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Science News Archive August 2020 - Page 20


Page 20 of 45

Improving protein digestibility in sorghum

Scientists have identified three genes linked to high protein digestibility in sorghum, which could lead to breeding programs to enhance the crop's nutritional value. This breakthrough aims to improve the lives of people in third-world countries and US livestock producers by increasing the protein content of sorghum.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateAug 19, 2020

Study sheds new light on certainty of opinions

Researchers at University at Buffalo suggest that certain people tend to be more confident in their attitudes across various issues, while others are more uncertain. This dispositional attitude certainty is linked to traits like self-esteem and can predict behavior, including choices made on novel items.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateAug 19, 2020

Unlocking the cell enhances student learning of the genetic code

Researchers create a classroom kit containing cell-free protein synthesis technology to teach transcription and translation in a hands-on manner. The Genetic Code Kit significantly improves student learning gains and increases comfort with biotechnology lab techniques, preparing students for graduate programs and careers.

SourceCalifornia Polytechnic State University·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateAug 19, 2020

Microbes living on air a global phenomenon

Researchers have discovered a global phenomenon where microbes thrive on air, expanding the possibilities for microbial life beyond Earth. This process, known as atmospheric chemosynthesis, was previously thought to be unique to Antarctica, but is now found in soils across the Arctic and Tibetan Plateau.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateAug 18, 2020

New 'nanopores' technique offers proof-of-concept of earlier, safer tumor detection

Researchers at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology have developed a nanopore technique that can detect single-point mutations in circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) with high accuracy. The method uses statistical analysis to identify the position of genetic mutations, paving the way for earlier and safer tumor detection.

Constructing odor objects in the brain

A study published in Neuron explains how the brain generates representations of unitary odor objects. The research team used a combination of brain imaging and models to discover clustered representations of mixtures and groups of odors that are conserved across individual flies.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNeuron·DateAug 18, 2020

Penn State to lead $30 million university research alliance

The Penn State-led university research alliance aims to develop high-resolution radiation detectors capable of identifying dirty bombs or concealed radiation materials. The team plans to design low-cost, high-efficiency room-temperature detectors that would eliminate the need for extreme temperatures to control detecting materials.

Insect wings inspire new ways to fight superbugs

Researchers have discovered how insect wing-inspired nanomaterials kill bacteria on contact, with patterns that stretch, slice or tear cells apart. The findings hold promise for developing low-cost and scalable anti-bacterial surfaces for use in implants and hospitals to combat deadly superbugs.

SourceRMIT University·JournalNature Reviews Microbiology·DateAug 18, 2020

Researchers identify enzyme linked to colitis

A Rutgers-Newark study discovered that lysozyme in the gut stimulates inflammation in some people with ulcerative colitis, leading to ulcers and sores in the large intestine. The study may help develop future treatments for inflammatory bowel disease by gaining insights into immune balance.

SourceRutgers University·JournalImmunity·DateAug 18, 2020

Enzyme cocktail developed in Brazil powers production of second-generation ethanol

Researchers at the Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM) have developed a low-cost platform for producing enzymes that break down biomass into fermentable sugar for biofuel conversion. The enzyme cocktail, produced by genetically engineering a fungus, has significant potential industrial applications.

Surprising coral spawning features revealed

A Rutgers-led team discovered that coral sperm and eggs share similar gene functions during the planktonic stage, suggesting a crucial link to their reproductive success. The research, published in PeerJ, highlights the importance of understanding coral gametes' vulnerabilities to climate change.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPeerJ·DateAug 18, 2020

A bright idea -- Genetically engineered proteins for studying neurons using light

Scientists from Okayama University have developed genetically engineered proteins that can be controlled by light, offering a promising new tool for studying neurons. The engineered proteins, based on natural light-regulated channels, can be activated or silenced using different light frequencies, providing finer control over neural ac...

SourceOkayama University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateAug 18, 2020

Assessing SARS-CoV-2 transmission on an international flight

A new case series reports SARS-CoV-2 transmission on a commercial airline flight and among tourists, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures. The study provides valuable insights into the transmission dynamics of SARS-CoV-2, highlighting risk factors and control strategies to mitigate future outbreaks.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 18, 2020