Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive March 2021 - Page 38


Page 38 of 53

First AI system for contactless monitoring of heart rhythm using smart speakers

Researchers at the University of Washington developed a new AI system that can track individual heartbeats using smart speakers. The system sends inaudible sounds and uses machine learning to identify signals from both regular and irregular heartbeats, achieving accuracy comparable to standard heartbeat monitors.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalCommunications Biology·DateMar 9, 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.

Detecting hidden circulating tumor cells in non-small cell lung cancer patients

Researchers developed a new method to detect circulating tumor cells in NSCLC patients, identifying a CK-negative CTC population associated with metastasis and drug resistance. The use of hexokinase-2 as a biomarker revealed this novel CTC population in 50% of analyzed patients.

SourceInstitute for Systems Biology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2021

Georgia Tech receives $2.2M in Toyota Research Institute robotics funding

The university will focus on breakthroughs in automated driving, robotics, and machine-assisted cognition with a total of $2.2M in funding over three years. Researchers will develop a standardized testbed and protocol for testing autonomous vehicles and create robots to assist older adults age in place.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateMar 9, 2021

Pediatric emergency visits, hospitalizations down sharply during pandemic: study

A new multicenter study published in Journal of Hospital Medicine found significant reductions in pediatric emergency visits and hospitalizations for common illnesses like asthma and pneumonia. The trend is attributed to public health measures such as masking, social distancing, and handwashing instituted during the pandemic.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Hospital Medicine·DateMar 9, 2021

Bacterial film separates water from oil

A team of researchers at North Carolina State University has developed a novel material produced by bacteria that can effectively separate water from oil. The material consists of cellulose nano-fibers created by the bacteria Gluconacetobacter hansenii, which are then used to filter out the oil from an oily mixture.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalLangmuir·DateMar 9, 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.

Chemical signal in plants reduces growth processes in favor of defense

Researchers found that beta-cyclocitral produced by plants after herbivore attack increases defense responses and inhibits the production of metabolites for growth in Arabidopsis thaliana. This volatile signal opens up new possibilities for developing herbicides or antimicrobial agents that block the methylerythritol 4-phosphate pathway.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2021

Determining the structure of a molecule with laser-induced electron diffraction

Scientists successfully applied novel approach to imaging gas-phased molecule Carbonyl Sulfide, revealing a significantly bent and asymmetrically stretched configuration of the ionized OCS+ structure. The ZCP-LIED technique retrieves accurate and precise information about atomic structure without exact knowledge over the laser field.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 9, 2021

Floral probiotics reduce apple disease

Researchers found that treating apple flowers with specific bacteria strains reduced fire blight symptoms, altering floral microbiomes and disease rates. The study suggests that flowers may be a key site for biocontrol interventions, offering a new approach to managing this damaging disease.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·DateMar 9, 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.

Why the lovable llama might be a secret weapon against COVID-19

Researchers are using llama antibodies to design treatments and vaccines for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The unique nanobodies produced by llamas can bind to areas of viral proteins that larger antibodies cannot fit into, blocking those proteins from connecting with cells.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateMar 9, 2021

Steroid abuse by men leads to long-lasting impaired testicular function

A new marker of testicular cell capacity identified as a promising biological marker, INSL3, shows suppressed levels in former steroid users compared to never-users. Long-lasting impaired gonadal capacity found in previous anabolic steroid users, increasing risk of hypogonadism later in life.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 9, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Now is the time to study impact of pandemic on mothers and babies

A study suggests that maternal stress and social isolation during the pandemic can have toxic inflammatory effects on mothers and infants. The research highlights the need for immediate action to understand the impact of the pandemic on this vulnerable population.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalChild Psychiatry & Human Development·DateMar 9, 2021

Study uncovers spawning preferences of mahi-mahi

A new study by University of Miami researchers found that mahi-mahi typically spawn at night, primarily during a new moon, at depths greater than they normally would. This knowledge can help manage the valuable fish population and understand the impacts of climate change on their reproduction.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateMar 9, 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.

A little squid and its glowing bacteria yield new clues to symbiotic relationships

Researchers have identified a small molecule produced by bioluminescent bacteria that plays a key role in establishing the symbiosis between the squid and its light organ. The molecule, cHP-3, is produced during colonization and influences bacterial luminescence, suggesting an important chemical signal specific to this symbiosis.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalmBio·DateMar 9, 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.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused changes to people's wellbeing around the world

An international study found that decreased physical activity during the pandemic was linked to poorer physical and mental health, including perceptions of weight gain and decreased sleep. Increased physical activity was associated with better physical health and wellbeing.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMar 9, 2021

'Wearable microgrid' uses the human body to sustainably power small gadgets

A wearable microgrid developed by UC San Diego engineers powers small electronics using sweat-powered biofuel cells, motion-powered triboelectric generators, and energy-storing supercapacitors. The system can power devices quickly and continuously, lasting three times longer than traditional triboelectric generators alone.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 9, 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.

