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Science News Archive January 2021


Page 7 of 40

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.

Melatonin produced in the lungs prevents infection by novel coronavirus

Researchers found that melatonin synthesized in the lungs acts as a barrier against SARS-CoV-2, preventing expression of genes that encode proteins in cells serving as viral entry points. The hormone also inhibits immune response to allow virus to remain in respiratory tract for a few days.

New study points to better diagnostics for cancer

Researchers have developed a new method, Cell Heterogeneity-Adjusted cLonal Methylation (CHALM), that improves the prediction of gene expression from DNA methylation data. This method has been shown to identify more reliable biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, potentially leading to better early detection.

Antibody highs and lows in survivors of Ebola

A study found that over half of Ebola survivors experienced a rapid increase in antibody levels around 200 days after recovery, followed by decline, indicating potential long-term virus persistence.

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.

Micro-brewing goes more micro

A PhD student has discovered a way to conduct micro-brewing experiments using only a single barley seed in a 1.5 millilitre tube, reducing the need for large-scale brewing operations. This method could speed up the quality testing of newly-bred barley varieties and potentially lead to new styles of beer.

A little soap simplifies making 2D nanoflakes

Researchers found a way to process hexagonal boron nitride into high-quality 2D nanosheets using surfactants and water. The findings could lead to the development of antibacterial films and heat-resistant materials.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Historically redlined neighborhoods are more likely to lack greenspace today

Neighborhoods historically redlined by racist mortgage practices in the 1930s are more likely to have limited green spaces. This is associated with elevated air pollution, higher rates of poverty, and worse health outcomes for residents. The study highlights the persistent effects of redlining policies on urban neighborhoods.

Detecting ADHD with near perfect accuracy

Researchers have identified a stable biomarker for ADHD in brain connectivity, allowing for near-perfect detection of the disorder. A machine learning model achieved 99% accuracy in identifying adults diagnosed with ADHD as children.

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.

Secrets of traumatic stress hidden in the brain are exposed

A recent study using Cereset's HIRREM technology found significant effects on brain network connectivity in military personnel with traumatic stress. The results support the bihemispheric autonomic management model and suggest that regulated connections between hemispheres are associated with improved health and wellbeing.

How COVID-19 tested and transformed science

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated scientific innovation, with scientists working at record speed to develop vaccines, diagnose, and treat the virus. Despite these advances, the pandemic has also raised concerns about public trust in science, exacerbated by mixed messaging and politicization.

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.

Consuming omega-3 fatty acids could prevent asthma

A new study suggests that consuming long chain omega-3 fatty acids in childhood can reduce the risk of developing asthma, but only in children with a specific genetic make-up. The research found a significant association between higher intake of long chain omega-3 fatty acids and lower risk of asthma.

A metalens for virtual and augmented reality

A team of researchers at Harvard University has developed a two-millimeter achromatic metalens that can focus RGB colors without aberrations, opening a path to new virtual reality platforms. The lens uses nanostructures to focus light and is the largest RGB-achromatic metalens to date.

Hormonal IUDs are a viable and underutilized method for emergency contraception

Researchers at University of Utah Health found hormonal IUDs comparable to copper IUDs for emergency contraception, offering a safe alternative to current options. The study also suggests that hormonal IUDs can provide highly effective contraception for up to seven years, reducing the risk of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse.

Study shows racial disparities in elementary school disciplinary actions

A new study using a nationwide self-reported dataset found that elementary school-age Black children are 3.5 times more likely to be suspended or placed in detention than their white peers, despite controlling for socioeconomic factors. The researchers believe systemic racism and unconscious bias may contribute to the disparities.

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.

New malaria mosquito is emerging in African cities

A new malaria mosquito species, Anopheles stephensi, has been found in cities and towns in urban settings in Ethiopia, Sudan, and Djibouti. The invading mosquito is highly susceptible to local malaria strains, increasing the risk of urban malaria in Africa.

Putting bugs on the menu, safely

Researchers have identified 20 proteins found in cricket food products that could cause serious allergic reactions in individuals with shellfish allergies. The study aims to provide a framework for detecting and labelling insect-derived allergens in food products, ensuring safe consumption by those with allergies.

Global analysis suggests COVID-19 is seasonal

COVID-19 cases and mortality rates are significantly correlated with temperature and latitude across 221 countries, according to a new study. The research suggests the disease may be seasonal, like the flu, and could help inform pandemic strategies.

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.

