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Science News Archive November 2021 - Page 2


Page 2 of 40

Transparent electrodes without the damage

A KAUST-led team reviewed strategies for mitigating damage to transparent electrodes in optoelectronic components. The team identified buffer layers as a potential solution, with strengths and weaknesses of different materials and techniques for creating them.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalMatter·DateNov 30, 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.

Researchers, practitioners and community members call for greater inclusion in ecosystem restoration

The Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture have published 10 rules for socially sustainable ecosystem restoration. The rules emphasize the importance of recognizing diversity among stakeholders, building trust with communities, and considering multiple benefits within ecosystems.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalRestoration Ecology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 30, 2021

The 'Burnout Dyad' – Patients experience burnout too, not just providers

A new conceptual model, the Burnout Dyad, recognizes that patients can also experience burnout, affecting clinical relationships and care quality. The model identifies patient factors as playing a role in provider burnout and proposes a collaborative approach to managing both patient and provider burnout.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions·DateNov 30, 2021

Scientists can control brain circuits, behavior, and emotion using light

Researchers create Opto-vTrap, a reversible inhibition system that can temporarily trap vesicles from being released, allowing for controlled brain activity. The technique enables temporary removal of fear memory in live mice, with potential applications in epilepsy treatment, muscle spasm treatment, and skin tissue expansion technolog...

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2021

Potential target for treating and diagnosing Lyme disease discovered

Scientists at Virginia Tech have identified a critical modification in the protective molecular bag of the Lyme disease-causing bacterium, allowing it to move effectively and cause disease. The discovery, published in Nature Microbiology, reveals that the bacteria acquires this unique sugar modification from ticks.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Microbiology·DateNov 30, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Quantum computers getting connected

A team of researchers from the University of Stuttgart successfully integrated color centers into nanophotonic silicon carbide structures, paving the way for more efficient quantum computers. The approach enables the robust spin-optical properties of the color centers to be maintained after integration.

SourceUniversitaet Stuttgart·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2021

Courting success: why the ‘head’ outsmarts the body in basketball

A new study reveals that psychological attributes such as attitude, coachability, competitiveness, and work ethic are more important than physical fitness in determining basketball success. Coaches prioritize players who exhibit optimistic behavior, good communication skills, and mental toughness.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalSports Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateNov 30, 2021

Warm-water habitat ‘pays the bills,’ allowing cold-water fish to fuel up

Research reveals that warm-water habitats in Upper Klamath Lake provide essential energy for cold-water fish during spring and fall, while providing limited food sources in summer. The study highlights the importance of considering multiple habitats for mobile species like redband trout in climate change conservation.

SourceOregon State University·JournalConservation Biology·DateNov 30, 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.

Apples to apples: How similarity theory could boost fuel cell research

A comprehensive review of similarity theory in PEMFC research reveals its potential to accelerate progress. The study highlights the benefits of using dimensionless analysis to compare results and reduce testing efforts. However, challenges remain in developing integrated performance criteria.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalEnergy Storage and Saving·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 30, 2021

Clam fossils help scientists find errors in evolutionary tree calculations

Researchers used clam fossils to create a comprehensive evolutionary tree over hundreds of millions of years, revealing that a basic assumption can significantly distort the picture of which species are destroyed during mass extinctions. The study found that assuming lineages always split into two new species can push the origins of ne...

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society of London B Biological Sciences·DateNov 30, 2021

Summer rains in American Southwest are not your typical monsoon

Detailed supercomputer simulations show that the North American monsoon occurs when Mexico's Sierra Madre Occidental mountains divert the eastward-trending jet stream toward the equator, cooling moist tropical air until it condenses and falls as rain. This new understanding will impact forecasts in the region.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 30, 2021

Recent advances in optical dynamic meta-holography

Researchers discuss recent progress in optical dynamic meta-holography, a technology for 3D display scenes. Metasurfaces enable more powerful light modulation capabilities, offering advantages such as higher spatial resolution and elimination of diffraction orders.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalOpto-Electronic Advances·DateNov 30, 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.

COVID-19 disparities caused by chronic conditions and lack of health care access

A new Rutgers University study examines COVID-19 disparities among communities of color, finding that underlying health conditions and lack of healthcare access are major contributing factors. The research suggests that education, policy, and intervention efforts can help decrease mortality rates by targeting these social determinants.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities·DateNov 30, 2021

Twitter is the social network most resistant to conspiracy theory beliefs

A recent study found that Twitter's architecture and features discourage the dissemination of conspiracy theories. Twitter users combine high levels of education with a greater tendency to search for news and engage in political debates, seeking reliable information.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalNew Media & Society·TypeSurvey·DateNov 30, 2021

Vaccinate children with poorly controlled asthma to cut covid risk, experts say

A new study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine found that children with poorly controlled asthma are three to six times more likely to be hospitalized with Covid-19. Experts advise vaccinating these children to reduce the risk of infection and spread in schools and households.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 30, 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.

