Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive July 2021


Page 12 of 41

RNA breakthrough creates crops that can grow 50% more potatoes, rice

Researchers from the University of Chicago have made a groundbreaking discovery in plant biology, using RNA manipulation to increase crop yields by 50% and boost drought tolerance. The breakthrough has potential applications beyond food production, including engineering plants to withstand climate change and other environmental pressures.

Longer stays in refugee camps increase cases of acute mental illness

Research reveals that refugees experiencing longer stays in Moria camp are more likely to suffer from acute mental health crises. The study found a significant link between the length of stay and the risk of mental health deterioration, with male refugees being more affected than women.

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.

Antibiotics may help to treat melanoma

Researchers at KU Leuven found that certain antibiotics can effectively target melanoma cells' mitochondria, which are vulnerable to specific classes of antibiotics. This suggests that these antibiotics may be repurposed as anti-melanoma agents to buy time for immunotherapy.

Study: Young workers now value respect over 'fun' perks in the workplace

A recent study found that young workers (21-34 years old) prioritize respectful communication in the workplace over trendy work perks. The researchers believe that leaders and managers can foster supportive cultures by training them on effective communication and recognizing employees' value to their organization.

Excess coffee: A bitter brew for brain health

A large study found that high coffee consumption is associated with reduced brain volume and an increased risk of dementia. Researchers warn that excessive coffee drinking, beyond six cups a day, may put individuals at risk for brain diseases such as dementia and stroke.

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.

A novel method for the rapid repair of peripheral nerve injuries

Researchers at Bar-Ilan University have developed a novel method for rapid repair of peripheral nerve injuries using nerve guidance conduits filled with engineered aligned collagen gels and NGF-coated magnetic particles. This technique has shown improved axon growth and functional motor restoration in rats with peripheral nerve injury,...

Cell couriers deliver clue to cancer metastasis

Researchers have discovered that increased levels of protein Tumour Protein D54 can increase and decrease the movement of cancer cells, suggesting its potential role in tumour spread. The study found that reducing or increasing this protein's expression affects cell migration, with higher levels leading to more metastasis.

Toward one drug to treat all coronaviruses

Researchers have identified highly conserved sequences in viral proteins that could make them effective drug targets. The study found two promising sites: one overlapping the RNA binding site of nsp13 and another containing the catalytic site of nsp12, both involved in viral RNA replication and transcription.

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.

Smartphone gaming can be harmful for some seeking relief from boredom

Researchers at the University of Waterloo found that people who experience intense boredom frequently in everyday life may seek 'flow' by playing smartphone games to escape their feelings. This 'boredom fix' can lead to negative consequences and excessive gaming, ultimately increasing depression.

New algorithm flies drones faster than human racing pilots

A new algorithm has been developed that can guide a quadrotor drone through a series of waypoints on a circuit, beating the fastest lap of two world-class human pilots. The algorithm generates time-optimal trajectories that fully consider the drones' limitations, resulting in faster and more consistent flight times.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists offered using methanol in power generation for electric cars

Researchers at Ural Federal University have created a technology to generate energy for electric car engines using methanol, resulting in high efficiency and minimal emissions. The method uses synthesis gas produced from methanol, which is then fed into an electrochemical generator based on solid oxide fuel cells.

To save a species, check its ID

A new decision tree tool has been developed to differentiate the endangered salt marsh harvest mouse from its abundant look-alike, the western harvest mouse. The tool uses machine learning to analyze characteristics such as belly color and tail hair, allowing for accurate identification with high accuracy.

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.

Print perovskite solar cells

Researchers provide a systematic overview of printing technologies for scaling up perovskite solar cells, highlighting the key role of ink engineering in achieving high-quality thin films. The study also discusses the technical feasibility of printing additional layers and presents progress on roll-to-roll printing and stability issues.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected our dreams?

The COVID-19 pandemic has been shown to affect our sleep patterns, with a higher number of awakenings and difficulty falling asleep reported during lockdown. In contrast, post-lockdown periods saw an increase in dream recall and more lucid dreams, with people also reporting more dreams related to crowded places.

IADR/AADR announce the JDR Cover of the Year Award, 2020

Researchers identified cell diversity in embryonic salivary glands through single-cell transcriptome analyses, revealing early establishment of transcriptional identities. The study provides comprehensive descriptions of molecular signatures defining specific cellular landmarks.

Novel method predicts if COVID-19 clinical trials will fail or succeed

A novel method predicts COVID-19 clinical trial success rates by analyzing features from clinical trial reports, including keywords and drug information. The model achieved high accuracy in predicting trial status, indicating a potential tool for optimizing research efforts and reducing costs.

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.

Kids eat more fruit and vegetables with longer seated lunch time

Research from the University of Illinois found that children eat more fruits and vegetables with longer seated lunch times. The study suggests that policies requiring at least 20 minutes of seated lunch time can help achieve this goal, particularly for children from low-income families who may not have resources to bring their own lunch.

