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Science News Archive January 2021 - Page 37


Page 37 of 40

Why we use our smartphone at cafés

Researchers studied why people use their smartphones at cafés, identifying three main reasons: delaying conversation, shielding interaction, and sharing content. Deliberate phone use can be seen as polite if explained or used to signal busy-ness, while excessive use can be perceived as rude.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalSocieties·DateJan 6, 2021
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Does a mother's pre-pregnancy weight affect her children's future fertility?

A Danish study found that overweight mothers had a higher risk of infertility in their sons compared to those with normal weight. The researchers also highlighted the importance of addressing risk factors for infertility globally and acknowledged the need for further studies to corroborate these findings.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateJan 6, 2021

Light-carrying chips advance machine learning

Researchers developed photonic processors to process information rapidly and in parallel, enabling complex mathematical tasks at fast speeds. These chips use wavelength multiplexing for highly parallel data processing.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature·DateJan 6, 2021

Study finds rising rates of food insecurity among older adults

A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society found that food insecurity increased significantly among older US adults from 5.5% to 12.4% between 2007 and 2016. Older adults with food insecurity tend to have lower quality diets.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 6, 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.

Young adults say porn is their most helpful source of information about how to have sex

A new study found that a quarter of young adults in the US rely on porn for information on how to have sex. Heterosexual men were more likely to use porn than female respondents, who preferred their partners as sources of guidance. The study emphasizes the importance of comprehensive sex education and communication skills.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·DateJan 6, 2021

Skin-to skin contact with fathers may help newborns after caesarean delivery

A recent study published in Acta Paediatrica found that skin-to-skin contact with the father can help establish stable physiological parameters and increase wakefulness in newborns after Caesarean section delivery. This approach may provide benefits during mother-infant separation, suggesting its potential as a supportive strategy.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateJan 6, 2021

Smoking associated with increased risk of COVID-19 symptoms

A recent study from King's College London has found that smoking is associated with an increased risk of COVID-19 symptoms and severity. Current smokers were more likely to develop the classic triad of symptoms suggesting diagnosis of COVID-19, including fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThorax·DateJan 6, 2021

Researchers turn coal powder into graphite in microwave oven

University of Wyoming researchers have successfully converted raw coal powder into nano-graphite using a one-step metal-assisted microwave treatment method. This method has the potential to provide an alternative source of high-value materials, reducing environmental concerns and ecological impact.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalNano-Structures & Nano-Objects·DateJan 6, 2021

DNA-editing method shows promise to treat mouse model of progeria

Researchers successfully used DNA-editing to extend the lifespan of mice with progeria by correcting the accelerating aging disorder. The treatment restored normal DNA sequences in various organs and improved mouse lifespans from seven months to nearly 1.5 years.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNature·DateJan 6, 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.

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.

Orange is the new 'block'

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have unveiled the core structure of cyanobacteria's light-harvesting antenna, revealing key features that collect energy and block excess light absorption. The study provides insights into future energy applications and helps explain how living organisms maximize photosynthetic efficiency.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 6, 2021

Scientists ID brain cells most vulnerable to Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have identified brain cells most susceptible to Alzheimer's disease, which could lead to targeted treatments to boost the brain's resilience. The study found that RORB-expressing neurons are among the first to die in the disease, accumulating tau tangles earlier than neighboring cells.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 6, 2021

Advancing the study of T cells to improve immunotherapy

Researchers developed a new method to study molecular characteristics of T cells, enabling easier analysis of T cell receptors. Using this approach, they discovered that the variety of TCRs in T cells has a weaker influence on functional status in cancer patients.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature Methods·DateJan 6, 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.

Smart vaccine patch research gets go-ahead

Researchers at Swansea University have received £230,000 to develop a smart vaccine device that delivers the COVID-19 vaccine and measures its efficacy through monitoring biomarkers in the skin. The device uses microneedles for minimally invasive delivery and offers a personalized vaccination approach.

SourceSwansea University·DateJan 6, 2021

Gut microbe may promote breast cancers

A study from Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that exposure to B. fragilis toxin can increase the risk of breast cancer by leaving a lasting impression on cells. Researchers found that breast tissue cells exposed to the toxin retained a long-term memory, leading to tumor growth and metastasis in mice.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCancer Discovery·DateJan 6, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

In-utero exposures associated with increased risk of thyroid cancer

A recent study by prof. Tone Bjørge and her team reveals a strong link between in-utero exposures and an increased risk of thyroid cancer later in life. Maternal hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goiter, and benign thyroid neoplasms are associated with higher risk.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 5, 2021

Low genetic diversity in two manatee species off South America

A new study found that manatees in Brazil and Guyana have low genetic diversity, with no natural hybridization between species. The researchers suggest creating protected areas and biological corridors to promote gene flow and improve conservation efforts.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateJan 5, 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.

About half of media stories fail to label 'preprint' COVID-19 research – study

A recent study by Simon Fraser University found that approximately half of media stories featuring COVID-19 'preprint' research did not accurately frame the studies as being preprints or unverified research. The study analyzed over 500 mentions in over 450 stories from digital news outlets covering preprint COVID-19 research.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalHealth Communication·DateJan 5, 2021

Story tips: Nanoscale commuting, easy driver and defect detection

Researchers have developed a new method for tracking individual molecules in real-time using four-probe scanning tunneling microscopy, enabling unprecedented control over molecular transport. Additionally, Oak Ridge National Laboratory has released guidelines to improve fuel economy by reducing idling and selecting the most fuel-effici...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJan 5, 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.

