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Science News Archive October 2021 - Page 16


Page 16 of 40

Scientists enable a blind woman to see simple shapes

Researchers successfully implanted a microelectrode array in the visual cortex of a blind volunteer, allowing her to identify lines, shapes and simple letters. The implant stimulated neurons to produce phosphenes, creating an image and demonstrating safety and efficacy.

SourceNetherlands Institute for Neuroscience - KNAW·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2021

Cognitive behavior therapy conducted by telephone may ease arthritis-related insomnia

A new study found that telephone cognitive behavioral therapy can effectively improve sleeplessness and pain in older adults with osteoarthritis-related insomnia, reducing clinical and financial burdens. The study showed that telephone CBT reduced healthcare costs without increasing them.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 20, 2021

Magnetic seizure therapy may be attractive alternative to electricity

Researchers investigated whether continued magnetic seizure therapy (MST) could effectively prevent the relapse of treatment-resistant depression. The study found that MST was associated with a lower relapse rate compared to earlier research assessing one-time, acute MST.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateOct 20, 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.

No overall link between concussion, length of career and cognitive function in retired male elite rugby union players aged 50+

A new study found that retired male elite rugby union players aged 50+ who suffered three or more rugby-related concussions during their career have no worse average cognitive function than those with no, one, or two concussions. However, over-75s with a history of multiple concussions showed significantly worse cognitive function on a...

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·DateOct 20, 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.

Origin of domestic horses finally established

A study led by Ludovic Orlando found that modern domestic horses were first domesticated in the Pontic-Caspian steppes around 2000-2200 BC. The genetic profile of these horses spread rapidly across Eurasia, replacing other horse populations and facilitating their conquest of the region.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature·DateOct 20, 2021

First artificial scaffolds for studying plant cell growth

Plant biologists at Washington University in St. Louis have developed the first artificial scaffolds that can support individual plant cells, mimicking the properties of plant cell walls. The scaffolds demonstrate promising results for studying plant cell adhesion and growth.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2021

Scientists use sintered porous media to build compact, efficient heat exchangers

Researchers from The University of Electro-Communications and Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology found that sintering porous media inside heat transfer tubes increases the area available for heat exchange, reducing thermal resistance and enhancing heat transfer performance. Heat transfer in these tubes is five times greater...

SourceThe University of Electro-Communications·JournalApplied Thermal Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 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.

Rise of the war machines: Identifying key drivers of the evolution of military technology in pre-industrial societies

A new analysis spanning 10,000 years of history and ten major world regions found that world population size, major technological advances, and geographical connectivity are key drivers of military technology evolution. The study's methodology employed a resource called Seshat: Global History Databank to empirically test prior hypotheses.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 20, 2021

When humanlike chatbots miss the mark in customer service interactions

Researchers found that humanlike chatbots raise unrealistic expectations, leading to lower satisfaction and purchase intentions in angry customers. To mitigate this effect, companies should deploy non-humanlike chatbots in customer service situations where customers tend to be angry.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateOct 20, 2021

Lightweight electric wristband heaters for constant, portable warmth

Researchers develop conductive, wash-durable yarn for wearable heaters using poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) and poly(4-styrenesulfonate). The treated yarn can distribute heat at a safe operating voltage when sewn into fabric, providing steady warmth even in cold conditions.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateOct 20, 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.

A radical shift to link soot formation and interstellar evolution

KAUST researchers propose a radical new mechanism for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) formation, which consumes fewer radicals than current hypotheses. The mechanism involves resonance-stabilized radicals, allowing successive addition reactions to occur without activation.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry A·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2021

Male-female differences in heart disease could start before birth

A team of scientists has discovered that male-female differences in protein expression occur immediately after embryonic cells become heart cells called cardiomyocytes. This finding provides new opportunities for research into cardiac disease and treatment, as well as advancing the biological study of sex differences.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2021

Salmon decline impacted by “squeeze” of combined river and sea stressors

A recent study published in Global Change Biology found that declines of Pacific salmon and trout are associated with 40 years of changes in their combined marine and freshwater ecosystems. The study reveals that stressors in both environments combine to impact fish resiliency, resulting in lower survival rates in rivers and the sea.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 20, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Radioactive metals for medicine get a boost from recently discovered protein

A recent study from Penn State and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory has discovered a natural protein called lanmodulin that can recover and purify radioactive metals like actinium. The protein-based approach simplifies the purification process, reduces costs, and enables the production of higher-purity actinium.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2021

Immunotherapy may benefit patients with cancer that has spread to tissues around the brain

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have found that immune checkpoint inhibitors can generate promising results in patients with leptomeningeal carcinomatosis (LMD), a rare complication of cancer. The treatment showed increased activity in cancer-killing immune cells and expression of particular genes within cells.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 20, 2021

Seek and you shall find.

