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Science News Archive May 2021 - Page 2


Page 2 of 47

Scientists discover a new genetic form of ALS in children

Researchers link ALS to a unique genetic mutation affecting lipid metabolism, providing clues for a novel therapy and understanding the disease's progression. The study reveals slower symptom onset and longer survival rates in children compared to adults with ALS.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 31, 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.

Researchers measure tritium production rates in mock-up of water-cooled ceramic breeder blanket

A research team has successfully measured tritium production rates in a water-cooled ceramic breeder blanket mock-up, validating its design and function under D-T neutron environment. The experimental results are in good agreement with Monte Carlo simulations, meeting the requirements for tritium self-sustaining in future fusion reactors.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalEnergy·DateMay 31, 2021

Memory, learning and decision-making studied in worms

Researchers used a 'robot microscope' to track chemical signals in worms, revealing the role of interneurons in food-seeking behavior. The study found that glutamate signaling between sensory and interneurons plays a key role in experience-dependent plasticity.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 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.

Tai chi about equal to conventional exercise for reducing belly fat in middle aged and older adults

A randomized controlled trial found that tai chi is as effective as conventional exercise in reducing waist circumference and improving HDL cholesterol levels among middle-aged and older adults with central obesity. The study's findings are good news for those who may prefer tai chi due to limited mobility or preference.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 31, 2021

Graphene-based nanozyme helps to detect L-cysteine in serum

A novel graphene-based nanozyme was developed using Ganoderma lucidum extract polysaccharides, enabling high sensitivity and selectivity detection of L-cysteine in serum. The study published in Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry demonstrated improved stability and dispersion of the nanozyme in water.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateMay 31, 2021

Human evolution and ancient El Niño/La Niña

A recent study reveals that warming and cooling of the Pacific Ocean, driven by solar radiation changes, impacted moisture availability in Africa. This climate process may have shaped the distribution of plant and animal species, creating favorable conditions for resource-rich regions where modern humans emerged.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 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.

How Eurasian jays respond to illusions

A study reveals that Eurasian jays are susceptible to illusions using fast movements, similar to humans. However, the birds are more influenced by observable motions than expected motions, differing from human perception.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 31, 2021

Urban life is not to everyone's taste

A study of 158 European butterfly species found that 25 thrive in urban environments, while others decline. Generalist species with adaptable traits are more likely to succeed.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMay 31, 2021

Ganoderic acid increases radiosensitivity of cancer cell

Researchers discovered that Ganoderic acid can increase the radiosensitivity of cancer cells, making them more susceptible to radiation therapy. This breakthrough provides new hope for cancer treatment and could lead to improved patient outcomes.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalToxicology Research·DateMay 31, 2021

Zhores supercomputer helps Skoltech researchers model new method of generating gamma-ray combs

Researchers at Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology used the Zhores supercomputer to develop a new method for generating gamma-ray combs, which are essential for nuclear spectroscopy and medicine. The method uses polarization-gated pulses to reduce ponderomotive spectral broadening, allowing for high-brightness gamma-ray sources.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 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.

Small 'snowflakes' in the sea play a big role

Researchers have found that small marine snow particles are crucial for the anammox process, which converts nitrate into nitrogen gas, releasing it to the atmosphere. These tiny particles, about the size of a hair, transport more nitrogen than larger clumps, making them essential for the nutrient balance in the oceans.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 31, 2021

The secret to stickiness of mussels underwater

Researchers from POSTECH and KNU analyze Dopa and lysine, revealing their roles in surface adhesion and cohesion. The study confirms negative synergy between Dopa and lysine, offering promise for designing new adhesive materials.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateMay 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.

How were the carbon contents in terrestrial and lunar mantles established?

Scientists conducted new experiments on carbon partitioning between metal and silicate using chondritic starting materials. The results suggest that planetary embryos may have had nearly saturated carbon content in their mantles, which could be a natural consequence of core-mantle partitioning during Earth's formation.

