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Science News Archive March 2021 - Page 2


Page 2 of 53

SMART study finds ridesharing intensifies urban road congestion

The study found that ridesharing companies increased road congestion in the US, reducing public transport ridership by nearly 9%. Easy access to ridesharing discouraged commuters from using greener alternatives.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNature Sustainability·DateMar 31, 2021

NYU Tandon announces 2021 S&K scholarship recipients

The NYU Tandon School of Engineering has awarded the 2021 S&K Scholarships to four outstanding NYU Cyber Fellows, including women and underrepresented group members. The scholarships will provide an additional $500 tuition scholarship towards each course for the entire Cyber Fellows program.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·DateMar 31, 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.

A successful phonon calculation within the Quantum Monte Carlo framework

Scientists have developed a new method to reduce error in atomic force evaluation, expanding the scope of the quantum Monte Carlo framework. This breakthrough enables accurate prediction of atomic properties in materials, particularly those with unusual electronic and magnetic properties.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalPhysical Review B·DateMar 31, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Deep diamonds contain evidence of deep-Earth recycling processes

Deeply subducted serpentinite rocks are found to carry surface water as far as 700 kilometers into the mantle, allowing scientists to trace material exchange. The presence of these rocks confirms a long-suspected pathway for deep-Earth recycling.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 31, 2021

Soft "sweat stickers" may streamline diagnosis of cystic fibrosis in children

Soft microfluidic 'sweat stickers' can easily gather and analyze sweat from infants and children, matching performance with cumbersome devices. The stickers' multilayered design avoids repeated tests and skin indentations, enabling early diagnosis critical for good treatment outcomes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 31, 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.

Carbon-neutral 'biofuel' from lakes

Lakes store huge amounts of methane, which has a global warming potential 80-100 times greater than CO2. Researchers at the University of Basel suggest extracting and using this methane for sustainable energy production, potentially meeting world's energy needs.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 31, 2021

Nursing graduate students report high levels of stress, anxiety, depression

Nearly one-quarter of nursing graduate students reported elevated stress, anxiety, and depression, with 23.8% scoring within the area of clinical concern for PTSD. The study highlights the critical need for mental health support for future healthcare workers on the front lines.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNurse Educator·DateMar 31, 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.

Exercise in mid-life won't improve cognitive function in women

A new UCLA Health study reveals that middle-aged women's cognitive function does not improve with physical activity, despite its many health benefits. The 21-year study found no association between exercise and slower cognitive decline in three key areas: processing speed, verbal memory, and working memory.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 31, 2021

Insight into the evolution of bones

Researchers have discovered fossilized samples of bony armor from ancient fish species, revealing a complex network of cavities and channels in the bones. The findings suggest that early vertebrates had internal structures similar to those found in modern vertebrates, with bone cells capable of dissolving and restoring bone minerals.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 31, 2021

Scientists from Russia and Germany measured how the brain learn new words

Scientists developed a new method to understand how the brain builds associations between previously unrelated words. By measuring brain responses to incongruent sentence endings, researchers found that the brain learns new associations rapidly and independently of behavioral responses.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalJournal of Neurolinguistics·DateMar 31, 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.

UNH Research: New Hampshire coastal recreationists support offshore wind

Research from the University of New Hampshire found significant support for offshore wind energy development among coastal recreation visitors, with 77% in favor. The study's findings suggest that OWD will likely have little impact on coastal recreation and tourism, instead potentially amplifying visitation.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalEnergy Research & Social Science·DateMar 31, 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.

How many countries are ready for nuclear-powered electricity?

A study of 126 nations suggests that many lack the economic and institutional quality to deploy nuclear power, despite rising demand for low-carbon electricity. Countries like Malaysia and Qatar demonstrated above-median performance, while others require improved governance structures.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateMar 31, 2021

OCD patients with comorbidities respond well to deep brain stimulation

A study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry found that patients with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and other psychiatric comorbidities responded well to Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) treatment, experiencing significant improvements in OCD and mood symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·DateMar 31, 2021

In search of the first bacterium

Researchers used biochemical metabolic networks and evolutionary trees to analyze 1,089 bacterial genomes, predicting the biochemistry of LBCA. The analysis reveals that LBCA was likely rod-shaped and had the acetyl-CoA pathway for carbon fixation, similar to LUCA.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalCommunications Biology·DateMar 31, 2021

Why the middle is neglected in politics and other spectrums

A mathematical model reveals that people tend to categorize themselves and others along a spectrum, excluding those in the middle. The study predicts that self-identified Democrats and Republicans view political independents unfavorably, lumping them in with the other side or perceiving them as truly in-between.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 31, 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.

Century-old problem solved with first-ever 3D atomic imaging of an amorphous solid

Researchers used atomic electron tomography to map the structure of metallic glass, a class of matter that has long posed a challenge to scientists. The study revealed pockets where atoms coalesced into ordered superclusters, showing that even within an amorphous solid, the arrangement of atoms is not completely random.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature·DateMar 31, 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.

