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Science News Archive January 2021 - Page 16


Page 16 of 40

Abandoned cropland should produce biofuels

A study suggests that growing perennial grasses on abandoned cropland could counteract climate change by producing biofuels. The research found that 83 million hectares of areas previously used for food production are now available for biofuel cultivation, which could meet between 11-68% of current bioenergy needs.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJan 21, 2021

Neuronal recycling: This is how our brain allows us to read

Researchers found that the brain processes letters and words similarly to how it processes other visual stimuli, using statistical frequency of specific symbols. This common cognitive process, known as unsupervised learning, is also seen in animals such as baboons that can learn to recognize words.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 21, 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.

New journal to push the boundaries of biological imaging

The new journal, Biological Imaging, provides an interdisciplinary forum for quantitative and computational imaging in life sciences, covering topics like microscopy, image acquisition, and machine learning. The journal aims to drive cross-fertilization across research applications and inspire innovative work.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalBiological Imaging·DateJan 21, 2021

Solar system formation in two steps

A team of researchers discovered that the early Solar System formed in two distinct steps, resulting in different planetary compositions and evolutionary paths. The study explains why the inner planets are small and dry, while the outer planets are larger and wet.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience·DateJan 21, 2021
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.

Researchers make domestic high-performance bipolar membranes possible

Researchers have created a stable and efficient membrane using an in-situ growth idea, addressing the challenges of large-scale production. The new membrane outperforms existing commercial membranes in terms of starting voltage, stability, and hydrolysis ability.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 21, 2021

Opiate overdoses spike in black Philadelphians, but drop in white residents since COVID-19

A study found that fatal opioid overdoses increased by over 50% among Black individuals in Philadelphia during the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, white residents experienced a 31% drop in fatal overdoses during the same period. The research suggests that racial inequities worsened the opioid crisis, with factors such as economic hardshi...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 21, 2021

Developmental origins of eczema and psoriasis discovered

Researchers create detailed map of skin cells, revealing that cellular processes from development are re-activated in cells from patients with inflammatory skin disease. This study offers potential new drug targets for treating eczema and psoriasis.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience·DateJan 21, 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.

Electrons caught in the act

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have developed a technique to visualize ultrafast electron motion with sub-nanoscale spatial resolution, enabling the study of semiconductor device operation and potential defect control. This breakthrough may lead to more efficient electronic devices.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalACS Photonics·DateJan 21, 2021

Children 'not scared' by PPE, says study

A new study from Alder Hey Children's Hospital found that children are not anxious or scared when wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) in the anaesthetic room. In fact, most children reported feeling happy and safe with PPE, while none experienced anxiety or fear.

SourceAAGBI·JournalAnaesthesia·DateJan 21, 2021

Fish sex organs boosted under high-CO2

Research found that some fish species exhibit larger gonads and increased reproductive output under elevated CO2 levels, leading to more offspring. Males and females adjust their behavior to optimize reproduction, with males foraging more and investing energy in egg care.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 21, 2021

Research finds people more likely to follow Covid rules when friends and family do

A recent study published in the British Journal of Psychology found that people are more likely to follow Covid-19 restrictions based on their close circle's behavior rather than their own principles. The researchers discovered that the best predictor of compliance was how much one's close friends and family were following the rules.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalBritish Journal of Psychology·DateJan 21, 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.

Pain-relief regimen treats trauma patients with fewer opioid drugs

The study found that a multimodal pain regimen (MMPR) reduced opioid exposure and pain scores in trauma patients. The MMPR, which includes generic medications such as acetaminophen and tramadol, was shown to be an effective alternative to traditional opioid treatments.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJan 21, 2021

Food insecurity spiked during early months of pandemic

A new study by the RAND Corporation found that food insecurity increased by nearly 80% in two predominantly African American neighborhoods during the first weeks of the coronavirus pandemic. This marked a reversal of decade-long trends, with disparities between these areas and the general US population reaching their highest levels.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJan 21, 2021

Methods in studying cycad leaf nutrition found to be inconsistent and incomplete

A literature review on cycad leaf nutrition highlights inconsistencies in data collection and analysis methods, emphasizing the need for more research to effectively manage and conserve these plant species. The study recommends considering factors such as seasonal variations, insect herbivory, and soil nutrient concentrations.

