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Science News Archive September 2021 - Page 21


Page 21 of 40

Chemists provide a new look at the problem of energy efficiency in lithium-ion batteries

A new study refutes a long-standing explanation for low energy efficiency in lithium-ion batteries, suggesting that voltage hysteresis is caused by reversible electron transfer between oxygen and transition metal atoms. This phenomenon could be mitigated through manipulation of electron transfer barriers.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 16, 2021

Using organs-on-chips as models of drug efficacy

Organs-on-chips can assess drug efficacy better than traditional methods, reducing the risk of failed clinical trials. These systems enable human multi-cell-type models and personalized medicine by seeding with a patient's own cells.

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

September/October 2021 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

The article highlights the need for financial and technological support to enable effective interprofessional teams in primary care. The authors suggest training community members to serve their communities and exploring how diversity impacts patient care outcomes. They also advocate for innovative payment models that allow primary car...

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 16, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New meat analogue developed by Lithuanian scientists – healthier, more flavours and environmentally friendly

Researchers from Kaunas University of Technology and the University of Helsinki have developed a nutritious meat analogue using fermented okara, which can help alleviate digestive problems due to its probiotics. The product contains less salt and saturated fats than real meat while maintaining protein levels.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalEuropean Food Research and Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Scientists demonstrate pathway to forerunner of nanotubes that could lead to widespread industrial fabrication

Researchers at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have identified a chemical pathway to produce boron nitride nanotubes, a material with properties similar to carbon nanotubes but more difficult to produce. The breakthrough could lead to large-scale industrial production of the nanomaterial for various applications.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalNanotechnology·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 16, 2021

Rockefeller saliva test for COVID-19 outperforms commercial swab tests

A new study confirms that Rockefeller University's saliva test is as sensitive, if not more so, than FDA-authorized nasal and oral swab tests. The test has been used tens of thousands of times to identify and isolate infected individuals on campus and has the potential to improve safety in communities.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 15, 2021
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Hot-band absorption of Indocyanine Green for advanced anti-Stokes fluorescence bioimaging

Scientists discovered hot-band absorption (HBA) in FDA-approved Indocyanine Green, enabling advanced anti-Stokes fluorescence bioimaging. HBA-based ASF has high thermal sensitivity and allows for IR perception, making it suitable for applications such as tumor detection and blood vessel imaging.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateSep 15, 2021

A warm Indian Ocean drives anomalous weather events in East Asia

Researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that warm sea surface temperature conditions in the Indian Ocean contribute to anomalous weather events in East Asia, including record-breaking rainfall and severe flooding. The study suggests a link between warming Indian Ocean conditions and stagnation of the Meiyu-Baiu rainband.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalSOLA·DateSep 15, 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.

Cartilage resurfacing implant reduces pain, restores hip joint function in dogs

A textile-based implant containing cartilage derived from stem cells reduced pain and restored hip joint function to baseline levels in a study of dogs with moderate osteoarthritis. The implant successfully integrated into the hip joints, effectively resurfacing them and allowing the dogs to regain activity levels.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 15, 2021

NUS researchers discover a dependency of glioblastoma on biotin distribution

Researchers from NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine have discovered that glioblastoma cells depend on biotin distribution to grow and invade. This finding suggests that targeting biotin-dependent metabolic enzymes and epigenetic pathways may be a viable approach for treating glioblastoma.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 15, 2021

Seagrass meadows act as vibrio catchers

Researchers at GEOMAR found that seagrass meadows absorb vibrios, reducing their presence by up to 63% compared to non-vegetated areas. This discovery highlights the importance of protecting and restoring these ecosystems to maintain healthy water quality.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalMarine Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 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.

New Curtin research identifies likely cause of Alzheimer’s disease

Ground-breaking Curtin University-led research has discovered a probable 'blood-to-brain pathway' that can lead to Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that toxic protein deposits may leak into the brain from fat-carrying particles in blood, opening up potential new treatments.

SourceCurtin University·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2021

A novel fly species described from Finland

A new fly species, Scenopinus jerei, has been officially described from Finland, belonging to the primitive and species-poor family of window flies. The species is found in boreal forest habitats and is widespread but rare in Finland, with its larvae preying on other insects.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalZooKeys·DateSep 15, 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.

World first for AI and machine learning to treat COVID-19 patients worldwide

Researchers developed an AI tool using data from hospitals across four continents to predict oxygen needs of hospital Covid patients anywhere in the world. The study achieved high-quality predictions with a sensitivity of 95% and specificity of over 88%, demonstrating the transformative power of federated learning in healthcare.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 15, 2021

Heterogeneous development of children with Congenital Zika Syndrome-associated microcephaly

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that children born with congenital Zika Virus-related microcephaly have varying levels of neurodevelopmental impairment. The researchers used a routine neurological assessment to track the children's development, revealing differences in cognitive and motor skills. The findings suggest that HINE ...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateSep 15, 2021

Subthreshold depression in adolescents can be successfully treated with psychological interventions

A new study found that psychological interventions can have a significant effect on the treatment of subthreshold depression in adolescents. The meta-analysis showed that approximately eight adolescents need to be treated to see one more positive outcome than no treatment, with moderate effects size.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

Are there DBPs in that cup of tea?

