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Science News Archive November 2021 - Page 39


Page 39 of 40

Recognizing familiar faces relies on a neural code shared across brains

A new Dartmouth study found that a neural code shared across brains is responsible for recognizing familiar faces, including social and personal information. The study used hyperalignment to align brain responses into a common space, revealing high decoding accuracy in areas outside of visual processing.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2021

The science of acupuncture

A team of researchers identified a subset of sensory neurons present in the hindlimb region that must be activated for acupuncture to trigger an anti-inflammatory response. This discovery provides a neuroanatomic explanation for acupoint selectivity and specificity, allowing for more precise targeting of electroacupuncture.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateNov 1, 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.

3D printing frames a restoration for coral

Researchers at KAUST have developed a new approach to coral restoration using 3D printing, which accelerates coral growth and reef recovery. The method uses eco-friendly calcium carbonate ink and attaches coral microfragments to the printed skeleton, providing corals with a head start.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2021

Slow and steady wilting makes for better beans…soybeans that is

A study by University of Tennessee researchers found two soybean genotypes, 'Ellis' and 'USG Allen', that outperformed others under drought conditions. These varieties showed improved yields and reduced wilting, making them suitable for water-limited areas.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·JournalAgronomy·DateNov 1, 2021

Uncovering the secrets behind Earth’s first major mass extinction

Researchers from Syracuse University and UC Berkeley investigate the Late Ordovician mass extinction, finding that climate cooling combined with other factors likely led to the event. The study suggests that temperature change, rather than oxygen depletion, was the primary cause of the mass extinction.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 1, 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.

Climate change to stir up global agriculture within next decade, NASA/PIK study finds

A NASA/PIK study found that new climate conditions will push crop yields outside of their normal range in more regions, particularly in breadbasket areas. This could lead to severe losses for farmers unless they adapt quickly by changing planting dates or using different crop varieties.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Food·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 1, 2021

Men experience more emotional pain during breakups

A new study of online relationship support finds that men tend to experience emotional pain more than women when their relationship takes a turn for the worse. The study analyzed over 184,000 people who posted their relationship problems online and found that communication problems were the #1 most frequent issue, with nearly 1 in 5 pe...

SourceLancaster University·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 1, 2021

Engineers invent ultra-fast manufacturing technology, eliminating need for polymer binders

Researchers at the University of South Florida have invented a new technology that enables the rapid printing of wearable and electronic sensors without the need for polymer binders. This breakthrough can significantly reduce production time, making it suitable for applications such as health monitoring, prosthetics, and robotics.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2021

Women are more reluctant than men to ask for deadline extensions

Research found that women's focus on others' needs plays a significant role in their reluctance to request deadline extensions. However, organizations can create formal policies on making deadline extension requests, resulting in women asking for more time at nearly the same rate as men.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 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.

Ensuring accuracy in 3D-printed jet engine parts

A team of engineers at the University of Arizona is using machine learning methods to monitor and mitigate defects in additive manufactured metal parts designed for use in extreme environments. The system combines data processing, process optimization, materials analysis, and machine learning to predict defects.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateNov 1, 2021

Researchers move closer to controlling two-dimensional graphene

A new study proposes a clean technique to dope graphene via a charge-transfer layer made of low-impurity tungsten oxyselenide (TOS), increasing its electrical mobility. The researchers found that doping graphene with TOS resulted in higher electrical conductivity and transparency compared to previous methods.

SourceColumbia University·JournalNature Electronics·DateNov 1, 2021

Association for Molecular Pathology leaders publish recommendations to improve diagnostic testing response for current COVID-19 pandemic and future emerging outbreaks

The Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) has published new guidelines to improve the US' ability to respond to emerging infectious disease outbreaks. The recommendations focus on better collaboration between public health, clinical laboratories, and government agencies.

SourceAssociation for Molecular Pathology·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateNov 1, 2021

Researchers discover predictable behavior in promising material for computer memory

A team of researchers from Georgia Tech has discovered that zirconium dioxide antiferroelectric material exhibits predictable behavior when miniaturized, following a familiar law similar to ferroelectrics. This finding could lead to the design of more effective memory components and has implications beyond memory applications.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·TypeObservational study·DateNov 1, 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.

