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Science News Archive February 2021 - Page 42


Page 42 of 45

Soldiers, snakes and marathon runners in the hidden world of fungi

Researchers at Lund University discovered distinct strategies among fungi species, including the 'soldier' that grows forcefully, the 'marathon runner' that sends out lone fighters, and the 'snake' that weaves around obstacles. The study provides new insights into fungal behavior and its potential applications in agriculture.

SourceLund University·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateFeb 2, 2021

Why food sticks to nonstick frying pans

Convection may be to blame for stuck-on food in nonstick pans due to temperature gradients and surface tension changes. Researchers determined conditions that lead to dry spots, including decreasing film thickness and size of deformed region below critical values.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateFeb 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.

Minority patients miss out on cystic fibrosis drugs due to genetic test limitations

A recent study found that non-white patients are disproportionately excluded from receiving the latest precision medicines for cystic fibrosis due to genetic test limitations. The drug trials were primarily conducted on non-Hispanic white patients, leading to a lack of representation in the patient registry.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPediatric Pulmonology·DateFeb 2, 2021

NREL reports sustainability benchmarks for plastics recycling and redesign

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has developed a benchmark system to assess the environmental impact of plastics production in the US. The study provides data on energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions for 18 types of plastics, allowing researchers to compare their designs with current manufacturing practices.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalJoule·DateFeb 2, 2021

Air pollution poses risk to thinking skills in later life, a study says

A study published by the University of Edinburgh found that exposure to air pollution in childhood is associated with a decline in thinking skills up to 60 years later. The research used historical data to estimate exposure levels and analyzed the relationship between air pollution and cognitive change throughout life.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateFeb 2, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

What impact did police violence have on participation in the October 1, 2020 referendum?

A recent study by Toni Rodon and Marc Guinjoan found that police violence at polling stations reduced local turnout, but spurred higher participation in surrounding municipalities. The researchers also discovered a 'universal census' law allowed voters to cast ballots anywhere, contributing to the increase in nearby votes.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalPolitical Science Research and Methods·DateFeb 2, 2021

Social interactions after isolation may counteract cravings

A UNSW study in rats shows that social interaction can reverse food and cigarette cravings triggered by social isolation. The study found that socially isolated rats relapsed to nicotine seeking but showed no interest once returned to group housing, highlighting the importance of social interaction in treating substance abuse disorders.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·DateFeb 2, 2021

Tiny 3D structures enhance solar cell efficiency

Researchers created a new solar cell design using 3D nanocomposites, increasing efficiency by a factor of five. The unique architecture helps overcome material limitations, enabling easier manufacturing and improved durability.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 2, 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.

Remyelinating drug could improve vision in patients with multiple sclerosis

Researchers found that a new remyelinating drug called indazole chloride improved vision in mice with multiple sclerosis by inducing remyelination and mitigating damage to the optic nerve. The study highlights the importance of early treatment to mitigate axon damage and recover 75-80% of original function.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalBrain Pathology·DateFeb 2, 2021

Surgery to heal inflamed gut may create new target for disease

A study found that surgery to repair an inflamed gut may trigger a second immune system attack, which could lead to pouchitis. Researchers analyzed tissue samples and gene activity in patients who developed pouchitis after J-pouch surgery.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateFeb 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.

Tracking cells with omnidirectional visible laser particles

Researchers at Harvard Medical School and Peking University introduce a novel technique for tracking individual cells using omnidirectional visible laser particles. The innovative method reduces orientation-dependent intensity fluctuations, allowing for blinking-free tracking of single cells under complex biological conditions.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateFeb 2, 2021

What impact does Airbnb have on local housing prices and rents?

A new study found that Airbnb has a positive association with property price increases and rental rates, particularly in areas with fewer owner-occupiers. The research suggests that the presence of an Airbnb property can contribute to an increase in housing prices and rental rates in local neighborhoods.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateFeb 2, 2021

Yale researchers develop injection to treat skin cancer

Researchers at Yale University have developed an injection treatment for skin cancer that uses polymer-based nanoparticles carrying chemotherapy agents. The treatment's bioadhesive properties allow it to kill cancer cells and stimulate the immune system, potentially eliminating the need for surgery.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2021

Textile sensor patch could detect pressure points for amputees

Researchers created a textile-based sensor system to map problematic pressure points in prosthetic limbs, improving comfort and fit. The soft, flexible sensor patch can detect pressure changes in real-time, providing valuable insights for amputees.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIEEE Sensors Journal·DateFeb 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.

What evolution reveals about the function of bitter receptors

Bitter receptors have functions beyond taste perception, including roles in defense against pathogenic bacteria and metabolic regulation. Human bitter receptors can detect substances detected by coelacanth receptors, suggesting extraoral functions.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateFeb 2, 2021

The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health: 40% of countries show no progress in reducing cigarette smoking in adolescents over last 20 years

A study of over 1.1 million adolescents from 140 countries found that cigarette smoking decreased in 80 countries but remained unchanged or increased in 60 countries between 1999 and 2018. Other tobacco products like chewing tobacco and e-cigarettes also showed increased use in many countries.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·DateFeb 2, 2021

Teaching pupils empathy measurably improves their creative abilities

Research at the University of Cambridge found that teaching children to empathise with others significantly improves their creative abilities. The study used a set of engineering design thinking tools to foster empathy in pupils aged 13-14. As a result, creativity scores increased by up to 78% among those who received the intervention.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalImproving Schools·DateFeb 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.

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.

