Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive September 2021 - Page 3


Page 3 of 40

Movement of genes within cells helps organisms tell time

Researchers visualize key proteins in Drosophila brains, revealing their daily oscillations and spatial organization. The study highlights the importance of clock proteins in regulating circadian rhythms, which control sleep-wake cycles, metabolism, and cancer risk.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2021

Looking beyond DNA to see cancer with new clarity

Researchers mapped cancer through protein interactions, revealing biomarkers and potential new treatments for breast and head and neck cancers. The study provides a new definition of biomarkers based on large, multi-protein complexes, offering a more precise way to explain mutation effects.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience·DateSep 30, 2021

Pruning the dendritic tree

Researchers at the University of Bonn have discovered that the enzyme SLK plays a vital role in maintaining inhibitory synapses, which help regulate neuronal excitability. Without SLK, neurons become increasingly excitable and less responsive to inhibitory signals, potentially leading to increased seizure frequency.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 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.

Psychological treatment shown to yield strong, lasting pain relief, alter brain networks

A new study shows that a four-week psychological treatment called Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) can provide potent and durable relief for chronic back pain in two-thirds of patients. The treatment alters brain networks associated with pain processing, reducing symptoms that last for up to one year.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 29, 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.

An algorithm to predict psychotic illnesses

Researchers developed an AI tool using longitudinal network analysis to identify predictive symptoms of psychotic illnesses in children with a microdeletion of chromosome 22. The study found that anxiety and feelings of guilt were significant warning signals, enabling early treatment and prevention.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournaleLife·TypeNews article·DateSep 29, 2021

How mercury gets into the sea

An analysis by the University of Basel has revealed that mercury enters seawater primarily through gas exchange, not rainfall. The study found that approximately half of the mercury in the ocean originates from gaseous emissions, rather than precipitation.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature·DateSep 29, 2021

How sepsis need not be fatal

A team of scientists has identified molecular biomarkers associated with sepsis, which could be used to predict patient outcomes and guide treatment. The study found that changes in CD52 expression were linked to good outcomes, while S100A9 acted as a driver of fatal sepsis.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 29, 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.

Scientists target next pandemic with ‘map’ to victory over viruses

Researchers developed an Internet information system, virusMED, to provide a comprehensive picture of viruses' most important regions. The database contains over 800 strains from 75 different families, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza, Ebola, and HIV-1, enabling scientists to respond quickly and effectively against the next pathogen.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·DateSep 29, 2021

Entire genome of common forest pest now revealed

The mapping of the entire genome of the Eurasian spruce bark beetle has provided new insights into its biology and behavior. The analysis reveals that the species has an unusually large number of genes involved in breaking down plant cell walls, but lacks genes to remove toxic substances.

SourceLund University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateSep 29, 2021

Newly approved PET imaging agent solves clinical dilemmas in breast cancer patients

A new PET imaging agent has been shown to solve 87% of diagnostic dilemmas in breast cancer patients, providing valuable information for personalized treatment decision-making. The agent's ability to visualize estrogen receptor expression across the body may improve patient outcomes and support broader implementation in clinical practice.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 29, 2021

How scientists designed the soft lunar landing of the Chang’e-5 module

The Chang'e-5 mission achieved a successful soft lunar landing using an innovative guidance, navigation and control system. The LAM used various sensors to navigate its descent and landing, with multiple sensors providing redundancy to ensure the success of the mission.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalSpace: Science & Technology·TypeNews article·DateSep 29, 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.

Scientists discover a host of reasons for the evolution of social parasites in ants

A team of researchers led by Christian Rabeling has discovered the origins and evolution of social parasitism in ants. The study reveals that social parasites evolved from an ancestor that lost the ability to establish new colonies independently, and that highly specialized parasites can evolve from less complex social parasite syndromes.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2021

When to break from the herd to make a better decision

Researchers found that people are twice as likely to break from the group and make a different choice when they see others hesitating. This hesitation can reveal conflicting information within the group, leading to better outcomes. The study's findings have implications for various situations with herd behavior.

SourceOhio State University·JournalManagement Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2021

On the trail of ocean mercury

A new study published in Nature suggests that rainwater is not the primary deposition vector of oceanic mercury, but rather the ocean itself absorbs mercury through gas exchange. The research also indicates that the ocean receives less atmospheric mercury than previously estimated.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature·DateSep 29, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Stigmatization prevents lessons from the HIV pandemic

Researchers at Bielefeld University argue that stigmatization prevented lessons from the HIV pandemic from being adopted by broader parts of society. This has consequences for dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic. The study highlights the importance of including marginalized groups' perspectives in research to learn from their experiences.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalScience·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 29, 2021

Fathers’ type of debt matters for teenagers’ mental health

A Rutgers University study found that teenagers whose fathers are behind on paying child support suffer from more behavioral problems than those with other types of parental debt. Child support debt can lead to negative consequences for adolescent outcomes, including increased conflict and reduced physical and mental health.

