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Science News Archive December 2021 - Page 30


Page 30 of 33

Georgia State University Center for Translational Antiviral Research reports a novel broad-spectrum antiviral drug class with activity against SARS-CoV-2

Researchers at Georgia State University have developed a new candidate antiviral drug, 4’-FlU, which shows potent activity against SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory RNA viruses. The study demonstrates that 4’-FlU induces termination of the viral polymerase, aborting replication and offering a strong therapeutic asset.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 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.

Building a human body through gastrulation

Researchers provide evidence that mammalian and avian primitive streaks evolved independently, using different mechanisms to form the body plan. They suggest alternative landmark for ethical oversight in human embryological research.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalScience·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 2, 2021

Living near green space may be beneficial against symptoms of premenstrual syndrome

Women living in neighborhoods with more green space experienced fewer PMS symptoms, including anxiety, depression, difficulty sleeping, and breast tenderness. Long-term exposure to green space was found to have beneficial effects on psychological symptoms of PMS.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironment International·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 2, 2021

How food intake modifies the gut

Researchers found that increasing food amount elevates intestinal absorptive surface and function due to enhanced PPARα expression. Food restriction reverses this process, suggesting potential avenues for limiting obesity.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Combined heat and power as a platform for clean energy systems

The state of Georgia could dramatically reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by using onsite electric power, creating new jobs and a healthier public. CHP systems can be 85-90% efficient, reducing peak demand on the grid and providing ultra-high system efficiencies, cleaner air, and more affordable energy.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalApplied Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·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.

In Bangladesh, mask-wearing reduced COVID-like illness, cluster-randomized controlled trial shows

A cluster-randomized controlled trial in rural Bangladesh shows that proper mask-wearing significantly reduces symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections. Mask distribution and promotion increased community-wide mask-wearing by 29% and reduced reported COVID-like illness, especially among high-risk individuals.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 2, 2021

Tracking the neurons that make us social

A team from UNIGE found that dopaminergic neurons in the reward system are responsible for motivating social interactions. The study used mice to demonstrate how these neurons release dopamine, crucial for motivated behaviors and learning.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Cancer patients overlooked in COVID-19 vaccine rollout

A study found that nearly two-thirds of US states failed to follow CDC guidelines for prioritizing cancer patients for COVID-19 vaccinations. The lack of clarity in defining qualifying cancer diagnoses led to unequal vaccination priority, leaving vulnerable patients at risk.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 2, 2021

Facebook advertising can be targeted at a specific person

Researchers at UC3M found that Facebook ads can target a specific person with just four rare and specific interests. This nanotargeting ability exposes users to new risks, including potential identification without consent. The study highlights the need for advertising platforms to protect individual privacy.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 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.

Molecular device turns infrared into visible light

Researchers developed a molecular device that converts infrared light to visible light, expanding detection capabilities. The device uses tiny vibrating molecules and metallic nanostructures to enhance conversion efficiency.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience·DateDec 2, 2021

Colour-changing magnifying glass gives clear view of infrared light

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new concept for detecting infrared light by converting it into visible light, easily detectable by modern cameras. This innovation enables the detection of mid-infrared light using molecular frequency upconversion with dual-wavelength hybrid nanoantennas.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·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.

Researchers at TAU decipher critical features of a protein behind ALS

Researchers at Tel-Aviv University have shed light on the Sigma-1 receptor's topology and function in neurodegenerative diseases. The study reveals that the receptor is retained in the endoplasmic reticulum and its amino end faces the cytoplasm, providing a crucial mechanism for therapeutic approaches to alleviate suffering from ALS.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 2, 2021

Light vs. data: Backpropagation advancing optical metrology and inverse design process

A new technique using thin-film neural networks (TFNNs) improves processing times for all-optical neural networks and enables fast optimization of photonic devices. The approach accelerates the design and fabrication of multilayer thin films, mimicking human retina cells.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateDec 2, 2021

Predictive analytics pays off with complementary investments

A study by the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management found that predictive analytics can increase revenue by $500,000 to $1 million for manufacturers who invest in IT capital, educate their workforce, and implement high-efficiency manufacturing processes. The research team surveyed over 30,000 manufacturers and found that...

