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Science News Archive February 2021 - Page 44


Page 44 of 45

New research looks at teen bariatric surgery outcomes by age

A new study published in Pediatrics found that younger and older adolescents have similar weight loss and improvement in quality of life after bariatric surgery. The study's results suggest that age should not be a barrier to bariatric surgery for adolescents with severe obesity when medically indicated.

SourceChildren's Hospital Colorado·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 1, 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.

Marine organisms use previously undiscovered receptors to detect, respond to light

A University of Washington study identifies four main groups of photoreceptors, many of them new, that marine organisms use to detect and respond to light. This discovery could aid in the field of optogenetics and provide insights into how marine life responds to changing ocean conditions.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2021

Virtual conference CO2 emissions quantified in new study

A new study from the University of Michigan estimates virtual conference CO2 emissions using a framework that includes energy usage, network data transfer, and server energy consumption. The study found that a May 2020 virtual conference produced 66 times less greenhouse gas emissions than an in-person meeting in San Francisco.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Studies·DateFeb 1, 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.

Integration of biodiversity data

The analysis of over 4,000 studies reveals a positive correlation between data availability and data use in biodiversity research. Data integration enables global synthesis and research across multiple taxonomies, facilitating research at various scales.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2021

Physics of snakeskin sheds light on sidewinding

Researchers discovered that sidewinders' bellies have tiny pits and few spikes, which enhances sidewinding but is not as efficient for forward undulation. The study provides insights into convergent evolution and could lead to improvements in human technology, such as snake robots for search-and-rescue missions.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2021

What makes people want more self-control?

Researchers found that desire for self-control is influenced by societal demands and internal motivations, with individuals low in trait self-control expressing greater DSC. Desire for self-control hinges on sense of necessity to accomplish current goals, leading to increased willingness to enroll in training.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalMotivation Science·DateFeb 1, 2021

Study identifies noncoding RNA involved in immune response and sepsis

Researchers identified GAPLINC, a long noncoding RNA that regulates inflammatory gene expression and protects mice from septic shock. The study found that reducing GAPLINC levels enhanced inflammatory responses, but unexpectedly, this effect also protected mice from endotoxic shock.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2021

Mathematical method developed to predict cancer and drug-specific immunotherapy efficacy

Houston Methodist researchers created a mathematical model to predict how specific cancers will respond to immunotherapy treatments, enhancing chances for successful treatments. The model uses laws of physics and chemistry to describe complex biological systems involved in immunotherapy treatment and the associated immune response.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 1, 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.

Neurotransmitter regulation of circadian rhythms

A study on mice reveals that GABA release from vasopressin-producing neurons regulates the suprachiasmatic nucleus clock and constrains behavioral rhythms to specific time-windows. Gene-based molecular clocks are necessary but insufficient for generating circadian behavior, highlighting the importance of intercellular communication.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2021

Subset of COVID-19 patients have increased bleeding risk

A new study found that some COVID-19 patients have an unbalanced ability to break down clots, contributing to a high bleeding risk. This imbalance is linked to a potential clinical biomarker seen in later stages of the disease and may be consistent with recent trial pauses.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 1, 2021

Mysterious magnetic fossils offer past climate clues

Researchers at the University of Utah have developed a new technique to analyze magnetofossils, which can reveal information about past climates. The method uses FORC measurements to identify giant magnetofossils, allowing scientists to study ocean responses to past climate changes.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 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.

Physicists have developed new material for water desalination

Physicists have developed a new material for water desalination that can accelerate evaporation up to 2.5 times and detect hazardous substances. The material, made of titanium dioxide nanoparticles decorated with gold nanoclusters, absorbs light across the entire visible spectrum, converting it into heat.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·DateFeb 1, 2021

Scientific investigations of believed remains of two apostles

Researchers from University of Southern Denmark analyze fragments of a tibia, femur, and mummified foot attributed to the apostles, finding the femur dates back to AD 214-340, not St. James' time, casting doubt on their authenticity. The study sheds light on early Christian traditions and practices surrounding relic movements.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalHeritage Science·DateFeb 1, 2021

Understanding skilled labour migration in East Asia

A research project led by Goethe University is investigating the role of skills and education in mobility among East Asian countries. The team will collect qualitative data on professionals from China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Vietnam, and conduct quantitative research to test a theory developed from qualitative findings.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·DateFeb 1, 2021

New study strengthens claims Richard III murdered 'the Princes in the Tower'

A new study by Professor Tim Thornton strengthens claims that King Richard III was involved in the murder of his nephews, known as 'the Princes in the Tower'. The research, published in History, suggests that credible sources confirm Richard III's guilt in the high-profile royal disappearance.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalJournal of the Canadian Historical Association·DateFeb 1, 2021