SourceRutgers University·JournalRSF The Russell Sage Foundation Journal of the Social Sciences·DateSep 29, 2021

Human behavior sabotages CO2-reducing strategies

A new study by University of Utah researchers found that energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy investments had limited impact on reducing CO2 emissions. However, policies aimed at improving energy efficiency had no effect, while investment in renewable energy sources led to increased levels of CO2 emissions in the residen...

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 29, 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.

SLAS Technology’s October issue featuring “Establishment of a robust platform for induced pluripotent stem cell research using maholo labdroid” now available

A new platform was established for induced pluripotent stem cell research using Maholo LabDroid, demonstrating superior reproducibility and flexibility. The system enabled the cultivation of undifferentiated iPSCs for 63 days and achieved high differentiation rates with minimal variability.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS TECHNOLOGY·DateSep 29, 2021

Researchers discover unknown childhood genetic condition and its potential cure

Scientists identified a rare genetic condition affecting prenatal development, leading to lifelong disabilities in children. They discovered a potential method to prevent the condition by administering a drug during pregnancy, which boosted Wnt signaling and restored normal growth in mouse embryos.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 29, 2021

Scientists investigate how infection by SARS-CoV-2 can lead to kidney disorders

The study reveals that SARS-CoV-2 damages the kidneys by interacting with ACE2, leading to an imbalance in blood pressure regulation and inflammation. This can result in impaired kidney function, reduced glomerular filtration rate, and increased risk of acute renal injury.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateSep 29, 2021

Marshall University researchers to study health risks during pregnancy

The study aims to identify the health complications and modifiable risk factors of women with MetS and substance use disorder. By analyzing decade-long data from a research database, researchers hope to develop interventions that improve maternal health and reduce related pregnancy complications.

SourceMarshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine·DateSep 29, 2021

For women with dense breasts, MRIs are cost effective for detecting breast cancer

For women with extremely dense breasts, MRI screenings have been found to be more effective than mammography in detecting breast cancer. The additional costs of MRI screenings are more than compensated by their improved effectiveness in preventing death from breast cancer.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 29, 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.

Investigating the potential for life around the galaxy’s smallest stars

Scientists study potential for life around M-dwarf planets with new telescope, finding atmospheres may be dried out due to intense radiation. The James Webb Space Telescope can detect gases in heavy carbon dioxide or oxygen-dominated atmospheres.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 29, 2021

Social inclusion of women by male colleagues in STEM fields can improve their workplace experience

Research suggests that fostering positive workplace social relationships between men and women can improve gender equity and inclusion in STEM. Even small gestures of social inclusion, such as chatting with female teammates during breaks, can reduce stereotypes and increase feelings of engagement.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 2021

Melting glasses from unmeltable compounds

Researchers at Friedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena have created a way to melt normally unmeltable metal-organic framework compounds, or MOFs, into glasses. This process enables the production of glass components for various industrial applications, including energy and environmental technology.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2021

New study suggests that aquaporin could be key to repairing corneal defects

A new study provides evidence supporting the involvement of aquaporins in corneal cell proliferation and nerve regeneration, suggesting AQP5 induction as a potential therapy to accelerate corneal defect resurfacing. The study found that AQP5 deficiency can slow down corneal epithelial repair, but its specific mechanism remained unclear.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 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.

With new NIH Small Business Innovation Research Award, scientists at Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University set to test novel cannabis analog in preclinical studies

Scientists at Temple University will explore the therapeutic potential of KLS-13019, a CBD analog that shows promise as an opioid alternative. The Phase 2 SBIR grant aims to test the compound's effects on rat models of neuropathic pain, shedding light on its safety and efficacy.

SourceTemple University Health System·DateSep 29, 2021

Hippocampus is the brain’s storyteller

Researchers used functional MRI to image the hippocampus of volunteers learning and recalling short stories, finding that coherent memories are woven together. The study suggests the hippocampus brings pieces together across time to form connected, narrative memories.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2021

Extending the power of attosecond spectroscopy

Researchers develop new theory for attosecond transient absorption spectroscopy of polyatomic molecules, revealing electron-nuclear dynamics. The technique provides sufficient resolution to study decoherence of electron motion caused by nuclear rearrangement.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 29, 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.

COVID-19 lockdowns have major impact on diabetes control, international study finds

A comprehensive analysis of 33 studies reveals that COVID-19 lockdowns lead to improved blood sugar control in individuals with type 1 diabetes, while glycaemic control deteriorates and weight gain increases among those with type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that lockdown measures may have allowed people with type 1 diabetes to bette...