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalBusiness Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 2, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists pinpoint protein’s role in critical gene expression

Researchers discovered a newly defined domain in a protein that regulates gene expression under high-energy conditions. Cells adapt to changing nutrient environments by switching between specialized gene expression programs, which are triggered by different molecular tags on histones.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Killer whales lingering in newly melted arctic ocean #ASA181

A study by Brynn Kimber and team reveals killer whales spending more time in the Arctic due to reduced sea ice, posing new threats to prey species. The warmer climate is altering the predators' hunting patterns, leading to increased risks for endangered bowhead whales.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 2, 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.

COVID-19 Delta variant may have increased ability to evade vaccine-induced immunity

A recent study published in PLOS Pathogens found that the COVID-19 Delta variant may have a reduced ability to be neutralized by vaccines. The researchers analyzed serum samples from vaccinated individuals and found that the Delta variant was more effective at evading vaccine-induced immunity than other variants, such as Beta and Alpha.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Boosting thermopower of oxides via artificially laminated metal/insulator heterostructure

Researchers developed a new method to significantly enhance thermoelectric voltage at low temperatures by creating laminate structures with transition metal oxide and insulating layers. The 'phonon-drag effect' is responsible for the enhancement, where flowing phonons drive electrons to produce extra thermoelectric voltage.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Subminiature multifunctional brain chip analyzes brain activity from multiple aspects

A subminiature multifunctional brain chip has been developed to analyze brain activity from multiple aspects. The chip integrates a fluid channel for extracting cerebrospinal fluid, injecting medicine, and measuring brain signals, minimizing brain damage and enabling precise analysis of neurotransmitters and brain signals.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateDec 2, 2021

Scientists identify animal model for two emerging tick-borne hemorrhagic viruses

Researchers have identified pigtailed macaques as a suitable animal model for studying two emerging tick-borne hemorrhagic viruses, Kyasanur Forest disease and Alkhurma hemorrhagic disease. The study found that infected macaques exhibited symptoms similar to those in humans, including loss of appetite, dehydration, and hemorrhaging.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

New insights to combat soft drink consumption

Research from Flinders University found self-regulatory control and evaluative bias towards soft drinks associated with increased consumption. The study aimed to identify new methods to help habitual soft drink users regulate their intake. Young adults are the core consumers of soft drinks, posing a major public health problem.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAppetite·TypeObservational study·DateDec 2, 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.

Mouse study suggests manipulation of certain nerve cells can help regenerate lost heart muscle

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered that manipulating certain nerve cells may trigger the formation of new heart muscle cells, restoring heart function after heart attacks. The study found that removing specific genes associated with circadian rhythms increased neonatal heart size and cardiomyocyte numbers by up to 10%.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 2, 2021

Perceiving sound-letter associations in English can help learn to read it better, Pusan National University scientist says

A new study from Pusan National University suggests that phonological awareness (PA) and phonics instruction can significantly improve the reading skills of English language learners. The meta-analysis of 46 studies found a moderate effect of PA and phonics on word reading, but a larger impact on pseudo-word reading.

SourcePusan National University·JournalSAGE Open·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 2, 2021

Big differences in how emergency doctors assess patient care needs

A Norwegian study reveals that out-of-hours emergency doctors with higher admission rates inflict significant unnecessary costs on hospitals. The study found that patients seen by these doctors have a greater chance of hospital stays, particularly those over 69 years old.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFamily Practice·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 2, 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.

