Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive October 2021 - Page 36


Page 36 of 40

Stressful day? Stress can predict decreases in social interaction

A Dartmouth study found that individuals who experienced higher levels of stress on a given day had lower social interaction the following day. The research used mobile phone sensing data from 99 undergraduate students and showed that stress predicted less social interaction, but not the other way around.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalEmotion·TypeObservational study·DateOct 5, 2021

The role of diet in the rise of modern shark communities

A new study analyzing over 3,000 shark teeth reveals the importance of diet in shaping modern shark communities. The research suggests that dietary specialisation among top predatory sharks may increase their risk of extinction.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 5, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Manganese makes its mark in drug synthesis

Rice chemist Julian West and graduate student Yen-Chu Lu discovered manganese as a more efficient catalyst for synthesizing fluoroketones, precursor molecules for drugs. The use of manganese reduces material costs and simplifies purification.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2021

US Emergency Department visits attributed to medication harms

A study analyzing 60 US emergency departments found medication harms were a common cause of visits in 2017-2019, with variation in products and patient age. The data highlighted the need for improved safety measures and monitoring systems to mitigate such incidents.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateOct 5, 2021

Researchers describe new tardigrade fossil found in 16 million year old Domincan amber

Researchers describe a new modern-looking tardigrade fossil, Paradoryphoribius chronocaribbeus, found in Miocene Dominican amber. The study reveals unique foregut organization and contributes to the scant tardigrade fossil record, providing insight into the ancient superfamily Isohypsibioidea.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateOct 5, 2021

AI helps rule out cancer in dense breasts

A study published in Radiology found that an AI-based system can accurately triage breast MRIs in women with dense breasts, dismissing normal cases without missing cancers. The system showed promising results, dismissing about 40% of lesion-free MRIs and considering 90.7% of MRIs with lesions to be non-normal.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateOct 5, 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.

Liquid biopsy gives new insight into breast cancer prognosis

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland and Kuopio University Hospital found that liquid biopsy can accurately identify patients with poor breast cancer prognosis. High integrity of circulating DNA is associated with a poor prognosis, enabling earlier and more accurate detection of breast cancer. The study's findings have si...

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalCancers·DateOct 5, 2021

Simple, low cost tests could help China’s battle to identify COPD sufferers

Researchers discovered a simple questionnaire and airflow measurement test can identify adults with undiagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in China. The Chinese symptom-based questionnaire combined with microspirometry could provide the most efficient way to identify patients needing treatment for COPD.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalBMJ Open·DateOct 5, 2021

Weed goes off script to resist herbicides

University of Illinois researchers discovered waterhemp's unique mechanism to detoxify the herbicide SA3, adding complexity to controlling this weed. This finding raises concerns about the potential for waterhemp to resist new herbicides before they are even commercialized.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalNew Phytologist·DateOct 5, 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.

Process leading to supernova explosions and cosmic radio bursts unearthed at PPPL

Researchers at PPPL demonstrate production of high-density QED cascades, a process important for black holes, supernovas, and cosmic events. The breakthrough uses current laboratory capabilities, such as lasers and relativistic beams, to access and observe the regime.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2021

Structure formation in mini-organs

The development of alveoli in mammary-gland organoids follows the same principles as droplet formation in a water jet. The researchers used time-lapse microscopy to track the growth dynamics of the mini-organs and found that cell rotation drives the formation of spherical protrusions.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 5, 2021

Survey finds a need for pet care during hospitalizations

A survey conducted by Michigan Medicine found that nearly two-thirds of respondents experienced difficulty with pet care during hospitalization or knew someone who did. This stress can impact a patient's decision about staying in the hospital. Researchers aim to develop better resources and formalized services to address this need.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Patient Experience·TypeSurvey·DateOct 5, 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.