Largest genetic study of suicide attempts confirms genetic underpinnings that are not driven by underlying psychiatric disorders

A large-scale genome-wide association study has identified a region on chromosome 7 containing DNA variations that increase the risk of attempting suicide. The study found overlap between the genetic basis of suicide attempts and related psychiatric disorders, as well as non-psychiatric risk factors such as smoking and sleep disturbances.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateNov 30, 2021

Critical conflict in cancer cells

A study found that the MYCN protein creates conflicts between DNA replication and transcription in cancer cells, leading to increased division rates and potential damage. The researchers hope to develop therapies by disrupting the cooperation between MYCN and a molecule called BRCA1.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalMolecular Cell·DateNov 30, 2021

Successful treatment in mice for severe childhood cancer

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have successfully treated high-risk neuroblastoma in mice using a combination of precision medicines, showing potential for a curative treatment. The study's results suggest that patients with this form of childhood cancer may benefit from drug treatment with ATR inhibitors.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2021

New study identifies gaps in treatment for opioid use disorder as overdose emergencies soar

A new study found that emergency physicians are missing opportunities to prescribe life-saving medications like naloxone and buprenorphine after opioid overdose visits. The study analyzed over 149,000 visits between 2019-2021 and discovered that naloxone was prescribed only in 7.4% of cases, while buprenorphine was prescribed in only 8...

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateNov 30, 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.

Diagnosing breast cancer

A new diagnostic tool for breast cancer uses a low-voltage electrical current to detect changes in lymphatic interstitial fluid, showing 70% effectiveness in predicting cancer presence. The device can be used repeatedly on women of any age, providing an additional diagnostic option for younger patients and those with dense breast tissue.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalIEEE Access·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2021

Early interventions could help counteract muscle loss

Researchers found that some individuals with probable sarcopenia can improve after five years, suggesting the condition is modifiable. Factors such as physical activity and cognitive function are associated with improved outcomes.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJournal of Cachexia Sarcopenia and Muscle·TypeObservational study·DateNov 30, 2021

Just in time: Prunes may help rein in holiday cravings, according to new research

A new study found that consuming prunes can help regulate appetite and lead to greater weight loss compared to other snack choices. Prune consumption was also associated with improved satiety and reduced hunger levels, making them a potential strategy for managing holiday cravings.

SourceFleishman-Hillard, Sacramento·JournalNutrition Bulletin·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 30, 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.

Build your own office podcast studio #ASA181

Converting empty offices into podcast studios poses unique acoustic challenges. Experts recommend optimizing space for better sound quality, using minimal absorptive treatments and selecting suitable microphones. Aesthetically pleasing room finishes are also crucial for visually appealing recording spaces.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateNov 30, 2021

Resilient fisheries

A new holistic framework helps fisheries identify actions for resilience, empowering them to withstand climate change impacts. The tool considers ecological, governance, and socio-economic dimensions, shedding light on potential risks and weaknesses.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateNov 30, 2021

New review highlights cancer-crushing viruses

A recent review article describes a class of viruses known as oncolytic viruses, which have the remarkable ability to target and destroy cancer cells. Researchers are exploring these viruses for cancer therapy, with some showing promising results in stimulating an immune response against cancer.

SourceArizona State University·JournalCancers·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 30, 2021

First-in-human study of golodirsen for Duchenne muscular dystrophy

A first-in-human study of golodirsen, an exon-skipping therapy, demonstrated its efficacy in ambulatory patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). The treatment significantly increased dystrophin protein expression and improved clinical outcomes, including a reduced decline in the 6-minute walk test.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNucleic Acid Therapeutics·TypeCase study·DateNov 30, 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.

As LA traffic slowed amid the pandemic, researchers gained new insight into air pollution

A team of scientists used satellite images to track ammonia concentrations in the air above Los Angeles before and during the pandemic lockdown. They discovered that cars may produce up to 95% of this harmful pollutant throughout the city, significantly higher than previous estimates.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·TypeObservational study·DateNov 30, 2021

New study: Prunes have promising effect on men’s bone health, adding to growing body of research

A randomized-controlled clinical trial found that eating prunes daily reduces biomarkers of bone breakdown and improves bone geometry in healthy men aged 50-79. The study adds to existing research on the beneficial effects of prunes on bone health, particularly for men.

SourceFleishman-Hillard, Sacramento·JournalJournal of Medicinal Food·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 30, 2021

ComCor study: New results on places of infection with SARS-CoV-2 and analysis of the efficacy of messenger RNA vaccines against the Delta variant

The study found that indoor bars, private parties, and nightclubs were high-risk places for transmitting the Delta variant, with men being more susceptible. Previous infection conferred a 95% protective effect, while two doses of mRNA vaccines provided 67% protection against symptomatic infection.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·TypeCase study·DateNov 30, 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.

