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Science News Archive October 2021 - Page 18


Page 18 of 40

First controllable nanoscale gas-liquid interface fabricated

Scientists develop a method to precisely control gas-liquid interfaces at the nanoscale, enabling precise enrichment of target molecules. The technology has potential applications in various fields, including chemical and biological processes.

SourceOsaka Prefecture University·JournalNano Letters·TypeNews article·DateOct 19, 2021

Pregnant and lactating women should adhere closely to recommended COVID-19 vaccine schedules to attain full antibody protection

A new study found that pregnant and lactating women need to adhere closely to recommended COVID-19 vaccine schedules to attain full antibody protection. Key antibody functions are delayed in these groups following the initial dose, but the second dose induces robust antibody responses similar to those in nonpregnant women.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateOct 19, 2021

New study probes x-ray bursts from low-mass x-ray binaries

Researchers measured the alpha-proton reaction of magnesium-22, providing essential data for understanding X-ray burst light curves and environments. The new reaction rate was used to closely reproduce observed X-ray bursts, shedding light on the physics behind these events.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Flower-like nickel phyllosilicate nanoparticles to boost the excellent mechanical, thermal and tribological properties of epoxy nanocomposites

Researchers introduce flower-like nickel phyllosilicates to epoxy resin, enhancing mechanical property, thermal stability, and tribological response. The addition of 5% nanofillers can suppress wear resistance by 86.6%, improving anti-wear properties.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Chemical Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021

Environmental injustice, population density and the spread of COVID-19 in minority communities

Researchers found that population density and long-term exposure to air pollution were the two factors most significantly correlated with COVID-19 transmission rates. Disproportionately affecting communities with more minority residents, these factors were identified through computer modeling and analysis of data from 12 metropolitan a...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 19, 2021

Ancient driftwood tracks 500 years of Arctic warming and sea ice

A new study reconstructs Arctic sea ice levels and currents over 500 years using ancient driftwood, showing a distinct drop in tree arrivals since the 1990s. The research provides a unique look into past Arctic Ocean conditions, shedding light on the impact of climate change on this fragile ecosystem.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Oceans·DateOct 19, 2021

A new standard for reporting epidemic prediction research

International panel develops EPIFORGE guidelines to standardize reporting of epidemic prediction research, aiming to improve manuscript quality and impact. The checklist outlines 19 recommended items, including clear data sources and public availability of computer code.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeNews article·DateOct 19, 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.

Maintaining balance in the brain

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes found that reducing tau levels impacts both excitatory and inhibitory cells, leading to a reduction in excitation-inhibition ratios. This effect counteracts diseases that cause abnormal increases in this ratio, potentially improving the brain's ability to perform its functions.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 19, 2021

Concordia researchers develop a new way to find cancer at the nanometre scale

Concordia researchers develop a new liquid biopsy method that uses lab-on-a-chip technology to identify biomarkers of concern before a tumor even forms. The technique attracts and captures particles containing cancer-causing biomarkers, allowing for early diagnosis and targeted treatment.

SourceConcordia University·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021

Amount of information in visible universe quantified

Researchers estimate that the visible universe contains approximately 6 times 10 to the power of 80 bits of information. This numerical prediction offers a potential avenue toward experimental testing and refining predictions, including research into the hypothesis that information is the fifth state of matter in the universe.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateOct 19, 2021

Canada should limit use of forceps in childbirth to prevent lifelong injuries to women: Study

A recent study has called for reduced forceps use in Canada and better education for both clinicians and mothers on how to avoid injury during childbirth. The researchers analyzed nearly two million birth records from Canada, Norway, Sweden, and Austria, finding that five percent of women had third or fourth degree tears to the perineum.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateOct 19, 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.

Marangoni surfer robots look and move like water bugs

Researchers from Michigan Technological University created a robot that uses Marangoni propulsion to move across liquid surfaces like insects. The robot's design is inspired by the ability of certain species to manipulate surface tension for speed and maneuverability.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021

DNA tangles can help predict evolution of mutations

Researchers found that DNA tangles create mutational hotspots in bacterial genomes, influencing evolution. By altering the sequence to prevent hairpin tangles, they can predict how microbes might mutate under selective pressure.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021

Novel sugar detector system in the human mouth has implications for designing tastier, healthier beverages and foods, according to Monell Center study

A new study from the Monell Chemical Senses Center reveals that humans have a second sensory ability to detect sugars in the mouth that involves detecting potential energy-burning sugars. This discovery has implications for designing tastier, healthier beverages and foods.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021

New study demonstrates community engagement efforts are critical to ensuring the equitable inclusion of BIPOC communities in vaccine clinical trials

A recent study published in PLOS ONE demonstrates the critical role of community engagement in increasing diverse participation in vaccine clinical trials. The research found that robust engagement strategies can overcome barriers to inclusion, particularly among Black, Indigenous, and people of color communities.

SourcePublic Relations Pacific LLC·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·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.