Study IDs strategies to help recovering alcoholics

A recent qualitative study has identified six strategies that recovering alcoholics use to manage stigmas, including adopting a 'no judgment' mindset and seeking support from loved ones. The study, which conducted in-depth interviews with 22 U.S. adults who have been sober for at least 10 years, aims to provide a tool kit for helping p...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalHealth Communication·TypeSurvey·DateNov 1, 2021

Noninvasive imaging strategy detects dangerous blood clots in the body

A new contrast agent has been developed to detect and image blood clots noninvasively, using a targeted approach to find clots anywhere in the body. The agent was tested in patients with atrial fibrillation and showed promising results.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2021

NJIT awarded NSF grant to open undergrad space weather research program

NJIT's Institute for Space Weather Sciences will host a Research Experiences for Undergraduates program, providing students with hands-on work at advanced observatories. The 10-week program aims to foster the development of future workforce in solar-terrestrial and space weather sciences.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·DateNov 1, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

When it comes to health-information, search engines often get it wrong

A study found that search engines like Yandex and Google often display inaccurate information about health treatments, including false claims about remedy effectiveness. The researchers argue that clearer warnings about possible health risks are needed for medical queries.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 1, 2021

Story tips: Predicting water quality, stronger & ‘stretchier’ alloys, RAPID reinforcement and mountainous water towers

Researchers create a multiscale model to track water quality indicators like nitrogen and mercury levels, incorporating biogeochemical reactions in microbially-active zones. They also develop 'stretchier' alloys by adding nano structures, which enhance strength and ductility, making them suitable for various applications. Additionally,...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 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.

Socioeconomic barriers for women start early, impact health often

Women face unique socioeconomic barriers that set back their cardiovascular health early in life, increasing risk of heart attack and stroke. These disparities can be mitigated through policy changes, community support, and diversification within the cardiology workforce.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 1, 2021

Oncotarget: Inducing apoptosis in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Researchers found that inhibiting the MAP2K7-JNK pathway with 5Z-7-oxozeaenol induces apoptosis in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The study used murine models and human patient-derived xenografts to evaluate the anti-leukemic capacity of 5Z7O, which showed synergistic induction of cytotoxicity when combined with dexamethasone.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateNov 1, 2021

Four reasons why businesses won't adopt reusable packaging – and one way to address them all

A new study by Lancaster University identifies four major concerns that hinder the adoption of reusable packaging: affordability, digitalization challenges, regulatory hurdles, and data collection limitations. To address these concerns, researchers propose implementing a track and trace system using unique barcodes to enable businesses...

SourceLancaster University·JournalSustainable Production and Consumption·TypeObservational study·DateNov 1, 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.

Rice web server helps identify COVID-19 drug candidates

Researchers developed a new online portal, DINC-COVID, to speed up the identification of potential pandemic treatments. The platform incorporates models of three drug targets and uses ensemble docking to score ligands' success in binding.

SourceRice University·JournalComputers in Biology and Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 1, 2021

Surge in deaths from smoking-related cancers expected in China

Deaths from smoking-related cancers in China are projected to rise by nearly 50% over the next two decades, with an estimated 8.6 million excess deaths anticipated. If current trends continue, the goal of reducing smoking rates to 20% by 2030 may not be met, leaving a significant impact on the country's ageing population.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalTobacco Control·TypeObservational study·DateNov 1, 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.

"Chainmail catalysis" improves efficiency of CO oxidation at room temperature

Researchers from Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics designed a chainmail catalysis system for CO oxidation, achieving near 100% conversion at room temperature. The graphene-isolated Pt catalyst overcomes the issue of deep oxidation and enables efficient CO conversion.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 1, 2021

How conspiracy theorists exploited Covid-19 science

Conspiracy theorists used the conditional nature of science to erode trust in public health authorities' recommendations, making community immunity elusive. The Annenberg Public Policy Center scholar argues that exploiting scientific funding structures and updates fueled conspiracy theories.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 1, 2021

Physicists discover how particles self-assemble

A team of physicists has discovered how DNA molecules self-organize into adhesive patches between particles in response to assembly instructions. This breakthrough enables the creation of materials with tailored structures and customizable properties.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2021

How to decode the meaning of melodies in animal vocalizations

Studies have shown that melodies in animal vocalizations share similarities with human languages, suggesting a parallel evolution. This led researchers to investigate how animals perceive melodic patterns, finding potential candidates in universal structures across languages.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateNov 1, 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.

