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Science News Archive July 2021 - Page 12


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.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJul 22, 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.

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.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJul 22, 2021

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.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 22, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Business Communication·DateJul 22, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalNutritional Neuroscience·DateJul 22, 2021

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,...

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJul 21, 2021

Scientists provide new insight on how to stop transcription of cancer cells

Scientists from UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center identified TAF12 as critical to the formation of preinitiation complexes, which are necessary for gene transcription. Eliminating TAF12 destroys preinitiation complexes and drastically reduces genome-wide transcription.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalGenes & Development·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJul 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.

Eija Kononen wins IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Research in Oral Biology

Eija Kononen is a Professor and Chair of Periodontology at the University of Turku, Finland, known for her pioneering work on oral microbiology and its role in immune response. Her novel salivary diagnostic method, the Cumulative Risk Score, has been used in several studies to diagnose periodontal status.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience Robotics·DateJul 21, 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.

Residential proximity to oil and gas drilling linked to lower birthweights in newborns

A new study from Oregon State University found that infants born within 3 kilometers of oil and natural gas drilling facilities in Texas had slightly lower birthweights than those born before drilling began. After accounting for other potential factors, the study found a significant association between living near an active drilling si...

SourceOregon State University·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJul 21, 2021

UM researchers publish study on genomics of pregnancy-induced diabetes

Researchers from the University of Malta applied genomics to identify genetic variants causing pregnancy-induced diabetes, highlighting the disorder's genetic heterogeneity. The study provides new insights into the aetiology of complex traits and reinforces precision medicine research.

SourceUniversity of Malta·JournalDiabetes/Metabolism Research and Reviews·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalCalifornia Fish and Wildlife Journal·DateJul 21, 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.

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.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Sleep Research·DateJul 21, 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.

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.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 21, 2021

Alvaro Della Bona named 2021 recipient of the Wilmer Souder Award

Alvaro Della Bona, University of Passo Fundo Professor, received the 2021 Wilmer Souder Award for his contributions to dental biomaterials research. He is recognized internationally for his publications and invited presentations on the topic.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJul 21, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 21, 2021

Monoclonal antibodies help COVID-19 patients avoid hospitalization

A large observational study found that two monoclonal antibodies reduced hospitalizations among high-risk patients with COVID-19, regardless of comorbidities. The study showed a low rate of hospitalizations when patients received the treatment early on.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJul 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.

Cognitive decline may help predict future fracture risk in women

Researchers have discovered a link between cognitive decline and faster bone loss in women, increasing future fracture risk. Cognitive decline over five years was associated with a 1.7-fold increase in fracture risk in subsequent 10 years.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJul 21, 2021

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...

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalOptica·DateJul 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.

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.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateJul 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.

Association between COVID-19 exposure, self-reported compliance with public health guidelines among essential employees at an institution of higher education

A study evaluated self-reported protective behaviors and SARS-CoV-2 infection rates among in-person employees during the first six months of the pandemic. The research found a significant association between COVID-19 exposure and reduced compliance with public health guidelines.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 21, 2021

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...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalJoule·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJul 21, 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.

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.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateJul 21, 2021

SMART breakthrough in detection of SARS-CoV-2 variant in wastewater

Researchers develop open-source molecular detection method to track B.1.1.7 (Alpha) variant in wastewater, providing actionable community-level information for health authorities. The breakthrough expands utility of wastewater surveillance beyond SARS-CoV-2 testing.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJul 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalAnimal Frontiers·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·DateJul 21, 2021

Ingegerd Johansson wins William H. Bowen Research in Dental Caries Award

Ingegerd Johansson, a senior professor at Umeå University Medical School, was awarded the William H. Bowen Research in Dental Caries Award for her pioneering work on nutrition and dental caries. She has published over 300 scientific papers and mentored numerous students.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJul 21, 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.

Dennis Sourvanos named 2021 recipient of the AADR William B. Clark Fellowship

Dennis Sourvanos, a University of Pennsylvania graduate resident, received the AADR William B. Clark Fellowship for his work on novel biotherapies in hard and soft tissue regeneration. The fellowship supports clinical research in periodontology and aims to enhance evidence-based oral healthcare.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceHokkaido University·Journali-Perception·DateJul 21, 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.

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.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJul 21, 2021

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.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJAMA·DateJul 21, 2021