Reactivating memories during sleep improves motor skills

Researchers found that reactivating memories during sleep improves motor skills by enhancing learning of new motor tasks. The study showed participants performed better without sound cues after a nap, indicating improved memory recall and muscle activation.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournalJNeurosci·DateOct 18, 2021

So-called junk DNA plays critical role in mammalian development

A new study has identified a transposon promoter that plays a crucial role in the development of mice and may also be essential for human viability. The discovery suggests that ancient viral DNA has been domesticated to regulate key biological processes, such as cell proliferation and embryo implantation.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2021

Poststroke rehabilitation proves more effective when vibratory stimulus coincides

Researchers at MUSC Health found that wearing a wireless wristband with vibrations during occupational therapy improves patients' hand function after stroke. The extra stimulus increases brain activity, leading to better motor output and more effective recovery.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalOTJR Occupational Therapy Journal of Research·TypeCase study·DateOct 18, 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.

High effectiveness of mix-and-match COVID-19 vaccines

A nationwide study in Sweden found that receiving a mix-and-match COVID-19 vaccine schedule reduced the risk of infection by up to 79%. The study, published in The Lancet Regional Health - Europe, showed greater risk reduction for people who received an mRNA vaccine after having received a first dose of a vector-based vaccine.

SourceUmea University·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 18, 2021

Scientists show how AI may spot unseen signs of heart failure

A new AI-based computer algorithm created by Mount Sinai researchers can identify subtle changes in electrocardiograms to predict heart failure. The algorithm was 94% accurate at predicting healthy ejection fractions and 87% accurate at detecting weakened hearts, offering a promising alternative to traditional diagnosis methods.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJACC Cardiovascular Imaging·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 18, 2021

Scientists gain new understanding of how brain cells talk - which could help in the treatment of mental health conditions and memory diseases

Scientists have discovered that reversing molecular message modification at synapses may contribute to reversible mental health conditions like anxiety and memory diseases such as dementia. The findings, published in Molecular Psychiatry, are a major step in understanding brain cell communication.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2021

UC Santa Barbara Researchers investigate how herbivore activity around water affects plant communities

In a two-year study, UC Santa Barbara researchers found that herbivore activity around water sources in arid locations can either increase or decrease plant diversity, depending on environmental conditions. The findings suggest that plant communities exist along a spectrum based on environmental conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalEcological Applications·DateOct 18, 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.

New report reveals hidden complexities of uplift for Universal Credit claimants

A new report highlights the complex and confusing nature of Universal Credit's monthly payment calculation, which can result in claimants not receiving the full value of the £20 weekly uplift. The research also reveals poor communication from the government to claimants about the increase and its temporary nature.

SourceUniversity of Bath·TypeObservational study·DateOct 18, 2021

Anglers need tailored messaging to inspire action on invasive species

Researchers found that most anglers weren't thinking about how invasive species could affect their own lives, highlighting the need for personalized messaging. Tailoring education campaigns to an angler's values and risk perceptions can motivate action, such as decontaminating boats or attending cleanup events.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateOct 18, 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.

Two Brookhaven Lab physicists named APS Fellows

Brookhaven Lab particle physicist Kétévi Assamagan has been elected as an APS Fellow for his significant contributions to the Standard Model Higgs boson research. He is also recognized for leading physics outreach programs, including founding the African School of Fundamental Physics and Applications.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·DateOct 18, 2021

Research reveals new understanding of cancer resistance to treatment

Researchers discovered that leukemia cells immediately unresponsive to treatment have high levels of SAMHD1, while those with acquired resistance use the enzyme DCK to activate nucleoside analogues. This finding may lead to better cancer therapies.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalJournal of Experimental & Clinical Cancer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2021

China’s solar-powered future

Researchers from Harvard and Tsinghua University found that solar energy could provide 43.2% of China's electricity demands in 2060 at less than two-and-a-half U.S. cents per kilowatt-hour. The study highlights a crucial energy transition point for China and other countries, where combined solar power and storage systems become a cheap...

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 18, 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.

Pregnancy overshadowed by the pandemic

Swedish pregnant women describe feeling insecure and lonely due to the pandemic's impact on pregnancy. They highlight the need for up-to-date information from healthcare providers to alleviate anxiety and uncertainty.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalWomen and Birth·DateOct 18, 2021

People love the billionaire, but hate the billionaires’ club

Research finds people prefer to criticize the billionaires' club than a single billionaire. When portrayed individually, billionaires are viewed as more deserving of their wealth due to talent and hard work. In contrast, when shown as part of a group, people perceive greater unfairness and advocate for policies like inheritance taxes.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 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.

NTU Singapore scientists develop self-folding natural plant material for ‘intelligent’ green products

Researchers created a paper-like material that folds itself into new shapes in response to environmental humidity, with potential applications in self-folding envelopes and boxes. The material's ability to morph on demand could lead to the development of autonomous origami robots and other complex shapes.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 18, 2021

Volcanic memories: black holes give shape to bubbles, rings and "intergalactic smoke" filaments

A team of researchers observed the evolution of warm gas coming from an active black hole for unprecedented detail, revealing structures reminiscent of volcanic eruptions. These gas bubbles, rings, and 'intergalactic smoke' filaments are formed when black holes consume surrounding matter and release energy, influencing galaxy evolution.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalNature Astronomy·DateOct 18, 2021

Uncovering the secrets of ultra-low frequency gravitational waves

Researchers at the University of Birmingham explore new approaches to detecting low-frequency gravitational waves using pulsars and other measurements. They suggest combining these methods with observations from projects like Gaia, which could help disentangle and interpret signals from the earliest periods of the universe.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 18, 2021

Sex differences emerging in blood pressure regulation

Researchers found that females rely more heavily on aldosterone to regulate blood pressure, whereas males primarily use angiotensin II. This discovery could lead to targeted treatments for female hypertensive patients, improving treatment outcomes and reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateOct 18, 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.