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetology & Metabolic Syndrome·DateSep 29, 2021

From recycling to upcycling: A smarter way of dealing with plastic

Researchers at RMIT University have developed a clean and cost-effective way to upcycle used plastic into high-value products such as carbon nanotubes and clean liquid fuel. The two-step process converts organic waste into charcoal, which is then used as a catalyst to upcycle the plastic.

SourceRMIT University·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·DateSep 29, 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.

Extra spacing can boost children’s reading speed

A new study from Anglia Ruskin University found that increasing space between letters can improve reading speed for both dyslexic and non-dyslexic children. Dyslexic children showed a 13% increase in reading speed, while non-dyslexic children saw a 5% improvement.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalResearch in Developmental Disabilities·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2021

What are ideal blood sugar levels for preventing repeat strokes, heart attacks?

A new study published in Neurology suggests that people with diabetes who have had a stroke may benefit from maintaining blood sugar levels between 6.8% and 7.0% to lower the risk of future vascular events. The study found that those admitted to the hospital with A1C levels above 7.0% were at increased risk for heart attacks and strokes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateSep 29, 2021

Let babies play! Study shows free play may help infants learn and develop

Researchers found that infants spend most of their time playing with household objects, suggesting that everyday learning and development occur through spontaneous object interactions. This challenges traditional views of infant behavior as flighty and distractible.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·TypeObservational study·DateSep 29, 2021

Robust gene networks from the depths of our evolutionary history

Researchers have identified a series of genetic switches, called enhancers, that ensure the correct amount and distribution of Gremlin1 protein during embryonic development. This discovery sheds light on the evolutionary history of human limb development and highlights the importance of robust gene networks in shaping our body's form.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2021

Melbourne-made COVID-19 treatment could future-proof Australia

Scientists have discovered antibodies that block the SARS-CoV-2 virus from entering cells in preclinical models. The discovery paves the way for clinical trials of monoclonal antibody treatments to prevent severe COVID-19 infection, and could provide immediate protection against the virus.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2021
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.

Researchers identify and clear efficiency hurdle for organic solar cells

A team of researchers from the University of Cambridge has identified a key loss pathway in organic solar cells that reduces their efficiency. By manipulating molecules inside the solar cell, they found a way to suppress this pathway and potentially overcome the hurdle for organic solar cells to compete with silicon-based cells.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 29, 2021

Quantum dots enable infrared lasing at room temperature for silicon photonics

Colloidal quantum dot technology enables infrared lasing at room temperature, paving the way for low-cost solution-processed and CMOS integrated lasing sources. The breakthrough discovery may facilitate fully integrated silicon photonics, enabling lower power consumption, higher data rates, and multi-spectral 3D imaging capabilities.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Photonics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 29, 2021

Scientists first to achieve Wannier-Stark localization in polycrystals

Researchers from Paderborn University and Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research have successfully demonstrated Wannier-Stark localization in polycrystalline substances. This achievement marks a significant step towards developing affordable optical modulators with broad applications in telecommunications and other fields.

SourceUniversität Paderborn·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 29, 2021

Staying on long-term antidepressants reduces risk of relapse

A new study by UCL researchers has found that staying on long-term antidepressants reduces the risk of relapse by 39% compared to those who stop taking them. The study involved 478 primary care patients and found that 56% experienced a relapse within a year if they discontinued their medication, while only 26% did so after a full year.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 29, 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.

Mars’ surface shaped by fast and furious floods from overflowing craters

Researchers found that lake breach floods played a crucial role in shaping the Martian surface, creating river valleys with nearly a quarter of the Red Planet's total volume. The study's findings suggest that these floods had a lasting impact on the surrounding landscape, influencing the formation of other nearby river valleys.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 29, 2021

Extending LIGO's reach into the cosmos

A new study by LIGO reveals a new type of mirror coating made of titanium oxide and germanium oxide reduces background noise in mirrors by a factor of two. This allows for an eight-fold increase in the volume of space that can be probed, enabling more frequent detection of gravitational waves.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 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.

New tool predicts changes that may make COVID variants more infectious

Researchers at Penn State have created a novel framework to predict amino-acid changes in the virus' spike protein that may improve its binding to human cells and confer increased infectivity. The tool can aid in early implementation of public health measures to prevent the virus's spread.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 2021

ECMO life support offers sickest COVID-19 patients a chance to survive, but a slimmer one than once thought

A new study found that the survival rate of COVID-19 patients on ECMO has decreased over time, with those treated later in the pandemic having lower chances of survival. Careful patient selection and resource management are essential for hospitals offering ECMO to maximize survival rates.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Lancet·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 29, 2021

Notifying pharmacies of discontinued prescriptions helps reduce safety events

A study by Intermountain Healthcare found that notifying pharmacies of discontinued prescriptions can prevent almost 200 safety events over two months. By using a CancelRX functionality in their electronic medical record system, the team was able to avoid these events and ensure patients only receive correct medications.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateSep 29, 2021