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Science News Archive October 2021 - Page 11


Page 11 of 40

AZ HEROES data show first responders at higher risk of COVID-19 infection

A study analyzing COVID-19 test results from over 1,700 essential workers in Arizona found that first responders had a twice-highest incidence of infection compared to frontline healthcare personnel. Researchers urge increased vaccine promotion and tailored mitigation strategies for these vital professionals.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Health Forum·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 22, 2021

Why super sandstorm 2021 in North China?

A severe sandstorm in North China was triggered by a combination of factors, including persistently lower surface air temperatures and reduced winter precipitation. The resulting dry and loose land surface created a significant dust source that led to the storm.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateOct 22, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Foveated glasses-free 3D display with ultrawide field of view via a large-scale 2D-metagrating complex

Researchers have developed a glasses-free 3D display with an unprecedented field of view of 160°, overcoming critical trade-offs in spatial resolution and angular resolution. The display uses a large-scale 2D-metagrating complex to manipulate view distribution and achieve a thin form factor.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateOct 22, 2021

A diet of essential amino acids could keep dementia at bay, finds study

Researchers found that Amino LP7 supplements can slow down brain degeneration and reduce the development of dementia in mouse models. The study also showed that Amino LP7 reduces brain inflammation and improves neuronal connectivity, improving brain function.

SourceThe National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 22, 2021

Nurses think about suicide more than other workers

A national survey of over 7,000 US nurses found that they experience suicidal ideation at a rate nearly 1% higher than the general workforce, with 40% screening positive for depression and 33% exhibiting burnout symptoms. The findings highlight the need for urgent attention and system-based interventions to address nurse well-being

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalAJN American Journal of Nursing·DateOct 22, 2021

Project to study marine life in Gulf Of Mexico Reefs

A team of researchers is studying the Flower Garden Banks and other reefs in the Gulf of Mexico to understand how fish populations use natural banks and habitats. The four-year study aims to improve knowledge of essential habitats for key reef fish components.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateOct 22, 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.

Two-handed movements require more neural effort as people grow older

Aging affects bilateral coordination, particularly anti-phase movement, by altering alpha and beta neural activity. Researchers discovered that older subjects displayed lower synchronization between sides of the body during anti-phase movements, making such tasks more challenging.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateOct 22, 2021

Historical analysis finds no precedent for the rate of coal and gas power decline needed to limit climate change to 1.5°C

Historical analysis found no precedent for the rate of coal and gas power decline required to limit climate change to 1.5°C. Rapid declines in fossil fuel use occurred in response to energy security threats, but such cases are less relevant to climate scenarios where continental-size regions are involved.

SourceCell Press·JournalOne Earth·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 22, 2021

Fossils of two early Cretaceous species discovered in southwest Arkansas

The discovery of two new species, a skink and a fish, sheds light on the variety of animals inhabiting North America during the Early Cretaceous Period. The findings confirm that North America had limited faunal diversity during this time, with many species similar to those found in other regions.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalPeerJ·DateOct 22, 2021

Innovative design of titanium alloy with supreme properties by 3D printing

Researchers from City University of Hong Kong created a new titanium-based alloy using additive manufacturing, boasting unprecedented structures and properties. The alloy exhibits high tensile strength, excellent work-hardening capacity, and is up to 40% lighter than stainless steel, making it suitable for various structural applications.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 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.

Worth a thousand words: Automated diagnosis of COVID-19 from Chest CTs

Researchers developed an automated and accurate interpretation of chest CT scans using Machine Learning technique Multiple Instance Learning (MIL). The new framework, DA-CMIL, differentiates between COVID-19 and bacterial pneumonia with performance on par to state-of-the-art methods.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalMedical Image Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 2021

Machine learning predicts antibiotic resistance spread

Researchers at Cornell University used machine learning to predict the spread of antibiotic resistance genes among bacteria, identifying potential networks of exchange and driving factors. The approach could help control the spread of antibiotic resistance and develop new targets for novel antibiotics.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 22, 2021

NIH will fund study of how the brain and fat tissue communicate

Researchers aim to generate a model of brain-fat communication system to regulate metabolism during environmental challenges. The study uses cutting-edge techniques like immunolabeling-enabled imaging to identify new components of neural circuits controlling brown and white fat tissues.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·DateOct 22, 2021

SHARK, making stretchable and self-healable hydrogel artificial skin possible

Researchers have developed a single-layer composite hydrogel with improved mechanical and electrical properties, featuring high stretchability, self-healing capabilities, and ultrasensitive mechanical sensing. The SHARK material can be stretched up to 77 times its original length and completely self-heal in less than a minute.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateOct 22, 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.

