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Science News Archive June 2021 - Page 39


Page 39 of 51

Artificial intelligence enhances efficacy of sleep disorder treatments

Researchers developed an AI algorithm using 20,000 nights of sleep data to improve diagnoses and treatments for sleep disorders. The algorithm can analyze patient sleep patterns in seconds, freeing up medical hours that can be used to assess and diagnose more patients.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·DateJun 8, 2021

Deforestation darkening the seas above world's second biggest reef

A new study reveals that deforestation in Central America is altering the composition of natural material washing into nearby rivers, making it less likely to decompose before reaching the ocean. This change has significant implications for global carbon and nutrient cycles, as well as coastal ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·DateJun 8, 2021

An unprecedented survey of the 'nurseries' where stars are born

A team of researchers has conducted the first systematic survey of stellar nurseries, charting over 100,000 nurseries in 90 nearby galaxies. The study reveals that these nurseries are surprisingly diverse across galaxies, live only a relatively short time, and are not very efficient at making stars.

SourceOhio State University·DateJun 8, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How COVID-19 wreaks havoc on human lungs

Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed an atomic-level model of the SARS-CoV-2 envelope protein bound to a human lung-cell-junction protein. The findings reveal how the virus causes extensive lung damage by hijacking cell-junction proteins, leading to a cytokine storm and promoting viral spread.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2021

Non-optimal codons enable coronaviruses' promiscuity

Non-optimal codons enable coronaviruses to infect multiple hosts, increasing viral mRNA load. This finding highlights the importance of considering non-optimal codon usage in SARS-CoV-2 vaccine development.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalFEBS Journal·DateJun 8, 2021

Control over water friction with 2D materials points to 'smart membranes'

Researchers at the University of Manchester developed graphene-based nanochannels that significantly reduce water friction, leading to enhanced permeation and efficiency in membrane processes. This breakthrough has potential applications in desalination, energy storage, and wastewater treatment.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 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.

Online 'library of properties' helps to create safer nanomaterials

Researchers have developed a decision support system to identify the environmental impact of nanomaterials faster and more cost effectively. The library contains full physicochemical characterization of 69 nanomaterials, including calculated molecular descriptors.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNanoImpact·DateJun 8, 2021

Super productive 3D bioprinter could help speed up drug development

Researchers at UC San Diego developed a high-throughput 3D bioprinting technology that can produce 96-well arrays of living human tissue samples in just 30 minutes, accelerating preclinical drug screening and disease modeling. This could potentially reduce the time and cost associated with drug development.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBiofabrication·DateJun 8, 2021

Finding the weak points in radiation-resistant pancreatic cancer cells

Researchers found that autophagy and the G2 checkpoint are interrelated processes in pancreatic cancer cells, helping them survive radiotherapy. Inhibiting the G2 checkpoint suppresses tumor growth, suggesting new tools to combat radiation-resistant PDAC cells.

SourceThe National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics·DateJun 8, 2021

From burglar alarms to black hole detectors

Physicists propose an experiment using entangled quantum systems in free fall to detect movements and test if gravity is a quantum phenomenon. The system can also be used to detect space debris, tectonic movements, and burglars, with potential applications for early earthquake warnings and movement sensors.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateJun 8, 2021

Osteoporosis detection by a simple physical function test

Researchers at Shinshu University Hospital developed a novel method to detect untreated osteoporosis through a low-cost, physical function test during routine health checks. The test measures two-step distance and body height to identify high risk individuals. Proper treatment can help avoid serious fractures and reduce mobility issues.

SourceShinshu University·JournalJournal of Clinical Medicine·DateJun 8, 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.

Keeping a closer eye on seabirds with drones and artificial intelligence

Scientists used drones and artificial intelligence to analyze over 10,000 images of seabirds in the Falkland Islands, achieving accurate counts with 97% accuracy for albatrosses and 87% for penguins. This technology increases ability to monitor seabird colonies worldwide and track marine ecosystem health.

SourceDuke University·JournalOrnithological Applications·DateJun 8, 2021

Absorbent aerogels show some muscle

Researchers at Rice University have developed a simple chemical process to create light and highly absorbent aerogels that can take a beating. The aerogels, which are customizable in shape and size, showed superior remediation properties compared to traditional COF powders.