Cancer chemotherapy drug reverses Alzheimer’s symptoms in mice

Researchers found that a cancer chemotherapy drug can restore memory and cognitive function in mice with Alzheimer’s disease by inhibiting blood vessel growth. The study suggests repurposing approved anti-cancer drugs as treatments for Alzheimer’s disease, potentially shortening clinical development time.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2021

Simultaneous optical and electrical tracking of heart activity

Researchers developed a new system to measure and stimulate the entire ventricular surface of mouse hearts, allowing for simultaneous optical and electrical tracking of heart activity. The POEMS system provides accurate measurements of action potential propagation with minimal differences between modalities.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2021

Cannabis causes birth defects in susceptible mice

A new study reveals that THC can cause birth defects in genetically predisposed mice, highlighting the risks of cannabis consumption during pregnancy. Pups with a mutation in Hedgehog signalling developed brain and face defects, emphasizing the need for further research into human health implications.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDevelopment·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2021

Natural compound in basil may protect against Alzheimer’s disease pathology

A study by University of South Florida Health researchers suggests that fenchol, a natural compound in basil, can help reduce neurotoxic amyloid-beta in the brain. Fenchol stimulates FFAR2 signaling, reducing senescent neuronal cells and increasing Aβ degradation.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2021
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Smart parrots need more stimulation, new research finds

A study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B found that intelligent bird species such as parrots and great apes are at risk of poor welfare in captivity. The researchers recommend providing naturalistic diets, enrichment items, and stimulating environments to improve care and reduce psychological problems.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateOct 5, 2021

Metallic complexes made from cyclic molecules

Scientists from Kanazawa University and the University of British Columbia have developed a comprehensive overview of synthesizing polymetallic complexes via macrocycle routes. This approach enables precise control over structure and function, leading to promising applications in catalysts, sensors, and single-molecule magnets.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalChemical Society Reviews·DateOct 5, 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.

New type of magnetism unveiled in an iconic material

Researchers have unveiled a new form of magnetism in Sr2RuO4, which can coexist with superconductivity and exists independently. The discovery was made using muons to detect tiny magnetic fields and is expected to provide new insights for basic and applied research.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 5, 2021

Silicon anodes muscle in on battery technology

Researchers have observed for the first time how silicon anodes degrade in lithium-ion batteries due to swelling and electrolyte infiltration. This degradation leads to reduced battery capacity and charging speed, but scientists are exploring ways to protect silicon from these effects.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 5, 2021

Spotify is powerful. Is it biased?

Researchers found that independent-label music and female artists benefit from appearances on Spotify's curated ranked list, which promotes underdog artists. However, the study's findings only apply to New Music Friday playlists and do not address broader industry challenges.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalInternational Journal of Industrial Organization·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 5, 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.

First evidence shows solar parks can cool surrounding land

Large-scale solar farms have a cooling effect on surrounding land, reducing temperature by up to 2.3°C at 100m away from the park boundaries. The study highlights the need for consideration in solar park design and location to minimize negative impacts.

SourceLancaster University·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Transition·TypeObservational study·DateOct 5, 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.

COVID-19: Coughing without masks, distancing alone is not enough

Researchers from McGill University found that unmasked individuals can spread COVID-19 airborne particles up to 70% within a 2-meter radius, highlighting the need for mask-wearing and ventilation. The study suggests that current guidelines relying solely on physical distancing may not be sufficient to prevent transmission.

SourceMcGill University·JournalBuilding and Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 5, 2021

New study uncovers brain circuits that control fear responses

Researchers at the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre have discovered a new brain circuit that enables mice to override their instincts based on previous experience. The ventral lateral geniculate nucleus (vLGN) inhibits threat reactions when animals feel safe, but activates them when danger is perceived.

SourceSainsbury Wellcome Centre·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 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.

Understanding the origin of genetic instability

Cancer cells exhibit increased genetic instability due to replication stress and DNA-RNA hybrids. Researchers have identified specific factors that prevent hybrid formation during different stages of the cell cycle.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 5, 2021

City butterflies keep flying for longer

A new study reveals that city butterflies and moths have genetically adapted to the warmer urban environment, starting their overwintering state later in the year. This allows them to take advantage of a longer growing season, reproducing successfully before winter sets in.

SourceVrije Universiteit Brussel·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2021

Undiagnosed endometriosis compromises fertility treatment

A University of Queensland study found that undiagnosed endometriosis can lead to higher cycle numbers and reduced birth rates among women undergoing fertility treatment. The research highlights the importance of early diagnosis and treatment adjustments to improve fertility outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateOct 5, 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.