SourceEhime University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 31, 2021

Beer byproduct mixed with manure proves an excellent pesticide

Researchers found a significant reduction in galling on plant roots after incorporating beer bagasse and rapeseed cake into the soil with fresh cow manure. The treatment also boosted populations of beneficial microorganisms and increased crop yields by around 15% compared to control plots.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Food Systems·DateMay 31, 2021

Getting stoned: Revealing the mysteries of stonefish venom

Scientists have discovered that the process of freeze-drying destroys paralytic neurotoxic activity in stonefish venom, which may impact the effectiveness of current antivenom formulations. The study also reveals how the venom disrupts heart function and can block nerve receptors, leading to altered heart rhythms.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalToxicology Letters·DateMay 31, 2021

Genetic treasure trove for malaria researchers

A comprehensive genetic resource of rat-infecting malaria parasites has been published, providing insights into the evolution, virulence, and transmissibility of the disease. The study reveals diverse genetic and phenotypic variations between subspecies, which may aid in understanding malaria parasite gene functions.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalBMC Biology·DateMay 30, 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.

Right off the bat: Navigation in extra-large spaces

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science used fruit bats to study navigation in an experimental setup that emulates their natural environment. They found that a single neuron can represent multiple place fields and that the size of each field changes according to location, resolving the discrepancy between traditional models.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalScience·DateMay 30, 2021

Looking at future of Antarctic through an Indigenous Māori lens

An Indigenous Māori framework offers a new perspective on managing and conserving Antarctica, focusing on responsibilities rather than rights. This approach acknowledges the intrinsic link between human well-being and the environment, promoting reciprocal and sustainable relationships with the continent.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 30, 2021

A fiery past sheds new light on the future of global climate change

Researchers have discovered significant smoke aerosols in pre-industrial Southern Hemisphere ice core samples, revealing a much fierier past than previously thought. This finding helps to refine climate predictions by accounting for the cooling effect of smoke particles, which may have been underestimated in current models.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 30, 2021

50 years of progress in women's health

Over 50 years of progress in women's health has seen significant improvements in access to healthcare and survivorship. However, maternal death rates remain high, particularly among African American women, and intersectional health disparities persist.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 29, 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.

Browning could make lakes less productive, affecting food webs and fish

A recent study found that browning lakes in the northeast US are becoming increasingly light-limited, restricting algal growth and aquatic plant life. This reduction in productivity can affect fish food webs, particularly those relying on visual foraging like brook trout.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalLimnology and Oceanography Letters·DateMay 29, 2021

Natural gas pipeline density higher overall in more vulnerable US counties

A study by North Carolina State University researchers found that US counties with more socially vulnerable populations have a higher density of natural gas pipelines, putting them at risk for water and air pollution, public health and safety issues. The analysis used a social vulnerability index to assess 3,142 US counties and found a...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalGeoHealth·DateMay 28, 2021

Lessening the cost of strategies to reach the Paris Agreement

Researchers analyzed conversion factors of methane into CO2 equivalent, finding a dynamic approach to reduce economic cost while maintaining stability. The study suggests adapting conversion factors to future pathways to implement cheapest options, potentially avoiding additional mitigation costs up to 5% in high overshoot scenarios.

SourceNational Institute for Environmental Studies·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 28, 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.

Mechanically imprinting atoms in ceramic

The researchers have successfully mechanically imprinted atoms in ceramic, achieving improved electroceramic properties. This method allows for the creation of well-ordered fields of newly occupied atomic rows, which control local polarisation and load dislocation in the material.

SourceTechnische Universitat Darmstadt·JournalScience·DateMay 28, 2021

Peptide nanoparticles marked for in vitro visualization

Researchers at Kazan Federal University and Chinese Academy Sciences have developed peptide nanoparticles that can be visualized in living cells using hyperspectral microscopy. These nanoparticles have the ability to scatter light efficiently, allowing for non-fluorescent labeling of cells.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateMay 28, 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.

New drug combo found effective against high-risk leukaemia

Australian scientists have discovered a new and effective way to treat high-risk blood cancer in children. A combination of ruxolitinib with commonly used anticancer drugs showed enhanced treatment efficacy in two out of three patient-derived xenograft models, achieving long-term suppression of leukaemia growth.

