creating a 'wall' that prevents further photons from entering. This mechanism allows two sources to emit selected photons into a cavity before destructive interference cancels them out.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 3, 2021

Sense of unreality in maternal role after uterus transplantation

A qualitative study of seven women who underwent uterine transplantation found that they experienced a mix of emotions, including anxiety and sense of unreality. The women reported feeling like most other mothers, but also struggled with the medical supervision and feelings of uncertainty.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalHuman Reproduction·TypeCase study·DateDec 3, 2021

Light speed advances

Prof. Tingyi Gu from the University of Delaware has received a $500,000 DARPA Young Faculty Award to improve the power efficiency of digital communications. Her research focuses on manipulating light direction to create more energy-efficient photonic systems.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateDec 3, 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.

Development of a single-process platform for the manufacture of graphene quantum dots

Researchers developed a single-process platform to control heteroatom bonding in graphene quantum dots, reducing fabrication time and increasing economic feasibility. The new method uses weakly alkaline precursors and computer modeling to predict chemical composition, enabling mass synthesis without post-processing or purification.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 3, 2021

Toys prove to be better investment than gold, art, and financial securities

A study by HSE University economists found that LEGO sets have a significant price growth rate on the secondary market, outperforming traditional investments. The authors analyzed 2,322 sets from 1987 to 2015 and discovered prices of rare sets can increase by up to +600% annually.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalResearch in International Business and Finance·DateDec 3, 2021

Gene-editing used to create single sex mice litters

Scientists at the Francis Crick Institute have developed a gene-editing method to control the sex of mouse offspring, demonstrating its potential to reduce culling in scientific research and farming. The technology shows 100% efficiency in producing single-sex litters, with minimal impact on litter size.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2021

A new tool in the fight against rectal cancer

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University are developing an AI tool to analyze medical images and determine which rectal cancer patients require surgery. By using radiomics and machine learning techniques, the team hopes to identify patients who can avoid invasive surgery and opt for chemotherapy or radiation therapy instead.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 3, 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.

The uneven universe

Researchers develop new model using Mori-Zwanzig formalism to account for uneven matter distribution in the universe. The model predicts a deviation in cosmic expansion speed, offering an opportunity for experimental testing and resolving the enigma of dark energy.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeNews article·DateDec 3, 2021

Characteristics of patients diagnosed with TB, COVID-19

Researchers analyzed TB and COVID-19 patients in California, finding shared sociodemographic characteristics and medical risk factors. The study highlights the importance of addressing these factors to improve health outcomes for both conditions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 3, 2021

A chewing gum that could reduce SARS-CoV-2 transmission

A new chewing gum infused with plant-grown ACE2 protein can neutralize the SARS-CoV-2 virus in saliva, potentially reducing transmission risk. The gum, developed by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania, was tested on saliva samples from COVID-19 patients and found to significantly reduce viral load.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalMolecular Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 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.

Long-term particulate matter pollution is associated with high blood pressure

A study by CIBERDEM and IBIMA found a significant association between long-term exposure to particulate matter pollution and the incidence of high blood pressure. The research, published in Scientific Reports, monitored 1103 people over 8 years, with 282 cases of incident high blood pressure recorded.

SourceConsorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red MP·JournalNature·TypeNews article·DateDec 3, 2021

Infection by Chikungunya produces partial immunity against Mayaro virus

A study from the University of São Paulo found that people infected with Chikungunya may develop partial immunity to Mayaro virus. The researchers observed a significant reduction in disease severity and viral load, suggesting cross-protection through neutralizing antibodies and immune memory.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Virology·DateDec 3, 2021

Where did western honey bees come from? New research finds the sweet spot

A new study led by York University reveals that Western Honey Bees originated in Western Asia, with genetic data suggesting a strong connection to this region. The research highlights the importance of understanding the origin and evolution of these vital pollinators to inform their management and conservation.

SourceYork University·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 3, 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.

Rapid test identifies antibody effectiveness against COVID-19 variants

A new rapid test developed by Duke University researchers can measure patient immunity against multiple COVID-19 variants like Omicron and Delta. The CoVariant-SCAN test uses a polymer brush coating to detect neutralizing antibodies, allowing for quick and accurate assessment of antibody effectiveness.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2021

Lightweight space robot with precise control developed

Developed by researchers from Harbin Institute of Technology, a new robotic arm can manipulate in environments difficult for humans and adapt to changing conditions. The arm weighs only 9.23 kilograms and can exert constant force control, enabling it to maintain contact with curved surfaces in space.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalSpace: Science & Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 3, 2021

Host and resident bacteria join forces to control fungi in plant roots

A complex microbial community comprising bacteria, fungi, and oomycetes is beneficial for plant growth. Inactivation of the plant innate immune system shifts this balance, making the fungal load a primary cause of disease. Bacterial partners residing in roots provide an additional layer of protection.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 2021

How vaccinated UK healthcare workers infected with different variants respond to new ones

A new study found that vaccinated UK healthcare workers who were previously infected with different COVID-19 variants show varying levels of protection against new variants. The results suggest that the sequence of variant exposure influences immunogenicity profiles, highlighting the need for tailored vaccine development.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 2, 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.

Refinement of genetic signals for psoriasis by combining European-origin and South Asian populations

A Michigan Medicine study combined genetic samples from patients of different ethnic backgrounds, identifying two new psoriasis genetic signals. The inclusion of South Asian subjects allowed researchers to pinpoint several genetic variations within HLA genes that are likely to play a causal role in psoriasis.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalHuman Genetics and Genomics Advances·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 2, 2021

Potential new gene editing tools uncovered

Researchers have expanded the number of naturally occurring CRISPR-Cas systems, giving a wealth of potential new tools for large-scale gene editing. The discovery could lead to treating complex diseases associated with multiple genes.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 2, 2021

Microplastic pollution aids antibiotic resistance

A new study led by Rice University engineers finds that microplastic pollution contributes to the spread of antibiotic-resistant genes. The researchers discovered that aging polystyrene breaks down into microplastics with high surface areas, trapping microbes and leaching chemicals that enhance gene transfer.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 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.

