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Science News Archive March 2021 - Page 8


Page 8 of 53

How AI beats spreadsheets in modelling future volumes for city waste management

A recent study by researchers at the University of Johannesburg shows how AI can forecast municipal solid waste in a large African city. By using machine learning algorithms and combining data from various sources, including census data and landfill site records, the team was able to predict the city's waste management needs until 2050...

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateMar 29, 2021

Researchers first to link silicon atoms on surfaces

A team of researchers from the University of Münster has developed a highly efficient method to produce silicon polymers using surface chemistry. The breakthrough allows for the creation of long polymers with mild reaction conditions, paving the way for new material properties and potential applications as organic semi-conductors.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 29, 2021

New model simulates the temperature rise of laser-heated skin

Researchers propose a new model to simulate temperature rise of laser-heated skin, taking into account melanosome pigments. The model predicts that darker skin is more prone to damage from laser irradiation.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·DateMar 29, 2021

Extra 100 million years before Earth saw permanent oxygen rise

The permanent rise of oxygen in the Earth's atmosphere, a pivotal period in Earth's history, occurred 100 million years later than thought. This change led to a 1.5 billion year period of climatic stability before another major period of rising oxygen and climate instability.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature·DateMar 29, 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.

Glaucoma linked to increased risk of dementia

Researchers at Flinders University in Australia have found a link between normal-tension glaucoma and cognitive impairment, with patients having this type of glaucoma being more than twice as likely to develop dementia. The study suggests that normal-tension glaucoma may share similar neurodegenerative pathways with dementia.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·DateMar 29, 2021

Paying to clear-cut the rain forests

A new study reveals that rich countries' consumer demands for products like soybeans, cocoa, and timber lead to increased deforestation in poorer nations. The research found that different tree types have varying environmental impacts, and that policies aimed at preserving forests must also alleviate poverty.

SourceResearch Institute for Humanity and Nature·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 29, 2021

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

New studies published in Annals of Internal Medicine reveal significant disparities in COVID-19 testing, positivity, confirmed cases, and mortality rates across different populations. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address health inequities in the US healthcare system.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 29, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Laser lights the way

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a new way to observe laser interactions, enabling accurate control over laser-based manufacturing processes. The discovery could lead to significant improvements in precision and efficiency in industries such as laboratory, commercial, and industrial applications.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalCommunications Materials·DateMar 29, 2021

Lab model offers hope for macular degeneration patients

Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a 3D lab model mimicking the human retina affected by age-related macular degeneration. The model combines patient-derived tissues with bioengineered synthetic materials, allowing for targeted drug therapies and potential individual treatments.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMar 29, 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.

How will climate change affect hailstorms?

A global review of hail trends suggests climate change will lead to increased hailstorm frequency in most regions, particularly Australia, while reducing it in East Asia and North America. Hail severity is expected to increase globally due to warmer temperatures and increased atmospheric instability.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Reviews Earth & Environment·DateMar 28, 2021

Calcium-sensing receptor of immune cells and diseases

Researchers found that calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) is expressed in neutrophils, monocytes/macrophages, and T lymphocytes, regulating cytokine secretion, chemotaxis, and ligand delivery. This receptor also contributes to the development of several diseases, including sepsis, cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes, and rheumatism.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateMar 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.

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.

Atezolizumab-induced autoimmune diabetes mellitus presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis

A case of atezolizumab-induced autoimmune diabetes mellitus presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis is reported, highlighting the importance of monitoring blood glucose levels in patients treated with PD-L1 inhibitors. The patient's condition was successfully managed with cessation of atezolizumab treatment and insulin therapy.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateMar 27, 2021

COVID-19: A retrospective by the numbers

The article reviews COVID-19 editorials, discussing epidemiological and clinical dimensions of the pandemic. Experts question US vaccination priorities, suggesting a focus on over-65 population could spare more lives globally.

SourceSociety for Disaster Medicine and Public Health, Inc.·JournalDisaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·DateMar 26, 2021

Oil and natural gas production emit more methane than previously thought

A new study found that oil production emits 90% higher methane than the EPA's estimated figures, while natural gas production emissions are 50% higher. The research team developed a method to trace and map total emissions using satellite data to identify areas with discrepancies.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateMar 26, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Climate change significantly increases population displacement risk

A recent study published in Environmental Research Letters finds that climate change greatly increases the risk of flood-related displacement, with a 50% increase for each degree of global warming. Even if population growth is stabilized, the risk will still rise significantly, with projected increases of up to 110% by the end of this ...

SourceETH Zurich·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 26, 2021

A simple, no-cost way to increase organ donor registrations

Researchers from several universities and institutions found that intercepting customers with promotional materials and simplified registration forms increased new organ donor registrations by up to 80%. The study aims to reduce the intention-action gap in organ donation by leveraging behavioral science.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMar 26, 2021

Women with sensory loss twice as likely to suffer depression

A new study by Anglia Ruskin University found that women with sensory loss are more than twice as likely to report depression and anxiety as men. Women with dual sensory impairment were almost three and a half times more likely to experience depression.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalInternational Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateMar 26, 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.