Majority of 15–19-year-olds wanted COVID jab

A study of 702 Swedish adolescents aged 15–19 found that 54.3% were willing to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, with many citing a desire to protect others. Anxiety about vaccination and misinformation from parents contributed to reluctance.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalVaccine X·TypeSurvey·DateOct 22, 2021

A good night’s sleep may mitigate infant obesity risks

A new study suggests that newborns who get more sleep and wake up less throughout the night are less likely to be overweight in infancy. Researchers found a 26% decrease in infant obesity risks with just one additional hour of sleep.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalSLEEP·TypeObservational study·DateOct 22, 2021

Black hole thermodynamics: a history from Penrose to Hawking

Historical context of black hole thermodynamics investigated through Roger Penrose's energy extraction theory and its influence on Stephen Hawking's groundbreaking discovery of black hole radiation. The study explores the connections between Western and Soviet physicists, shedding new light on the development of this field.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal H·DateOct 22, 2021

Infant planet discovered by UH-led team using Maunakea telescopes

A team of scientists led by University of Hawaii at Manoa has discovered a newly-formed planet, 2M0437b, which can be directly observed. The planet is estimated to be several times more massive than Jupiter and formed with its star around the time of main Hawaiian Island emergence.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 22, 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.

Need for larger space telescope inspires lightweight flexible holographic lens

Researchers developed a holographic lens that can focus light onto a single point or disperse it into its constituent colors, producing a spectrum of pure colors. The new method uses two sources of light to create a super spectral resolution optical element for detecting exoplanets with high resolution.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 2021

Stretchy, bendy, flexible LEDs

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis developed a new material for stretchy flexible LEDs using an inkjet printer, combining the benefits of organic and inorganic LEDs. The new material, called perovskite, can be printed onto unconventional substrates, including rubber, and is elastic and stretchable in nature.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 2021

UCI-led study suggests new molecular target for therapeutic interventions aimed at C. difficile infection

A UCI-led study identifies a glucosyltransferase domain as an ideal molecular target for therapeutic interventions against C. difficile infection. The research reveals the structural basis for Toxin B recognition of small GTPases Rho and R-Ras, offering new strategies to combat this deadly disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 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.

Fighting multiple sclerosis with cold

Scientists at UNIGE discovered that cold therapy can reduce symptoms of multiple sclerosis by shifting energy resources away from the immune system. This approach shows promise for treating autoimmune diseases and could be relevant to other immune-mediated or infectious diseases.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeNews article·DateOct 22, 2021

New study suggests that breastfeeding may help prevent cognitive decline

A new UCLA Health study suggests that breastfeeding may have a positive impact on postmenopausal women's cognitive performance, potentially preventing cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. Women who breastfed their babies performed better on cognitive tests compared to those who did not.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalEvolution Medicine and Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 22, 2021

Mechanism behind ineffective psoriasis drugs identified

New study reveals that blocking interleukin-23 is more effective than targeting both interleukin-23 and interleukin-12 in treating psoriasis. Interleukin-12, previously thought to contribute to the disease, actually protects against it by maintaining normal skin cell function.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 2021

Multiferroic materials: Further improve the efficiency of solar cells

Researchers have developed a new multiferroic solar PV device with high photoconversion efficiency and stability. They attribute the improvement to ferroelectric polarization and magnetization regulation mechanisms, which enhance carrier separation and reduce recombination rates.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateOct 22, 2021

Traces of an ancient road in a lake

Researchers found three phases of landscape development over 800 years, influenced by wars, politics and climate. Wars led to devastation and 'renaturalization', while agriculture and settlements had a lasting impact.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateOct 22, 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.

Update: Repurposing rheumatology drugs for COVID-19

The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) has updated its points to consider on the use of immunomodulatory drugs in severe COVID-19 treatment. The new guidelines focus on repurposing rheumatology drugs, with WHO recommending dexamethasone and anti-IL-6 receptor antibodies for treatment.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateOct 22, 2021

Slow release of a drug, TT-10, improves heart attack recovery in a mouse model

Researchers found that slow release of TT-10 from nanoparticles improved heart function after a heart attack, accompanied by increased cardiomyocyte proliferation and smaller infarct size. The study suggests that PLGA nanoparticles could be used to improve treatment administration efficiency for cardiovascular drugs.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJCI Insight·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 2021

Gene therapy shows early promise as angelman syndrome treatment

A gene therapy strategy has shown encouraging early results against Angelman syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting approximately one in every 20,000 children. The therapy restores function of the UBE3A gene in neurons, preventing key signs of the condition and improving motor skill-learning and behaviors.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJCI Insight·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 2021

New study suggests women and pregnant people are underrepresented in research to inform nutrition reference values

A new study reveals significant gaps in the representation of women and pregnant individuals in research used to inform nutrition reference values. The study's findings highlight the need for increased diversity and inclusion in nutritional research to provide accurate guidance for Americans and Canadians.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 22, 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.