SourceUniversity of Guam·JournalHorticulturae·DateJan 21, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How to get more electric cars on the road

A new study from MIT researchers reveals that installing charging stations on residential streets and adding high-speed charging stations along highways can greatly increase the adoption of electric cars. The findings suggest that making convenient charging options available to people, especially those with limited access to garages or...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Energy·DateJan 21, 2021

Climate change puts hundreds of coastal airports at risk of flooding

A new study finds that even a modest sea level rise would place 100 airports below mean sea level by 2100, posing a significant risk to global passenger and freight movements. The researchers ranked airports at risk from sea level rise, with some in Asia and Europe topping the list.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalClimate Risk Management·DateJan 21, 2021

The important role of pharmacists for older adults' health

Pharmacists helped identify and solve drug-related problems, improving measures such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The study found pharmacist-led medication therapy management services reduced medication costs for patients.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateJan 21, 2021

'Aging well' greatly affected by hopes and fears for later life, OSU study finds

A recent Oregon State University study found that people who believe they can become healthy, engaged individuals in old age are more likely to experience that outcome. Optimism, self-efficacy, and reduced internalization of ageist stereotypes can also positively impact aging perceptions.

SourceOregon State University·JournalThe International Journal of Aging and Human Development·DateJan 21, 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.

Detailed tumour profiling

Researchers developed a platform to derive comprehensive molecular profiles of tumours, enabling personalized therapy recommendations and expanded treatment options. The Tumor Profiler study analyzed 240 patients' tumour samples using advanced testing methods, providing insights into cellular diversity and treatment response.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCancer Cell·DateJan 21, 2021

Study shows number and variety of issues experienced by staff wearing

A study by Dr Tom Hutley and colleagues found that the longer healthcare workers wear personal protective equipment (PPE), the more issues they experience, including tiredness, headaches, and dizziness. The survey also revealed a negative impact on team performance, with 92% of respondents feeling PPE affected communication.

SourceAAGBI·JournalAnaesthesia·DateJan 21, 2021

Highly functional membrane developed for producing freshwater from seawater

A new desalination membrane was developed by laminating graphene oxide nanosheets on a porous polymer membrane, enabling highly efficient desalination with controlled ion-blocking functionality. The membrane can block around 95% of NaCl ions, making it suitable for producing freshwater from seawater.

SourceKobe University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateJan 21, 2021

Creating a safe CAR T-Cell therapy to fight solid tumors in children

Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles have developed a new CAR T therapy that targets solid tumors in children, including neuroblastoma. The modified therapy uses a unique protein called synNotch to selectively kill cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 21, 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.

Making protein 'superfood' from marine algae

A team of researchers at Flinders University has developed a sustainable way to produce protein 'superfoods' from marine algae. The process involves cultivating single-cell organisms from the ocean and converting them into healthy cell patties, chips, pastes, jams, and even caviar.

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternational Journal of Biological Macromolecules·DateJan 21, 2021

Immunology - Functionality of immune cells in early life

Researchers have found that dendritic cells in young animals are capable of triggering effective immune reactions, challenging the conventional view on their immaturity. These findings suggest new ways to boost the efficacy of vaccines for young children.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 21, 2021

Crystal close up

Researchers use novel techniques to observe salt crystal formation at the atomic level for the first time. The study confirms theoretical predictions about crystal formation and provides insight into polymorphism in crystal growth.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 21, 2021

When a story is breaking, AI can help consumers identify fake news

New research from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute found that AI-driven interventions are effective in stopping the spread of misinformation when a news story first emerges. The guidance is most effective when it provides reasoning that aligns with a person's natural thought process.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalComputers in Human Behavior Reports·DateJan 21, 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.

Geoscientists reconstruct 6.5 million years of sea level stands

Researchers used phreatic overgrowths on speleothems in Mallorca caves to determine past sea levels, providing a way to precisely measure sea levels. The study's results show that sea level dropped significantly after the Pliocene period and fluctuated during warm periods.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 21, 2021

NIH study compares low-fat, plant-based diet to low-carb, animal-based diet

A small, highly controlled study at the National Institutes of Health compared the effects of a low-fat, plant-based diet to a low-carb, animal-based diet on calorie intake, hormone levels, body weight, and more. Participants lost weight on both diets, but only the low-fat diet led to a significant loss of body fat.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 21, 2021

Teamwork in a molecule

Chemists at the University of Jena have successfully created a bimetallic main-group complex using gallium, demonstrating cooperative bond activation that can remove fluorine atoms from hydrocarbon compounds. The breakthrough paves the way for further development of sustainable catalytic reactions.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 21, 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.

