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Science News Archive 2021 - Page 273


Page 273 of 510

Mechanisms of kidney protection by gliflozins

SGLT2 inhibitors like gliflozins reduce the risk of progressing to end-stage kidney disease in both diabetic and non-diabetic patients. The kidneys produce less erythropoietin as a result, which reduces anemia, resulting in reduced renal endpoint, cardiovascular events, and mortality

SourceERA – European Renal Association·DateJun 6, 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.

Regulation of protein homeostasis by cardiac glycosides

Researchers discovered periplocin, a potent inhibitor of the IRE1-XBP1 axis, which suppresses the unfolded protein response (UPR). Cardiac glycosides, commonly used for cardiac insufficiency therapy, also exhibited similar UPR-suppressing effects.

SourceNagoya City University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 6, 2021

New marine scale worm species first to provide evidence of male dwarfism

Researchers have discovered a new marine scale worm species exhibiting male dwarfism, which is rare in the animal kingdom. The discovery sheds light on extreme sexual size dimorphism and highlights the unique environmental factors that may lead to such phenomena.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalJournal of Zoological Systematics & Evolutionary Research·DateJun 5, 2021

Structural uniqueness of the green- and red-light sensing photosensor in cyanobacteria

Researchers elucidated the molecular structure of RcaE, a representative cyanobacterial photosensor, revealing its unique conformation and potential proton transfer route to bilin. The study provides insights into how cyanobacteria evolved diverse spectral sensitivities and contributes to the development of new photoswitches.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 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.

Magnetism drives metals to insulators in new experiment

Researchers demonstrate Slater mechanism using pyrochlore oxide, a compound with minimal other metal-insulator transition mechanisms. The study provides new insights into fundamental questions about material behavior and has potential applications in spintronics.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 2021

NTU scientists establish new records of Singapore's sea-level history

Researchers have extended Singapore's sea-level record to nearly 10,000 years ago, providing a more robust dataset to aid future predictions. The findings also reveal the first conclusive evidence that mangroves only existed in the Marina South area for around 300 years before succumbing to flooding associated with rising sea levels.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalThe Holocene·DateJun 4, 2021

Preventing suicide among a 'hidden population' in public housing

African American families living in public housing face unique challenges that contribute to high rates of suicidal behavior among young people. The study suggests that culturally tailored interventions delivered within public housing communities could be effective in preventing suicides.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities·DateJun 4, 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.

Don't like your greens? Blame it on Brassica domestication

A new study has identified the genetic root of bitter taste in greens like broccoli rabe and bok choy. The research team reconstructed an evolutionary tree from DNA sequences analysis of over 400 Brassica rapa varieties, revealing that Central Asian turnips were the most genetically diverse crops.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJun 4, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Vitamin D may not protect against COVID-19, as previously suggested

A new study from McGill University found no genetic evidence that vitamin D works as a protective measure against COVID-19. The study analyzed 14,134 individuals with COVID-19 and over 1.2 million without the disease, but found no difference between vitamin D levels and severity of illness.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 4, 2021

Soft tissue measurements critical to hominid reconstruction

Researchers have formulated a facial soft tissue thickness dataset for adult chimpanzees, providing a foundation for reconstructing the faces of ancient hominids. The dataset and regression equations will help reduce variability in reconstructions, offering a more accurate representation of our human ancestors.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 4, 2021

New drug effective against lung cancers caused by common genetic error

A new drug, sotorasib, has shown significant benefit in treating non-small-cell lung cancer patients with a specific KRAS mutation. The study found that 37.1% of patients experienced tumor shrinkage and 82% saw slowing of tumor growth.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 4, 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.

Automated and networked driving -- really wanted or rejected?

The TEMPUS project explores how people with varying needs will interact with self-driving vehicles and how to make urban traffic safer for all road users. Researchers are using surveys, focus group discussions, workshops, and observations to gather insights into user acceptance and human-technology interaction.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·DateJun 4, 2021

Geologist identifies new form of quasicrystal

A new type of manmade quasicrystal created by the first test blast of an atomic bomb has been identified by a UMass Lowell geologist. The substance holds promise for various applications such as bone repair, heat insulation and converting heat to electricity.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 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.

Genomics-informed decisions can help save species from extinction

A new study suggests that excluding individuals with harmful mutations and selecting those from multiple source populations can improve the success of translocation programs for threatened species. Computer simulations show that this approach can minimize inbreeding depression and ensure population survival.

SourceLund University·JournalScience·DateJun 4, 2021

Gene protection for COVID-19 identified

Researchers discovered a genetic link between the HLA-DRB1*04:01 gene and reduced severity of COVID-19. The study found that individuals with this gene are three times more likely to remain asymptomatic compared to those without, suggesting potential protection against severe illness.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalHLA·DateJun 4, 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.

Public awareness, willingness to use gun violence restraining orders

A survey study in California found that public awareness of extreme risk protection orders is low, and many people are unwilling to use them to prevent firearm-related harm. The study suggests that targeted education and awareness campaigns can improve public understanding and encourage the use of these orders.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateJun 4, 2021

How to retard time for cells

Heavy water significantly reduces cellular dynamics without damaging cells, a finding with implications for organ transplants and tissue storage. The study's results suggest increased interaction between structural proteins and reversible effects, paving the way for further research into this phenomenon.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 4, 2021

Using HPC and experiment, researchers continue to refine graphene production

Using high-performance computing (HPC) and experiments, researchers continue to develop more efficient methods for producing graphene at the industrial scale. The team used GCS HPC resources to run simulations of graphene formation on liquid copper, aiming to create a faster and cheaper method for large-scale production.

