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Science News Archive January 2021


Page 10 of 40

Adding or subtracting single quanta of sound

Researchers perform an experiment that adds or subtracts a single phonon to a high-frequency sound field using laser light interactions. The team's findings show that subtracting a single phonon increases the average number of quanta, defying intuition. This result opens a new path for quantum science and technology with sound waves.

Human dispersal and dog domestication

Dogs were likely domesticated from Eurasian wolves around 23,000 years ago, and later accompanied humans to the Americas. Genetic analysis suggests all ancient dogs belonged to a single haplogroup lineage, A2b, which is no longer found in the continent.

Factors explaining experiences with the divine

A study of 2,356 people reveals that sensory absorption and a porous mental model explain divine experiences. The research, conducted across multiple cultures and religions, highlights the complex factors influencing spiritual encounters.

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.

A stem cell based cell culture model for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Researchers developed a stem cell-based cell culture model for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), revealing key findings on gene expression, lipid droplet morphology, and metabolic networks. The model also showed promising results with AdipoRon, a synthetic analogue that positively influences hepatocyte metabolism.

Diversity and group knowledge

Researchers found that diverse groups created models closer to expert-developed models than homogenous groups. This highlights the benefit of diversity in collective problem-solving for complex issues like fisheries management.

Optimal information about the invisible

Researchers from Utrecht University and TU Wien develop a method to calculate optimal light waves for precise measurement of invisible objects in complicated environments. This technology has potential applications in microbiology, computer chip production, and nanometer-scale imaging.

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.

Nanomedicine's 'crown' is ready for its close up

Researchers have developed a unique combination of microscopy techniques to study the biological effects of nanoparticles and their interaction with human plasma. This approach allows for an unprecedented view of the nanoparticle's 'corona', also known as its biological 'crown', which contains clues about how nanoparticles interact wit...

New skull of tube-crested dinosaur reveals evolution of bizarre crest

The new Parasaurolophus skull reveals the structure of its iconic tube-shaped nasal passage, showing that the crest functions primarily as a sound resonator and visual display used to communicate within species. The discovery provides long-awaited answers about the evolution of this bizarre feature.

Women influenced coevolution of dogs and humans

Researchers found that women's involvement with dogs strengthened the human-dog bond, leading to increased personhood and utility. Hunting cultures also showed a stronger connection between humans and dogs.

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.

Street trees close to the home may reduce the risk of depression

Researchers found that street trees close to homes decrease depression rates, particularly among disadvantaged groups. The study analyzed data from almost 10,000 Leipzig inhabitants and found a strong association between tree proximity and reduced antidepressant prescriptions.

Scientists use a novel ink to 3D print 'bone' with living cells

Researchers at the University of New South Wales have created a novel ceramic-based ink that enables 3D printing of bone-like structures complete with living cells. This breakthrough technology allows for in-situ fabrication of bone tissue, which may revolutionize bone repair and regeneration techniques.

Fine tuning first-responder immune cells may reduce TBI damage

Researchers find that using metformin can restore a healthier balance between immune cell subtypes, inhibiting chronic inflammation and improving outcomes in traumatic brain injury patients. The study suggests a potential new therapy approach to reduce TBI damage and promote recovery.

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.

Better bundled: new principle for generating X-rays

Researchers at the University of Göttingen have created a novel approach for generating X-rays by utilizing a thin layer structure with varying electron densities. This 'sandwich structure' enables focused X-ray beams to be directed in a specific direction, overcoming the challenges of traditional X-ray tube methods.

What's in a name? A new class of superconductors

Physicists Qimiao Si and Emilian Nica propose a new theory that explains how electrons form pairs in unconventional superconductors. Their work reveals a general phenomenon called multiorbital singlet pairing, which is crucial for understanding the behavior of iron-based and heavy-fermion materials.

Brain-to-brain communication demo receives DARPA funding

The MOANA Project aims to create a dual-function wireless headset that can read and write brain activity, restoring lost sensory function. The team successfully demonstrated the technology using light and magnetic fields in a proof-of-principle research.

Genome editing to treat human retinal degeneration

New gene editing strategies, including CRISPR technologies, are being investigated for treating inherited retinal diseases. Researchers aim to identify the most viable therapeutic approaches using human retinal tissue and organoids.

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.

Advanced measurement technology for future semiconductor devices

Researchers used terahertz time-domain spectroscopy to evaluate beta-gallium oxide semiconductor material properties. The technique revealed significant findings on the fundamental properties of the material at THz frequencies, providing valuable information for future power device development.

Increasing ocean temperature threatens Greenland's ice sheet

Researchers found that 74 glaciers in deep valleys accounted for nearly half of Greenland's total ice loss between 1992 and 2017. Warming coastal waters accelerate undercutting, a process where warm water melts the ice from below, causing glaciers to break apart more quickly.

Biologists unravel full sequence of DNA repair mechanism

Researchers describe for the first time the full sequence of Biologist-induced replication (BIR) and found it stalls at roadblocks when transcription is introduced near the beginning. This discovery suggests that BIR's high risk-reward arrangement may contribute to genomic instability leading to cancer development.

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.

White turns into (extreme-)ultraviolet

Scientists at Max Born Institute create new method for generating narrowband XUV laser pulses by employing four-wave mixing scheme. This enables applications in electron spectroscopy, resonant transitions, and coherent diffractive imaging.