Caught on Camera: Live Imaging of Transcription Using Active RNA Polymerase II-Specific Probes

Scientists from Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a genetically encoded probe to visualize active transcription sites in living cells. The probe successfully identified phosphorylated Ser2 in RNA polymerase II, allowing for the localization of elongation phase transcription sites in real-time.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Twisting elusive quantum particles with a quantum computer

Scientists from TUM and Google Quantum AI used a highly controllable quantum processor to simulate exotic particles called anyons, which can emerge as collective excitations in two-dimensional systems. The study reveals the properties of these particles through braiding statistics, a key feature of topologically ordered states.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 2, 2021

Predicting protein-protein interactions

A deep-learning model called D-SCRIPT predicts protein-protein interactions from primary amino acid sequences with high accuracy. The model enables the detection of functional subnetworks and can be applied to many species, including those with rare or lacking PPI data.

SourceTufts University·JournalCell Systems·DateDec 2, 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.

Septic system waste pervasive throughout Florida’s Indian River lagoon

A study by FAU Harbor Branch reveals that even properly functioning septic systems contribute to nitrogen pollution in the Indian River Lagoon. Groundwater samples showed higher dissolved nutrient concentrations than surface waters, indicating contaminated groundwater as a major source of nutrient loading.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Stable and moveable; is hexagonal boron nitride the universal foundation?

Researchers from Osaka University have successfully grown high-quality magnetite thin films on a hexagonal boron nitride substrate without compromising the film's properties. This breakthrough enables the development of flexible spintronics devices with preserved electronic and magnetic properties.

SourceOsaka University·JournalACS Applied Electronic Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Parent-teacher relationship vital to home schooling

A new study reveals the vital role primary school teachers play in supporting families during home schooling, particularly for middle-income families who struggle to balance work and childcare responsibilities. The research highlights the range of resources and services provided by teachers to help mitigate socio-economic disadvantages.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalEducational Review·TypeSurvey·DateDec 2, 2021

PCORI Board approves $49.5 million to fund new research studies addressing pain relief, smoking cessation, mental health and other conditions

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) Board approved funding for nine new comparative clinical effectiveness research studies addressing various health conditions. These studies focus on telehealth and mobile health strategies, reducing disparities in maternal health, and improving care for people with intellectual a...

SourcePatient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute·DateDec 2, 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.

Blue hydrogen can help protect the climate

A study by the Paul Scherrer Institute finds that blue hydrogen can play a positive role in the energy transition under certain conditions, especially when carbon capture and storage is used effectively. However, methane leakage along the supply chain can reduce its climate benefits.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalSustainable Energy & Fuels·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 2, 2021

Native American deaths from COVID-19 highest among racial groups

A new study reveals Native American deaths from COVID-19 are substantially higher than other racial groups, with poorer living conditions and limited access to healthcare exacerbating the issue. The researchers advocate for increased funding and policies to improve public health and address these structural inequalities.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalDemographic Research·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.

Texas A&M researchers attacking menacing ‘superbug’

Researchers have discovered that certain microbes can prevent Clostridioides difficile infection by consuming nutrients essential for its growth. This new understanding challenges existing approaches to probiotic treatment options, which focus on restoring secondary bile acids.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeNews article·DateDec 2, 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.

Risk of developing eye disorders among children with diabetes

Researchers examined the risk of developing diabetes-associated eye disorders among children diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The study found a significant association between diabetes diagnosis and increased risk of diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma in childhood.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateDec 2, 2021

iMuseum: The difficulty with distance learning during a pandemic

The study found that many museums struggled to adapt their in-person programs to online format, leading to decreased engagement and revenue. However, some institutions successfully transitioned to virtual programming, offering creative and engaging content for underserved audiences.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalJournal of Museum Education·TypeSurvey·DateDec 2, 2021

‘Immune imprinting’ by different SARS-CoV-2 spike sequences from variants and vaccines means we now have diverse patterns of protection against new variants

A study by Imperial College London found that the first SARS-CoV-2 spike protein encountered through vaccination or infection influences subsequent immune responses to current and future variants. This 'immune imprinting' affects the rate of decay of protection and impacts antibody levels over time.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateDec 2, 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.