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Science News Archive September 2021 - Page 19


Page 19 of 40

NIH funds effort to customize treatment of movement impairments

A Rice University professor has received a $2.4 million grant from the NIH to develop open-source software for designing personalized treatments for movement impairments using computational modeling and simulation. The software will create customized computer models of individual patients, optimizing treatment solutions.

SourceRice University·DateSep 17, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers measure the bond strength of thin coatings

A research group employed ultra-small testing technologies to measure the interfacial bonding strength of coated materials. The study successfully measured the shear strength of a tungsten coating on ferritic steel, contributing to the safe application of multi-material technology in industrial components.

SourceTohoku University·JournalMaterials Science and Engineering·DateSep 17, 2021

Study identifies key risk factors for early COPD among US Hispanic/Latinos

A new study from Brigham and Women's Hospital identifies asthma, history of smoking, and chronic sinusitis as key risk factors for early COPD among US Hispanics/Latinos. The prevalence of early COPD was found to be 7.6 percent in this population, suggesting younger individuals are also susceptible to the disease.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateSep 17, 2021

Yeast and bacteria together biosynthesize plant hormones for weed control

Scientists have developed a method to produce strigolactones, a group of plant hormones that prevent excessive budding and branching. By combining yeast and bacteria, researchers can synthesize these hormones from microbes, providing a promising alternative to traditional methods.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 17, 2021

Disparities in SARS-CoV-2 vaccination-to-infection risk during pandemic

A study analyzed SARS-CoV-2 vaccination distribution in Massachusetts, finding lower vaccine coverage and infection risk in communities with increased socioeconomic vulnerability. The analysis also revealed larger proportions of Black and Latinx individuals in these areas, highlighting disparities in COVID-19 vaccination access.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateSep 17, 2021

Biologists identify new targets for cancer vaccines

MIT researchers have found that vaccinating against certain cancer proteins can boost the overall T cell response and help to shrink tumors in mice. The study identifies specific neoantigens that, when targeted with a vaccine, can reawaken dormant T cell populations and lead to tumor regression.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateSep 16, 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.

How scents take on meaning

A study published by Ruhr-University Bochum's Department of Neurophysiology found that the olfactory system works closely with the brain's reward and aversion systems to form and retrieve memories. Non-olfactory brain regions, such as the limbic cortex, play a crucial role in categorizing scents as pleasant or unpleasant.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCerebral Cortex·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

HSE researchers assess the effectiveness of short-term online meditation courses

Novice participants in a three-week online meditation course showed improved emotional wellbeing, concentration, and motivation. Effects were strongest among those with high levels of self-control and motivation, highlighting the importance of individual differences in response to mindfulness interventions.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·DateSep 16, 2021

Anesthesia for knee replacement surgery has considerable carbon footprint

A study published in Anesthesiology found that anesthesia for total knee replacement surgery generates substantial CO2 emissions, with an average of 14.9-18.5 kg for general, spinal, and combined anesthesia approaches respectively, contributing to a carbon footprint of approximately 42 miles driven by a US car.

SourceAmerican Society of Anesthesiologists·JournalAnesthesiology·DateSep 16, 2021

Consuming fruit and vegetables and exercising can make you happier

Research by the University of Kent and University of Reading reveals that a healthy lifestyle can increase happiness. The study found that consuming more fruit and vegetables and exercising can improve life satisfaction, with delayed gratification playing a key role.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalJournal of Happiness Studies·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 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.

Improving leukemia therapy with targeted treatment approaches

Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered a novel combination therapy approach that combines inhibiting JAK2 with targeting the MAPK signaling pathway. This dual targeting strategy has shown promising results in improving leukemia treatment outcomes by reducing blood cell production and altering disease course.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalLeukemia·DateSep 16, 2021

Study finds complexity in language is driven by the needs of the speakers

A recent study found that colexification, where multiple meanings share one word, reduces language complexity. The study also suggests that communicative needs drive lexical choices in languages, with some languages preferring separate words for similar concepts depending on climate.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalCognitive Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Researchers explore promising new stem cell treatment for MRSA superbug

A study found that treating wounds with mesenchymal stromal cell secretions significantly reduced MRSA viability and stimulated the surrounding skin cells to build a defense. The treatment has potential as an alternative to antibiotics, reducing antibiotic resistance in both veterinary and human medicine.

SourceAlphaMed Press·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 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.

Mass shootings in US during pandemic

A study analyzing mass shootings in the US found a significant increase during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting that extreme violence may be influenced by social and economic factors. The research revealed consistent patterns, implying that mass shootings are not solely driven by mental health issues or individual motivations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 16, 2021

Silver nanoparticles boost performance of microbial fuel cells

Researchers found that coating Shewanella bacteria with silver nanoparticles improves electron transfer efficiency, leading to higher current and power densities in microbial fuel cells. The resulting MFCs have a maximum current density of 3.85 milliamperes per square centimeter and a coulombic efficiency of 81%.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 16, 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.