UK life expectancy declining after financial crisis

Life expectancy at birth in the UK slowed significantly around 2011 compared to other EU countries, while years of good health decreased. The decline is attributed to austerity measures, increased mortality rates from seasonal influenza and extreme temperatures.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·DateFeb 1, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Physicists create tunable superconductivity in twisted graphene 'nanosandwich'

Researchers discover ultra-strongly coupled superconductivity in a trilayer graphene sandwich, exhibiting more robust superconductivity than its bilayer counterpart. The team can tune the material's superconductivity using external electric fields, opening new avenues for quantum information and sensing technologies.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateFeb 1, 2021

Prostate drug associated with lower risk of Parkinson's disease

A large observational study found that taking terazosin for enlarged prostate is associated with a reduced risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Men taking terazosin were 12-37% less likely to develop the disease compared to those taking tamsulosin, according to the study published in JAMA Neurology.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·DateFeb 1, 2021

Highly deformable piezoelectric nanotruss for tactile electronics

A research team at KAIST has developed a highly deformable ceramic piezoelectric material that can convert mechanical stimuli into electrical signals. The material's elastic strain limit is three times greater than that of bulk zinc oxide, making it suitable for advancing high-performing haptic technology.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNano Energy·DateFeb 1, 2021

Unmatched dust storms raged over Western Europe during Ice age maximum

New estimates suggest that Western Europe experienced unmatched dust storms during the coldest periods of the latest ice age. The research, published in Quaternary Science Reviews, challenges the long-held assumption that China was the dustiest region on Earth during this time period.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateFeb 1, 2021

Salt battery design overcomes bump in the road to help electric cars go the extra mile

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have designed a new type of rechargeable battery that combines the performance merits of solid-oxide fuel cells and metal-air batteries. The salt battery can significantly extend the range of electric vehicles while being fully recyclable, environmentally-friendly, low-cost, and safe.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·DateFeb 1, 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.

New clues emerge in how early tetrapods learned to live -- and eat -- on land

A team of researchers discovered that Tiktaalik roseae, a transitional fossil between fish and tetrapods, exhibited sliding joints in its skull that allowed for cranial kinesis, enabling the animal to expand its mouth and create suction. This adaptation is thought to have evolved in aquatic species before being adapted for use on land.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2021

Research could dramatically lower cost of electron sources

Researchers at Rice University and Los Alamos National Laboratory have discovered a technology to make electron sources from halide perovskite thin films, efficiently converting light into free electrons. The cost savings come from abundant and inexpensive raw materials and a simpler manufacturing process.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 1, 2021

Experts put new method of analysing children's play to the test

Researchers at Swansea University developed the Play Cycle Observation Method to study children's play. The new tool has been tested with three-year-olds, demonstrating its reliability as a child-centred observational tool, and has shown promising results for supporting various stages of children's play.

SourceSwansea University·JournalJournal of Early Childhood Research·DateFeb 1, 2021

Researchers discover mechanism to overcome drug-resistance in leukemia

A novel metabolic gatekeeper mechanism for leukemia has been discovered by Yale researchers, highlighting the importance of glucose and energy supply in leukemic transformation. High expression levels of PON2 enable glucose uptake activity in B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells, leading to a more aggressive course of disease.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2021

Summer weather conditions influence winter survival of honey bees

Penn State researchers found that summer temperatures and precipitation influence honey bee winter survival. The study developed a tool for forecasting winter survival probability using growing degree days and other environmental variables. This prediction model can help beekeepers make informed management decisions.

SourcePenn State·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 1, 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.

Geologists produce new timeline of Earth's Paleozoic climate changes

Researchers create more detailed record of global temperature during early Paleozoic era, revealing temperature variations coinciding with shifts in planet's biodiversity. The new timeline is based on analysis of carbonate muds, which preserve signatures of their original surrounding temperature.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2021

As climate warms, summer monsoons to produce less streamflow

A new study finds that climate warming reduces the impact of summer monsoons on streamflow in the Colorado River Basin. Monsoonal rains normally deliver 18% of the basin's water and produce 10% of annual streamflow, but a warmer future with less snow accumulation will diminish this effect.

SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateFeb 1, 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.

Skoltech imaging resources used in international experiment with new photocatalysts

Researchers from Skoltech and international partners study crystal structure and optical properties of new two-dimensional compounds for energy conversion. The study used advanced imaging equipment to analyze the material's structure, leading to potential improvements in photocatalytic activity.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 1, 2021

Toxin-antitoxin function fuels antibiotic-resistance research

Researchers have discovered that toxin-antitoxin (TA) systems play a crucial role in plasmid replication and bacterial antibiotic resistance. The presence or absence of plasmids significantly impacts a bacterium's ability to cause infection.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2021

Improved model estimates impact of ozone on soy crops

A new study improves a computer modelling system to predict the impact of ozone on soybean production, estimating damage at 10% yield reduction for normal ozone levels and less than half that for extreme levels. The research aims to inform policy decisions to limit surface ozone levels.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGeoscientific Model Development·DateFeb 1, 2021

Are plastics and microplastics in the Ocean on the increase?

