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Science News Archive February 2021 - Page 24


Page 24 of 45

Metabolic response behind reduced cancer cell growth

A study published in Cell Death & Disease found that inhibiting the EZH2 protein can reduce cancer cell growth in multiple myeloma. The researchers discovered that certain metabolic pathways are altered in cells sensitive to EZH2 inhibition, providing potential markers for treatment response.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCell Death and Disease·DateFeb 12, 2021

Grasshoppers and roadblocks: Coping with COVID-19 in rural Mexico

In rural Mexico, Indigenous people are coping with the pandemic by setting roadblocks to limit outsider access and promoting social distancing and mask use. They are also turning to traditional food sources like wild honey and chapulines, or grasshoppers.

SourceOhio State University·JournalGlobal Public Health·DateFeb 12, 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.

New combination antiviral therapy against coronavirus

Researchers have designed a new software called QuasiFlow to analyze the genetic variability of SARS-CoV-2 and identify its weak points. The goal is to develop a combination antiviral therapy that combines lethal mutagenesis with inhibitors to prevent the virus from evading the innate immune response.

SourceUniversity of Malaga·DateFeb 12, 2021

UTEP professor's study may lead to solutions for overeating

A UTEP professor's study discovered a specific area of the brain linked to recollection and desire for food, which could inhibit overeating. The research found that regulating this brain region reduced animal subjects' consumption of treats.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·JournaleNeuro·DateFeb 12, 2021

Lemurs show there's no single formula for lasting love

A new study comparing lemurs, distant primate cousins of humans, found few consistent differences between monogamous and promiscuous species. However, researchers discovered that the brain chemistry behind love in lemurs may involve a combination of multiple hormones and interactions rather than a single formula.

SourceDuke University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 12, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Citizens versus the internet

The article highlights four major challenges in the online world: manipulative choice architectures, personalized information, false and misleading information, and distracting environments. To address these challenges, researchers propose interventions such as boosting tools, self-nudging, and media literacy education.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Development·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateFeb 12, 2021

New discovery could pave the way for improved treatments for diabetes

Researchers at Monash University have discovered a biological process that prevents the human body from regenerating new cells or tissue after birth. By demethylating specific genes, they can reawaken progenitor cells to become insulin-producing beta cells, offering a potential breakthrough for treating Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

SourceMonash University·Journalnpj Regenerative Medicine·DateFeb 12, 2021

Computer love

A new 'couple simulation' model developed by Dan Conroy-Beam simulates real-life couples to test different models of mate selection. The Resource Allocation Model proved most accurate, correctly matching 45% of the couples, and was found to have higher-quality relationships.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Review·DateFeb 12, 2021

Star-shaped brain cells may be linked to stuttering

A UC Riverside-led study found that treatment with the medication risperidone leads to increased activity of astrocytes in persons who stutter. This increase in activity may help reduce stuttering by blocking dopamine receptors in the striatum.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateFeb 12, 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.

Assessing brain capillaries in COVID-19

This case series examines brain samples from COVID-19 patients with severe pulmonary pathology to understand the impact on brain capillaries. The study provides valuable information on the neurological consequences of COVID-19, shedding light on potential underlying mechanisms.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateFeb 12, 2021

Dark-skinned teens, females prime targets of acne's psychological fallout

Research suggests that acne can leave lasting psychological scars, particularly for women and adolescents with darker skin, affecting self-esteem and mental health. A new study calls for a comprehensive approach to treating acne, integrating psychology and dermatology.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalChild Development Perspectives·DateFeb 12, 2021

Changing the connection between the hemispheres affects speech perception

Researchers found that disrupting balance of gamma waves between hemispheres affects how brains integrate information from left and right ears. The study uses electric brain stimulation to manipulate interhemispheric connectivity, paving the way for new treatments for tinnitus and hearing loss.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 12, 2021

Going the distance--insights into how cancer cells spread

Researchers found that non-metastatic cells can spread to distant organs through a new mechanism involving the fibrotic niche induced by malignant cells. This discovery suggests targeting the fibrotic niche as a promising strategy to control solid tumor progression.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 12, 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.

