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Science News Archive July 2021 - Page 6


Page 6 of 41

UIC awarded $6 million to develop potential COVID-19 treatment

Researchers at UIC are developing a potential COVID-19 treatment using VT-109, which has shown promise in animal models by restoring lung function and reducing inflammation. The new funding will be used to conduct pre-clinical studies to determine efficacy, toxicity, and dosages before human trials.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateJul 28, 2021

The quantum refrigerator

Researchers at TU Wien have invented a new cooling concept that combines thermodynamics and quantum physics to break low-temperature records. By using quantum effects to cool a cloud of ultracold atoms, they achieved temperatures closer to absolute zero than ever before.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPRX Quantum·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 28, 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.

Metallic water prepared for first time under terrestrial conditions

Researchers at IOCB Prague develop a method to prepare metallic water without high pressure, by dissolving electrons from alkali metal in water vapor. The resulting solution lasts several seconds and contains dissolved alkali cations and hydroxide and hydrogen.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2021

The secret life of basking sharks

A new study using video recordings from animal-towed cameras reveals the secret life of basking sharks in Scottish waters. The research shows that the sharks engage in feeding, courtship and social behaviors, challenging previous assumptions about their solitary nature.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 28, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New scanning technology could help diagnose Alzheimer’s disease using light

Researchers developed a non-invasive optical technique using spectroscopy to identify structural changes in the brain and diagnose Alzheimer's disease. The new technology has potential as a simple, completely non-invasive method of early detection and could also assess treatment effectiveness.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2021

ACC issues clinical guidance on ASCVD risk reduction in patients with persistent hypertriglyceridemia

The American College of Cardiology has issued clinical guidance on reducing ASCVD risk in patients with persistent hypertriglyceridemia, recommending lifestyle intervention and non-statin therapies. The guidance emphasizes the importance of individualized nutrition guidance for these patients.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 28, 2021

Indian women’s nutrition suffered during COVID-19 lockdown

A new study from the Tata-Cornell Institute for Agriculture and Nutrition found that women's nutritional intake declined during the COVID-19 pandemic in India. The decline was particularly pronounced among underdeveloped regions, with significant decreases in food expenditures and consumption of micronutrient-rich foods.

SourceCornell University·JournalEconomia Politica·DateJul 28, 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.

On eternal imbalance

Researchers have discovered a new theory that explains the behavior of quantum systems with long-range interactions. The theory predicts that these systems will settle into meta-stable states rather than reaching equilibrium, leading to unique effects such as spiral arms in galaxies.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 28, 2021

A blood test for your body clock? It's on the horizon

Researchers at University of Colorado Boulder have developed a blood test that can assess the timing of an individual's internal circadian clock, potentially leading to personalized medicine breakthroughs. The study found that analyzing a combination of molecules in a single blood draw can determine the timing of a person's biological ...

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of Biological Rhythms·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2021

Magnetic fields implicated in the mysterious midlife crisis of stars

New research reveals that magnetic fields of middle-aged stars become sub-critical, leading to reduced angular momentum losses and altered magnetic field strengths. This phenomenon breaks the relationship between a star's age and its rotation rate, allowing for a diversity of solar-stellar phenomena.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society Letters·DateJul 27, 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.

Study shows why beer mats do not fly in a straight line

Physicists investigated why beer mats behave strangely when thrown. The study found that the mat tips backwards due to gravity, creating an angle of attack that generates lift in the airflow. When rotated like a frisbee, the lifting force causes the mat to drift off to the side, rather than flying straight.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2021

EIC Center at Jefferson Lab announces research awards

The EIC Center at Jefferson Lab has awarded six new one-year fellowships to support early-career scientists working on the Electron-Ion Collider's research goals. The winners are pursuing R&D projects to enhance detector design, experimental design, and computing environment.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateJul 27, 2021

The basis for new anti-cancer drugs was found in vegetables and fruits

Researchers identified nine dietary compounds with potent anticancer properties by exhibiting inhibitory effects on different cancers. These compounds are found in non-starchy plants such as broccoli, cabbage, and carrots, and include silibinin, flavopiridol, and guggulsterone.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2021

How to make up your mind when the glass seems half empty?

Neuroscientists at Kyoto University have discovered brain networks that connect anxiety to pessimistic decision-making. The pregenual ACC, a middle layer of the brain, plays a key role in integrating feelings with rational thinking and is linked to avoidance and pessimistic decision-making.