Neither liquid nor solid

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have discovered a new state of matter called liquid glass, which exhibits complex behavior. The particles in liquid glass are able to move but not rotate, leading to local clusters that obstruct each other and prevent an ordered state from forming.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 5, 2021

Climate change caused mangrove collapse in Oman

A University of Bonn study finds that climate change caused the sudden disappearance of mangroves on Oman's coastlines 6,000 years ago. The researchers suggest that a shift in the Intertropical Convergence Zone led to extreme stress on mangrove ecosystems due to increased salinization and drought.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalQuaternary Research·DateJan 5, 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.

Routine eye scans may give clues to cognitive decline in diabetes

A study found associations between retinal changes and memory problems in older people with type 1 diabetes. Researchers used routine eye scans to detect structural changes in the retina that may be linked to cognitive decline. The findings could lead to better understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of Alzheimer's disease and other co...

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 5, 2021

UC-MSC infusion helps repair COVID-19 damage in severe cases

A randomized trial shows UC-MSC infusions safely reduce risk of death and quicken time to recovery for severe COVID-19 patients. The treatment, like smart bomb technology, restores normal immune response and reverses life-threatening complications.

SourceThe Cure Alliance·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateJan 5, 2021

DeepTFactor predicts transcription factors

A joint research team developed DeepTFactor, a deep neural network predicting transcription factors from protein sequences. The tool uses three parallel convolutional neural networks and predicted 332 transcription factors of Escherichia coli K-12 MG1655.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 5, 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.

Machine learning improves particle accelerator diagnostics

A new machine learning system can correctly diagnose particle accelerator component issues in near-real-time, providing operators with actionable information to mitigate problems. The system achieved accuracy rates of 85% for fault detection and 78% for fault type identification during its first two-week test.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·JournalPhysical Review Special Topics - Accelerators and Beams·DateJan 5, 2021

Uncovering how grasslands changed our climate

A new study found that grasslands, a critical carbon sink, have become a source of greenhouse gas emissions due to increased livestock numbers and intensive management. Sparsely grazed areas provide significant cooling services, while intensively managed pastures contribute to warming.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 5, 2021

New bacterial culture methods could result in the discovery of new species

Researchers developed new bacterial culture approaches, isolating 254 strains from the Tabernas Desert, including 60% previously unreported and possibly new bacteria species. The study highlights the potential for simple strategies to obtain higher microbial diversity from extreme environments.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateJan 5, 2021

Novel method identifies areas most suitable for conservation of black lion tamarin

A novel method identifies areas most suitable for the conservation of the endangered black lion tamarin, considering both climate and landscape factors. The study used modeling to pinpoint areas with suitable forest cover and climate, indicating a need for targeted strategies in forest restoration to connect fragmented habitats.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAmerican Journal of Primatology·DateJan 5, 2021

Drought of the century in the Middle Ages -- with parallels to climate change today?

Researchers identified a severe drought period in 1302-07 Europe, which shares similarities with the 2018 weather anomaly and recent climate trends. The study suggests that transitional phases in the climate are characterized by stable weather patterns, contributing to extreme events like the Great Famine of 1315-21.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS)·JournalClimate of the Past·DateJan 5, 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.

Repeated ketamine infusions reduce PTSD symptom severity

A study conducted by researchers from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai found that repeated ketamine infusions significantly reduced symptom severity in individuals with chronic PTSD. The improvement was rapid and maintained for several weeks afterwards, suggesting this may be a promising treatment option for PTSD patients.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJan 5, 2021

Dental experts discover biological imbalance is the link between gum and kidney disease

Researchers at the University of Birmingham have discovered a biological imbalance between free radicals and antioxidant cells that links gum disease to chronic kidney disease. A 10% increase in gum inflammation reduces kidney function by 3%, highlighting the importance of periodontal care for patients with chronic kidney disease.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJournal Of Clinical Periodontology·DateJan 5, 2021

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers suggest that single-dose vaccines may offer greater population benefit due to the speed-versus-efficacy tradeoff. Alternative dose allocation strategies also improve benefits by vaccinating more people sooner while maintaining scheduling for second doses.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 5, 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.

Self-controlled children tend to be healthier middle-aged adults

A large study tracked 1,000 people from birth to age 45 and found that those with higher self-control as children were aging more slowly. Their bodies and brains were also healthier and biologically younger. Higher childhood self-control correlated with slower aging in multiple measures, including physiological signs of aging.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 5, 2021

3D-printed smart gel changes shape when exposed to light

Rutgers engineers create 3D-printed smart gel that senses light and changes shape, inspired by cephalopod skin. The technology has potential applications in military camouflage, soft robotics, and flexible displays.

SourceRutgers University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 5, 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.

Journal article reviews century of data showing COVID-19 likely to impact the brain

A century of data suggests SARS-CoV-2's expected long-term effects on the brain and nervous system will have chronic consequences on quality of life and independence. The study, funded by the Alzheimer's Association, aims to understand how COVID-19 increases risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and psychiatric conditions.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·DateJan 5, 2021

Danish and Chinese tongues taste broccoli and chocolate differently

Research from the University of Copenhagen found that Danish and Chinese people experience bitter tastes differently, with Chinese test subjects being more sensitive. Anatomical differences in tongue papillae may explain this difference. The study suggests that ethnic differences may play a role in taste perception.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·DateJan 5, 2021