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Science News Archive July 2021 - Page 38


Page 38 of 41

Modelling COVID-19 cases in Africa

African countries can better interpret complex data with a new data-driven framework, tracking and predicting country-level case incidence. The framework considers factors like testing capacity, social policy, landlocked status, temperature, and humidity.

SourceLancaster University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 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.

Toba supereruption and global climate

A study suggests that the Toba supereruption led to regional variations in climate impacts, with cooling predictions ranging from 4°C to 10°C in the Northern Hemisphere. Early human populations in these regions thrived despite the eruption's severity, according to independent archaeological evidence.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 5, 2021

New report aims to improve VR use in healthcare education

The report argues for greater standardization of immersive technologies in healthcare training and education. It recommends developing a set of principles and guidelines for the use of immersive technology in medical treatment to make training more accessible and effective.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalBMJ Simulation and Technology Enhanced Learning·DateJul 5, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Electrokinetic proton transport in triple conducting oxides as key descriptor for highly efficient protonic ceramic fuel cells

Researchers developed a new method to quantify proton kinetic properties of triple conducting oxides (TCOs), revealing two orders of magnitude higher proton tracer diffusion coefficient. This led to improved electrochemical performance for protonic ceramic fuel cells, with recorded values exceeding previous benchmarks.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 5, 2021

Next-generation sequencing uncovers what's stressing bumblebees

Scientists used next-generation sequencing to study bumblebee health, finding evidence of pesticide exposure, including neonicotinoids, as well as pathogens. The technology allowed for quick detection of diseases and stressors, shedding light on the decline of bumblebee populations.

SourceYork University·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateJul 5, 2021

New advice on arthritis drugs

Researchers found that combining anti-rheumatic drugs can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in rheumatoid arthritis patients. Two specific combinations - tumour necrosis factor inhibitors and hydroxychloroquine - showed promise in preserving endothelial function.

SourceFlinders University·JournalFrontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine·DateJul 5, 2021

New method to identify dirt on criminals can lead to prosecution

Scientists have developed a new method to identify the movements of criminals by analyzing soil and dust found on equipment, clothing, and cars. This technique uses geochemical analysis to match soil remnants to regional samples, allowing police to pinpoint crime scenes. The method has been tested in a trial with promising results.

SourceGoldschmidt Conference·DateJul 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.

Gulf Coast ready to develop carbon storage hub

The Gulf Coast region is well-positioned to develop a carbon storage economy, thanks to its unique geology and high concentration of industry. The study highlights the region's potential for capturing and storing CO2, which can help reduce emissions in the near term.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateJul 5, 2021

Psychedelic spurs growth of neural connections lost in depression

A recent study by Yale researchers found that psilocybin increases the density of dendritic spines, aiding information transmission between neurons and potentially treating depression. Mice subjected to stress showed behavioral improvements after receiving psilocybin, suggesting a possible therapeutic effect.

SourceYale University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 5, 2021

A new understanding of patterns in fluid flow

An international team has discovered a persistent pattern formation dynamics in viscous fingering, a phenomenon relevant to oil recovery and spreading of groundwater. The study's findings show that the pattern is different from classical radial and rectilinear forms.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·DateJul 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.

Seabird foraging and flying fish depletion

Researchers discovered that seabirds' reliance on flying fish as prey leads to reduced fish populations over 150 km from breeding colonies. This depletion effect is worsened by fisheries, posing a threat to seabirds' survival.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 5, 2021

Study shows laboratory developed protein spikes consistent with COVID-19 virus

A new international study found that laboratory-developed protein spikes consistent with COVID-19 virus are highly similar, providing reassurance for vaccine design and antibody testing. The study used glycan coatings to mimic the infectious virus and showed consistent results across five laboratories worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalBiochemistry·DateJul 5, 2021

Researchers collaborate with First Nations to conserve cultural cedar trees

A collaborative project between Simon Fraser University and local First Nations aims to conserve iconic western redcedar trees suitable for traditional carving and ceremonial purposes. Researchers found that these trees are generally rare, with nearly extinct forms being targeted by industrial logging.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalJournal of Ethnobiology·DateJul 5, 2021

Sculpted by starlight: A meteorite witness to the solar system's birth

Researchers have determined that a massive star, rather than the young sun, was responsible for the split in oxygen isotopes found in the sun and other planets. The study, led by Lionel Vacher, used an unusual meteorite named Acfer 094 to gain insight into the solar system's past.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalGeochimica et Cosmochimica Acta·DateJul 5, 2021

How fish got their spines

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have identified genetic pathways controlling fin spine development, showing how spines arise during embryonic development and evolve independently in different fish lineages. This study provides insights into the evolution of fin spines, which offer a strong evolutionary advantage to fish.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 5, 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.