Study finds genetic clues to pneumonia risk and COVID-19 disparities

Researchers identified genetic factors increasing pneumonia risk in patients of European and African ancestry, highlighting potential disparities in COVID-19 outcomes. The study may aid efforts to identify high-risk patients and develop targeted treatments.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 21, 2021

Seeds transfer their microbes to the next generation

Researchers at Stockholm University found that oak acorn microbes are inherited by seedlings, promoting growth and protecting against diseases. This discovery opens up new possibilities for breeding super plants with improved genes and microbial communities.

SourceStockholm University·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateJan 21, 2021

When it comes to eyewitness accounts of earthquake shaking, representation matters

A new study highlights the impact of socioeconomic factors on eyewitness accounts of earthquake shaking reported through online systems like DYFI. The research found complex trends in California and India, with differences in self-reported reports based on neighborhood income levels and literacy rates.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateJan 21, 2021

Gold nanoparticles more stable by putting rings on them

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a method to prevent gold nanoparticles from clumping, which could improve their effectiveness as anti-cancer therapy. Attaching ring-shaped synthetic compounds to gold nanoparticles retains their light-absorbing properties and maintains dispersion in solution.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 21, 2021

Ten suggestions for female faculty and staff during the pandemic

During the pandemic, female academics are sharing their experiences and advice on managing work-life balance while juggling caregiving responsibilities. The authors suggest finding peer support groups, saying no to non-essential tasks, and prioritizing self-care. They also emphasize the importance of recognizing individual differences ...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJan 21, 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.

For some, GI tract may be vulnerable to COVID-19 infection

Research suggests that people with Barrett's esophagus, a disorder causing the esophagus to resemble intestinal cells, have SARS-CoV-2 receptors that can bind and become infected by the virus. This increases the risk of infection through swallowing the virus.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateJan 20, 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.

Angstrom multilayer metrology by combining spectral measurements and machine learning

Researchers have developed a new method to accurately characterize the thickness of hundreds-layer semiconductor devices using optical spectral measurements and machine learning. The technique can determine layer thickness with an average error of 1.6 Å, helping control etching and deposition processes.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJan 20, 2021

Curtin find could slash energy use and cost in making silicon

Researchers have discovered a method to produce silicon at room temperature using electrical currents instead of extreme heat, which could slash energy use and cost in the industry. This technique replaces thermochemical processes with electrochemical processes, converting clean electricity into chemical energy.

SourceCurtin University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 20, 2021

Mayo Clinic study indicates age influences sex-related outcomes after heart attack

A Mayo Clinic study found that age influences sex-related outcomes after a heart attack, with younger women being more likely to experience vascular complications and major bleeds. The study analyzed over 6.7 million hospitalization records and showed distinct differences in risk profiles for heart disease between men and women.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateJan 20, 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.

Oldest carbonates in the solar system

The study reveals that the Flensburg meteorite contains carbonates dating back over three million years, making them the oldest in the solar system. The findings also suggest that liquid water existed on a minor planet early in the solar system's formation.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalGeochimica et Cosmochimica Acta·DateJan 20, 2021

Methamphetamine overdose deaths rise sharply nationwide

A recent study found a sharp increase in methamphetamine overdose deaths across all racial and ethnic groups, but non-Hispanic American Indians and Alaska Natives had the highest death rates overall. The study highlights the need for culturally tailored prevention and treatment strategies to address this growing crisis.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJan 20, 2021
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.

Researchers develop a new approach to detect pancreatic cancer

Researchers developed a method to detect pancreatic cancer by analyzing changes in albumin's structure and function. The approach showed promise in distinguishing between benign and malignant tumours, but further testing is needed.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalACS Pharmacology & Translational Science·DateJan 20, 2021

Reviving exhausted immune cells to fight cancer

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have discovered that removing a key gene called Cbl-b can revitalize exhausted CD8+ T cells to combat malignant tumors. This breakthrough could offer a new approach to harnessing the body's immune system to fight cancers.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·DateJan 20, 2021

Intoxicating chemicals in catnip and silver vine protect felines from mosquito bites

Researchers found that catnip and silver vine contain intoxicating chemicals that repel mosquitoes when cats rub against them. The study identified nepetalactol as the most potent compound in silver vine leaves, which activates the opioid reward system in both domesticated felines and big jungle cats.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 20, 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.

Brazilian dam collapse could have been predicted with right monitoring technology

A new study by the University of Nottingham and Durham University found that advanced InSAR techniques could have foreseen the catastrophic tailings dam collapse in Brazil, which killed over 200 people. The research reveals that different areas of the dam were moving at different rates, indicating that failure was foreseeable.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateJan 20, 2021