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Science News Archive January 2021 - Page 10


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.

SourceImperial College London·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 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.

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.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalBiology Open·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 2021
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.

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.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateJan 25, 2021

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...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 25, 2021

Recovery of ovarian function in infertile mammals lacking gonadotropin release

Researchers at Nagoya University found that KNDy neurons, expressing kisspeptin, neurokinin-B, and dynorphin-A, are responsible for GnRH pulses, enabling ovarian function in mammals. Rescuing just 20% of these neurons is sufficient to restart GnRH and gonadotropin pulses and maintain fertility.

SourceNagoya University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceDenver Museum of Nature & Science·JournalPeerJ·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Ethnobiology·DateJan 25, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJan 25, 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.

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.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJCI Insight·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceRice University·Journalnpj Quantum Materials·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceRice University·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateJan 25, 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.

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.

SourceOsaka University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalNature·DateJan 25, 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.

Dairy calves benefit from higher-protein starter feed, Illinois study says

A new University of Illinois study found that dairy calves fed with high-protein starter feed had less fat in their body weight gain and more protein devoted to the development of the gastrointestinal system. Producers can improve calf health and productivity by feeding higher-protein starters.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateJan 25, 2021

Charged up: revolutionizing rechargeable sodium-ion batteries with 'doped' carbon anodes

Researchers at Korea Maritime and Ocean University developed a new anode material for sodium-ion batteries by doping carbon with different atoms, improving electrochemical performance and reversible capacity. The findings have significant implications for the engineering of sustainable, inexpensive, high-performance batteries.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalNature Photonics·DateJan 25, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalInternational Academic Journal Faculty of Tourism and Hotel Management·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalCanadian Journal of Earth Sciences·DateJan 25, 2021

Older minority cancer patients have worse surgery outcomes than similar white patients

A new study reveals that older minority cancer patients with poor social determinants experience negative surgical outcomes, including higher complication rates and mortality. Researchers suggest integrating vulnerability assessments into national standard of care models to improve outcomes.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJan 25, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceScient Public Relations, Inc.·JournalScience·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 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.

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.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJan 25, 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.

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.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Plants·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 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.

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...

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Electronics·DateJan 25, 2021

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...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJan 25, 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.

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.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalGeneral Psychiatry·DateJan 25, 2021

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.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 2021

Titanium oxide nanotubes facilitate low-cost laser-assisted photoporation

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology developed a low-cost method for intracellular delivery using titanium-oxide nanotubes and nanosecond pulse lasers. The study successfully delivered propidium iodide and fluorescent dextran into HeLa cells with high efficiency and cell viability.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalApplied Surface Science·DateJan 25, 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.

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.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 2021