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Science News Archive 2021


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

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.

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.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

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.

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.

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.

"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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

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.

Nutritional supplement proves 92% effective in boosting brain function

A nutritional supplement, IQed Smart Nutrition, has been found to improve expressive speech and communication skills for people with autism, apraxia, and ADHD. The supplement reported improvements in 83.8% of respondents, with the highest observed improvement being 88.1% in vocalizations.

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.