SourceChildren's Cancer Institute Australia·JournalLeukemia·DateMay 28, 2021

Elucidating how the production of antibodies is regulated, one cell at a time

Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in understanding how the production of antibodies is regulated in human cells, using cutting-edge technologies to sequence genes in individual cells. This knowledge could lead to enhanced antibody production in vaccines and treatments for diseases such as autoimmunity and allergy.

SourceInstituto de Medicina Molecular·JournalScience Immunology·DateMay 28, 2021

Plastic in Galapagos seawater, beaches and animals

A new study reveals widespread plastic pollution in Galapagos seawater, beaches, and animals, with over 400 plastic particles found per square meter on some beaches. Microplastics were also discovered inside more than half of the marine invertebrates studied, posing a potential threat to the ecosystem.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateMay 28, 2021

Depressive symptoms linked to rapid kidney function decline

A study of 4,763 individuals found that those with frequent depressive symptoms were more likely to experience rapid kidney function decline over a median follow-up period of 4 years. The study suggests that high depressive symptoms may be an important modifiable risk factor for chronic kidney disease.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 28, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

ECOG-ACRIN research highlights at ASCO 2021

The ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group presented new research results on patients with breast and HPV-associated throat cancers. A phase III trial found platinum chemotherapy ineffective in preventing recurrence of basal-like triple-negative breast cancer, while a study on severe joint pain in postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-p...

SourceECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group·DateMay 28, 2021

Antarctic hotspot: Fin whales favour the waters around Elephant Island

Researchers from Alfred Wegener Institute found that fin whales regularly inhabit waters surrounding Elephant Island, indicating a notable achievement in the fin whale population's recovery. The study suggests that protecting this habitat is crucial due to frequent visits by cruise ships and extensive krill fishing.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMay 28, 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.

Results of the COLCORONA study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine

The COLCORONA study suggests that colchicine, an anti-inflammatory drug, could be used to prevent COVID-19-related complications in non-hospitalized patients with at least one risk factor for disease progression. The study's primary endpoint was the composite of death or hospitalization in patients with COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateMay 28, 2021

A fiery past sheds new light on the future of global climate change

A new study published in Science Advances reveals that the pre-industrial Southern Hemisphere was much smokier than previously thought, shedding light on the future impacts of global climate change. This research used ice core samples to determine the amount of smoke aerosols in the pre-industrial atmosphere.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 28, 2021

Open, expressive family life may reduce social deprivation effects among adopted children

A study by researchers at the National Institutes of Health found that open, expressive family life can moderate the effects of pre-adoption adversity on adopted children's cognitive ability and development. In contrast, rule-driven households with conflict may increase the risk for behavioral problems.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalPediatric Research·DateMay 28, 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.

DNA-based material with tunable properties

Researchers have created DNA-based materials with tunable properties, which can be controlled by adjusting the level of supercoiling. These materials have potential applications in drug delivery and tissue regeneration.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 28, 2021

Electrons waiting for their turn: New model explains 3D quantum material

Researchers at TU Dresden developed a theoretical model that explains how electrons move through three-dimensional materials, even when their electric transport appears two-dimensional. The findings have implications for topological quantum phenomena and could lead to powerful quantum technologies.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 28, 2021

Revenge of the seabed burrowers

A new Yale study finds that seabed burrowers were helpful in creating conditions for complex animal life to expand. Bioturbation altered the chemical makeup of the sea and oxygen levels, fostering the emergence of increasingly productive ecosystems during the Cambrian explosion.

SourceYale University·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateMay 28, 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.

Socioeconomic disparities in respiratory health in US

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine reveals worsening socioeconomic disparities in respiratory health in the US over the past six decades. The researchers found that individuals from lower-income backgrounds are more likely to experience respiratory problems and have poorer lung function.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 28, 2021

Older adults with cerebral palsy need more, receive less physical therapy

A recent study found that adults with cerebral palsy receive significantly less physical therapy for musculoskeletal disorders, despite greater risk of secondary comorbid conditions. The researchers underscore the need for increased clinical awareness and improved screening strategies to address this inequity in healthcare.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalDisability and Health Journal·DateMay 28, 2021