A recent study measured 60 DBPs in three types of tea and found that brewed tea contained significantly lower levels of DBPs than tap water. However, the researchers also identified 15 previously uncharacterized compounds that likely form from chlorine reactions with natural precursors in tea leaves.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateSep 15, 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.

Gd-doped Nanoclusters Help Imaging of Early Orthotopic Cancer

Researchers developed Gd-doped iron oxide nanoclusters to improve MRI contrast for early-stage cancer diagnosis. The doping content increased the nanocluster's surface area, leading to stronger T2 contrast.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateSep 15, 2021

Untangling the formation of planetary systems with deuterium

Researchers analyzed deuterium abundance ratios in protoplanetary disks and found significant variations within a single disk, suggesting differences in chemical composition and physical state at formation sites. The study also reveals the presence of complex organic molecules, including nitriles, in planet-forming disks.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateSep 15, 2021

Studying resistance to therapy in BRAF-mutated brain tumors

A team of researchers led by CU Cancer Center member Jean Mulcahy Levy examined tumor samples before and after treatment with a targeted medicine. They found additional mutations that can create resistance to the therapy, highlighting the need for new treatments or combination therapies.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateSep 15, 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.

Scientists from Pusan National University emphasize the health benefits of ginseng

Researchers from Pusan National University have compiled a comprehensive review of ginsenosides, the main component of ginseng, which can prevent inflammation, diabetes, and cancer. The study provides insights into how to improve ginsenoside production through chemical and enzymatic treatments, as well as microbial action.

SourcePusan National University·JournalCritical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 15, 2021

Municipal takeover in Michigan: A rational, apolitical response to financial distress, or something else?

A study of Michigan cities under state emergency management found that the likelihood of takeover was not driven solely by financial distress, but also by factors such as race and economic status. Changes to drinking water systems were common in takeovers, often leading to poor water quality and increased bills.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalState and Local Government Review·DateSep 15, 2021

Australian wildfires triggered massive algal blooms in southern ocean

A recent study published in Nature reveals that pyrogenic iron from Australian wildfires fertilized the Southern Ocean, leading to unprecedented algal blooms. This phenomenon raises concerns about the role of wildfires in spurring phytoplankton growth, which absorbs large quantities of climate-warming carbon dioxide.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateSep 15, 2021

Have we detected dark energy? Cambridge scientists say it’s a possibility

Researchers at the University of Cambridge suggest that unexplained results from the XENON1T experiment could be attributed to dark energy, rather than dark matter. The study proposes a physical model to explain the findings, which may have originated from dark energy particles produced in the Sun's strong magnetic fields.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPhysical Review D·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 15, 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.

Many mothers may have delayed or abandoned plans for additional children because of COVID-19 pandemic

A new study found that nearly half of New York City mothers who were trying to become pregnant again before the COVID-19 pandemic began stopped in the first few months of the outbreak. Additionally, one-third of women who had been thinking about becoming pregnant but hadn't yet started trying said they were no longer considering it.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 15, 2021

Physicists make square droplets and liquid lattices

Researchers at Aalto University created unexpected droplet shapes, including squares and hexagons, by disrupting thermodynamic equilibrium with electric fields. The liquids formed into interconnected lattices and torus shapes, stable for a controlled duration.

SourceAalto University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 15, 2021

Study reveals how ribosomes are assembled in human cells

Researchers capture detailed images of ribosome assembly using a novel gene-editing platform, providing insights into the role of 70 assembly factors and their impact on rare human diseases. The study reveals three stages of the small subunit formation process.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience·DateSep 15, 2021

Roads have far-reaching impact on chimpanzees

A recent study found that roads can extend the impact zone for western chimpanzees by an average of 17.2 km from major roads and 5.4 km from minor roads. This results in a significant decrease in population density, with the species facing mounting pressure from infrastructure expansion.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalConservation Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

Rising temperatures reshape when and how much people get outdoors on public lands

Rising temperatures are projected to decrease outdoor recreation during summers by 18% over the next 30 years, but increase winter recreation by 12% in mid-century. This shift may lead to a decline in popular winter sports like downhill skiing and an increase in winter mountain biking.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 15, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Towards more energy-efficient 2D semiconductor devices

Researchers from SUTD discover a family of 2D semiconductors with Ohmic contacts, reducing electrical resistance and generating less waste heat. This breakthrough could pave the way for high-performance and energy-efficient electronics, potentially replacing silicon-based technology.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·Journalnpj 2D Materials and Applications·DateSep 15, 2021

DNA researchers develop critical shortcut to detect and identify known and emerging pathogens

Researchers have developed a sophisticated new tool to detect and identify rare and unknown viruses and potentially deadly bacterial pathogens. The algorithm helps isolate DNA sequences shared among related organisms, enabling faster detection and identification of pathogens in clinical or wildlife settings.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCell Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 15, 2021

Classifying EGFR mutations by structure and function offers better way to match non-small cell lung cancer patients to treatments

A study identifies four novel subgroups of EGFR mutations that predict drug response, offering a more accurate framework to match patients with targeted therapies. The findings reveal that certain mutations respond better to specific classes of TKIs, providing new clinical opportunities for approved treatments.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature·DateSep 15, 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.

