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Science News Archive March 2021 - Page 45


Page 45 of 53

Porous crystal guides reaction to transform CO2

KAUST researchers have developed a method to produce carbon monoxide from carbon dioxide using a porous crystal and silver catalyst. The new approach improved the selectivity of CO production by controlling the binding mode of activated carbon monoxide, resulting in a 94% efficient reaction.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 4, 2021

Defending smart systems on the machine learning framework level

A new project seeks to fill a gap in identifying vulnerabilities in ML frameworks by using Software Composition Analysis and Directed Grammar-Based Fuzzing. The tool can automatically report vulnerabilities in open-source libraries that an application depends on, helping developers address them before they can be exploited.

SourceSingapore Management University·DateMar 4, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

SARS-CoV-2 mutations can complicate immune surveillance of human T-killer cells

Researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 mutations can evade the immune response by T-killer cells, reducing their effectiveness in detecting and eliminating viruses. The study suggests that future vaccines should target a broader range of epitopes to provide more comprehensive protection.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalScience Immunology·DateMar 4, 2021

SRL focus section explores U.S. Intermountain West earthquakes in 2020

The US Intermountain West region experienced four significant earthquake sequences in 2020, with research characterizing the tectonics of the area and gaining insights into fault systems. The focus section papers discuss the Magna, Stanley, Monte Cristo, and Lone Pine earthquakes, providing new knowledge on seismic activity.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateMar 4, 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.

Earth has a hot new neighbour -- and it's an astronomer's dream

A newly discovered rocky planet, Gliese 486b, has been found to have a 'piping-hot' surface temperature of 430 degrees Celsius, making it inhospitable to human life. However, studying its atmosphere could provide valuable insights into the possibility of habitable planets and signs of life beyond Earth.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScience·DateMar 4, 2021

Want to cut emissions that cause climate change? Tax carbon

A new study by Ohio State University researchers suggests that a carbon tax is the most effective and cost-efficient way to reduce emissions causing climate change. The study found that adding a price to carbon production resulted in lower emissions at half the cost of renewable energy subsidies.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCurrent Sustainable/Renewable Energy Reports·DateMar 4, 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.

Walking pace among cancer survivors may be important for survival

A new study found that cancer survivors who walked at a slow pace had a significantly increased risk of death from any cause, with the association holding for nine cancer types. The researchers call for more research into targeted interventions to improve walking ability and increase survival among cancer patients.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateMar 4, 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.

Discovery of a nearby exoplanet suitable for atmospheric investigation

Researchers detected Gliese 486 b using both transit and radial velocity data, revealing its mass, radius, and density. The planet's equilibrium temperature of about 700 Kelvin makes it an ideal candidate to study its atmosphere and habitability.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 4, 2021

Newly discovered millipede, Nannaria hokie, lives at Virginia Tech

Researchers at Virginia Tech have discovered a new species of millipede, Nannaria hokie, living on campus and in nearby woods. The discovery highlights the importance of preserving native habitats and showcases the diversity of these often-overlooked creatures.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalInsect Systematics and Diversity·DateMar 4, 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.

A COSMIC approach to nanoscale science

COSMIC, a multipurpose X-ray instrument at Berkeley Lab's Advanced Light Source, has made groundbreaking contributions in fields ranging from batteries to biominerals. It offers world-leading soft X-ray microscopy resolution below 10 nanometers and extreme chemical sensitivity.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 4, 2021

Texas A&M study finds no link between gender and physics course performance

A Texas A&M University study analyzed over 10,000 students in four introductory physics courses, concluding that male students do not consistently outperform female students. The research found statistically significant differences in exam performance within one course, but no persistent differences across exams or final grades.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalPhysical Review Physics Education Research·DateMar 4, 2021

Study reveals extent of privacy vulnerabilities with Amazon's Alexa

A recent study found that many Alexa skills have misleading privacy policies, allowing third-party developers to access users' personal information. The researchers also demonstrated that developers can change the code on the back end of skills after approval, posing a significant risk to user privacy.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateMar 4, 2021

Social distancing in nature

Studies on non-human species reveal that forager ants, vampire bats, mandrills, and others exhibit social distancing behaviors when infected. These observations provide valuable lessons on how to reduce disease transmission and offer a unique perspective on human behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalScience·DateMar 4, 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.

Frequency of vitreoretinal surgical procedures in US during COVID-19 pandemic

Vitreoretinal surgical procedures in the US experienced a significant decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a notable decrease in laser and cryotherapy use. The study, which analyzed over 526,000 procedures across 17 institutions, found that this reduction lasted for at least 2 months after mid-March last year.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateMar 4, 2021

Rapid new automated genomics screening stamps out crop disease

Researchers at Earlham Institute created a new automated workflow using liquid handling robots to identify the genetic basis of preventing plant pathogens. The new technology screened 2,880 mutants in just 11 hours, identifying a gene cluster linked to growth inhibition of the common potato pathogen.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalSynthetic Biology·DateMar 4, 2021

When more Covid-19 data doesn't equal more understanding

Coronavirus skeptics have been using state-of-the-art data visualizations to advocate for opposing approaches to the pandemic, often creating counter-visualizations that are indistinguishable from those shared by mainstream sources. Researchers found that these visualizations were not just sloppy or lacking in data literacy, but rather...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMar 4, 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.