Liquid biopsy for colorectal cancer could guide therapy for tumors

A new study shows that liquid biopsies can detect lingering disease in patients with oligometastatic colorectal cancer, guiding treatment decisions. The biopsies identify patients who may benefit from immune therapies or targeted treatments based on mutations detected in blood samples.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJCO Precision Oncology·DateFeb 12, 2021

Here comes the new generation of climate models: the future of rainfall in the Alps

The study reveals that next-generation climate models will provide valuable information on hourly precipitation, enabling better adaptation policies for infrastructure and economies. The research demonstrates the added value of high-resolution climate simulations, confirming their worth in areas with complex orography like the Alps.

SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalAtmosphere·DateFeb 12, 2021

Study reveals mutations that drive therapy-related myeloid neoplasms in children

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital characterized genomic abnormalities of 84 therapy-related myeloid neoplasms in children, identifying notable mutations and increased expression of a transcription factor called MECOM. Early detection of these mutations could lead to early interventions and potentially benefit patients.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 12, 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.

Flowers of St. John's Wort serve as green catalyst

Scientists at TU Dresden have discovered that the dried flowers of St. John's Wort can catalyze photochemical reactions, showcasing a promising green and sustainable method for chemical synthesis. The discovery utilizes the plant compound hypericin as an active compound in chemical reactions without prior chemical processing.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateFeb 12, 2021

Engineers earn NASA grant to enable flying taxis

A team of US engineers has received a $5.8 million NASA grant to create computational design tools for air taxi designs. The project aims to develop safe, quiet, and affordable eVTOL aircraft using advanced design optimization algorithms.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateFeb 12, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Detecting single molecules and diagnosing diseases with a smartphone

Researchers have developed a strategy to amplify fluorescence signals using DNA probes and nano-antennas, enabling the detection of biomarkers in low concentrations. This technology has the potential to enable medical screening on patients without laboratory analysis.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 12, 2021

Study contradicts belief that whales learn songs from one another

A new study by a University at Buffalo researcher challenges the cultural transmission hypothesis suggesting that whales learn their songs from others. Humpback whales' songs are changing in a precise manner, similar to beat-matching in music, contradicting existing research on cultural transmission and social learning.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Comparative Psychology·DateFeb 12, 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.

Hubble uncovers concentration of small black holes

Astronomers have found a concentration of smaller black holes at the center of the globular cluster NGC 6397, contradicting the long-held assumption of an intermediate-mass black hole. The discovery was made using Hubble data and Gaia space observatory measurements.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 12, 2021

NIH experts discuss SARS-CoV-2 viral variants

The rise of several significant SARS-CoV-2 variants has sparked concerns about vaccine efficacy and prompted calls for a global approach to combatting the virus. Experts from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases emphasize the need for robust surveillance, tracking, and vaccine deployment worldwide.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 12, 2021

Detecting multiple sepsis biomarkers from whole blood - made fast, accurate, and cheap

A multi-disciplinary team at Harvard's Wyss Institute developed an electrochemical diagnostic sensor platform for multiplexed detection of clinically relevant biomarkers in whole blood. The device accurately detects three different sepsis biomarkers simultaneously and has the potential to revolutionize point-of-care diagnostics.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateFeb 12, 2021

Murphy receives funding for risk need responsivity project

Researchers at George Mason University will provide access to and training on the Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) Simulation Tool for approximately 10 users through a $9,019 grant from Wood County Mental Health Services. The funding supports the RNR project until December 2021.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 12, 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.

