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Science News Archive May 2021 - Page 12


Page 12 of 47

Electromagnetic anomalies that occur before an earthquake

A joint research project by Shinshu University and Genesis Research Institute found that electromagnetic anomalies occur before earthquakes due to gas-electric interactions. The anomalies are caused by the trapping of fluid in a fault-valve, which eventually cracks and releases charged gas, generating a large current.

SourceShinshu University·DateMay 24, 2021

Ludwig Cancer research study finds way to revive potent immune cells for cancer therapy

A Ludwig Cancer Research study has discovered how to revive terminally exhausted T lymphocytes, found within tumors, for cancer therapy by using an immune factor called interleukin-10. This revival restores their potent anti-cancer activity, leading to tumor regression and cures in mouse models of melanoma and colon cancer.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalNature Immunology·DateMay 24, 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.

Dengue immune function discovery could benefit much-needed vaccine development

Researchers at the University of Vermont have discovered new biomarkers for predicting clinical and immune responses to dengue virus infection. These findings could aid in the development of more effective vaccines against all four dengue strains, a crucial step in combating this deadly disease.

SourceLarner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2021

Microscopic fossils record ancient climate conditions

Researchers analyzed magnetic fossil particles to decode environmental changes during the ancient warming event. The study found that oxygen levels declined rapidly in the New Jersey coast and fluctuated thereafter.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPaleoceanography and Paleoclimatology·DateMay 24, 2021

Plasma jets reveal magnetic fields far, far away

Researchers observed plasma jets interacting with magnetic fields in a massive galaxy cluster 600 million light years away. The findings can help clarify how such galaxy clusters evolve, providing new insights into the structure of intracluster magnetic fields.

SourceNagoya University·JournalNature·DateMay 24, 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.

Intermittent fasting in mice effective at promoting long term memory retention

A study from King's College London found that intermittent fasting increased Klotho gene expression and promoted adult hippocampal neurogenesis in mice, leading to improved long-term memory retention. The researchers hope to replicate the study with human participants to further explore the effects of IF.

SourceKing's College London·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 24, 2021

Pristine quantum criticality found

A team of physicists from Rice University and colleagues discovered that quantum fluctuations may give rise to topological phases of matter. The study used magnetic susceptibility, specific heat, and inelastic neutron scattering measurements to show that the material CeRu4Sn6 is quantum critical without fine-tuning.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 24, 2021

Researchers discover oligodendrocyte loss and subtype alteration in CTE brains

A study by Boston University School of Medicine researchers has identified significant alterations in white matter, including loss of oligodendrocytes and changes to oligodendroglial subtypes, in CTE brains. These findings may lead to new treatments for the progressive brain disease associated with repetitive head trauma.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateMay 24, 2021

Researchers find greenland glacial meltwaters rich in mercury

Researchers discovered high concentrations of mercury in Greenland glacial meltwaters, comparable to those found in industrial China. This finding raises concerns about the impact on coastal ecosystems and the seafood industry, which is a significant export for Greenland.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 24, 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.

Defective gene slows down brain cells

Researchers found that the defective Cullin 3 gene leads to increased levels of Plastin 3, causing neurons to migrate slower and accumulating in the cortex. This study provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying autism spectrum disorder and may pave the way for therapeutic treatments.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2021

Plant-microbe homeostasis: A delicate balancing act

Research finds that a balance between immune-suppressive and non-suppressive bacterial strains in the plant microbiota is crucial for maintaining microbe-plant homeostasis. This balance allows plants to promote growth while preventing excessive defense, reducing disease susceptibility.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research·JournalNature Plants·DateMay 24, 2021

Prebiotic ethanolamine found in space

Researchers found prebiotic ethanolamine in a molecular cloud near the center of our galaxy, suggesting it may have formed in space and was incorporated into meteorites and planetesimals. This discovery supports the idea that the molecule could have contributed to the assembly and evolution of primitive cell membranes on early Earth.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Obesity protects against death in severe bacterial infection

A study published in PLOS ONE found that a higher BMI is associated with improved survival rates in patients hospitalized for severe bacterial infections. In the short and long term, patients with higher BMIs had significantly lower mortality rates compared to those with normal weights.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 24, 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.

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.

