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Science News Archive July 2021


Page 4 of 41

Artificial Intelligence learns better when distracted

Researchers from the University of Groningen and Spain developed a method to train AI systems using distractions to improve image recognition. By analyzing how deep learning systems process images, they found that forcing the system's focus towards secondary characteristics can lead to better performance.

No Shortcuts to SARS-Cov-2 Antivirals

Repurposed drugs for COVID-19 have yielded no effective treatments despite billions spent. Direct-acting antivirals are recommended to avoid false positives and patient risks. The scientific community emphasizes thoroughness in drug screenings, highlighting the importance of structure-activity relationships.

Why uncertainty makes us change our behaviour – even when we shouldn’t

Research from UNSW Sydney found that unexpected uncertainty prompts people to adjust their behavior, even if it's not the best strategy. In contrast, gradual changes in uncertainty do not lead to significant behavioral shifts. The study suggests that understanding how people react to uncertainty can help overcome inertia and promote su...

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.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Remember more by taking breaks

Researchers found that longer breaks between learning events lead to more stable activation patterns in the brain, allowing for better memory retention. This study provides insights into the neuronal processes behind the spacing effect, suggesting that taking breaks can slow down learning but improve long-term memory.

Machine learning fuels personalised cancer medicine

Researchers developed a machine learning tool, BoostDM, that evaluates the potential contribution of mutations in genes to cancer development. The tool helps understand how tumors are caused at the molecular level and can facilitate medical decisions regarding therapy.

Using AI to predict suicidal behaviours in students

A study from McGill University and France uses AI to identify factors predicting suicidal behavior in students, finding self-esteem as a major predictor. Approximately 17% of students exhibited suicidal behaviors, highlighting the need for large-scale screening tools.

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.

Neandertal and Denisovan blood groups deciphered

Researchers analyzed Neandertal and Denisovan genomes to identify blood groups, confirming their African origin and Eurasian dispersal. The study also found evidence of low genetic diversity and possible demographic fragility, shedding light on the disappearance of Neandertals.

Seeking a unique treatment for lobular breast cancer

Lobular breast cancer patients often experience recurrence or metastasis despite hormonal therapies. CU Cancer Center researcher Matthew Sikora is studying the role of MDC1 in this subtype, finding it linked to estrogen receptor activity and potentially a novel target for treatment.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Measuring conservation in a way that counts

A new study challenges the effectiveness of current conservation efforts in protected areas, suggesting that 'saving' biodiversity may not be accurately measured. The study's lead author argues that measures such as expanding protected areas and establishing national parks do not necessarily translate to real progress in conservation.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

A caffeine buzz helps bees learn to find specific flowers

Researchers found that feeding bumble bees caffeine improves their ability to recognize specific flower odors and remember the location of nectar-rich flowers. However, this effect is short-lived, as the bees quickly adapt and lose their preference for caffeinated flowers.

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.

Beating the heatstroke

A team of scientists used hybrid machine learning methods to predict the incidence of heatstroke in Japanese cities. They achieved a high level of accuracy using publicly available information such as demographics and weather forecasts.

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.

Psychological consequences of Covid-19 in health care

A recent study by the University of Bonn highlights the psychological consequences of Covid-19 in healthcare workers, with over 20% experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety. The researchers found that a strong sense of coherence and social support were key protective factors against mental strain, emphasizing the importance of ti...

Rainfall becomes increasingly variable as climate warms

Research predicts that climatologically wet regions will get wetter on average, but also swing widely between wet and dry conditions. This increased rainfall variability could lead to more extreme weather events impacting crop yields, river flows, and infrastructure resilience.

Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 infection among hospital health care workers

This study analyzed the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection among hospital healthcare workers and found that those with certain underlying conditions were more susceptible. The study also identified specific patient populations at increased risk, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to prevent transmission.

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.

Researchers identify powerful tool for analyzing large patient datasets

Immunology researchers from The University of Queensland have identified UMAP as a powerful tool for analyzing large patient datasets. This method performed significantly better than PCA in reducing the complexity of big data, enabling accurate patient stratification and clustering. The findings could lead to the adoption of targeted t...

Rice team creating insulin-producing implant for Type 1 diabetes

Rice University bioengineers are developing an insulin-producing implant to regulate blood glucose levels in Type 1 diabetics. The implant uses human stem cells and 3D printing to mimic the natural behavior of the pancreas, with the goal of achieving consistent target blood glucose levels.

First detection of light from behind a black hole

Researchers have made the first direct observation of light from behind a black hole, confirming a key prediction by Einstein's theory of general relativity. The discovery was made using X-rays emitted by a supermassive black hole at a galaxy 800 million light-years away.

Chaotic electrons heed ‘limit’ in strange metals

A Cornell-led study reveals that certain metals, like copper oxide-based superconductors, exhibit chaotic electron behavior governed by the Planckian limit. This limit dictates an upper bound on collision rates, which researchers have accurately measured for the first time.

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.

Novel method for fast 3D microscopy

Researchers at the University of Bonn have developed a novel method for fast 3D microscopy, allowing for precise tracking of non-labeled biological structures. This breakthrough enables new insights into cellular dynamics and has potential applications in fields such as bionics and understanding causes of infertility.

Metabolic syndrome linked to increased risk of second stroke, death

A meta-analysis found that people with metabolic syndrome are 46% more likely to have a second stroke than those without, with low HDL cholesterol being an independent risk factor. Additionally, individuals with metabolic syndrome were 27% more likely to die during the study.

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.

Technion researchers develop innovative rapid imaging technology

Researchers at the Technion- Israel Institute of Technology have developed a revolutionary imaging technology that breaks through limitations of current single-pixel imaging (SPI) systems. The new technology, which uses an unprecedented high frequency of 2.4 MHz, enables the creation of high-quality images in record time.

Younger diabetics more worried about Covid-19 – study

A study by Anglia Ruskin University found that younger people with diabetes are significantly more concerned about COVID-19 risks and have a higher likelihood of reporting worries. Social support from family, friends, and healthcare teams plays a crucial role in managing these concerns.

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.

Study reveals characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein

Researchers discovered that the majority of the spike protein degrades within 24 hours, providing insights into infection and vaccination processes. The study also shed light on the role of key host factors in cell-to-cell fusion, a crucial aspect of COVID-19 pathology.

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.

Not-so-blind mice can make strategic and acute visual choices

Researchers found that mice can make fine visual discriminations between slightly different lines, suggesting a more complex decision-making process than previously thought. The study's findings highlight the importance of considering non-perceptual biases in understanding animal behavior and decision-making strategies.

Perspectives, concerns of adult women with acne

The study explores how adult women experience acne's influence on their lives, finding it affects self-esteem and relationships. Adult women describe the negative emotional impacts of acne on their daily lives.

Attachment style secures your love during lockdowns

A study by the University of Vienna found that attachment style is a key predictor of high relationship quality during times of crisis. Participants with secure attachment styles had higher relationship quality than those with anxious or avoidant styles.

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.

£3 million grant to advance machinery design and performance

The University of Huddersfield's Centre for Precision Technologies will receive £3m funding to drive advancements in machinery design and performance. The project aims to grow the UK's advanced machinery capability to a £2 billion export capacity within ten years, creating over 30,000 high-value manufacturing sector jobs.

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.