The study utilizes gas-phase electrophoresis (GEMMA) to separate nanovesicles from proteins in natural samples. This allows for accurate attribution of effects to transport vesicles, crucial for understanding cellular communication and metabolism. The method has significant implications for extracellular vesicle research and its releva...

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2021

New technique paves the way for perfect perovskites

A new instrument at the Advanced Light Source enables simultaneous measurement of crystal structure and optical properties during perovskite synthesis. This allows for real-time monitoring of material quality and performance, leading to potentially more efficient solar cells.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 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.

Research reveals potential new strategy to combat urinary tract infections

A potential new therapy for urinary tract infections has been discovered using the FDA-approved anti-inflammatory drug dimethyl fumarate, which activates the NRF2 pathway. This balance between eliminating bacteria and minimizing tissue damage is crucial to treating UTIs.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021

Motorized droplets thanks to feedback effects

A team of physicists created 'droploids', self-propelled droplets containing colloidal particles that act as internal motors. The researchers used laser light to activate the system, creating a feedback loop that propels the droplets forward.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 19, 2021

Climate change affects animal behavior

A study on over 100 species found that climate change affects animal behavior, including changes in aggression, activity, and sociability. The researchers believe that behavioral changes can serve as a buffer for animals to avoid negative effects of environmental change.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalOikos·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 19, 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.

Exploring sustainable pathways by balancing food security, trade, and environmental impacts in China

A recent study in Nature Sustainability explores sustainable pathways for China's increasing food demand while balancing trade and environmental impacts. The research highlights the importance of integrating global optimization towards SDGs to address challenges such as food security, water shortage, and greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 19, 2021

COVID-19: Using Polylactic Acid (PLA) to create more environmentally friendly face masks

Scientists have created sustainable face masks made from biodegradable PLA, which breaks down quickly under ambient temperatures. The study showed that the masks can be fully bio-mineralized without forming secondary microplastic pollution, paving the way for more eco-friendly alternatives.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateOct 19, 2021

Different recipe, same sauce

Researchers at Kyoto University have successfully synthesized shagene A, a tricyclic terpenoid effective against the parasitic disease leishmaniasis. The compound kills the parasite without causing detrimental side effects and has attracted attention for its potential in drug discovery.

SourceKyoto University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 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.

What does it take to be a marine?

A study analyzing data from 3,438 trainees has identified key factors associated with success in Recon Marine training, including prior life experience, athletic experience, and physical performance metrics. The research aims to inform military recruitment and training strategies, advancing novel ways to recruit and retain for the U.S....

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateOct 19, 2021

How just 10 news photos can predict global daily stock market returns

Research at RMIT University uses Getty's top lists of editorial pictures to analyze daily investor sentiment, predicting stock market returns based on global mood. The algorithm produces a daily score from 10 popular photos, providing a quick snapshot of investment mood across developed and emerging economies.

SourceRMIT University·JournalFinance Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 19, 2021

Microplastics in belugas worked their way up food chain, SFU researchers find

A new study published in Science of the Total Environment has found that 21% of Arctic fish eaten by beluga whales contain microplastic particles. Researchers estimate that belugas ingest up to 145,000 particles of microplastics per year, highlighting the pervasive nature of plastic pollution in the Arctic.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·TypeObservational study·DateOct 19, 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.

New tool can identify harmful blue-green algae

Researchers developed a new mass spectrometry technique to identify key protein features in cyanobacteria, enabling rapid detection of harmful species. This approach can be used to prevent blue-green algae blooms and detect toxic species, such as spirulina extracts.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021

Small-scale foragers left more than footprints on the landscape

Researchers used satellite data to identify areas in coastal southwest Madagascar where indigenous foragers altered their surroundings, showing a 17% human impact. The study found subtle but widespread changes in soil capacity to absorb water and vegetation distribution.

SourcePenn State·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateOct 19, 2021

Targeted interventions to contain pandemics, minimize societal disruption

Researchers propose targeted interventions to contain outbreaks in cities like Hong Kong, minimizing economic and social costs. By controlling a small percentage of grids, the virus can be largely contained, offering a balance between risk reduction and human mobility.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalChaos An Interdisciplinary Journal of Nonlinear Science·DateOct 19, 2021

What’s missing from forest mortality projections? A look underground

A new study reveals that incorporating lateral groundwater processes into forest models can significantly impact predictions of tree survival in drought conditions. By accounting for the sideways flow of water through soil, scientists can better understand how riparian forests will respond to future climate change.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateOct 19, 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.