UIC leads new collaborative to reduce COVID-19 disparities

The University of Illinois Chicago is leading a multi-center collaborative to improve community vaccinations, testing, and engagement in clinical research. The Chicagoland COVID Collaborative aims to bolster COVID-19 vaccine confidence and access among Black and Latino communities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateMay 24, 2021

Mason4C partnering medical societies and environmental justice groups

The Mason4C Medical Society Consortium on Climate & Health will expand its partnership with NMA fellows and community-based environmental justice groups. With funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, this collaboration aims to amplify the voices of doctors and other health professionals in addressing climate and health injustices.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateMay 24, 2021

Sustainable funding needed to provide nursery places

Researchers found that children who attended childcare outside the home during COVID-19 made greater gains in language and thinking skills, particularly among those from less advantaged backgrounds. The study recommends sustainable funding for nursery provision, promotion of funded places in target areas, and removal of administrative ...

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalInfant and Child Development·DateMay 24, 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.

Deep and extreme: Microbes thrive in transition

A diverse microbial community has adapted to an extremely salty environment deep in the Red Sea, with microbial cell densities more than double those found in normal deep Red Sea water and the brine below. The team sequenced the genome of a new microbe that suggests this transition zone is critical for nitrogen cycling.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateMay 24, 2021

Bile acids trigger satiety in the brain

Researchers at EPFL discovered that bile acids can trigger satiety in the brain by activating specific receptors. Bile acids reach the brain shortly after a meal and suppress food intake by blocking appetite-stimulating signals. This study suggests a new role for bile acids in regulating eating behavior.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Metabolism·DateMay 24, 2021

Built environments don't play expected role in weight gain

A recent study by the University of Washington found that living in a more densely populated neighborhood is associated with lower body weight and less obesity. However, proximity to fast-food restaurants or supermarkets did not have a significant impact on weight gain.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateMay 24, 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 research shows ridesharing services reduce sexual assault

New research shows that ridesharing services can significantly reduce the risk of sexual assault in neighborhoods with limited public transportation. The study found a 6.3% reduction in rape incidents after Uber entered a city, and a 3% decrease in likelihood for every 1% increase in Uber pickups.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateMay 24, 2021

How hepatitis C virus evades the immune system

Researchers discovered a novel molecular mechanism by which HCV interferes with the host's immune system, leading to chronic infection. The study found that HCV core protein is degraded via SPP and MHC class I proteins, impairing proper immune response and allowing infection to become chronic.

SourceOsaka University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

How tendons become stiffer and stronger

Researchers have deciphered how tendon cells adapt to physical demands, revealing a molecular force sensor that promotes stiffness. A gene variant associated with West African ancestry enhances jumping performance in humans by 13%, suggesting its potential role in elite athletic success.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateMay 24, 2021

Forensic analysis of visual patterns

A Perspective counters the DOJ's claim that forensic analysis of visual patterns is not metrology by highlighting biological sensory systems' ability to quantify patterns. This clarifies processes underlying human sensation and perception, potentially improving forensic accuracy.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

Can antibiotics treat human diseases in addition to bacterial infections?

A new study by UIC researchers shows that antibiotics designed for bacteria can also inhibit protein synthesis in human cells, potentially treating diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. The team engineered yeast ribosomes to be more bacterial-like, allowing them to respond to macrolide antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 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.

Storytelling reduces pain and stress, and increases oxytocin in hospitalized children

A new study by D'Or Institute for Research and Education found that storytelling can decrease cortisol levels and increase oxytocin production in ICU children. The results showed that the narrative activity was more effective than riddles, improving the quality of life for hospitalized kids.

SourceD'Or Institute for Research and Education·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 24, 2021

Mapping the local cosmic web

Researchers have created a new map of dark matter in the local universe using machine learning, revealing previously undiscovered filamentary structures connecting galaxies. The map provides a detailed understanding of the distribution of dark matter and its gravitational influence on galaxies.

SourcePenn State·DateMay 24, 2021

Is closing the gap working?

A five-year study found that Australia's Closing the Gap program has not improved disparities in Indigenous health, income, employment, child removal, and incarceration. Researchers suggest that 'Western' cultural beliefs over Indigenous cultures hinder policy change.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAustralian Journal of Public Administration·DateMay 23, 2021
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.

