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Science News Archive September 2021


Page 2 of 40

Beam diagnostics for future laser wakefield accelerators

A team at HZB and PTB developed a method to measure the lateral expansion of the electron beam in laser plasma accelerators, achieving resolutions in the micrometre range. This technique uses coherent radiation of electron pulses via interference patterns to determine the beam cross-section.

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.

New research shows learning is more effective when active

Research at Carnegie Mellon University shows active learning methods using interactive activities, discussions, feedback, and AI enhance academic performance compared to traditional lectures. Effective methods also provide emotional and social support for students.

Dynamic pregnancy intentions

Researchers found that economic stability, relationship status, and educational status can lead to shifts in pregnancy intentions, with 22% of participants changing their mind within a year. The study aims to provide insight for healthcare providers to check in frequently about patients' desires.

New nanoparticle developed for intravenous cancer immunotherapy

Researchers at the University of Michigan developed a new nanoparticle system called CMP that significantly increases cellular uptake and triggers robust STING activation, turning 'cold' tumors into 'hot' tumors. This breakthrough could lead to improved cancer immunotherapy treatments.

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.

Lipid metabolism in liver cells confers protection from viral infection

A new study reveals that high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids in liver cells are associated with resistance to hepatitis C virus infection. Lipid peroxidation occurs on PUFA-enriched membranes where viral replication machinery is anchored, ultimately shutting off its ability to replicate the viral genome.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

AMD: Reading ability crucial indicator of functional loss

Researchers from the University of Bonn have found that reading ability is a crucial indicator of functional loss in people with geographic atrophy, a late form of age-related macular degeneration. Reading speed and performance are essential for measuring everyday functional impairment.

‘Planet confusion’ could slow Earth-like exoplanet exploration

Researchers warn that future exoplanet direct-imaging missions need to make multiple observations to differentiate between planets. In 36% of solar systems, an Earth-like planet can be misidentified with a Mercury-like planet, and in 72% of cases, it could be mistaken for a Venus-like planet.

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.

Using dunes to interpret wind on Mars

Researchers study Martian sand ridges to understand wind behavior, finding evidence of dune interactions similar to those on Earth. By analyzing these features, scientists can better interpret wind patterns on Mars and gain insights into the planet's geology.

Study analyzes a decade of cardiac imaging trends

The study found that cardiac imaging methods became almost exclusively the domain of cardiologists, with reimbursement cuts reversing this trend. However, technological advances made competing exams appealing options, leading to a shift in utilization from cardiologist offices to hospital outpatient departments.

Allergic stimulation activates mast cell precursor cells

Researchers at Uppsala University found that allergic stimulation activates mast cell precursor cells, which can produce cytokine IL-13 contributing to asthma development. This challenges the idea that only mature immune cells are involved in immune reactions.

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Earth is dimming due to climate change

Researchers found a significant drop in Earth's albedo over the past two decades, primarily caused by reduced bright clouds in the eastern Pacific Ocean. This decrease in reflectivity allows more solar energy to be captured by the climate system, contributing to potential global warming.

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.

Fractal brain networks support complex thought

Researchers used fractal analysis to study brain network patterns while listening to a story. The results show that complex thoughts are reflected in high-order dynamic correlations in neural activity patterns.

UCLA bioengineers develop new class of human-powered bioelectronics

Researchers create a novel magnetoelastic generator that can convert human body motions into electricity, outperforming existing technology. The device is flexible, waterproof, and generates significant electrical currents, opening up new avenues for wearable and implantable diagnostic sensors.

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.

Drought in Africa linked to lower vaccine rates in children

A new study found that drought may hinder child vaccination coverage in Africa, with polio vaccination rates being the lowest closest to the time of drought. The study suggests that climate change can hinder vaccinations through financial instability, food insecurity and erosion of public health infrastructure.

People with prior mental ill health hit harder by pandemic disruption

A new study co-led by UCL researchers found that people with higher pre-pandemic levels of depression or anxiety were more severely affected by job and healthcare disruptions during the pandemic. Those with severe symptoms experienced a much greater likelihood of disruptions to jobs, income, and healthcare.

How a committed minority can change society

An agent-based study found that a committed minority can influence the majority to overturn long-standing practices. The researchers created an online game where participants voted on a product launch, with a small group of 'activists' able to sway the majority. The study's findings may help stimulate sustainable behavior.

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.

Living at high altitudes may lower chance of having a deadly stroke

Researchers found that people living at high altitudes have a lower risk of stroke and stroke-related death. The study suggests that adaptation to low oxygen conditions may help protect against stroke damage. A protective window between 2,000 and 3,500 meters was identified, with less protection seen above this altitude.

A tool to interrogate a new class of drugs

A team of scientists developed a new method to study the effects of reactive electrophiles in the body. By targeting specific proteins with electrophilic compounds, they discovered novel mediators involved in immune-cell apoptosis triggered by Tecfidera, a multiple sclerosis treatment.

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.

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.

Relieving pain by mapping its biological signatures

Scientists have identified specific epigenetic signatures for nociceptive and neuropathic pain, allowing for quicker and more reliable classification. This breakthrough enables a simple blood test to determine the type of pain an individual suffers from, paving the way for targeted treatment.

Brands can boost their own reputations and sales by praising rivals

A study published in the Journal of Marketing found that complimenting a competitor can increase a brand's reputation and sales, particularly among skeptical consumers. The tactic is most effective when done strategically and authentically, signaling a brand's warmth and trustworthiness.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Fires in Iceland: Human interference even 1,100 years ago

Researchers analyzed an ice core from Greenland and found that fires in the North Atlantic region decreased over 4,500 years ago due to weaker summer insolation and expanding glaciers. Human interference, such as Viking colonization, also played a role in reducing fire frequency.

Simplified sensor measures tilt angle and direction with liquid

Researchers at Yokohama National University have developed a simplified tilt sensor that can detect angles and directions using a conductive liquid material. The sensor has a digital output using direct current, enabling direct electrical measurement of tilt, and can be used in various applications including wearable devices and robots.

Seismic forensics and its importance for early warning

Researchers from GFZ and NGRI used seismic data to identify three phases of a catastrophic flood, including rockslide and debris flow. The study found that seismic networks can be used to warn of impending flash floods, with available warning times varying by distance and speed.

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.

Cats' whiskers reveal felines favor free lunch

A new study by the University of Exeter reveals that domestic cats rely almost entirely on their owner-provided food for nutrition. Despite being prolific hunters, cats only consume a small percentage of the prey they catch.

New Rx combination inhibited glioblastoma multiforme tumor growth

A new treatment approach targets angiogenesis, inflammation, and oxidative stress in glioblastoma multiforme, reducing tumor volume and growth by up to 89%. The combination of LAU-0901, Elovanoids, and Avastin shows promise in improving survival rates for patients with this deadly cancer.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Signaling from neighboring cells provides power boost within axons

A recent NIH study identifies oligodendrocytes as a key player in maintaining energy levels within axons, which are essential for long-distance communication. The research discovered that oligodendrocytes release an enzyme called SIRT2, which increases mitochondrial activity and provides a local power boost to axons.