Size of helium nucleus measured more precisely than ever before

Researchers at PSI have measured the helium nucleus radius five times more precisely than before, allowing for better understanding of fundamental physics and natural constants. The new method uses low-energy muons to create exotic atoms, enabling precise measurements of atomic properties.

Pitt researcher receives ARPA-E grant to 'innervate' pipelines

Researchers aim to create an 'intelligent' pipeline that can detect defects through acoustic and vibrational signatures, enabling targeted in-situ repairs with reduced downtime and costs. The project also plans to develop economic models and regulatory modifications for commercialization.

Important climate change mystery solved by scientists

Scientists have resolved a key climate change mystery, showing that annual global temperature today is the warmest of the past 10,000 years. The study, led by Rutgers University, challenges long-held views on Holocene era temperatures and confirms greenhouse gases drove recent millennia warming.

Can Minnesota support a sustainable aquaculture industry?

A new three-year project led by the University of Minnesota Sea Grant aims to determine the potential for a sustainable food-fish aquaculture industry in Minnesota. The study will assess production costs, consumer demand, and market priorities to help producers estimate profit margins.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Key switchgrass genes identified, which could mean better biofuels ahead

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have identified three distinct populations of switchgrass with unique adaptations to climate, paving the way for breeding high-yielding varieties matched to specific climates. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and sustainable biofuel production.

Why people overuse antibiotics

A Rutgers study reveals widespread antibiotic overuse due to misconceptions and pressure from patients, leading to drug-resistant bacteria and harm to the microbiome. The study also finds that older physicians are more likely to prescribe antibiotics, while misinformation among the public perpetuates unnecessary use of antibiotics.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

When simpler is harder

Researchers measured brain activity in Hindi speakers describing different images to study sentence planning before speaking. They found that having fewer grammatical distinctions makes planning particularly demanding for the brain and requires more neural activity.

Growth of northern Tibet proved the key to East Asian biodiversity

A joint research team revealed that the growth of northern Tibet drastically altered climate and vegetation patterns in East Asia. The study found that increased rainfall allowed unique plants and animal species to evolve in vast numbers, creating a biodiversity hotspot.

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.

New trial to test drugs for preventing Covid-19 in care homes

The PROTECT trial aims to identify effective drugs to prevent Covid-19 in care home residents, who are at high risk of severe illness. If successful, the trial could help restore normal life for residents and their families, including liberal visiting policies.

Culture shapes willingness to share personal data to reduce COVID-19 spread

A new study finds that people's willingness to share personal location information to reduce COVID-19 transmission is influenced by cultural context. Researchers found that South Koreans are more accepting of COVID-19 mitigation efforts involving data sharing due to their collectivist culture and lower privacy concerns.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Scientists jump-start two people's brains after coma

Researchers report two more patients in minimally conscious states show significant improvement after receiving low-intensity focused ultrasound treatment. One patient demonstrated ability to respond to commands and communicate with family members, while another showed recognition of objects and understanding of speech.

Controlling pain after surgery doesn't have to mean opioids, study shows

A study of 620 patients who had surgery found that those counseled to use opioids only as backup experienced less pain and similar patient satisfaction compared to standard care. The approach took a middle ground between controlling pain and reducing the risk of long-term opioid use or addiction.

Trying to beat a coke habit with cannabis? Not so fast !

A study by Université de Montréal psychiatry professor Didier Jutras-Aswad and his team found that cannabidiol is not an effective treatment for cocaine use disorder. The 78-participant clinical trial showed no reduction in craving or relapse risk with cannabidiol, contrary to its growing popularity as a potential addiction treatment.

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.

In tune with the moon

A team of scientists led by Charlotte Förster discovered a correlation between moon phases and women's menstrual cycles. The researchers found that the strength of the moon's light-dark cycle contributes to synchronizing menstruation in women, while gravity also plays a role.

Medicaid expansion helps uncover undiagnosed HIV infections

A recent study found that Medicaid expansion led to a significant increase in the identification of undiagnosed HIV infections and the use of HIV prevention services. The research reveals a 13.9% rise in new HIV diagnoses, mostly concentrated among injection drug users in low-income and rural counties.

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.

A benchmark for single-electron circuits

Researchers from PTB and the University of Latvia have developed a statistical testing methodology for single-electron circuits, enabling the investigation of fundamental uncertainties. The new 'random-walk benchmark' provides a robust measure of assessing errors in quantum metrology.

At three days old, newborn mice remember their moms

Researchers found that newborn mice can recognize their mothers and prefer them over unfamiliar mothers, a preference that lasts into adulthood. The ability to form these memories is linked to the CA2 region of the hippocampus and is essential for long-lasting social interactions.