Mailing it in: Getting the word out on getting the ballots in

A new study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that a single postcard campaign increased mail-in ballot applications by 0.5 percentage points and boosted mail ballots cast by 0.4 percentage points. The inexpensive postcards, costing less than $1 each, were equally impactful for Black and white registrants.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2021

Neurons: 'String of lights' indicates excitation propagation

A novel molecular voltage sensor allows researchers to observe the propagation of electrical signals in living nerve cells with high precision. This enables investigations into completely new questions about brain function and could lead to a better understanding of neurological diseases.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2021

COVID-19 lockdowns temporarily raised global temperatures

Research led by NCAR found that COVID-19 lockdowns caused a slight warming effect on the planet, with temperatures rising by 0.2-0.5 degrees Fahrenheit in some regions. The study highlights the complex influence of aerosol emissions on climate, which can either cool or warm the planet depending on the type and amount.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateFeb 2, 2021

When hyperactive proteins trigger illnesses

Hyperactive RANK proteins have been found to trigger autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Researchers also discovered that these proteins contribute to chronic lymphatic leukemia in mice, paving the way for new therapeutic antibody treatments.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateFeb 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.

Opioid prescriptions remained elevated two years after critical care

A nationwide study found that nearly 11% of ICU patients in Sweden received opioid prescriptions for at least 6 months and up to 2 years after discharge. Chronic opioid use was linked to a 70% higher risk of death, with pre-admission history and certain medical conditions being major risk factors.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2021

Curtin study finds native bees under threat from growing urbanization

A Curtin University study has found that residential gardens are a poor substitute for native bushland in supporting pollination networks of native bees. The research highlights the importance of preserving native vegetation to protect sustainable bee communities and their pollination services.

SourceCurtin University·JournalUrban Ecosystems·DateFeb 2, 2021

The benefits of reading outdoors

Researchers at State University of New York College of Optometry discovered that visual contrast increases when reading outdoors, making it easier to see letters and improving eyesight. This finding has significant implications for basic research, eye clinics, and architectural design.

SourceState University of New York College of Optometry·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 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.

Fine tuned: adjusting the composition and properties of semiconducting 2D alloys

Researchers from Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have successfully created 2D Si-Ge alloys with adjustable electronic properties. By adjusting the composition of these materials, they can fine-tune their band structure to suit various applications, opening doors for new electronics innovations.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalPhysical Review Materials·DateFeb 2, 2021

What did the Swiss eat during the Bronze Age?

Researchers analyzed human, animal skeletons and plant remains to study the evolution of the Swiss diet during the Bronze Age. They found no differences in diet between men, women, or children, but a shift towards more intense agriculture and the introduction of new cereals like millet.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 2, 2021

Science snapshots from Berkeley Lab

A mouse study suggests that the genetic contribution to anxiety is partially mediated by the gut microbiome. Researchers used 3D X-ray imaging to gain new insights into the reproductive biology of tsetse flies, which carry a deadly parasite that causes African sleeping sickness.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 2, 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.

Providing inclusive care for LGBTQ2SPIA+ cancer patients

Researchers found that healthcare professionals have knowledge gaps when caring for LGBTQ2SPIA+ cancer patients, affecting their ability to provide emotional support and tailored care. The study concludes that patient-centered care requires specific resources and education for radiation therapists.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences·DateFeb 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.

Big name corporations more likely to commit fraud

A recent study published in Justice Quarterly found that Fortune 500 firms with strong growth profiles are more susceptible to financial securities fraud. These companies were nearly four times as likely to be involved in fraud than smaller, struggling companies.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJustice Quarterly·DateFeb 2, 2021

Age groups that sustain resurging COVID-19 epidemics in the United States

New data analysis from Imperial College London reveals that adults aged 20-49 are the main driver of COVID-19 transmission in the US. Despite school reopening, these age groups continue to sustain and spread the virus, highlighting the need for targeted interventions among this demographic.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience·DateFeb 2, 2021

Temperature, humidity, wind predict second wave of pandemic

A study by Talib Dbouk and Dimitris Drikakis from the University of Nicosia found that temperature, humidity, and wind speed significantly impact epidemic behavior. The researchers developed a new model, AIR index, which accurately predicted the timing of second outbreaks in Paris, New York City, and Rio de Janeiro.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateFeb 2, 2021

Harvard researchers use machine learning models to study health impacts of walnuts

Researchers used machine learning models to identify metabolites in walnuts associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The study found a 17% lower risk of type 2 diabetes and 29% lower risk of cardiovascular disease, contributing to our understanding of the health benefits of walnuts.

SourceEdelman Public Relations, Seattle·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateFeb 2, 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.

Moffitt researchers identify why CAR T therapy may fail in some lymphoma patients

Research at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute identified immune dysregulation as a key factor hindering CAR T-cell expansion and effectiveness in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients. The study suggests that addressing underlying immune characteristics may improve treatment outcomes.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalBlood·DateFeb 2, 2021

Changes in economic prosperity, cardiovascular mortality

A study from 2010 to 2017 found that increased economic prosperity was associated with lower rates of cardiovascular mortality among middle-age U.S. adults. The researchers analyzed county-level data, revealing a significant positive correlation between economic growth and cardiovascular health outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 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.

NYUAD researchers propose programming to support adolescent mothers in areas of conflict

A bioecocultural approach aims to address the needs of adolescent mothers and their young children in conflict-affected contexts, considering neuroendocrine development during adolescence. The framework proposes culturally anchored peer engagement, continued education, and child care support to break intergenerational cycles of poverty.

SourceNew York University·JournalDevelopment and Psychopathology·DateFeb 2, 2021