Awareness without a sense of self

A recent study published in PLOS ONE explores the experience of pure consciousness during meditation, identifying 12 key factors that characterize this state. These findings provide insight into human consciousness and have implications for further research, including potential applications beyond meditation practices.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

2021 recipients of the AADR Presidential Citation

Jeffrey Ebersole, Sharon Grayden, and Stephen Bayne received the 2021 AADR Presidential Citation for their significant contributions to the Association. The citation honors individuals who have made lasting impacts on dental research and advancing the mission of the AADR.

UCI scientists make X-ray vision-like camera to rapidly retrieve 3D images

Researchers at the University of California, Irvine have created a new type of camera technology that can visualize various materials and structures with detailed chemical information. The technology uses nonlinear optical effects in silicon to capture depth-resolved images on a camera in one shot, allowing for faster inspection of obj...

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.

Take two: Integrating neuronal perspectives for richer results

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a new approach to study neuronal interactions, combining spike count correlation and dimensionality reduction methods. This integration provides a more comprehensive understanding of brain function, shedding light on how neurons communicate and influence various bodily functions.

Blocking how the malaria parasite suppresses the immune response

Researchers define the atomic-level architecture of a protein-receptor connection that allows the malaria parasite to evade the immune response. A drug designed to fit into this space could block the interaction, allowing the immune system to clear away the pathogen and potentially reducing severe malaria cases.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

New scoring system for assessing wound healing

Researchers have developed a new scoring system to evaluate wound healing in mice, using parameters such as re-epithelization and granulation tissue thickness. The system was validated in four different skin wound models, providing a more accurate and reproducible assessment of wound dynamics.

How managing building energy demand can aid the clean energy transition

A new study by Berkeley Lab and NREL found that optimizing building energy demand can significantly impact the electric grid. By increasing energy efficiency and flexibility in buildings, up to one-third of coal- or gas-fired power generation can be avoided. The regions with the largest grid resource are Texas, Southeast U.S., Great La...

YiPing Chen wins IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Craniofacial Biology

YiPing Chen, a renowned developmental biologist, has made significant contributions to the understanding of genetic control and molecular regulation of mammalian organ development. He is recognized for his work on genetic regulation of tooth development and cleft palate, which have improved our knowledge of craniofacial biology.

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.

Tiny organisms shed big light on ocean nutrients

A new study led by Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences suggests that the balance of chemical elements in plankton is primarily dependent on the ratio of nitrogen and phosphorus supplied from the subsurface ocean. This discovery could improve the accuracy of computer models used to forecast ocean change.

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.

Why weren't New World rabbits domesticated?

Archaeologists found that the lack of a mutualistic relationship between humans and New World rabbits, characterized by controlled reproduction, prevented domestication. The solitary nature of American cottontails made it difficult for humans to control their population and evolution.

Unravelling the knotty problem of the Sun's activity

Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery about the Sun's magnetic field, revealing that field lines become knotted before emerging at the visible surface. The findings provide conclusive evidence for one of two dominant theories explaining how solar activity occurs.

Hazem Abbas wins IADR Lion Dental Research Award for Junior Investigators

Hazem Abbas, a Ph.D. student at Tohoku University, Japan, received the IADR Lion Dental Research Award for his innovative research on social determinants of health and their relation to oral health outcomes. The award recognizes outstanding basic dental science research that aims to improve public dental health.

What does a virtual roller coaster ride tell us about migraine?

A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that people with migraines experienced more dizziness and motion sickness during virtual roller coaster rides compared to those without migraines. Brain scans revealed abnormal nerve cell activity in areas responsible for visual processing and motor activity.

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.

Wearable brain-machine interface turns intentions into actions

A new wearable brain-machine interface system allows users to imagine actions and wirelessly control wheelchairs, robotic arms, or other devices. The soft and comfortable wearable device offers improved signal acquisition and accuracy compared to existing BMI systems.

Pandemic changed perceptions of masked faces

Research found a shift in how facemasks affect facial attractiveness among Japanese population, with reduced unhealthiness and increased neutral effects reported after pandemic onset. Mask color had no effect on perceptions.

Caroline Shiboski wins IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Oral Medicine

Caroline Shiboski, a renowned oral medicine expert, has been awarded the IADR Distinguished Scientist Award for her groundbreaking research on immune dysfunction and its effects on oral health. Her work has led to significant advances in understanding and treating conditions like Sjögren's Syndrome and HIV-related oral diseases.

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.

Study links vaccine immune response to age

Researchers found that older people have lower antibody responses against COVID-19 variants, making them more susceptible to infection. Vaccination still appears effective in preventing severe illness, but promoting vaccinations is crucial to protect the community.