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Science News Archive September 2021 - Page 13


Page 13 of 40

Engineers discover way to turn organic waste into renewable biofuel additives using radiation

Researchers at Lancaster University have developed a new method to generate renewable biofuel additives from organic waste using nuclear radiation. This process could help increase the proportion of petrol with renewable content from 5% to 20% by 2030, reducing carbon emissions and tackling climate change.

SourceLancaster University·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 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.

Improving control for users of robotic prosthetics

Researchers have developed a new interface technology that can provide natural sensory feedback from robotic prosthetics to amputees, reducing abnormal sensations and cognitive burden. The innovation uses ultra-small recording sites and molecular guidance cues to stimulate sensory axons selectively, improving control of robotic limbs.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateSep 22, 2021

How do migraines affect the sleep cycle?

A meta-analysis of 32 studies involving 10,243 participants found that adults and children with migraines have poorer sleep quality and shorter REM sleep times than those without migraines. Children with migraines also have less total sleep time, more wake time, and faster sleep onset.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateSep 22, 2021

A computer algorithm called ‘Eva’ may have saved lives in Greece

A new study suggests that Greece's computer algorithm 'Eva' caught nearly twice as many asymptomatic infected travelers as traditional testing methods, helping to curb COVID-19's spread. The AI-powered system used real-time data to identify high-risk visitors for targeted testing, revealing its potential in managing the pandemic.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 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.

Suicide rates fell in Canada during pandemic despite rise in unemployment

Despite increased unemployment, Canada's suicide rates dropped between March 2020 and February 2021, according to a study. The Canadian government's economic support measures, including financial assistance and reduced mortgage payments, are believed to have contributed to this decrease in suicide rates.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 22, 2021

Unique sugar structures could identify early-stage liver cancer

Scientists use modern imaging technology to determine liver cancer subtypes, identifying specific sugar structures that correlate to different subtypes. This approach could lead to earlier detection and more personalized therapies for hepatocellular carcinoma.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalMolecular Cancer Research·DateSep 22, 2021

Hubble finds early, massive galaxies running on empty

The Hubble Space Telescope and ALMA have discovered six early, massive galaxies that have run out of hydrogen gas to form stars. These 'dead' galaxies, which appeared in the universe just 20% of its current age, were found using strong gravitational lensing, a technique that amplifies light from distant objects.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature·TypeNews article·DateSep 22, 2021

Multiple bacteria types found to contribute to bone loss in gum disease

Researchers found that both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria induce the resorption of alveolar bone, a key component of periodontal tissue. The study suggests that positive and negative bacteria are responsible for periodontitis symptoms.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 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.

Online searches may reduce predisposed belief in misinformation

A new analysis suggests that online searches can reduce belief in misinformation about Zainichi Koreans, particularly among those who were predisposed to believe it. However, participants showed an increase in negative feelings toward the group after conducting their searches, despite correction of specific misinformation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2021

Deep learning enhances cancer diagnostic tools

Researchers developed a method to apply deep learning to polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography, enhancing cancer diagnosis. The technique enables OCT systems to detect abnormalities on a deeper level, differentiating microstructural features such as collagen fiber orientations.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 22, 2021

Research: Very low effective tax rates often do not reflect high levels of corporate tax avoidance

A new study from Indiana University Kelley School of Business found that very low effective tax rates often do not reflect high levels of corporate tax avoidance. Instead, non-tax items such as valuation allowance releases and accounting for uncertain tax positions are the major drivers of these low ETRs.

SourceIndiana University·JournalContemporary Accounting Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 2021

UTSA develops model to understand how a city’s design creates congestion

The UTSA-Glasgow model analyzed nearly 100 American cities to understand the relationship between city design and traffic congestion. It found that high-intensity urban land use and polycentric city shapes are associated with higher levels of congestion, supporting the long-held belief that traffic congestion is tied to urbanization.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·JournalComputers Environment and Urban Systems·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 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.

Now everyone can build battery-free electronic devices

Researchers introduce a new platform called BFree that allows users to build battery-free devices using intermittent energy harvesting. The system includes energy-harvesting hardware and a power-failure-resistant version of Python, making it accessible to novice programmers.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Interactive Mobile Wearable and Ubiquitous Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2021

Experiences of racism reported in online reviews of hospitals

Researchers examined online consumer reviews to identify experiences of racism in US hospitals. They found significant disparities in care and treatment for patients of color. The study highlights the need for improved diversity and inclusion training in healthcare institutions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 22, 2021

Gigantic cavity in space sheds new light on how stars form

Astronomers have discovered a gigantic cavity in space that sheds new light on how stars form. The sphere-shaped void, spanning nearly 500 light years, is believed to have been formed by ancient supernovae 10 million years ago.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateSep 22, 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.

Physiological stressors triggering disease in the heart

A recent study published at Masonic Medical Research Institute found that electrocution-induced physiological stress can lead to overlapping cardiac conditions in individuals. The research used human induced pluripotent stem cells to investigate the mechanisms behind these conditions, shedding light on potential new treatments.

SourceMasonic Medical Research Institute·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateSep 22, 2021

Nationwide study of 295,000 brain cancer patients examines differences due to age and sex

A nationwide study of 295,000 brain cancer patients reveals significant differences in survival and incidence based on sex and age. The findings suggest that males have higher incidence rates, while females have longer survival rates at almost every age group, except among children aged 0-9 years.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalNeuro-Oncology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 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.