European settlers and mortality of Indigenous people

A study analyzing age-at-death records of 33,715 Indigenous people in central California between 3050 BCE and 1870 CE found that Spanish settlers contributed to severe demographic collapse. The research suggests extreme social disruption caused by the presence of Europeans led to increased mortality rates among both males and females.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 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.

Could genetics hold the key to preventing SIDS?

A genetic biobank containing DNA from 25 babies who died from SIDS in South Australia could help identify genetic causes and prevent future deaths. The biobank will enable researchers to test babies at birth for risk factors and closely monitor those identified, potentially saving hundreds of baby lives.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·DateJul 4, 2021

Study of T cells from COVID-19 convalescents guides vaccine strategies?

Most COVID-19 patients develop and maintain T cell memory for over 10 months, suggesting effective long-term immunity. The study provides new insights into vaccine development by revealing the self-renewal capacity and multipotency of memory T cells.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 4, 2021

Observation, simulation, and AI join forces to reveal a clear universe

A team of Japanese astronomers developed a new AI technique to remove noise in astronomical data. They applied this tool to actual data from Japan's Subaru Telescope and found consistent results with currently accepted models of the Universe. This powerful new tool will analyze big data from current and planned astronomy surveys.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 4, 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.

Lower exposure to UVB light may increase colorectal cancer risk

A study using data from 186 countries found a significant correlation between lower UVB exposure and higher rates of colorectal cancer across all age groups. Lower UVB exposure may reduce levels of vitamin D, which has been associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJul 4, 2021

Researchers on a mission to fight deadly childhood cancer

Australian researchers aim to improve risk classification and identify therapeutic drugs for neuroblastoma, the deadliest solid tumour in children under five. They will use patient data and genetically engineered stem cells to model the disease process and predict patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·DateJul 3, 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.

The City of David and the sharks' teeth mystery

A team of researchers found an unexpected collection of fossilized shark teeth, dated to around 80 million years ago, in a 2,900-year-old site in the City of David in Jerusalem. The teeth were likely transported from a distant location and assembled by collectors, possibly during the Iron Age period.

SourceGoldschmidt Conference·DateJul 3, 2021

Stress-free path to stress-free metallic films paves the way for next-gen circuitry

Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University have developed a method to create thin films of tungsten with minimal stresses using high power impulse magnetron scattering. This breakthrough technology enables efficient deposition of metallic films without heat treatment, opening up new possibilities for the electronics industry.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJul 3, 2021

Lottery-based incentives do not increase COVID-19 vaccination rates

A study by Boston University School of Medicine researchers found that Ohio's Vax-a-Million lottery-based incentive system did not increase COVID-19 vaccinations. The study suggests that state-based lotteries are of limited value in increasing vaccine uptake, and recommends targeting underlying reasons for vaccine hesitancy instead.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateJul 2, 2021

Air pollution during pregnancy may affect growth of newborn babies

A recent study by the University of the Basque Country found a direct relationship between exposure to fine particles and the level of thyroxine in newborns. The research analyzed data from the INMA project and revealed that exposure during early pregnancy has a significant impact on thyroid hormone balance.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateJul 2, 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.

Oncotarget: Loss of CPAP in oral cancer

The loss of expression of a microtubule/tubulin binding protein, centrosomal protein 4.1-associated protein, causes increased EGFR levels and signaling in oral squamous cell carcinoma cells. Depletion of CPAP enhances tumorigenicity, while EGFR depletion attenuates EMT features.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJul 2, 2021

Global network transforming tropical forest research

A global network of over 2,500 scientists is exploring climate change's impact on forests and biodiversity. ForestPlots.net provides a unique platform for long-term monitoring and analysis, discovering how tropical forests help control carbon emissions.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJul 2, 2021

Scientists publish a how-to guide for creating mouse-human chimeric embryos

Researchers at University at Buffalo have published a detailed protocol for generating mouse-human chimeric embryos, enabling more accurate models of human development and disease. The method has the potential to revolutionize biomedical research and potentially lead to the generation of human organs for transplantation.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Protocols·DateJul 2, 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.

More than half of wheelchair users with spinal cord injury needed repairs in past 6 months

A study of 533 wheelchair users found that over 50% needed repairs within the past six months, resulting in significant financial cost and personal consequences. The research aimed to identify trends regarding which users or wheelchairs are more likely to need repair and how to reduce these negative consequences.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalArchives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation·DateJul 2, 2021

Waste hop stem in the beer industry upcycled into cellulose nanofibers

A Japanese research team has developed a technique to extract cellulose nanofibers from hop stems, reducing agricultural waste in the beer industry. The researchers used a simplified process that eliminates lignin and hemicellulose removal, yielding CNFs with a median width of about 2 nanometers.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalACS Agricultural Science & Technology·DateJul 2, 2021

Uncovering the genetic mechanism behind Rett syndrome

A study by Kyushu University researchers found that deficiencies in key genes lead to an imbalance in neural stem cells, resulting in fewer neurons and more astrocytes. This imbalance disrupts brain function and leads to Rett syndrome symptoms.