Mechanism underlying the emergence of virus variants unravelled

Scientists have identified the molecular origins of recombination in RNA viruses, a process that can lead to the emergence of new variants. The study reveals a new class of antiviral drugs that target this mechanism, but warns of potential risks when used in large quantities.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalMolecular Cell·DateOct 22, 2021

Examining the accelerating universe

Researchers examine the accelerating expansion of the Universe, a phenomenon driven by dark energy. The study reveals disparities between observations and theoretical models, highlighting the need for new understanding and precision experiments.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Special Topics·DateOct 22, 2021

This pyramid scheme could be helpful

Rice University researchers have developed a method to control the growth of tetrahedron-shaped nanoparticles, which can be used as building blocks for unique metamaterials. The team discovered that balancing thermodynamic and kinetic forces during crystallization allows for symmetry breaking, forming pyramid-shaped nanocrystals.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 2021

Drought curbs a vine disease

Researchers at INRAE found that drought conditions do not trigger esca leaf symptoms in vines. The scientists used controlled drought conditions to monitor the physiological state of 51 Sauvignon blanc vines, half under drought, and found no correlation between drought and disease development.

SourceINRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 22, 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.

UCI-led study first to reveal specific molecular mechanism that controls the transition from acute to chronic pain

Researchers have identified a specific molecular mechanism that controls the transition from acute to chronic pain. Disabling an intracellular enzyme called N-acylethanolamine acid amidase (NAAA) can halt chronic pain development in mice, suggesting a new class of drugs to treat various forms of chronic pain.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 22, 2021

Experiences in prison reduce perceptions of corrections officers’ fairness, regardless of time served

A new study found that most incarcerated individuals' in-prison experiences lessen their perceptions of procedural justice and fairness, regardless of the length of time served. The research used a nationally representative sample of over 31,000 adults and examined various in-prison experiences on inmates' perceptions of staff members'...

SourceCrime and Justice Research Alliance·JournalJustice Quarterly·DateOct 22, 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.

Climate change lowers nutrition, increases toxicity at base of food web

Research found that warming water temperatures and browning increase methylmercury transfer to phytoplankton, reducing essential polyunsaturated fatty acids. This impacts the food chain, exposing higher organisms to toxic mercury and compromising nutrition, posing a threat to human health.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 22, 2021

Rutgers researchers find links to genetic disorders in walking patterns

Researchers at Rutgers University have linked Fragile X and SHANK3 deletion syndrome, both associated with autism and health problems, to walking patterns. The study used motion-sensored sneakers to detect gait problems 15-20 years before clinical diagnosis, offering a potential framework for early intervention.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 22, 2021

Seamless wayfinding by a deafblind adult on an urban college campus: A case study

A case study evaluated the experience of a deafblind adult using three wayfinding support tools on an urban college campus. The tactile map proved to be the most successful tool, while the mobile application yielded the lowest performance and confidence. Simplifying wayfinding tools and tailoring information to individual preferences a...

SourcePortland State University·JournalFrontiers in Education·DateOct 22, 2021

Quantum battles in attoscience: Following three debates

The attoscience community has clarified points of tension through discussions among researchers, exploring the scope and nature of analytical and ab-initio approaches. Researchers also investigated the physical observables of quantum tunnelling experiments, aiming to explain differing conclusions.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateOct 22, 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.

KU center appraises Douglas County's response to the COVID-19 pandemic

The KU Center for Community Health and Development monitored and evaluated the COVID-19 response in Douglas County, finding factors that delayed and controlled outbreaks. Local school closures, stay-at-home orders, and mask-wearing mandates were key in bending the curve of cases.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalHealth Promotion Practice·DateOct 22, 2021

Shape of virus may determine RSV infection outcomes

A recent study published in eLife reveals that the shape of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) plays a crucial role in determining infection outcomes. Researchers found that RSV viruses change from long, rod-shaped particles to more rounded ones during infection, which affects the activation of complement proteins by the immune system.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 2021

Palaeontology: Earliest evidence of herd living in dinosaurs

A study published in Scientific Reports found fossilized remains of sauropodomorphs, including eggs and skeletal remains, that suggest the earliest evidence of herd living in dinosaurs. The fossils, dated to approximately 193 million years old, show age-specific clusters of individuals, indicating possible herding behavior.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 21, 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.

Northern lakes warming six times faster in the past 25 years

Lakes in the Northern Hemisphere are warming at an alarming rate, with some losing up to two months of ice cover since records began. The study, led by York University, found that lakes are losing on average 17 days of ice cover per century.

SourceYork University·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Biogeosciences·DateOct 21, 2021

UC San Diego physicist helps launch national network examining Earth’s planetary limits

A national network has been launched to promote understanding of planetary limits, envision scenarios for humanity to thrive within limits, and advise governments on developing effective responses. The essay warns that current economic growth, energy use, and resource consumption will overshoot Earth's finite limits if not addressed.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalEnergy Research & Social Science·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 21, 2021

Thirsty cities need a human/nature infrastructure combo

Research by Michigan State University scientists highlights the importance of balancing built and green infrastructure to address water insecurities and climate change. The study found that natural infrastructure, such as protected forests and wetlands, plays a crucial role in sustaining freshwater flows to cities.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateOct 21, 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.