National study examines US mammography screening rates during COVID-19 pandemic

A national study found a strong rebound in breast cancer screening rates despite COVID-19 pandemic challenges, but significant disparities and missed appointments persist. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to overcome barriers to healthcare utilization during the pandemic.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 31, 2021

Evaluating the impact and effectiveness of burglar alarms

A three-month project led by Professor Rachel Armitage from the University of Huddersfield is investigating the impact of burglar alarms on residential burglary. The study, which combines data analysis and surveys, aims to clarify whether burglar alarms are an effective crime prevention measure.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·DateMar 31, 2021

For people with dementia in assisted living, quality of life improves with mindful care

A study led by Georgia State University researchers found that residents with dementia in assisted living facilities benefit from being included in activities and having caregivers meet them where they are. This approach improves quality of life for individuals with varying types of dementia and levels of functional ability.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalJournal of Applied Gerontology·DateMar 31, 2021

A new technique to synthesize superconducting materials

Researchers have developed a new technique to synthesize superconducting materials at room temperatures, utilizing a thin film of palladium to separate hydrogen atoms from yttrium. The resulting material exhibits superconductivity at 12 degrees Fahrenheit, improving upon previous results.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 31, 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.

How comorbidities increase risks for COVID patients

New research from the University of East Anglia reveals comorbidities such as heart disease, respiratory disease, and obesity increase mortality rates in COVID-19 patients. Blood pressure medications found to be protective against severe outcomes.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 31, 2021

Study identifies risk factors for COVID-19 infection, hospitalization, and mortality among U.S. nursing home residents

A large study found that risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 infection differed from those for hospitalization and death in U.S. nursing homes. Risk of infection was mainly dependent on nursing home and community factors, while hospitalization risk varied more with patient-specific characteristics such as age, BMI, and ethnicity.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 31, 2021

What are we breeding for, and who decides?

A review in the Journal of Dairy Science examines how US dairy industry breeding selection objectives are established, detailing opportunities and obstacles related to new technologies. The net merit dollars (NM$) selection index has increased the rate of gain in dairy cattle through genomic selection, but challenges remain in measurin...

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateMar 31, 2021

A Skoltech method helps model the behavior of 2D materials under pressure

Researchers from Skoltech have created a theoretical method to study electronic properties of 2D materials like silicene under high pressure. This approach could help create pressure sensors using these materials, which are promising candidates due to their unique properties.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 31, 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.

Lab-made hexagonal diamonds stiffer than natural diamonds

Researchers at Washington State University have created hexagonal diamonds using sound waves, finding them stiffer than natural cubic diamonds. The discovery could lead to the development of superior materials for machining and drilling, potentially replacing traditional diamond in these industries.

SourceWashington State University·JournalPhysical Review B·DateMar 31, 2021

Can drinking cocoa protect your heart when you're stressed?

Research found that drinking flavanol-rich cocoa can improve blood vessel function during mental stress and reduce temporary impairments in endothelial function. Flavanols, commonly found in fruit and vegetables, have been shown to have a positive effect on cardiovascular health during periods of acute vascular vulnerability.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNutrients·DateMar 31, 2021

Why subsistence consumers need marketplace literacy

A new study found that subsistence consumers' effective participation in markets requires knowledge and skills, leading to increased wellbeing and entrepreneurship. Brief programs can aid the development of marketplace literacy and generate substantive outcomes.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMar 31, 2021

Study: Race made no difference in ICU Outcomes of COVID-19 patients

A study published in Critical Care Medicine found that racial differences in COVID-19 ICU outcomes do not exist. Patients of color had a lower 28-day mortality rate compared to white patients, while overall hospital mortality and length of stay were unaffected by race.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateMar 31, 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.

Venus plots a comeback

Space agencies are turning their attention back to Venus, the closest planet to Earth, to learn more about its atmosphere and geology. Recent findings have generated renewed interest, and multiple missions are planned to study Venus' surface and atmospheric chemistry.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 31, 2021

Exploring how storytelling tropes cluster in popular films

Researchers analyzed 25,766 film tropes and identified 42 cluster groups, with some associated with specific genres and high ratings. The study provides insights into the film industry's narrative patterns, potentially informing new film development and story generation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 31, 2021

How industrialized life remodels the microbiome

A new study from MIT-led researchers found that people living in industrialized societies have gut bacteria that swap genes at much higher rates. This phenomenon occurs more frequently due to specific diets and lifestyles, potentially leading to intestinal health issues.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateMar 31, 2021

Study finds that masks make little difference to facial identification

The study found that face masks hinder recognition of familiar faces slightly more than sunglasses, but have a minimal impact on accuracy. Super recognisers, who have an exceptional ability for face recognition, performed better even when looking at concealed faces.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMar 31, 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.

Decellularized spinach serves as an edible platform for laboratory-grown meat

Researchers at Boston College have successfully grown bovine animal protein on decellularized spinach leaves, paving the way for increased production of cultured meat products. The study demonstrates the potential of using edible scaffolds to minimize environmental costs and meet rising demand for cellular agriculture products.

SourceBoston College·JournalFood Bioscience·DateMar 31, 2021

More support needed for two children in every class with hidden language disorder

A new study from the University of Bath found that children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) face significant challenges in social interactions and peer relationships. The researchers highlight the importance of early referrals and suggest adjustments to playtimes to accommodate children's specific needs.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalAutism & Developmental Language Impairments·DateMar 31, 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.

Temperature sensor could help safeguard mRNA vaccines

Researchers developed a tamper-proof temperature indicator to monitor mRNA vaccine storage conditions. The system can alert healthcare workers when the vaccine reaches an unsafe temperature for a certain period, ensuring effective distribution and use of the vaccine.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateMar 31, 2021

Governments and health leaders call for action on adolescent wellbeing

Adolescents aged 10-19 worldwide face numerous challenges to their wellbeing, including social injustice, inadequate mental health, and climate change. Governments and health leaders are calling for concrete policies and sustained investments to address these issues and empower today's adolescents to solve the problems they will inherit.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 31, 2021