How we’re taking the latest superfood mainstream, with science

A new study from Edith Cowan University has identified over 2,500 proteins in lupin seeds using a novel testing regime. The research aims to develop value-added high protein ingredients while complying with food-labelling regulations, transforming lupins from feed to superfood.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalFood Chemistry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 2021

Hydroxyurea may reverse sickle cell-related heart abnormalities

A study published in Blood Advances found that hydroxyurea therapy can improve or even reverse cardiac complications in individuals living with sickle cell anemia. The longer duration of treatment was associated with better cardiac outcomes, suggesting the need for early screening and treatment initiation for this patient population.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood Advances·DateSep 16, 2021

Six stages of engagement in ADHD treatment revealed in new, diverse study

Researchers at Boston Medical Center have identified six stages of engagement in ADHD treatment, highlighting the importance of breaking down barriers for racial and ethnic minority families. The study provides a comprehensive framework that can help healthcare systems better match the needs of children with ADHD and their families.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 16, 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.

Cancer cells’ unexpected genetic tricks for evading the immune system

Researchers discover that tumor suppressor genes can prevent the immune system from spotting and destroying malignant cells in mice. The study reveals a surprising new action for many of these defective genes, which trigger mechanisms that prevent the immune system's T-cells from targeting tumors.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience·DateSep 16, 2021

The first glimpse of hydrodynamic electron flow in 3D materials

A team of researchers from Harvard and MIT observed hydrodynamic electron flow in three-dimensional tungsten ditelluride for the first time using a new imaging technique. The findings provide a promising avenue for exploring non-classical fluid behavior in hydrodynamic electron flow, such as steady-state vortices.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 16, 2021

New technique provides insights into the evolution of the brain

A research team identified H3 acetylation as a crucial factor in human brain development, leading to the unique neocortex structure. This finding could pave the way for new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases by manipulating basal progenitor cell proliferation.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

For one group in child welfare, trauma is especially common

Adults in the child welfare system with substance misuse issues have higher scores on a trauma questionnaire than previously estimated for other adults and the general population. Children in these families also experience more trauma, with trauma scores 27% higher than those in the juvenile justice system.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

UNH research finds witnessing abuse of sibling can lead to mental health issues

A national study from the University of New Hampshire found that children who witness abuse of a brother or sister by a parent experience similar levels of trauma as those witnessing violence against another parent. This exposure is linked to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and anger.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·DateSep 16, 2021

Leaf-inspired surface enables different liquids to flow in different directions

Scientists developed a surface that directs different liquids to flow in opposite directions, inspired by the unique liquid transport behavior on Araucaria leaves. This approach could be used in practical applications such as microfluidics and water desalination, with high-flow velocity and self-propulsion exhibited.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 16, 2021

Giant Waikato penguin: school kids discover new species

A team of researchers has discovered a new species of giant penguin, named Kairuku waewaeroa, in the North Island of New Zealand. The fossil, estimated to be between 27.3 and 34.6 million years old, was found by school children on a fossil hunting field trip in 2006.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 16, 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.

Getting to the root of tooth replantation challenges

A new gene delivery system promotes healing in rat models by preventing inflammation and bone degradation after tooth replantation. The study found that teeth treated with the system showed significantly greater dental root thickness and fewer osteoclasts, leading to improved success rates.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateSep 16, 2021

Act now to benefit economically from peatland restoration

A new study found that restoring peatlands now would provide significant economic benefits to society, including a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and improved wildlife habitat. In Scotland, restoration could generate £191m in annual societal benefits if done by 2027, rather than later.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·TypeCase study·DateSep 16, 2021

Study finds long-term injectable medications combined with counseling improves adherence and symptoms in patients with bipolar disorder

Researchers from University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine found that combining long-term injectable medications with psychosocial intervention improves adherence and symptoms in patients with bipolar disorder. The study enrolled 30 people with bipolar disorder who had adherenc...

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalThe Primary Care Companion to The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Quantifying future impacts on coral reefs

Coral reefs will experience substantial declines in productivity and survival due to rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification, with some attributes responding similarly to heat stress with or without acidification

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 16, 2021

Discovery of rapid-response signaling platform suggests new path for blocking allergic inflammation

A study by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center has identified a common biological response platform that could help alleviate allergic inflammation. The research suggests that inhibiting this pathway may provide a unique opportunity to counteract type 2 immunity and reduce allergic reactions.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNature Immunology·DateSep 16, 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.

Researchers explore promising treatment for MRSA ‘superbug’

A new study from Cornell University has found that the antimicrobial properties of certain stem cell proteins can effectively reduce the viability of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in skin wounds. The treatment also stimulates the surrounding skin cells to build up a defense against the bacterial invader.