Digital app can help chronic pain sufferers manage their pain

A digital app called Manage My Pain has been shown to reduce key symptoms of chronic pain, including anxiety and pain catastrophizing. The study found that patients who used the app saw clinically significant reductions in these areas, leading to better management of their pain.

SourceUniversity Health Network·DateMar 4, 2021

A new model can predict the evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria

A new model can predict the evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria by analyzing growth rates and resistance levels at different drug concentrations. This knowledge can help identify optimal treatment protocols, drug targets, and new antibiotic candidates to combat resistant bacteria that threaten global health.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 4, 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.

New study shows Transcendental Meditation reduces teacher burnout and improves resilience

A new study published in Frontiers in Education found that Transcendental Meditation significantly improves emotional exhaustion, resilience, perceived stress, fatigue, and depression in teachers. This meditation-based teacher development program demonstrates the benefits of meditation for strengthening mental and physical health.

SourceCenter for Wellness and Achievement in Education·JournalFrontiers in Education·DateMar 4, 2021

Will climate change outpace species adaptation?

A study published in Nature Communications found that a species' thermal tolerance is linked to its current climate and that cold tolerance has evolved faster than heat tolerance. This suggests that many species will not be able to adapt quickly enough to survive the unprecedented rate of contemporary climate change.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 4, 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.

COVID-19 in 2021

The article summarizes current evidence on COVID-19 vaccines, immunity, and the potential for SARS-CoV-2 to become an endemic or seasonal virus. Experts weigh in on these critical issues, providing insights into the long-term impact of the pandemic.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 4, 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.

Climate warming drives butterfly decline in American west, study using citizen science data shows

A recent study using citizen science data found that climate warming is driving population declines in butterflies throughout the American West over the past 40 years. The research, published in Science, highlights the need for new approaches to butterfly conservation and suggests that climate change is a key factor in pollinator decline.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 4, 2021

The (robotic) doctor will see you now

A study found that patients are open to interacting with robots for symptom evaluation, reducing in-person contact. Robots equipped with sensors and video communication can measure vital signs and perform minor procedures like nasal swabs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 4, 2021

High-resolution ocean model provides insight into sea turtles' lost years

A new study uses a high-resolution ocean model to track the migration of baby sea turtles in their 'lost years'. The model shows that hatchlings are swept towards regions with favorable food availability, increasing their chances of survival. This research provides insights into the critical stages of sea turtle conservation efforts.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateMar 4, 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.

Could catnip become the new DEET?

Researchers have discovered that catnip's active ingredient, Nepetalactone, activates the mosquito irritant receptor TRPA1, making it an effective repellent. This finding has significant implications for developing new, plant-based insect repellents.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 4, 2021

Cutting off stealthy interlopers: a framework for secure cyber-physical systems

Researchers developed a framework to detect and recover from pole-dynamics attacks (PDAs) in cyber-physical systems (CPSs). The approach uses software-defined networking (SDN) and a novel attack-detection algorithm, enabling real-time performance recovery and stable CPS operation.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics·DateMar 4, 2021

Higher income predicts feelings such as pride and confidence

Research by American Psychological Association found that higher income predicts more positive self-regard emotions such as confidence, pride and determination, while lower income is associated with negative emotions like sadness and fear. The study analyzed data from over 1.6 million people across 162 countries.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalEmotion·DateMar 4, 2021

Sea butterflies already struggle in acidifying Southern Ocean

Sea butterflies are already experiencing difficulties building their shells due to ocean acidification, which will worsen in the future. They shift from growing thicker and larger shells to investing more in becoming larger, posing a major problem for local sea life that depend on them for food.

SourceNaturalis Biodiversity Center·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateMar 4, 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.

High strength through hierarchy

Researchers develop hierarchical structure for lightweight materials by self-organization, creating a new type of exceptionally strong yet light material. The material's open network structure results in an impressive density reduction and mechanical properties superior to state-of-the-art materials.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalScience·DateMar 4, 2021

Cancer 'guardian' breaks bad with one switch

Researchers discover mutant p53 protein clusters drive disease-causing aggregates, a key finding in understanding cancer mechanisms. The study suggests novel cancer treatments targeting mutant p53 may be effective.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2021

Research contributes to understanding of hypersonic flow

A team of researchers at the University of Illinois replicated hypersonic flow conditions in a NASA Langley Mach 6 wind tunnel using a numerical simulation. The study aimed to better understand the complexities of hypersonic flows, including pressure, temperature, and fluid velocity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalAIAA Journal·DateMar 4, 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.

'Falling insect' season length impacts river ecosystems

Research reveals that prolonged periods of terrestrial invertebrates in rivers lead to monopolization by larger fish, altering food webs and ecosystem functions. In contrast, pulsed periods enable smaller fish to access benthic invertebrates, resulting in reduced leaf breakdown rates.

SourceKobe University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMar 4, 2021

Do known drugs help against SARS-coronavirus-2?

Researchers have found that Camostat and its metabolite GBPA inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection in primary human lung tissue. The study supports further development of Camostat as a potential treatment for COVID-19.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalEBioMedicine·DateMar 4, 2021