SourceKyoto University·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2021

Study identifies biomarker for breast cancer response to immunotherapy

Researchers have identified a biomarker, MHC-II, that predicts response to immunotherapies in breast cancer patients. The study found that MHC-II expression is associated with response to standard chemotherapy plus durvalumab or pembrolizumab, but not to standard neoadjuvant chemotherapy alone.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJul 27, 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.

Want to reduce cockroach sex? Block an enzyme

A new study published in PLOS Biology elucidates a female sex pheromone pathway in cockroaches, revealing that blocking an enzyme reduces pheromone production and female attractiveness. The study provides valuable insights into insect sexual behavior regulation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2021

Researchers demonstrate technique for recycling nanowires in electronics

Researchers at North Carolina State University demonstrated a low-cost technique for recycling nanowires from electronic devices. The method involves dissolving the polymer matrix containing the nanowire network and separating the nanowires using ultrasound, allowing for their reuse in new devices. After four life cycles, the nanowires...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 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.

More than just walking: a new role for core brain region

Researchers have discovered distinct populations of neurons in the mesencephalic locomotor region that control different body movements. These findings could improve therapies for Parkinson's disease by targeting specific neuronal populations involved in postural changes and body extension.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2021

‘Double decoration’ enhances industrial catalyst

Researchers at Hokkaido University have designed a highly stable platinum-gallium catalyst that can support propylene production at very high temperatures, making it suitable for a month. The 'doubly decorated' catalyst is alloyed with lead and calcium, which blocks side reactions and improves stability.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2021

Measuring creativity, one word at a time

Researchers from McGill University and Harvard University developed a simple test to measure creative potential, using the Divergent Association Task (DAT). The study found that naming unrelated words can predict creativity levels, with greater distances between words indicating higher creative abilities.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 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.

Biomarker could help diagnosis schizophrenia at an early age

Scientists have discovered a protein biomarker in blood that could help diagnose schizophrenia at an early age. The study found high levels of active CRMP2 protein, which is uniquely imbalanced in people diagnosed with the condition.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 2021

Mixing precision for model acceleration

A KAUST-led research team has developed an approach to mix high-precision calculations with lower precision for large geospatial datasets, significantly speeding up modeling without overall precision loss. The technique, implemented on high-performance computing systems, will enable larger datasets to be analyzed in shorter timeframes.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Parallel and Distributed Systems·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 27, 2021

How crushed rocks can help capture CO2

Researchers explore the potential of using finely ground rock to remove CO2 from the atmosphere, finding substantial CO2 removal rates of up to 2.5 gigaton per year. Basalt powder is found to have high weatherability and can enhance soil fertility, leading to increased ecosystem carbon storage.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 27, 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.

Vaccination against hereditary colorectal cancer successful in mice

Researchers at German Cancer Research Center successfully tested a protective vaccination against hereditary colorectal cancer in mice, achieving a significant delay in tumor development. Combining the vaccine with an anti-inflammatory drug further increased its effectiveness, showing promise for future clinical applications.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalGastroenterology·DateJul 27, 2021

Topical molecular imaging tracer enables real-time detection of cervical cancer

Researchers developed a topical fluorescent imaging agent targeting PARP1 enzyme in cervical cancer cells, enabling real-time detection with handheld microscopes. This non-invasive method could revolutionize cervical cancer screenings and biopsies, especially in low-resource areas.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJul 27, 2021

Climate adaptation at the department of defense and beyond

New research from the University of Arizona identifies climate-related threats to US Department of Defense facilities in the southwestern United States. The study recommends emphasizing risks to DOD missions, finding champions at individual bases, and integrating climate considerations into existing plans to mitigate these challenges.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalClimate Services·DateJul 27, 2021

Study strengthens argument postpartum depression different to major depression

A University of Otago study found that women with postpartum depression experience different intensity and hedonic perception of smells compared to healthy women. The research adds evidence to the argument that postpartum depression should be studied separately from major depression.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalScientific Reports·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 27, 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.

Pandemic update to the world scientists' warning of a climate emergency

A new study updates the world scientists' warning of a climate emergency, highlighting worsening environmental conditions despite reduced fossil fuel use during the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors emphasize the need for profound changes in human behavior and policy shifts to mitigate the crisis.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateJul 27, 2021

Study: Pediatric neurosurgeons develop strong emotional bonds with patients, bringing them joy but also great pain

A study led by York University found that pediatric neurosurgeons develop meaningful long-term relationships with their patients and families, caring deeply about them. However, these relational bonds also bring challenging emotions, particularly when communicating bad news or witnessing patients' suffering or death.