Adaptation, not irrigation recommended for Midwest corn farmers

A new study from Michigan State University suggests that Midwest corn farmers may not need to rely on more water due to climate change. Instead, adapting through regenerative soil practices and technology can make crops more resilient and adaptable to changing weather patterns.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 9, 2021

Updates on the Baylor cranial gunshot wound prognosis score

The Baylor prognostic scoring system has been externally validated in a separate group of patients presenting with gunshot wounds to the head, showing excellent discrimination of mortality and good functional outcome. Despite some limitations, the score remains a simple yet useful tool for predicting survival and long-term outcomes.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateMar 9, 2021

Re-envisioning the nursing PhD degree

Research-intensive nursing PhD programs need innovative approaches to attract, retain, and create the next generation of nurse scientists. Curricular changes, mentoring, funding, and networking supports are crucial to prepare them for academia and beyond.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalJournal of Professional Nursing·DateMar 9, 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.

Breaking waves and moisture transport drive extreme precipitation events

A global analysis reveals that breaking Rossby waves and intense moisture transport are two interconnected processes driving large-scale extreme precipitation events globally. These processes, especially in dry subtropical regions, can cause devastating catastrophic flooding and loss of life.

SourceEuropean Geosciences Union·JournalWeather and Climate Dynamics·DateMar 9, 2021

Researchers use silkworm silk to model muscle tissue

USU researchers developed a three-dimensional cell culture surface using silkworm silk to grow skeletal muscle cells, outperforming traditional methods. Cells grown on silkworm silk showed increased mechanical flexibility and proper muscle fiber alignment, mimicking human skeletal muscle more closely.

SourceUtah State University·JournalACS Applied Bio Materials·DateMar 9, 2021

X marks the spot: How genes on the sex chromosomes are controlled

A team of researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that genes on the X chromosome in male fruit fly germ cells are not subject to dosage compensation, unlike other cells. The absence of this process may affect sex determination in Drosophila PGCs.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 9, 2021

New Study Shows 24-72 Hours of Poor Oral Hygiene Impacts Oral Health

A new study found that poor oral hygiene within 24-72 hours can lead to a steep decrease in good oral bacteria and an increase in bad bacteria associated with periodontitis. The researchers also discovered a sudden aging of the bacteria's microbiome, equivalent to about a year in less than a month.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalmBio·DateMar 9, 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.

March/April 2021 Annals of Family Medicine Tip Sheet

A systematic review recommends behavioral self-management treatments for common urinary issues in older men, reducing symptoms and improving quality of life. Researchers also found that mobile apps can be as effective as usual treatment for women with urinary incontinence in primary care.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMar 9, 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.

Lower dose, less toxic radiopharmaceutical produces better outcomes

Researchers have developed a lower-dose radiopharmaceutical that improves treatment efficacy for neuroendocrine cancers while reducing side effects. The new medication uses reversible binding technology to extend its half-life in the blood, providing an extended therapeutic time window and improved treatment outcomes.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMar 9, 2021

The benefits of the Mediterranean diet pass on to the families of patients who follow it

A study found that family members of patients following the Mediterranean diet-based PREDIMED-Plus program experienced significant weight loss, averaging almost 4 kg over two years. Improved dietary habits were also observed, with family members showing increased commitment to the Mediterranean diet.

SourceIMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute)·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateMar 9, 2021

New collaborative care model offers help for patients with mental health need

The Penn Integrated Care program, developed by the University of Pennsylvania, provides a resource center and collaborative care services to increase access to mental health professionals. This model has shown promising results, achieving remission in symptoms for nearly 40% of patients with anxiety and 33% of those with depression.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMar 9, 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.

Tropical cyclone exposure linked to rise in hospitalizations from many causes for older adults

A new study found that tropical cyclone exposure is associated with a significant rise in hospitalizations among older adults, with a 14% average increase in respiratory diseases and a 4% rise in infectious diseases. Hospitalizations from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) surged 45% following exposure.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 9, 2021

Microchips of the future: Suitable insulators are still missing

Researchers at TU Wien found that thin hBN layers cause excessive leakage currents in miniaturised transistors, making it unsuitable as a gate insulator. The study suggests a need to search for alternative insulator materials to revolutionize the semiconductor industry.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Electronics·DateMar 9, 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.

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.

LJI research leads to promising combination therapy for type 1 diabetes

A phase 2 trial led by La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) shows a promising combination therapeutic candidate for adults with recent-onset type 1 diabetes. The treatment combines anti-IL-21 antibody with liraglutide and has been found to increase endogenous insulin secretion without safety concerns.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateMar 9, 2021

Psychedelic science holds promise for mainstream medicine

Researchers at UNLV are studying the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelics like psilocybin mushrooms, LSD, and MDMA. Their work suggests that these compounds can alter brain activity patterns, leading to rapid antidepressant effects.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 9, 2021

Making the role of AI in medicine explainable

Researchers developed a tissue-section analysis system that integrates morphological, molecular, and histological data for diagnosing breast cancer. The system provides heatmaps to explain the AI decision-making process, enabling doctors to assess results plausibility.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateMar 9, 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.

Study reveals new hope for men with common urinary issues

A systematic review suggests behavioral self-management treatments can reduce lower urinary tract symptoms in older men. Self-management interventions, including health education and bladder retraining, showed comparable symptom relief to medications alone.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMar 9, 2021