Scientists manipulate magnets at the atomic scale

Researchers successfully manipulated magnets at the atomic level using ultrashort laser pulse excitation, reducing magnetic switching time by 1000 times. This breakthrough enables novel means to control magnetism, essential for efficient data processing technologies.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 12, 2021

Biodiversity protects bee communities from disease

A new analysis of thousands of Michigan bees reveals that the most diverse bee communities have the lowest levels of three common viral pathogens. This study suggests that promoting diverse bee communities may be a win-win strategy to reduce viral infections in managed honeybee colonies while maintaining native bee biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEcology·DateFeb 12, 2021

How comparable different stress tests are

A meta-analysis of 31 studies found that certain brain regions, including the insula and inferior frontal gyrus, are consistently activated during stress regardless of the test method used. This suggests a common neural basis for stress perception across different stimuli.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews·DateFeb 12, 2021

Plavchan conducting modeling of telluric absorption features

Researchers at George Mason University are conducting a NASA-funded project to model telluric absorption features using iSHELL stellar spectra and line-spread functions. The goal is to improve EPRV measurements with high precision, enabling the detection of exoplanet atmospheres.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 12, 2021

Genomic test helps estimate risk of prostate cancer metastasis, death

A new genomic test helps oncologists determine which patients with recurrent prostate cancer may benefit from hormone therapy, guiding precision medicine efforts. The Decipher test, measuring tumor gene activity, predicts risk of metastasis and death, even after adjusting for other factors.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateFeb 11, 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.

New study reveals biodiversity important at regional scales

A recent study found that biodiversity is vital at regional scales, not just local ones, to maintain stable ecosystems. This research can inform conservation planning and make human communities more sustainable by promoting biodiversity.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateFeb 11, 2021

Wake-up call for neural stem cells

Researchers have identified a brain enzyme that activates dormant neural stem cells, enabling them to proliferate and generate new neurons. The study found that the enzyme Pr-set7 plays a crucial role in maintaining genome stability and regulating cell cycle, leading to reactivation of neural stem cells.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalEMBO Reports·DateFeb 11, 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.

Big data reveal threats to minorities policed by white and male officers

A recent study using Chicago Police Department data found Black officers used force less often than white counterparts, while women used force less than men. The findings provide insight into the impacts of diversification in policing and highlight the need for nuanced reforms.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 11, 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.

Study identifies never-before-seen dual function in enzyme critical for cancer growth

Researchers have identified a previously unknown dual function of polymerase theta (pol theta) in DNA repair, which could lead to the development of new therapeutic options for breast and ovarian cancers. The finding shows pol theta can both extend DNA and trim it, making it a potential target for treatment development.

SourceLarner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 11, 2021

Facts on the ground: How microplastics in the soil contribute to environmental pollution

A study by scientists from Incheon National University reveals that microplastics in agricultural soil can affect soil quality, plant physiology, and even the environment. The researchers found that different shapes of MPs dominate various agricultural practices, highlighting the need for efficient management strategies to reduce the t...

SourceIncheon National University·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·DateFeb 11, 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.

Play and meaty food reduce hunting by cats

A new study found that introducing premium commercial food with high protein content from meat reduced the number of prey animals brought home by 36%, while five to ten minutes of daily play resulted in a 25% reduction. These non-invasive methods offer a solution for reducing hunting without restricting cat access.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 11, 2021

How do our memories take shape?

Researchers developed a computer program to create geometric shapes from video sequences, comparing them to participants' recounted experiences. The study found that people tend to remember major plot points accurately, while finer-scale details are distorted or forgotten.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateFeb 11, 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.

Echocardiographic screening for rheumatic heart disease in Nepal

A large-scale study found that early detection and treatment of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) through echocardiographic screening and antibiotic prophylaxis significantly reduced RHD prevalence by two-thirds in schools. This approach is an effective strategy to control RHD in endemic regions.

SourceInselspital, Bern University Hospital·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateFeb 11, 2021

The time to take low-carbon transition risks seriously is now

The report identifies eight categories of transition risk, including economic, financial, societal, environmental, technological, energy-related, geopolitical, and corporate. Policymakers and researchers need to grapple with the complex interconnections that tie these risks together.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateFeb 11, 2021