SourceKyushu University·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 2, 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.

Researchers explore how children learn language

A team of researchers developed a method to study how parents adjust their language to match their child's speech development. They found that caregivers have an incredibly precise knowledge of their child's language and use this information to fine-tune the linguistic input they provide.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 2, 2021

Why does Mercury have such a big iron core? Magnetism!

A new study from the University of Maryland disputes the prevailing hypothesis on Mercury's big core, instead attributing it to solar magnetism. The model shows that a planet's core density and proportion of iron are correlated with the strength of the sun's magnetic field during planetary formation.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProgress in Earth and Planetary Science·DateJul 2, 2021

Kansas State University virologists publish new findings on SARS-CoV-2 treatment option

Researchers found that animal models infected with SARS-CoV-2 treated with a deuterated protease inhibitor had significantly increased survival and decreased lung viral load. The results suggest that postinfection treatment with inhibitors of proteases essential for viral replication may be an effective treatment against SARS-CoV-2.

SourceKansas State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 2, 2021

Three-in-one approach boosts the silencing power of CRISPR

Scientists developed a CRISPR-Cas9-based tool that induces long-term gene silencing by epigenetic editing, offering potential treatment options for cancer and genetic ailments. The innovative dCas9-KAL construct achieves stable repression of target genes.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalBioDesign Research·DateJul 2, 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.

Researchers reduce severity of sleep apnoea by at least 30 per cent

A new study published in The Journal of Physiology shows that two existing medications can reduce sleep apnoea severity by up to one third. Almost everyone who participated in the study showed some improvement, with increased muscle activity around the airway and reduced breathing stoppages.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateJul 2, 2021

Engineer's graphene additive manufacturing research makes journal's cover story

The team has developed supercapacitors that have been tested for 10,000 cycles of charging and discharging cycles, demonstrating their reliability. Additionally, they have printed micro-supercapacitors on mechanically flexible surfaces using polyimide substrates, showcasing the versatility of these devices.

SourceKansas State University·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateJul 2, 2021

Cancer: Immunotherapies without side effects?

Researchers from UNIGE and Harvard Medical School have discovered the difference between desired immune responses targeting cancer cells and unwanted responses affecting healthy tissue. By understanding these differences, they aim to develop new therapeutic approaches that minimize toxic side effects and maximize treatment efficacy.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScience Immunology·DateJul 2, 2021

Neurobiology: How mice see the world

Researchers developed an open-source camera to capture mice's view in their natural environments. The study reveals that mice have adapted to perceive colors in the green and ultraviolet regions to aid survival and reproduction.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 2, 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.

At what temperature the weather becomes a problem

The study found that temperatures between 17 to 24 degrees Celsius are preferable for humans, cattle, pigs, poultry, and agricultural crops. Extreme heat above 32°C with high humidity or 45°C with low humidity can be fatal for humans, while heat stress affects livestock, poultry, and crops at different temperature thresholds.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateJul 2, 2021

Novel strategy for natural product biosynthesis

Researchers at the University of Freiburg have identified a novel flavoprotein dioxygenase crucial for bacterial tropone biosynthesis. The enzyme activates oxygen in a previously unknown way and incorporates it into a chemical precursor compound, generating the basic structure of tropone.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 2, 2021

Insect-sized robot navigates mazes with the agility of a cheetah

Researchers at UC Berkeley created an insect-scale robot using electrostatic adhesion, allowing it to traverse complex terrain and make sharp turns with unprecedented speed and control. The robot can survive being stepped on by a human and operate for up to 19 minutes on battery power.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Robotics·DateJul 2, 2021

American Journal of Medical Quality supplement explores innovative solutions to health care quality and performance improvement

Selected abstracts from the 2020 Vizient Connections Education Summit explore interventions to address health equity and reduce patient length of stay. An intervention framework was developed to identify events related to biases, while a statistical dashboard uses data to optimize resource allocation and track progress.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Quality·DateJul 2, 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.

Guadalupe fur seals continue to recover as new colony discovered

Researchers discovered a large resting colony of Guadalupe fur seals on El Farallón de San Ignacio Island in the Gulf of California, bringing the total number of sites to four. The population is believed to reach 41,000 individuals and is growing at an annual rate of 10-11%.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalMarine Mammal Science·DateJul 2, 2021