SpaceX satellite signals used like GPS to pinpoint location on Earth

Engineering researchers at Ohio State University developed a method to use Starlink satellite signals to accurately locate positions on Earth, similar to GPS. The accuracy of this technique is comparable to or even surpasses that of GPS, with the potential to be used as an alternative navigation system.

SourceOhio State University·DateSep 22, 2021

The north movement of Intertropical Convergence Zone on synoptic-scale causes heavy rainfall in the northern South China Sea in autumn

Research by Prof. Lifang Sheng and team reveals the northward movement of Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) causes heavy autumn rainfall in the northern South China Sea. The ITCZ's shift north is triggered by abnormal equatorial easterlies, which strengthen during La Niña years.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateSep 22, 2021

Blowing up medieval gunpowder recipes

The study of medieval gunpowder recipes reveals that the evolution of the perfect powder was a slow trial-and-error process. Researchers analyzed energies released during combustion and found that certain additives made gunpowder stronger, while others had no energetic advantages but might have served other purposes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateSep 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.

More women using cannabis for menopause symptoms

A recent study found that nearly a third of women near the menopause transition use cannabis to help manage their symptoms, with 75% using it for medical purposes. The most common reasons for use included sleep issues and anxiety, with three-quarters of current users reporting relief from their symptoms.

SourceThe Menopause Society·TypeSurvey·DateSep 22, 2021

Earless worms 'listen' through their skin

Researchers discovered that earless worms can detect airborne sounds in a range of frequencies and localize the source. This finding opens a new field for studying auditory sensation and challenges the assumption that organisms without ears cannot sense sound.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNeuron·DateSep 22, 2021

Large wind farms cause different effects for local and regional climates

A study found wind farms have a significant effect on local climatology but a minimal impact on regional climate. The Shangyi Wind Farm in China warmed the area by up to 0.95°C at night during summer and autumn, while decreasing wind speed by 6%.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateSep 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.

Switching on a superfluid

A new Australian study examines systems transitioning from a normal fluid to a quantum state known as a superfluid, which can flow with zero friction. The research provides new insights into the formation of these remarkable states, revealing different timescales and correlations involved.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 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.

An experimental loop for simulating nuclear reactors in space

Researchers at Penn State have developed a small-scale laboratory experiment known as a hydrogen test loop to investigate nuclear thermal propulsion. The simulation, which includes a stainless steel pipe and a heating element, successfully models the operation of a reactor in space. The study's findings could lead to more efficient and...

SourcePenn State·JournalFusion Science & Technology·DateSep 22, 2021

Special transcription factor and its target genes as an important approach for therapy at rare leukemia type identified

A study by MedUni Wien researchers has discovered that the transcription factor BATF3 and its target genes play a crucial role in the growth of tumour cells in anaplastic large cell lymphoma. The findings suggest that targeting the IL-2R system could be an effective therapeutic approach, with promising results in animal models.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 22, 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.

Next-generation camera can better locate tumors

A next-generation camera can accurately identify tumor shape and location in human tissue by measuring time-differential signals from photons. This allows surgeons to ensure complete removal of cancerous tissue while preserving surrounding healthy tissue, revolutionizing surgical procedures.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalOptica·DateSep 22, 2021

Scientists show how mucus protein contributes to worsening COPD, asthma, lung conditions

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine discovered that MUC5AC mucin disrupts airways in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. The study suggests that MUC5AC could be a target for better therapeutics to address the sticky mucus associated with these conditions.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 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.

Understanding uncertainty with a new take on questionnaires

Researchers developed an interval-valued response method to address uncertainty in questionnaires, providing a more flexible approach to data collection. The new method uses ellipses to allow respondents to choose a range when answering a question, resulting in better quality data and potential improvements in data privacy.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalBehavior Research Methods·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 2021

Deaths with drugs as contributing factor rising dramatically

A recent study found that deaths where drugs were a contributing cause rose dramatically in the US, outpacing decline in other causes. The death rate from accidents and suicides increased fivefold, while diseases and medical conditions saw a 2.5-fold rise.

SourceOhio State University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 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.

New insights into how KLF4 influences gene expression

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that KLF4 forms droplets in the cell nucleus that recruit other transcription factors to mediate gene expression. This process involves biomolecular condensation, where KLF4 interacts with chromatin regions to form a separate liquid phase.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 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.

New research explores how visually impaired babies perceive the world

A new study published in Current Biology reveals that visually impaired babies primarily use touch to respond to stimuli, while sighted babies rely more on auditory cues. The research suggests that both senses will be crucial in designing tools to aid their development.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2021

Strength training can burn fat too, myth-busting study finds

A new UNSW Sydney-led study suggests that strength training can lead to significant weight loss, with participants losing an average of 1.4% of their total body fat after a five-month program. The study analyzed existing evidence and found that this level of fat loss is comparable to cardio-based exercise.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalSports Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 22, 2021

Desert teamwork explains global pattern of co-operation in birds

A new study from the Kalahari Desert finds that teamwork allows birds to cope with brutally unpredictable environments. The research team at the University of Exeter shows that families with more helpers successfully raise more chicks in dry conditions, reducing weather-driven variation in breeding success.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateSep 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.

Reinstating waiting time after allograft failure will yield more transplants

Researchers propose reinstating waiting time for recipients experiencing early post-transplant allograft failure within an expanded timeframe to boost transplant numbers. This policy change could potentially reduce the perceived patient-level risk of transplanting marginal organs and improve organ utilization.

SourceNational Kidney Foundation·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateSep 22, 2021