A step towards natural interaction between robots and animals

Researchers at Beijing Institute of Technology created a robot that can track fast-moving rats for extended periods using real-time localization and movement analysis. The robotic rat's built-in stereo vision system enables it to characterize typical behaviors of actual rats, promoting autonomy and reproducibility in behavior research.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalCyborg and Bionic Systems·TypeNews article·DateOct 18, 2021

Putting honeybee hives on solar parks could boost the value of UK agriculture

Deploying honeybees on solar parks in the UK could raise crop yields and financial returns, with soft fruits and oilseed benefiting the most. The study found that prioritizing these crops within a 1.5km honeybee foraging radius around solar parks could boost values by £80 million annually.

SourceLancaster University·JournalBiological Conservation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 18, 2021

Patient decision aids in urology don't meet quality and readability standards

A study published in Urology Practice found that online patient decision aids for common urologic conditions are often of poor readability and quality, failing to meet recommended standards. The researchers recommend simplifying language and ensuring thoroughness to improve the effectiveness of these tools.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalUrology Practice·DateOct 18, 2021

Astronomers see white dwarf “switch on and off” for first time

Researchers at Durham University used NASA's TESS satellite to observe a white dwarf switching on and off, challenging understanding of accretion processes. The discovery may help explain the physics behind accretion in objects like black holes and neutron stars.

SourceDurham University·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateOct 18, 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.

Out-of-pocket spending for COVID-19 hospitalizations

A recent study used national claims data to estimate out-of-pocket spending for COVID-19 hospitalizations in 2020. The results show that these costs significantly affect the financial burden on patients, especially those with private insurance and Medicare Advantage plans.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 18, 2021

Researchers awarded $12 million to pursue personalized therapies for severe asthma

A group of researchers led by Indiana University School of Medicine's Benjamin Gaston will receive a research program project grant to fund the development of personalized therapeutic approaches for severe asthma. The grant will support three key projects focused on S-nitrosylation signaling, airway pH regulation, and androgen signaling.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·DateOct 18, 2021

Join GSA Online for the Nation’s Premier Aging Conference!

The Gerontological Society of America is hosting its annual scientific meeting online, with a focus on 'Disruption to Transformation: Aging in the 'New Normal'' theme. The event features hundreds of scientific sessions, including complimentary media registration for access to all sessions.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateOct 18, 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.

Is fresh breast milk better for preemies than pumped and stored?

A new study led by UMass Amherst nurse researcher Carrie-Ellen Briere investigates the benefits of using fresh breast milk versus stored breast milk for premature infants in the NICU. The research aims to prioritize the use of fresh milk in clinical practice and improve outcomes for vulnerable babies.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateOct 18, 2021

A new treatment for glaucoma?

Researchers developed a new protein treatment that prevents glaucoma from forming in mice and reduces pressure in the eyes. The study provides new targets for therapies and aims to develop an injectable treatment for patients.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 18, 2021

Compact biosensor microscope built for point of care diagnostics

Researchers developed a compact photonic resonator absorption microscope for point-of-care diagnostics, using photonic crystal biosensors to detect proteins or other biomarkers linked to gold nanoparticles. The portable instrument costs $7,000 and has potential applications in detecting various cancers.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2021

The human immune system is an early riser

Researchers found that the human immune system is most active just before dawn, making it an important consideration for vaccination and cancer therapy. The study's findings suggest that stimulating the immune system at the right time could lead to better treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Immunology·TypeNews article·DateOct 18, 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.

Towards affordable clean energy: Exploring new catalysts for urea-based fuel cells

Researchers at Korea Maritime and Ocean University have created a state-of-the-art catalyst for urea-based fuel cells using inexpensive nickel chalcogenides, outperforming precious metal-based catalysts. This breakthrough could lead to the widespread adoption of clean energy technologies in remote areas and beyond.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2021

Titan’s river maps may advise Dragonfly’s sedimental journey

A Cornell-led team has published detailed maps of Titan's liquid methane rivers and tributaries, providing context for the upcoming Dragonfly mission. The research examined Earth-based radar data to understand fluvial characteristics on Titan, shedding light on its sediment transport system.

SourceCornell University·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·DateOct 18, 2021

Infrared light therapy might aid dementia patients

A pilot study found improvements in memory, motor function, and processing skills in healthy individuals after receiving transcranial photobiomodulation therapy. The therapy, involving infrared light, has the potential to alleviate nerve cell damage and reduce symptoms of dementia.

SourceDurham University·JournalPhotobiomodulation Photomedicine and Laser Surgery·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 18, 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.