SourceGauss Centre for Supercomputing·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 4, 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.

MLB 'FEVER' -- improved elbow MRI view for Major League Baseball pitchers

A new imaging technique, flexed elbow valgus external rotation (FEVER) view, has been shown to improve the evaluation of ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries in Major League Baseball pitchers. This study found increased joint space width and diagnostic confidence with FEVER view compared to standard positioning.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateJun 4, 2021

New University of Kentucky research may offer hope for Alzheimer's patients

Researchers at the University of Kentucky have developed a new technology that can simultaneously measure glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain on a second-by-second basis. The study aims to explore the balance of these neurotransmitters in the aging brain and could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·DateJun 4, 2021

"Mexican variant" and monitoring actions of SARS-CoV-2 genome

A new SARS-CoV-2 variant, T478K, has been identified in over 50% of viruses in North America, particularly in Mexico, where it spreads rapidly among all age groups. The mutation in the Spike protein alters its interaction with the human receptor ACE2, potentially hindering drug efficacy and immune system antibodies.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalJournal of Medical Virology·DateJun 4, 2021

Attentive listening helps teens open up, study finds

A new study found that engaged listening techniques like eye contact and praising openness help teenagers feel more authentic and connected with their parents. The research showed that being more attentive while listening made teenagers feel better about themselves and more likely to open up again in the future.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateJun 4, 2021

Disparities in COVID-19 rates among adults with kidney failure in New York City

A study found substantial racial/ethnic disparities in COVID-19 rates among adults with kidney failure undergoing hemodialysis in New York City. Black and Hispanic patients were more likely to develop symptomatic COVID-19, with neighborhood social vulnerability factors not explaining the disparities.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJun 4, 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.

Newly approved drug effective against lung cancer caused by genetic mutation

The FDA-approved drug sotorasib has been shown to reduce tumor size and improve survival among patients with non-small-cell lung cancer caused by a specific DNA mutation. The study involved 126 patients who showed significant responses to the treatment, including 34% achieving partial response and 3% complete response.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 4, 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.

Geostationary Earth Orbit Hyperspectral Infrared Radiance data improve local severe storm forecasts proofed by using a new Hybrid OSSE method

Researchers used the hybrid OSSE method to evaluate the impact of GEO hyperspectral IR data on local severe storm forecasts. The study found improved atmospheric temperature, moisture, and precipitation forecasts, with a 5% Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) reduction.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 4, 2021

New study into green tea's potential to help tackle COVID-19

A study by Swansea University researchers suggests that a compound found in green tea could combat the coronavirus behind COVID-19. The team used an artificial intelligence-aided computer programme to screen and sort natural compounds, identifying gallocatechin as a potential lead compound.

SourceSwansea University·JournalRSC Advances·DateJun 4, 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.

Collaboration controls killers

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital studied enhancers that regulate Foxp3 gene expression to control effector and killer T cells. They found that these enhancers work together to curb the immune cells' activity, ensuring they only attack cancer cells.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJun 4, 2021

Giving brown fat a boost to fight type 2 diabetes

A new study suggests that increasing a protein in brown adipose tissue remodels white fat to lower diabetes risk. The research found that genetically engineered mice with extra protein had lower blood sugar and insulin sensitivity.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 2021

Plant competition during climate change

Researchers investigated plant competition under dual stressors of extreme drought and invasive species, finding dynamic interactions that amplify or buffer each other. Cork oak trees surprisingly recover better than expected after extreme drought when the invasive gum rockrose is also affected.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNew Phytologist·DateJun 4, 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.

Fungus creates a fast track for carbon

Researchers discovered that fungus creates an underappreciated express lane for carbon, diverting up to 20% of fixed carbon from the microbial loop. This finding has implications for climate change mitigation and management of industrial and recreational settings dealing with harmful algal blooms.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2021

SLAS Discovery's June issue on synthetic biology available now

The June edition of SLAS Discovery features the cover article on developing high-throughput biochemical assays to assess small molecule impact on SARS-CoV-2 nonstructural protein 14. The issue also includes nine original research articles, covering topics such as HIV latency reversal, kinase inhibitors, and drug combination screening.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS DISCOVERY·DateJun 4, 2021

Self-excising designer proteins report isoform expression

Scientists at Helmholtz Zentrum München developed a new bioengineered reporter system called EXSISERS, enabling non-invasive observation of fundamental cellular processes. The system detects specific protein isoforms being translated, with potential applications in neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJun 4, 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.

Technique inspired by lace making could someday weave structures in space

Researchers at Princeton University developed a new reconfigurable structure, called bigon rings, that can change shape under variable conditions. The technique, inspired by lace making, has potential applications in space exploration, wearable technology, and other fields.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalJournal of the Mechanics and Physics of Solids·DateJun 4, 2021

A novel tuberculosis regimen shortens treatment course for patients

Researchers have found a new four-month antibiotic regimen using rifapentine to be effective in treating TB, reducing the treatment duration by two months. The study showed that patients with HIV also cleared their TB just as well as those without HIV.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 4, 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.

Why scientists want to solve an underground mystery about where microbes live

Researchers at Boston University create first-of-its-kind model to predict abundance of different species of soil microbes in various environments. The model takes into account environmental factors such as plant species, pH, temperature and climate, and has huge implications for agriculture, climate change and public health.

SourceBoston University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJun 4, 2021