SourceYork University·JournalBritish Journal of Neurosurgery·DateJul 27, 2021

Research reveals advantage of 2D metal-organic framework nanosheets in sensing applications

Two-dimensional (2D) metal-organic framework (MOF) nanosheets show improved detection performance in sensing applications compared to their three-dimensional counterparts. The research reveals excellent fluorescence stability, high selectivity towards fluoride ions, and faster response times.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalDalton Transactions·DateJul 27, 2021

Global dementia cases forecasted to triple by 2050

Researchers estimate global dementia cases will nearly triple to 152 million by 2050 due to a combination of factors, including aging population growth and increasing risk factors like obesity and heart health issues. The highest increase is projected in eastern sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, and the Middle East.

SourceAlzheimer's Association·DateJul 27, 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.

Selenium may support deep microbial life in Earth's continental crust

A study suggests that selenium can sustain microbial activity in the continental deep biosphere, enabling chemolithotrophic microbes to thrive. High-precision Se-isotope data combined with trace-metal data and Pt-Os ages indicate a possible microbial origin of platinum nuggets.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateJul 27, 2021

Are laundry and dish pods biodegradable? Not exactly, ASU study shows

A recent ASU study reveals that up to 75% of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) used in laundry and dish pods goes untreated in US wastewater treatment plants, amounting to around 8,000 tons released annually. This raises concerns about the environmental impact of these products, as PVA can sequester heavy metals and alter gas exchanges.

SourceArizona State University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 27, 2021

Wisconsin bioethics project chronicles pregnancy, substance use disorder and the law

The National Institutes of Health's HEALthy Brain and Child Development study aims to identify the impacts of prenatal substance exposure on child development. A 50-state analysis of laws addressing substance use during pregnancy highlights diverse state-by-state policies, with some statutes being more punitive than others.

SourceMorgridge Institute for Research·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 27, 2021

Concerns of health care workers during pandemic

Healthcare workers in Canada shared their concerns and sources of distress during the pandemic on an online forum. The study highlights the emotional toll of working in healthcare during a global health crisis.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 27, 2021
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.

Street-based sex workers perform emotional labor to build customer loyalty

A study by UC Riverside researchers found that street-based sex workers invest considerable emotional effort into maintaining loyal customers. They use relational work activities such as friendly service, flexible payments, and scheduling to retain clients. This approach helps them avoid potentially violent or abusive clients and provi...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalWork Employment and Society·TypeSurvey·DateJul 27, 2021

Big Bear Solar Observatory becomes home to NSF's SOLIS telescope

The Big Bear Solar Observatory will become home to NSF's Synoptic Optical Long-term Investigations of the Sun (SOLIS) telescope, enabling researchers to study long-term changes in the Sun's activity and its impact on Earth. SOLIS will provide comprehensive observations of the Sun's magnetic fields, solar flares, and space weather events.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·TypeNews article·DateJul 27, 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.

Political discussions focused on consensus more comfortable, less divisive for students

A new study found that US high school students felt more respected and their views moved closer to agreement in consensus-based political discussions than in group debates. The study, published in the Peabody Journal of Education, suggests that deliberation can promote openness to changing one's mind and being persuaded.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPeabody Journal of Education·TypeSurvey·DateJul 27, 2021

Study finds poor households in India bear brunt of pollution effects

A new study by Yale School of the Environment Associate Professor Narasimha Rao found that poorer households in India are disproportionately affected by air pollution caused by other sources. The study highlights that wealthier households contribute less to pollution but reap fewer benefits from cleaner alternatives.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 27, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Bushfires, not pandemic lockdowns, had biggest impact on global climate in 2020

A study found that the Australian bushfires had a more significant impact on global climate than pandemic lockdowns, cooling the planet by about .06 degrees Celsius. The fires injected sulfates and other particles into the atmosphere, disrupting the climate system and influencing storm tracks.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 27, 2021

UVA Engineering researchers join quest to demonstrate photonic systems-on-chip

Researchers at UVA's Charles L. Brown Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering are working on a project called PATRONUS, which aims to integrate photonic integrated circuits into a single chip. This could lead to faster data centers and next-generation wireless communication systems.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateJul 27, 2021