Catalysts found to convert carbon dioxide to fuel

A group of 'single-atom' catalysts has been identified by researchers, which can convert carbon dioxide into clean energy sources. The study used theoretical modelling and found that adding the atom of the catalyst metal to ferroelectric materials results in converting CO2 into a desired chemical fuel.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 5, 2021

Trapping light with disorder

Researchers at Bar-Ilan University have demonstrated disorder-induced localization, allowing for the control of random laser emission through pump profile shaping. This breakthrough enables the creation of highly efficient and stable microlasers with unprecedented degrees of freedom.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalOptica·DateOct 5, 2021

One in seven patients miss cancer surgery during COVID lockdowns - study

A new study reveals that COVID-19 lockdowns led to significant delays in cancer surgery, resulting in potentially more cancer deaths. Patients in lower income countries and those with advanced disease were most affected, with one in seven missing their scheduled operation.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 5, 2021

TGen and Beat Childhood Cancer Research Consortium 10-year study of cancer in children shows promising ways forward for these vulnerable patients

A 10-year study led by TGen and the Beat Childhood Cancer Research Consortium found that refractory or relapsed tumors had a higher number of genetic mutations than tumors at diagnosis. The study suggests that deeper genomic analysis and therapies targeting the immune system may offer greater patient benefit.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalCancer Research·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 5, 2021
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Bonelli’s eagle: successful reintroduction of an endangered species in Mallorca

The Bonelli's eagle has been successfully reintroduced in Mallorca through a study coordinated by the University of Barcelona. The non-juvenile eagle release system (WildTrans) emerged as the most effective strategy, enabling the release of mature and experienced individuals that can reproduce faster and grow the population quickly.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalAnimal Conservation·TypeObservational study·DateOct 5, 2021

Scientists get closer to creating an efficient solid-state lithium battery

Researchers at Ural Federal University successfully experimentally determined the optimal thickness of an aluminum layer in a fully solid-state lithium power source. The results will be used to create high-energy batteries with increased operational safety and lower production costs.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalSolid State Ionics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2021

An X-ray view of carbon

A team of scientists has developed a new X-ray measurement method that can analyze the chemical properties of warm dense matter, a state found in planetary interiors. The method uses the strongest X-ray laser to probe carbon's bonding states, providing new insights into planetary formation and potential applications in materials science.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateOct 5, 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.

#Nomakeup trend fails to discourage use of cosmetics

New research from University of Georgia suggests that the no-makeup movement isn't liberating women from cosmetics. Instead, cosmetic sales have increased alongside the rise of the no-makeup trend. The study found that people perceive 'natural' looks with makeup as more attractive than those without.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of the Academy of Marketing Science·DateOct 5, 2021

Earth’s ‘solid’ inner core may contain both mushy and hard iron

Scientists have discovered a heterogeneous structure in the Earth's inner core, with adjacent regions of hard, soft, and liquid iron alloys. This finding challenges traditional models of the planet's magnetic field generation and provides new insights into the dynamics at the boundary between the inner and outer core.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalPhysics of The Earth and Planetary Interiors·TypeObservational study·DateOct 5, 2021

Super-enhancers: The villain fueling certain cancers

Researchers discovered a microRNA, miR-766-5p, that targets super-enhancers and reduces MYC expression in cancer cells, inhibiting growth rates. The study suggests this molecule could be used as an anti-cancer therapeutic to fight MYC-driven cancers.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalCancer Research·DateOct 5, 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.

New study reveals lung cell roles in pulmonary immunity

A new study by researchers at Boston University School of Medicine found that epithelial cells use MHC-II to direct immune cells in the lungs, playing a key role in pulmonary immunity. The findings have implications for understanding, preventing and treating multiple lung diseases.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 5, 2021

Late persistence of human ancestors at the margins of the monsoon in India

A new study reveals the persistence of human ancestors at the margins of the monsoon in India until approximately 177,000 years ago. This finding supports the presence of Acheulean populations in the region and provides crucial insights into the environmental conditions that allowed them to thrive.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 5, 2021

Van Andel Institute, Maine Medical Center Research Institute scientists earn $9.6 million Transformative Research Award from National Institutes of Health

Researchers will investigate the genetic and epigenetic factors controlling variation in health, with potential implications for combating cancer, obesity, and other diseases. The team aims to identify new sets of disease-related genes, delineate subtypes of disease, and understand the complex interaction between genetics and epigenetics.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·DateOct 5, 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.