Cures for the health insurance enrollment blues

A recent study in Indonesia found that full subsidies increased enrollment by 18.6 percentage points, while registration assistance alone boosted signups by 3.5 percent. The experiment also highlighted the importance of infrastructure and administrative capacity in addressing the challenges of universal health insurance.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateNov 1, 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.

Researchers boost human mental function with brain stimulation

A study by University of Minnesota Medical School researchers shows that merging AI with electrical brain stimulation can enhance specific brain functions related to self-control and mental flexibility. The method improved cognitive control in patients undergoing brain surgery for epilepsy, reducing anxiety and depression symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateNov 1, 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.

COP26 -Reducing the impact of environmentally harmful anaesthesia gases and general medical waste: anaesthetists to play their part

At COP26, anaesthesia providers agree to reduce their environmental impact by implementing seven principles: prioritizing patient safety, supporting global sustainability, and monitoring healthcare systems. The goal is to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 while minimizing material resources and financial investment.

SourceAAGBI·JournalAnaesthesia·DateNov 1, 2021

Chronic hepatitis C is expensive for Ontario patients and caregivers

A new study found that chronic hepatitis C patients in hospital clinics spent five times more on out-of-pocket costs than those treated in community clinics. Patients lost an average of $743 in time over three months due to CHC, while caregivers also bear a significant financial burden.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalValue in Health·DateNov 1, 2021

Study: Banning abortion would boost maternal mortality by double-digits

A new study estimates that banning abortion would result in a 21% increase in pregnancy-related deaths overall and a 33% increase among Black women. The study suggests that staying pregnant is more dangerous to a woman than having an abortion, with carrying a pregnancy to term being 33 times riskier than having an abortion.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalDemography·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 1, 2021

Trapping spins with sound

Scientists demonstrate acoustic manipulation of electron spins in silicon carbide, enabling efficient control of magnetic quantum properties. The technique uses surface acoustic waves to tune the spin state, preventing information loss and paving the way for more affordable quantum technologies.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 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.

Centriole instability might contribute to some cases of microcephaly

Researchers at IRB Barcelona have identified γTuRC as a centriole stabilizer, revealing its role in maintaining centriole stability and preventing microcephaly. The study's findings suggest that defects in γTuRC may contribute to various human diseases, including adolescent scoliosis and male infertility.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2021

Sperm switch swimming patterns to locate egg

A new study reveals how sperm change their swimming patterns to navigate to the egg, shifting from symmetrical to asymmetrical motion. This change in behavior, called hyperactivation, enables the sperm to sweep the area once in the egg's proximity.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 1, 2021

B.C. researchers develop new test to diagnose aggressive childhood brain tumours

Researchers at UBC and BC Cancer developed a new test to distinguish between high-risk medulloblastoma cases requiring radiation therapy and lower-risk cases. This test has the potential to improve diagnosis and future treatment of childhood brain tumours worldwide, reducing unnecessary side effects and increasing cure rates.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalClinical Cancer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2021

Establishing a chest wall injury center provides long-awaited answers

The MUSC Health Chest Wall Injury Center provides access to a population of underserved patients with rib injuries. The center offers a range of treatments, including surgical stabilization procedures, multimodal pain medications, ultrasound therapy, and physical therapy recommendations.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Thoracic Disease·DateNov 1, 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.

CBT intervention with yoga and education components improved pain management for patients on long-term opioids better than usual care

A randomized controlled trial found that CBT with yoga and education components significantly reduced pain impact and disability in patients on long-term opioid therapy. Patients receiving CBT also reported greater reductions in pain compared to those receiving usual care.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 1, 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.

Giving AI penalties to get better diagnoses

A new study improves AI diagnoses by penalizing algorithms for false negatives, which can be more urgent than accuracy. Researchers achieved significant improvements in precision and recall for chronic kidney disease and other conditions using cost sensitivity techniques.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalInformatics in Medicine Unlocked·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 1, 2021