A recent study published in Microplastics and Nanoplastics journal concludes that marine litter in coastal systems has remained constant since 2019, with some components showing a decrease. The steady state scenario raises questions about the transfer of plastic litter to remote areas or degradation into smaller fragments.

SourceUniversity of Malta·JournalMicroplastics and Nanoplastics·DateFeb 1, 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.

February special issue of SLAS Discovery focuses on hit discovery methodologies

The February edition of SLAS Discovery explores the use of hit discovery methodologies and technologies in both small molecule and large molecule drug discovery. The issue features nine articles of original research, including those on high-throughput screening, mass spectrometry, and AI-driven screening.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS DISCOVERY·DateFeb 1, 2021

Youth with autism see sharp decline in physical activity between ages 9-13

A recent study from Oregon State University found that children with autism experience a significant decline in physical activity between ages 9 and 13. The study suggests that interventions targeting this age range can help maintain healthy rates of physical activity. The research also highlights the importance of physical activity fo...

SourceOregon State University·JournalAutism·DateFeb 1, 2021

SLAS Technology special collection on AI in process automation available now

The February edition of SLAS Technology features a special collection on Artificial Intelligence in Process Automation, highlighting its applications in drug discovery, automated gene editing, and machine learning. The issue also celebrates the top 10 most-cited articles within the journal's history.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS TECHNOLOGY·DateFeb 1, 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.

Scientists develop method to detect fake news

Researchers at University of Göttingen and Frankfurt have developed an approach to detect fake news in the stock market. The new method uses machine learning and linguistic characteristics to identify suspicious messages, making it harder for scammers to evade detection.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalJournal of the Association for Information Systems·DateFeb 1, 2021

Not too big, not too small: Goldilocks analogy found in maze navigation

Researchers at OIST created a tiny setup with two microscopic cylinders to study fluid path selection around obstacles. The results revealed that the central gap size determines the fluid's choice between three available paths, offering insights into fluid transport in real-world systems.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 1, 2021

Antimicrobial peptides against citrus greening

Researchers have identified stable antimicrobial peptides as a potential solution to address citrus greening, a major threat to the global citrus industry. Multiple SAMP injections into infected trees increased tree growth, reduced bacterial levels and prevented disease symptoms.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2021

Easily assembled gold nanoparticle scaffolding serves as molecular probe

Researchers at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology developed a new method using easily assembled gold nanoparticles to rapidly understand molecular mechanisms. This approach streamlines the laborious process of identifying target proteins for bioactive small molecules, which can be used in pharmaceutical treatments.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalOrganic & Biomolecular Chemistry·DateFeb 1, 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.

Use of pronouns may show signs of an impending breakup

A study analyzing Reddit posts found that users' language changed three months before a breakup, becoming more personal and informal. This change persisted for six months after the split, while some users lingered in online communities, rehashing their breakup story.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2021

Data shows strain on ICU capacity leads to more deaths during COVID-19 pandemic

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that patients with COVID-19 are twice as likely to die when ICU capacity is strained during peak caseloads. The research team analyzed data from 8,516 COVID-19 patients and found a significant association between ICU patient load and demand and increased mortality rates.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 1, 2021

Larger panel finds more gene mutations, treatment targets for leukemia

A new 523-gene panel has been developed to diagnose and treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML), identifying more genetic mutations and potential treatment targets. The panel has shown high sensitivity and specificity in detecting AML and has the potential to improve patient outcomes.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 1, 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.

Research catches up to world's fastest-growing plant

Researchers at the Salk Institute have made groundbreaking discoveries about the genome of Wolffia, a miniature aquatic plant that can grow twice as fast as other plants. The study reveals that Wolffia has shed most genes that don't contribute to growth, allowing it to focus on rapid development.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalGenome Research·DateFeb 1, 2021

Indoor ozone chemistry

A study of indoor ozone chemistry in an occupied house found overall low ozone concentrations but multiple VOCs indicating ozone reactions with skin lipids and other surface chemicals. Volatile oxidation products from skin oil persisted for up to 5 days, suggesting a significant contribution of skin lipids to indoor ozone chemistry

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 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.

How governments address COVID-19 misinformation--for better or for worse

A study reveals five government approaches to address COVID-19 misinformation, including disseminating accurate info, addressing commercial fraud, restricting access to info, spreading disinformation, and criminalizing expression. These tactics have varying effects on public health and human rights.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Public Health Policy·DateFeb 1, 2021

Glitch in genome architecture may cause B-cell malignancies

A new study reveals that errors in chromosome packing may cause B-cell blood cancers. Researchers identified a critical protein called DIS3 that maintains genomic architecture and prevents cancer. The findings could lead to new biomarkers and therapies targeting genome instability.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 1, 2021