Novel polymer can boost performance of organic and perovskite solar cells

Researchers synthesized a new conjugated polymer using two chemical reactions, showing it outperforms traditional methods in organic and perovskite solar cells. The Stille reaction pathway yielded superior results with efficiencies of up to 15.1% in photovoltaic devices.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalMacromolecular Chemistry and Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2021

Further evidence that vitamin D might protect against severe COVID-19 disease and death

Researchers found that ambient UVB radiation before COVID-19 infection was strongly associated with reduced hospitalization and death. The study suggests that vitamin D may protect against severe COVID-19 disease and death, particularly in individuals who do not produce enough vitamin D through sun exposure.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

Study uncovers new link between long-term arsenic exposure and Type 2 diabetes

Research by University of Arizona Health Sciences identifies chronic arsenic exposure as a risk factor for developing insulin resistance and glucose intolerance. The study found that prolonged activation of NRF2 protein leads to shifts in metabolic pathways, increasing glucose production in the liver.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalMolecular Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2021

Coconut tree cloning breakthrough will help propagation and preservation

Researchers at KU Leuven and the Alliance of Bioversity International have developed a method to multiply coconut trees faster and store them more efficiently in gene banks. This technique allows for the preservation of coconut shoots for eternity through cryopreservation, ensuring the long-term conservation of genetic diversity.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 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.

Study reveals rates of the most common form of liver cancer are rising in rural areas while slowing in urban areas

The most common form of liver cancer is on the rise in rural areas, with men aged 60-69 and non-Hispanic Blacks disproportionately affected. Urban areas, however, have seen a decline in HCC rates since 2013, including among younger individuals and certain ethnic groups.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

Scientists pretend to be Neanderthals to explore how they caught birds in caves for food

Researchers used a 'role-play' approach to study how Neanderthals caught choughs in caves. They found that the birds were vulnerable to artificial light and could be caught using nets or by hand. The findings suggest that catching birds was another skill of Neanderthals, which is surprising given their intelligence and adaptability.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2021

Stem cells model genetic risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers used human-induced stem cells carrying different versions of the APOE gene to study their interaction with neurons and astrocytes. The study found that astrocytes carrying the AD-associated APOE4 gene released more cholesterol, which led to increased beta-amyloid production in neurons.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalStem Cell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2021

COVID-19 slows birth rate in US, Europe

A new study found that COVID-19 led to a significant decline in births across high-income countries, with the strongest declines observed in southern Europe, while northern Europe showed little impact. The researchers attribute this variation to differences in economic disruption and social support policies.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 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.

ALMA reveals carbon-rich, organic birth environments of planets

A study using ALMA revealed that protoplanetary disks around five young stars are factories of organic molecules, including nitriles implicated in the origins of life. The discovery provides insights into planetary system formation and whether these systems have what it takes to host life.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series·DateSep 15, 2021

Typhoid vaccine proven safe for infants and young children in Malawi

A new study has shown that a single dose of typhoid conjugate vaccine (TCV) is safe and 84 percent effective in protecting against typhoid in Blantyre, Malawi. The findings are critical as typhoid is an increasing public health threat across sub-Saharan Africa.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 15, 2021
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.

NTU Singapore scientists develop ‘optimal strategies’ computer model that could significantly reduce future COVID-19 infections and deaths

A team of NTU Singapore scientists developed a predictive computer model called NSGA-II, which proposed strategies to reduce COVID-19 infections and deaths by an average of 72%. The model recommended timely and country-specific advice on interventions such as home quarantines and social distancing measures.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalSustainable Cities and Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 15, 2021

More effective partnerships between medics and dance professionals needed to discover the benefits of dance to health, report finds

Researchers found that dance impacts health in key areas, including sense of identity, belonging, and self-worth. They call for more collaboration with dancers and co-research with participants to better capture the benefits of dance on its own terms.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalInternational Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-Being·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 15, 2021

Improving career mobility of lower-SES mid-career individuals

A study by SMU Associate Professor Marko Pitesa aims to understand and improve job search skills among mid-career workers from families of lower socioeconomic status. The research highlights the impact of life circumstances, such as social obligations and constraints, on career trajectories and mobility.

SourceSingapore Management University·DateSep 15, 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.