New immune players involved in metabolic liver disease

A recent study has discovered a subtype of immune cells called dendritic cells, which become activated in the liver and promote the progression of non-alcoholic steato-hepatitis (NASH). Manipulating these cells may lead to new treatments for NASH, a condition that can lead to life-threatening cirrhosis and liver cancer.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 23, 2021

Early research suggests climate change could lead to more stillbirths

Research suggests that climate change could lead to an increase in stillbirths, particularly in low-resource settings where women are already disproportionately affected. The study found a link between high and low ambient temperatures during pregnancy and increased risk of stillbirth, with the highest risk above 29.4 degrees Celsius.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateMay 23, 2021

Myopia link to poor sleep, and screen time

People with myopia experience poorer sleep quality due to delayed circadian rhythms and lower melatonin production. The study highlights the importance of adequate sleep for good vision, particularly in children exposed to excessive screen time.

SourceFlinders University·JournalSLEEP·DateMay 23, 2021

Researchers develop novel raman method to capture target molecules in small gaps actively

A new Raman spectroscopy method has been developed to capture target molecules in small gaps using nano-capillary pumping, enabling ultrasensitive detection of various substances. This breakthrough allows for real-time monitoring of cell behavior and chemical kinetics, with potential applications in medicine and chemistry.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 23, 2021

A natural food supplement may relieve anxiety

Researchers found that beta-sitosterol reduced anxiety in mice by altering gene expression and neural pathways. The supplement showed synergistic effects when combined with an antidepressant, potentially reducing side effects. Further clinical testing is needed to confirm its effectiveness in humans.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateMay 23, 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.

No cause for alarm about graduate students' mental health

A University of Otago study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that transitioning into PhD study in New Zealand does not lead to a significant drop in mental health. The research used data from the Graduate Longitudinal Study New Zealand, tracking students before and after entering a PhD program.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 23, 2021

New study targets secrets of great entrepreneurial cities

A new research study by QUT and RMIT reveals that cities with empowered open-minded populations and dense, diverse environments drive high-impact entrepreneurship and economic growth. Cities like San Francisco and Austin top the list, scoring high in entrepreneurial spirit and innovation.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalResearch Policy·DateMay 23, 2021

Identifying how chemotherapy drug works could deliver personalized cancer treatment

Decitabine, used to treat blood cancers like MDS and AML, works by activating endogenous retroviruses that induce an immune response. The study found two key gene sequences involved in this process, Staufen1 and TINCR, whose expression levels determine a patient's response to the drug.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 23, 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.

Otago study helps explain how religious beliefs are formed

A University of Otago study found that anxiety enhances recall of supernatural agents, leading to the formation of religious beliefs. The research suggests that anxious individuals are initially attracted to the scary traits of gods and other supernatural concepts due to their alarming effects on our expectations.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalInternational Journal for the Psychology of Religion·DateMay 23, 2021

UK invests over £30 million in large-scale greenhouse gas removal

The UK is investing £30 million in five large-scale greenhouse gas removal projects, including peatland management and biochar use, to complement emission reductions. The projects will assess the effectiveness and scalability of innovative methods to remove CO2 from the atmosphere.

SourceUK Research and Innovation·DateMay 23, 2021

Smart toilet may soon analyze stool for health problems

A new artificial intelligence tool can analyze patients' stool images to help diagnose chronic gastrointestinal issues such as IBD and IBS. The Smart Toilet technology provides a more accurate and timely diagnosis by collecting long-term data on stool form and presence of blood.

SourceDigestive Disease Week·DateMay 22, 2021

Virtual SLEEP 2021 meeting brings international research to you

The Virtual SLEEP 2021 meeting features over 60 sessions on clinical sleep science and practice, basic and translational sleep and circadian science, and technologist tracks. Keynote speakers include Eus JW Van Someren and Wendy Troxel, presenting on topics such as insomnia, COVID-19 impact on adult sleep health, and disparities in sleep.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·DateMay 21, 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.

Infants recognize rapid images, just like adults

Researchers found that infants aged 7 and 8 months could identify two faces when the temporal interval was 800ms, but overlooked the second face when separated by 200ms. This suggests that infants take less than a second to process visual information and have the same temporal limitation as adults.

SourceChuo University·JournalCognition·DateMay 21, 2021