Report points to new therapeutic approach for tough-to-treat heart failure

Researchers discovered a mechanism that could prove useful in treating heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), a common and hard-to-treat condition. The new approach reduces exposure to increased cardiac stiffness, which is associated with lower-filling pressures inside the heart chambers.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalCirculation·DateOct 19, 2021

Drug helps sensory neurons regrow in the mouse central nervous system

Researchers at WashU Medicine identified a drug that helps sensory neurons regrow after spinal cord injury. The drug, fenofibrate, activated support cells and improved recovery by about twice as much as a placebo. This finding offers potential for repurposing an FDA-approved compound to restore sensory function.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021

New deep learning algorithm can pick up genetic mutations and DNA mismatch repair deficiency in colorectal cancers more efficiently

A new deep learning algorithm can accurately predict the status of molecular pathways and key mutations in colorectal cancer from routine histology images. The algorithm, which doesn't require manual annotations, has been shown to be significantly more accurate than current methods.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 19, 2021

Scientists identify suspect protein as a marker for prostate cancer progression

Scientists at Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology have identified zinc finger protein 507 (ZNF507) as a critical protein marker for the progression of prostate cancer to an aggressive state. The researchers found that ZNF507 accelerated the growth, survival, proliferation, and migration of PC cells.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalJournal of Experimental & Clinical Cancer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021

Adding SNAP benefits for older adults in Medicare, Medicaid can reduce hospital visits, healthcare costs

A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine shows that participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) among older adults dually enrolled in Medicare and Medicaid is associated with fewer hospital visits and lower healthcare costs. Researchers used data from over 115,000 people aged 65+ in North Carolina to d...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateOct 19, 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.

Viral infections could promote neurodegeneration

DZNE researchers found that viral molecules facilitate the intercellular spreading of protein aggregates, which are hallmarks of brain diseases like Alzheimer's. The presence of viral ligands increases protein aggregate spreading between cells, potentially contributing to neurodegeneration.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021

New concerns for inland wetlands

A new study by Flinders University highlights concerns over the potential impact of a proposed Carmichael coal mine on the Doongmabulla Springs Complex in central Queensland. The research suggests that even partial dewatering of the aquifer could lead to permanent damage, threatening the springs' existence.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Hydrology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 19, 2021

Dairy calves use brushes for more than combing their hair!

A study in the Journal of Dairy Science found that dairy calves use brushes for grooming and oral manipulation, with 40% of brush use being oral manipulation. Providing access to brushes can reduce abnormal behaviors and improve cattle welfare.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 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.

SEL-WLEDs: Full electroluminescent white light-emitting diodes based on a single emissive layer

Researchers reviewed the progress of Single-Emissive Layer White Light Emitting Diodes (SEL-WLEDs), highlighting their advantages in low cost, simple process, and material stability. The study proposes perovskite materials as a feasible path to commercialization.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateOct 19, 2021

Synchrotron techniques accelerate the developing of high-energy-density Li-ion cathode materials for industrial application

Researchers use synchrotron techniques to study battery cathode materials, revealing their structural and chemical evolution under real-world conditions. The study highlights the importance of realistic operating conditions and interdisciplinary collaboration in improving energy density and reducing production costs.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateOct 19, 2021

Female doctors experience frustration, sexual harassment, at work

A global study of 315 female physicians found high career satisfaction but lower satisfaction with pay and administrative tasks. The majority reported experiencing sexist remarks and behaviors, but their overall job satisfaction remained high.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalFamily Practice·TypeSurvey·DateOct 19, 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.

Food safety crises at smaller restaurant chains can hurt giants

A recent study found that food safety crises at smaller restaurant chains have a significant impact on consumer behavior, causing people to be hesitant to visit other restaurants even if they were not directly involved. The negative spillover effect was greater from the bottom up, with small chain crises hurting big-name brands more.

SourceWashington State University·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021

47 lunar fragments help fill gap of two billion years in lunar history

Researchers have found 47 lunar fragments with crystallization ages of 2.03 billion years, filling a 2-billion-year gap in the Moon's volcanic history. The samples provide conclusive evidence that magmatic activity on the Moon persisted until at least two billion years ago.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·DateOct 19, 2021