Decode genetics publishes the largest ever study of the plasma proteome

Scientists at deCODE genetics analyzed levels of 4,719 proteins in plasma from 35,559 Icelanders, finding 18,084 associations between sequence variants and protein levels. The study integrated these findings with disease and trait associations, revealing novel connections.

SourcedeCODE genetics·JournalNature Genetics·TypeCase study·DateDec 2, 2021

Data can help address health disparities

A local health department in Indiana used surveillance data to identify neighborhoods with high disease burden and set up test sites, resulting in a decline in new cases among targeted groups. The success of this intervention highlights the importance of using data to address systemic racism and promote health equity.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 2, 2021

Harvard-led researchers document the presence of quantum spin liquids, a never-before-seen state of matter

Researchers at Harvard have successfully observed quantum spin liquids, a previously unseen state of matter that has been elusive for nearly 50 years. By manipulating ultracold atoms in a programmable quantum simulator, the team was able to create and study this exotic state, which holds promise for advancing quantum technologies.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Breakthrough research on human embryo models paves the way for improving in vitro fertilization success rate and new non-hormonal, user-friendly contraception

Researchers have discovered molecules that could be candidates for contraceptives or fertility enhancers using human blastoid models. These models also show promise in improving the self-organization of stem cells during IVF procedures.

SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 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.

Filtering unwanted sounds from baby monitors #ASA181

Researchers at Johns Hopkins APL aim to create an ideal baby monitor that filters out unwanted noises, ensuring parents don't miss infant cries. The team's open-source device uses audio processing hardware to filter out background sounds, improving the overall baby monitoring experience.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 2, 2021

Ultra-light and super-fast - Discovery of sub-Earth planet GJ 367b

The newly discovered planet is classified as a rocky planet and has similarities to Mercury, with a mass 55% of Earth's. Its high density indicates an iron core, but the surface temperature could reach up to 1500 degrees Celsius due to its proximity to its star.

SourceGerman Aerospace Center DLR Institute of Planetary Research·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateDec 2, 2021

Baryon form factor measurements at the BESIII experiment

The BESIII experiment has made significant contributions to understanding the internal structure of baryons. By measuring proton and neutron form factors, the team has clarified long-standing tensions between previous experiments. The study also reveals new insights into the interactions and fundamental structure of baryons.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateDec 2, 2021

Discovery of a new kinetic factor that governs the carbon metabolism evolution of ancient microbes

Researchers developed a kinetic hypothesis governing the evolution of the Last Universal Common Ancestor (LUCA) based on simulation experiments. They discovered a kinetic factor that governs the flow of chemical reactions in the TCA cycle, validating their hypothesis for deep-branching bacteria and archaea.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 2, 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.

Light-powered soft robots could suck up oil spills

A new floating robotic film can hoover oil spills at sea or remove contaminants from drinking water, using a pulsing motion inspired by water striders. The film is powered by light and fueled by water, making it sustainable and reusable.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Lab-grown ‘mini-stomachs’ could shed light on COVID symptoms in children

Researchers at University College London have successfully grown mini-stomach organoids, which could help study how SARS-CoV-2 affects the stomach. The study found that the virus replicates more noticeably in child and late fetal cells, leading to the death of delta cells that produce a hormone called somatostatin.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Gene discoveries give new hope to people who stutter

Researchers have discovered new genetic variations associated with developmental stuttering, offering new therapeutic directions to improve outcomes. The study found that stuttering is polygenic, meaning multiple genetic factors contribute to and protect against the condition.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalThe American Journal of Human Genetics·DateDec 2, 2021

Researchers develop new membrane for uranium extraction from seawater

A bioinspired hierarchical porous membrane, based on intrinsic microporosity polymers, was developed to enhance uranium extraction from seawater. The membrane achieves higher numbers of interconnected multiscale channels, improving adsorption performance.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 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.

Climate modeling confirms historical records showing rise in hurricane activity

A new MIT study uses climate modeling to reconstruct global hurricane activity, finding a significant increase in North Atlantic hurricanes over the last 150 years. In contrast, global hurricane frequency remains unchanged. The study's findings suggest regional climate variations play a key role in shaping hurricane patterns.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 2021

It takes guts to make a heart

Researchers developed a new kind of organoid that grows both heart and gut cells together, mirroring their cooperation in embryonic development. This breakthrough could improve understanding of tissue communication and inform research into congenital disorders.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateDec 2, 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.

Perovskite solar cells soar to new heights

Researchers have developed a novel method to improve the efficiency of inverted architecture perovskite solar cells by introducing organic halide salts at both interfaces. This approach has achieved a power conversion efficiency of 23.7%, the highest reported to date, while also improving device stability.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 2, 2021

Growing carbon footprint for plastics

The global plastics supply chain has a significant impact on the climate, with production accounting for 96% of total greenhouse gas emissions. The use of coal-based energy in plastic production is driving this growth, with emissions quadrupling since 1995 and causing health issues like air pollution and asthma.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Sustainability·DateDec 2, 2021

Racial disparities and facility access in mammography recovery after COVID-19 closures

A study found that racial disparities in mammography screening worsened after COVID-19 closures, with non-white patients facing reduced access to facilities. Early interventions aimed at expanding access to these facilities helped to recover late recovery volumes for patients of races other than white.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 2, 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.