Study highlights diversity of the gut microbiome in gorillas

A new study has shed light on the gut microbiome of gorillas, revealing significant diversity among individuals and institutions. The research found that even healthy gorillas can have unique microbial profiles, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual context for health assessment.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAnimals·TypeObservational study·DateNov 30, 2021

Adding sound to electric vehicles improves pedestrian safety #ASA181

A study by Penn State University and Virginia Tech Transportation Institute found that electric vehicle sounds can improve pedestrian safety, but with some cases of false negatives at close ranges. Adding sound to electric vehicles increases detection distances beyond minimum safe detection ranges.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateNov 30, 2021

3D laser nanoprinters become compact

The new two-step absorption process allows for the use of small and inexpensive blue laser diodes, reducing the size and cost of 3D laser printers. This innovation has the potential to democratize access to 3D printing technology, making it more affordable for various groups.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2021

Asian climate variability and dynamics across early-to-middle pliocene warm period provide clues for future climate change

A recent study revealed Asian climate variability across the early-to-middle Pliocene Warm Period, providing insights into future climate change. The research found that CO2-induced global warming led to increased summer monsoon moisture transport over East Asia and aridification in Central Asia.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 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 diabetes medication that could revolutionise heart failure treatment

A new meta-analysis published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology suggests that Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors can improve outcomes for heart failure patients with preserved ejection fraction. The medication has been shown to reduce the risk of death from heart-related causes and hospitalization by 22%.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 30, 2021

Unvaccinated white evangelicals appear immune to pro-vaccine messaging

A new study by Yale researchers reveals that white evangelical Christians are increasingly immune to persuasive messages promoting vaccination. The study's findings suggest that the effectiveness of vaccination messaging has declined among unvaccinated white evangelicals over time.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 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.

Cholesterol metabolism in macrophages: New results offer insight into lung cancer

Researchers at Saarland University have discovered that the lipid and cholesterol metabolism of immune cells collaborating with tumour cells is severely compromised compared to tumour tissue. This finding suggests a possible explanation for why cholesterol-lowering drugs are ineffective against non-small-cell lung carcinoma.

SourceSaarland University·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2021

Reshaping the plastic lifecycle into a circle

A new study led by the University of Pittsburgh reveals that 360 million metric tonnes of new plastic were produced in 2018, with only 9% being recycled. The research found that the greenhouse gas emissions associated with plastic production are staggering, accounting for 350 million metric tonnes of CO2 equivalent.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateNov 30, 2021

Antarctica: Beyond Epica exploring the climate of the past

Researchers aim to extract a 1.5 million-year-old ice core, revealing information on temperature and greenhouse gas concentrations in the past atmosphere. The project will help scientists understand the evolution of climate and develop strategies for mitigating current changes.

SourceUniversità Ca' Foscari Venezia·DateNov 30, 2021

Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers map the cell types of the iris in mice

Researchers genetically mapped the cell types of the mouse iris, revealing four new cell types and mapping genetic changes that occur when the iris dilates. This research may help connect genetic similarities between mice and humans, offering clues for developing new diagnostic tests and treatments for eye diseases.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournaleLife·DateNov 30, 2021
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.

Study identifies the impact of family physicians in rural maternity care

A multi-state study shows that family medicine physicians are crucial in rural maternity care, delivering babies in 67% of hospitals and being the only doctors in 27%. The loss of obstetrical services poses a significant burden to pregnant people and infants, with patients facing long distances for care.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·TypeSurvey·DateNov 30, 2021

COVID-19 during pregnancy doesn’t harm baby’s brain

A study of 33 patients with COVID-19 infection during pregnancy found no evidence of brain development issues in the unborn child. The researchers used fetal MRI to evaluate the fetuses and concluded that a maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection has no effect on brain development.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 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.

Ancient lineage of algae found to include five “cryptic” species

A study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B reveals that a rare alga, Chlorokybus, contains at least five distinct species previously thought to be a single entity. Genetic analysis confirmed these findings, shedding new light on the biodiversity and evolutionary pathways of this key algal group.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2021

Satellites reveal Ethiopian elephants under threat – Oxford study

Researchers found that illegal human settlements have surged to over 50,000 in the Babile Elephant Sanctuary, posing a significant threat to the remaining 250 elephants. The team believes that addressing environmental, poverty, and security challenges jointly is crucial to restoring the sanctuary's integrity.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalOryx·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 29, 2021

Guiding Tianwen-1 to China's first successful Mars rover landing

The Tianwen-1 Mars rover landed successfully due to its advanced autonomous guidance, navigation and control system. The system performed reliable key event triggers and accurate state estimates to implement trajectory and attitude controls.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalSpace: Science & Technology·TypeNews article·DateNov 29, 2021