International investigation discovers bald eagles' killer

An international investigation has confirmed that a lethal cyanobacteria toxin is killing bald eagles and other wildlife in Arkansas lakes. The toxin, known as aetokthonotoxin, is produced by the invasive aquatic plant Hydrilla verticillata and causes neurological disease in affected animals.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalScience·DateMar 26, 2021

Forest restoration action must prioritize diversity over scale for cheaper, long-term success

Research shows investing in tree diversity leads to greater long-term benefits and lower costs. High genetic diversity is crucial for tropical forests' resilience to climate change and pests, producing more seeds and fruit. This approach may increase initial costs but offers significant ecological and socioeconomic benefits.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalFrontiers in Forests and Global Change·DateMar 26, 2021

Slc20a1b is essential for hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell expansion in zebrafish

Researchers found that a point mutation in the zebrafish slc20a1b gene significantly reduces the proliferation of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells, resulting in a severe defect of hematopoietic development. The study reveals the indispensable role of slc20a1b in HSPCs, highlighting a novel regulation gene for cell cycle expansion.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateMar 26, 2021

Gray's beaked whales 'resilient' to ecosystem changes

Researchers found that Gray's beaked whales have high genetic diversity and flexible social systems, allowing them to adapt to changing conditions. The species' ability to thrive in the face of environmental shifts could provide insights into how other deep-sea animals respond to rapid ecological change.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMar 26, 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.

Ancient genomes trace the origin and decline of the Scythians

The study of 111 ancient genomes sheds light on the history of the Scythians, a legendary horse warrior culture. Genetic analysis reveals two main sources of origin for nomadic Iron Age groups, with one from the Altai Mountains and another from the western Ural Mountains.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 26, 2021

A stable copper catalyst for CO2 conversion

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum and University of Duisburg-Essen developed a stable copper catalyst for CO2 conversion using boron. The catalyst's selectivity and long-term stability were improved, enabling the formation of larger carbon compounds that can be used as base chemicals or fuels.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateMar 26, 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.

Mapping COVID risk in urban areas: a way to keep the economy open

Researchers developed a COVID Risk Assessment and Mapping (CRAM) framework to identify city neighborhoods at highest risk of an outbreak. The framework uses GIS technology to create a zoned map with color-coded risk zones, helping officials place targeted restrictions in high-risk communities.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateMar 26, 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.

How COVID-19 affects the brain

A recent study published in JAMA Network explores how COVID-19 affects the brain, highlighting potential mechanisms behind brain dysfunction. The research suggests that SARS-CoV-2 infection may cause inflammation and damage to specific brain regions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMar 26, 2021

How much peanut does it take to trigger an allergic reaction?

A new study estimates an 'eliciting dose' for peanut allergies, revealing that tiny amounts can trigger reactions in some individuals. The researchers found that exposure to 0.052 milligrams of peanut protein is likely to cause or elicit an allergic reaction in 1% of patients.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalFood and Chemical Toxicology·DateMar 26, 2021

Controlled scar formation in the brain

Researchers at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin have identified a new role for the protein drebrin in controlling scar formation and astrocyte reactivity following brain injury. This mechanism, which regulates membrane trafficking, may hold promise for treating neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 26, 2021

Sorting out nanodiamonds with fluorescent centers

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a technique to manipulate nanodiamonds with fluorescent centers using opposing lasers. This breakthrough enables the independent control of resonant and non-resonant nanodiamonds, which can be sorted based on their optical properties.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 26, 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.

Video gamers skills enhanced by training 10 minutes a day

Researchers at Lero found that novice gamers benefit most from tDCS before training sessions, improving performance on complex sensory-motor actions. The study suggests that neurostimulation can accelerate motor performance improvements in novice esports participants.

SourceLero·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateMar 26, 2021

Rural US has more heart failure deaths than urban areas

A new Northwestern Medicine study reveals significant disparities in heart failure mortality rates between rural and urban areas, with rural areas experiencing higher death rates. The research also highlights race disparities among Black adults under 65 years old.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 26, 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.

DNA--Metal double helix

A team developed a novel approach to generate precisely controlled, helical palladium-DNA systems that mimic the organization of natural base pairs in double-stranded DNA molecules. The process is based on self-organized assembly of a special palladium complex and single-stranded DNA molecules.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 26, 2021

Study exposes global ripple effects of regional water scarcity

A new study reveals that regional water scarcity has far-reaching impacts on the global economy, with changes in global demand affecting river basins worldwide. The research found positive and negative economic outcomes in every region considered, depending on factors like water supply and agricultural production.

SourceTufts University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 26, 2021

Research group identifies potential therapeutic target for lupus

A multidisciplinary research group discovered that inhibiting IRE1α, a molecule activated by the endoplasmic reticulum in neutrophils, counters disease progression in lupus mice. The study found that abnormal activation of this pathway tracks closely with disease severity.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJCI Insight·DateMar 26, 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.

The persistent danger after landscape fires

Researchers from the University of Vienna detected high concentrations of environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFR) in charcoal samples from fires worldwide. These toxic chemicals can persist for years and may harm ecosystems and human health, posing a significant threat after landscape fires.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateMar 26, 2021

How teeth sense the cold

Research reveals that teeth contain cold-sensitive proteins called odontoblasts, which detect temperature changes and trigger pain signals to the brain. This discovery explains how clove oil eases toothaches and may lead to new treatments for tooth sensitivity.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 26, 2021

Robust cell junctions are critical for maintaining stem cell function

The research team identified vinculin as critical for maintaining the quiescent properties of hair follicle stem cells. Vinculin's loss leads to weak cell-cell junctions and dysregulated YAP1 pathway, causing increased cell proliferation and loss of quiescence.

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMar 26, 2021

X-rays combined with AI offer fast diagnostic tool in detecting COVID-19

Researchers developed an AI model to detect COVID-19 in chest X-rays with high accuracy, using a large dataset of other X-ray images as a starting point. The tool has the potential to assist doctors in identifying, measuring the severity and classifying the disease.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateMar 26, 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.