SourceCornell University·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateSep 16, 2021

Study findings could provide blueprint for regulating lab-developed diagnostic tests

Researchers found that validating accuracy of in vitro diagnostic tests carried costs and had higher true limits of detection than reported. The study suggests mechanisms for expanded regulatory oversight by the FDA, including technology certification to assess performance of complex diagnostic tests.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 16, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Childhood maltreatment alters the HOA-axis activity in early stages of life

A study published in Psychological Medicine confirms that childhood maltreatment disrupts HPA-axis activity, leading to altered stress regulation and increased risk of mental disorders. The study found a dose-response relationship between the severity of maltreatment experiences and HPA-axis dysfunction.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalPsychological Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 16, 2021

A novel malaria vaccine vector – target to the liver

Researchers at Kanazawa University have identified a new vaccine platform that targets liver cells to induce anti-malaria immunity. The AAV8 vaccine platform was found to be more effective in eliciting a T cell-mediated response in the liver, providing sterile protection against malaria in a murine model.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateSep 16, 2021

Study suggests earliest use of bone tools to produce clothing in Morocco 120,000 years ago

Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered a worked bone assemblage found near the Atlantic Coast of Morocco dating back to 120,000 years ago, suggesting the manufacture of clothing during this period. The find provides strong evidence for the emergence of complex culture and specialized tool manufacture in early humans.

SourceArizona State University·JournaliScience·TypeObservational study·DateSep 16, 2021

UTSW scientists reveal how vitamin a enters immune cells in the gut

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have discovered that LRP1 is the vehicle by which retinol enters myeloid cells, suggesting a potential target for treating inflammatory diseases such as Crohn's disease. The study also found that inhibiting this process could boost immune activity, making oral vaccines more effective.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalScience·DateSep 16, 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.

How to catch a perfect wave: Scientists take a closer look inside the perfect fluid

Researchers have discovered a new technique to locate the diffusion wake's signal in the quark-gluon plasma, a subatomic soup that flowed like a friction-free fluid after the Big Bang. This breakthrough may help scientists understand how matter emerged from this perfect fluid.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 16, 2021

‘Spice’ withdrawal symptoms more severe than cannabis – new study

A new study by University of Bath psychologists suggests that Spice, a synthetic drug, is more harmful than cannabis and causes more severe withdrawal symptoms. Participants who tried to quit Spice reported experiencing sleep issues, irritability, and low mood, among other symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalPsychopharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 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.

UCF researchers identify food products that could reduce COVID transmission

Researchers at the University of Central Florida have identified food products that can alter a person's saliva to reduce the transmission potential of airborne pathogens. By adding ingredients like ginger, cornstarch, and xanthan gum to food products, people may be able to make masks more effective or even reduce their need for them.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

AI system identifies buildings damaged by wildfire

Researchers developed DamageMap, an AI system that uses machine learning to identify building damage from post-wildfire images, achieving 92% accuracy. The system can analyze satellite and aerial photos to pinpoint damaged buildings, providing immediate results for first responders and fire victims.

SourceStanford University·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·DateSep 16, 2021

Ground-breaking bacteria-killing viruses unite with antibiotics to fight devastating antibiotic-resistant bacteria

Scientists have developed a new therapy that combines bacteriophages with antibiotics to treat antibiotic-resistant infections, specifically targeting Mycobacterium abscessus. The treatment, using the bacteriophage 'Muddy', showed significant improvement in survival rates and severity of infections when paired with rifabutin, demonstra...

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

PFAS exposure can affect women’s ability to breastfeed

A recent study found that women with higher levels of PFAS in their system are 20% more likely to stop breastfeeding early. This is significant because almost every human on the planet is exposed to these endocrine-disrupting chemicals, which can have detrimental effects on reproductive health.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateSep 16, 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.

Long COVID symptoms in children rarely persist beyond 12 weeks

A recent review of international studies found that persistent symptoms after COVID-19 infection were most common among children with pre-existing health conditions. However, symptoms rarely lasted beyond 12 weeks in young people, suggesting long COVID may be less concerning than in adults.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalPediatric Infectious Disease·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 16, 2021

Researchers improve optical tissue clearing method to diagnose cancer

A Japanese research team has improved an optical tissue clearing method to diagnose cancer, enabling 3D visualization of tumor tissues in just a week. The new approach uses zwitterionic hydrogels to rapidly remove fats from tissues, reducing processing time and improving diagnosis accuracy.

SourceOsaka Prefecture University·JournalMacromolecular Bioscience·TypeNews article·DateSep 16, 2021

How climate change could impact algae in the global ocean

A new study predicts that climate change will cause a sudden shift in algae distribution pole-wards over the next 100 years, affecting marine ecosystems. The UK is among the areas most likely to be severely impacted due to its warm waters, with changes potentially occurring before previously thought.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 2021