SourceRice University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateJun 8, 2021

Mechanochemical peptide bond formation behind the origins of life

Researchers at Ruđer Bošković Institute discover solid-state mechanochemical activation of amino acids leads to peptides, offering an alternative synthetic pathway to peptides without water. The study complements existing experimental procedures and provides insights into the emergence of life on Earth.

SourceRuđer Bošković Institute·DateJun 8, 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.

A drug from resin to combat epileptic seizures

Researchers at Linköping University have developed new resin acid molecules with antiseizure effects, opening a potassium ion channel that can prevent epileptic seizures. The molecules also show less effect on smooth muscle, reducing undesired side effects.

SourceLinköping University·JournalEpilepsia·DateJun 8, 2021

Researchers study historic Mississippi flow and impacts of river regulation

A recent paper examines the critical period before river regulation began, revealing that erosion of the upper Atchafalaya and dredging of the lower Mississippi contributed to increased water flow. The research aims to better understand river channel dynamics and inform management decisions to preserve Louisiana's coastline.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalWater Resources Research·DateJun 8, 2021

Food systems offer huge opportunities to cut emissions, study finds

A new global analysis reveals that greenhouse-gas emissions from food systems have long been systematically underestimated, with the equivalent of 16 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide produced in 2018. The study highlights the need for integrating research with efforts to reduce emissions and emphasizes the importance of considerin...

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 8, 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.

Researchers improve western North Pacific tropical cyclone intensity forecasts using the logistic growth equation

A new forecasting method has been developed to improve TC intensity forecast skill, providing more precise 5-7 day forecasts for coastal regions of East Asia. The logistic growth equation-based approach outperforms conventional methods, offering potential for forecasting rapid intensification and weakening.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 8, 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.

Earth's meteorite impacts over past 500 million years tracked

A new study at Lund University tracked meteorite flux to Earth over 500 million years, revealing a stable flux contrary to current theories. Researchers analyzed sedimentary rocks and extracted chromium oxide grains from nearly 10,000 meteorites.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2021

'Camouflage breakers' can find a target in less than a second

Researchers have developed a method for breaking camouflage that allows civilians and military personnel to identify hidden targets with high accuracy, even in complex scenes. The technique has been shown to be effective even when participants are given only a short viewing time.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJun 8, 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.

The next 20 are years crucial in determining the future of coal

A new analysis from Imperial College London suggests that countries investing in new coal mines and exports risk losing billions of dollars as the world shifts away from fossil fuels. Transitioning to a sustainable pathway by 2040 could save $10 billion per year globally, while avoiding job losses and economic instability.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJoule·DateJun 8, 2021

X-ray flash imaging of laser-induced bubbles and shockwaves in water

A research team led by the University of Göttingen has created tiny gas bubbles with a radius of a few thousandths of a millimeter using laser pulses, observing their expansion and shockwaves. The team used holographic flash imaging and X-ray laser pulses to capture data and images, providing insights into cavitation processes.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2021

A call for global oversight of unproven stem cell therapies

Experts call for global regulation to prevent unproven stem cell treatments from putting patients' lives at risk. The authors propose establishing an advisory committee on regenerative medicine and promoting harmonization among regulatory standards.

SourceCell Press·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJun 8, 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.

UN: More harmful algal bloom impacts emerge amid rising seafood demand, coastal development

A global assessment report by UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission found that reported Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) events have increased in some regions, while decreasing or holding steady in others. The study highlights the need for more research on the linkages between HABs and growth of the aquaculture industry.

SourceTerry Collins Assoc·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateJun 8, 2021

Science and performing arts against stereotypes

A 14-day performing arts program reduced implicit cognitive biases against physical illnesses, according to a University of Barcelona study. The program combined scientific training with theatre performance and showed that participants' reaction times decreased after the experience.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 8, 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.