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.

Unmanned aerial vehicles to scale new heights thanks to NASA

Researchers at UT Austin will develop methods to validate the cost and scalability of autonomous cargo operations, leveraging machine learning and computational engineering. The team aims to address public concerns about noise pollution, safety, and emissions through mathematical models and terrain-based surface design.

Special Issue, Volume 10 ofInter Faculty- Resonance

This special issue of Inter Faculty journal examines how the pandemic has reshaped society, highlighting key findings on resilience, solidarity, and care. Researchers from diverse fields discuss how the Anthropocene era is transforming human relations and society's relationship with nature.

Dinosaur embryo find helps crack baby tyrannosaur mystery

Researchers have discovered fossils of tiny tyrannosaur embryos that provide insight into the early stages of these colossal animals. The discovery sheds light on the size and appearance of baby tyrannosaurs, which could grow up to 40 feet in length and weigh eight tonnes.

Air pollution linked to higher risk of sight loss from AMD

A recent study by University College London researchers found that people living in areas with high levels of air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter, are at increased risk of developing AMD. The study suggests that improving air quality could be a key public health priority to reduce the risk of eye disease.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Invasive species and phosphorus in the Great Lakes

A single invasive species, quagga mussel, regulates phosphorus cycling in four Great Lakes by ingesting particulate phosphorus and redistributing it through physiological processes. This shift alters the ecosystem's sensitivity to external nutrient load management.

Adagio publishes preclinical data on lead coronaviruses antibody

ADG2 demonstrates comparable or higher neutralization potency against SARS-CoV-2 than leading antibodies in development for COVID-19. It binds effectively to all commonly circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants and shows broad neutralizing activity against SARS-CoV and related coronaviruses.

Machine-learning competition to predict earthquakes

A machine-learning competition to predict earthquake simulations attracted over 4,500 teams, yielding insights into fault processes. The winning teams employed novel computational approaches, suggesting the value of engaging the machine-learning community in predicting significant scientific problems.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Association of smoking with COVID-19 outcomes

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that smoking is an independent risk factor for severe COVID-19 outcomes. The results suggest that cumulative exposure to cigarette smoke increases the risk of hospital admission and death from COVID-19.

Photocatalytic reaction in the shadow

Researchers developed an illumination-reaction decoupled n-Si MIS photocathode that surmounts challenges impeding p-Si MIS photocathode development. The new design utilizes majority carriers to drive the surface reduction reaction, avoiding light-shielding problems and enabling higher efficiency.

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.

Finding a way to stop chemotherapy from damaging the heart

Scientists have discovered a way to block doxorubicin from accessing the heart by introducing another anti-cancer drug, nilotinib, before chemo. This intervention may prevent cardiac injury caused by doxorubicin, used to treat various solid tumors and blood cancers.

Anti-freeze for cell membranes

Researchers have identified a new protein that regulates fluidity in moss cell membranes, allowing them to withstand cold temperatures. This discovery shows convergence in plant evolution, with mosses and flowering plants using similar mechanisms to protect themselves from cold and pathogens.

Timing of fact-checks

A recent study suggests that fact-checks appearing after readers have finished reading headlines are more effective at debunking misinformation. This timing allows for a stronger impact on the reader's perception and memory of the false information.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

With new design, stretchable electronics perform better under strain

Researchers at the University of Chicago have developed a new sensor design that allows stretchable electronics to collect and process faint signals from the body. The design, which incorporates a patterned material that optimizes strain distribution, enables transistors to maintain nearly the same electrical performance when stretched...

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

The American College of Physicians and Annals of Internal Medicine hosted a third virtual COVID-19 vaccine forum, discussing the allocation and distribution of available vaccines. Researchers also published an observational study finding that early therapeutic anticoagulation in critically ill patients with COVID-19 did not affect surv...

Aircraft could cut emissions by better surfing the wind

Researchers found that commercial flights between New York and London last winter could have used up to 16% less fuel by harnessing favorable winds. The study, published in Environmental Research Letters, analyzed 35,000 flights and suggests that simple tweaks to flight paths can offer benefits immediately.

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.

Princeton team advances new route to chemically recyclable plastics

A Princeton University team has discovered a new polybutadiene molecule that can be depolymerized under certain conditions, enabling the creation of chemically recyclable plastics. The material, named (1,n'-divinyl)oligocyclobutane, exhibits intriguing properties such as telechelic functionality, thermal stability, and high crystallinity.

Afternoon napping linked to better mental agility

Research suggests that regular afternoon napping may be associated with better mental agility, including improved locational awareness, verbal fluency, and working memory. The study found significant differences in cognitive performance scores among nap-takers compared to non-nappers.

Energetic costs of human-induced risk in pumas

Pumas in California experienced significant energetic costs when navigating physically difficult terrain or high-risk human disturbance areas, resulting in reduced space use. This study found that male pumas were particularly affected, with a 68% decrease in daily distance traveled and total area traversed over two months.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Unexpected emissions of hydrochlorofluorocarbons

Researchers have found that three ozone-depleting hydrochlorofluorocarbons are being emitted globally, including one recently discovered. The majority of these emissions originate from Asia and southeastern France, suggesting a link to the fluorocarbon industry.