Study shows how taking short breaks may help our brains learn new skills

Researchers found that during rest, the brain rapidly replays compressed versions of previously practiced activities, strengthening memories and improving subsequent practice sessions. This study suggests that wakeful rest plays a crucial role in learning new skills and may be used to facilitate rehabilitation from stroke.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 8, 2021

New study: Developers' skills and top management commitment lead to Agile project success

A new study by Associate Professor Daniel Russo highlights the importance of strengthening developers' social and technical skills for Agile project success. The study also emphasizes the critical role of top management commitment in providing an adequate organizational setting.

SourceDepartment of Computer Science, Aalborg University·JournalACM Transactions on Software Engineering and Methodology·DateJun 8, 2021

Microbial production of natural rainbow colorants

A research group at KAIST successfully produced seven natural rainbow colorants, including carotenoids and violacein derivatives, using engineered Escherichia coli strains. The strategies developed can be applied to the efficient production of other industrially important natural products.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJun 8, 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.

People more afraid of catching COVID-19 are more judgemental, study finds

A recent study by the University of Cambridge found that individuals who are more concerned about contracting COVID-19 tend to be more disapproving of others' wrongdoings. The researchers suggest that concerns about health and safety shape morality, leading to non-rational judgments.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalEvolutionary Psychology·DateJun 8, 2021

Oral health needs among youth with a history of foster care

A new study found that youth with a history of foster care have self-identified dental needs, including issues with pain, and less access to a dentist to address these needs. Approximately 44% of youth with a history of foster care reported at least one dental problem.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateJun 8, 2021

Report calls for 'comprehensive action' to tackle poverty in UK city

A new study by Staffordshire University highlights the devastating impact of COVID-19 on Stoke-on-Trent's residents, with thousands turning to foodbanks for welfare support. The report calls for comprehensive action to address poverty, including benefit take-up campaigns and a Scandinavian-style employment and training model.

SourceStaffordshire University·DateJun 8, 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.

Discovery of circadian rhythm gene in mice could lead to breakthroughs

Researchers at Virginia Tech have identified a novel gene, Per2AS, that controls the sleep/wake cycle in mice, revealing the importance of non-coding genes in regulating biological processes. The study's findings could lead to breakthroughs in understanding internal body clocks and their role in various diseases.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalGenes & Development·DateJun 8, 2021

Preventing plant disease pandemics

Plant diseases can spread globally without borders, threatening food security. Researchers call for a One Health approach to safeguard staple crops from pandemic outbreaks.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2021

A vital tool to study virus evolution in the test tube

Researchers have developed a technology to manipulate viruses synthetically, allowing for rapid analysis and mapping of new potential virus variants. This innovation enables scientists to mimic natural selection processes safely in a controlled laboratory environment.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 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.

Early endeavors on the path to reliable quantum machine learning

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new approach to prove the robustness conditions of certain quantum-based machine learning models, guaranteeing reliable results. The team's work explores protection against errors and hackers, paving the way for more accurate and trustworthy quantum machine learning applications.

SourceETH Zurich·Journalnpj Quantum Information·DateJun 8, 2021

Radicalized and believing in conspiracies: Can the cycle be broken?

A recent study suggests that improving economic conditions can reduce radicalization efforts, but trying to render people psychologically less susceptible can backfire. Conspiracies have become a powerful tool for far-right groups to manipulate public discourse and drive the growing radicalization of average Americans.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateJun 8, 2021

Preclinical study suggests new approach to reduce COVID-19 death among the elderly

A preclinical study suggests that senolytic drugs can significantly reduce mortality and severe disease in elderly people infected with SARS-CoV-2. The study found that treating older mice with senolytic drugs increased their survival rate from nearly 0% to 50%, reducing cellular senescence and inflammatory markers.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalScience·DateJun 8, 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.

New COVID-19 model reveals effectiveness of travel restrictions

A new model developed by Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute found that coordinated travel restrictions could have reduced the spread of COVID-19, with some restrictions reducing arrival times by up to 10 days and global infections by 6 million.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalCommunications Physics·DateJun 7, 2021

Atom swapping could lead to ultra-bright, flexible next generation LEDs

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new technique that enables the creation of ultra-bright, flexible LEDs with improved efficiency and low cost. By swapping one out of every thousand atoms, they tripled the luminescence of halide perovskites, which could be useful for low-cost printable and flexible LED lighting.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 7, 2021