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Science News Archive August 2021 - Page 22


Page 22 of 38

The good herb: buckwheat liquor helps cells clean house

Researchers from Osaka University found that quercetin in buckwheat liquor induces autophagy, a process that cleans up damaged proteins, and aggrephagy, which removes protein aggregates. This could lead to new treatments for diseases like Alzheimer's and alcoholic liver disease.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAntioxidants·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 2021

Table-top electron camera catches ultrafast dynamics of matter

Researchers at DESY create a table-top electron camera that captures the inner, ultrafast dynamics of matter by shooting short bunches of electrons at a sample. The system uses Terahertz radiation for pulse compression and is validated with the investigation of a silicon sample.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalUltrafast Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 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.

How nitrogen-doped fluorescent carbon dots are aiding the fight against disease

Researchers developed nitrogen-doped fluorescent carbon dots for multi-mechanism detection of iodide ion and curcumin in complex biological and food samples. The NCDs showed remarkable sensitivity, low detection limit, and good selectivity, making them a promising prospect for biosensing and disease diagnosis.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalBioactive Materials·DateAug 16, 2021

Night shift work is linked to increased risk of heart problems

Research found that longer and more frequent night shifts increase the risk of atrial fibrillation and coronary heart disease. Genetic predisposition did not affect the link between night shifts and AF risk.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeObservational study·DateAug 16, 2021

History of the spread of pepper (C. annuum) is an early example of global trade

Genomic data analyzed over 10,000 pepper samples from worldwide genebanks to reconstruct the history of pepper's global expansion. The study found significant duplication of samples and regions with unique peppers, indicating human culture played a primary role in shaping pepper's spread globally.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 2021

3D ordered channel enhances electrocatalysis

Researchers developed a theory-guided microchemical engineering approach to optimize electrocatalytic performance of methanol oxidation reaction in 3D ordered and crossed-linked channels. Increasing the channel size promoted mass transfer, weakening vertical electron flow, leading to optimal performance.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 16, 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.

New analysis reveals how region-wide policies might be ineffective in eliminating local risk factors for coronavirus spread

Researchers found regional lockdowns did not sufficiently address local COVID-19 risk differences in Italy. Instead, targeted interventions focused on high-risk areas could help strike a better balance between public health and economic damage. The study provides guidance for policy-makers to design effective interventions.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·DateAug 16, 2021

Scientists with the help of computer modeling discover a substance that blocks coronavirus

Researchers at South Ural State University used computer modeling to identify a substance that can block the spread of coronavirus. The study found that ligands must match RNA polymerase as closely as possible to be effective, and scientists have developed an equation to test other ligands' effectiveness on receptors.

SourceSouth Ural State University·JournalMolecules·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 16, 2021

Berkeley Lab science snapshots

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have made significant breakthroughs in developing a highly effective COVID-19 antibody therapy and an efficient thermoelectric system that can convert waste heat to electricity. The new antibody, S309, has been shown to neutralize all known SARS-CoV-2 strains and may be more difficult for new mutants to escape.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateAug 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.

Penn researchers unlock genetic ‘treasure map’ for chronic kidney disease

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have identified 182 genes likely responsible for kidney function and 88 genes for hypertension. The study provides a clearer picture of the genetic underpinnings of chronic kidney disease, paving the way for potential treatments.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 2021

Survivors of trauma struggle to move on from the loss of loved ones

A study found that trauma survivors who experienced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms were more likely to experience complicated grief, a type of prolonged and intense sorrow. Researchers suggest that treating PTSD symptoms early may help prevent persistent grief in the long term.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychological Trauma Theory Research Practice and Policy·TypeObservational study·DateAug 16, 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.

Chaos in the brain

A defective KCNQ3 channel disrupts the brain's navigation system, leading to disorganized place cell activity patterns. This study provides new insights into the role of KCNQ3 channels in Alzheimer's disease and other cognitive disorders, suggesting potential targets for future drug research.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 16, 2021

Robotic floats provide new look at ocean health and global carbon cycle

The deployment of thousands of autonomous robots called BGC-Argo floats is transforming our understanding of marine primary productivity on a global scale. By measuring oxygen production over time, researchers can estimate net primary productivity and shed light on the ocean's role in storing carbon.

SourceMonterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute·JournalNature Geoscience·DateAug 16, 2021

New analysis of landmark scurvy study leads to update on vitamin C needs

A new study reanalyzes the Sorby vitamin C experiment, a landmark trial that determined the minimum vitamin C requirements for preventing scurvy. The analysis suggests that the recommended daily intake of 45mg may be too low to prevent weak scar strength.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 16, 2021

Insects’ sense of smell gives insight into better repellent design and drug screening

Researchers studied insect olfactory system to improve repellent design and drug screening. They found that chemoreceptor tuning depends on ligand-binding subunit identity, revealing diverse molecular mechanisms. These findings have potential applications in 'mammalian' chemogenetics and insect-based research.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalMolecular Biology Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 2021

Antipsychotics during pregnancy

This observational study found no association between prenatal antipsychotic exposure and increased risk of preterm birth, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism spectrum disorder in children. The study's findings suggest that antipsychotics during pregnancy do not pose a significant risk to fetal development.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 16, 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.

Inflatable robotic hand gives amputees real-time tactile control

Engineers at MIT have developed a soft, lightweight neuroprosthetic hand that enables amputees to perform daily activities with ease. The prosthetic features a system for tactile feedback, allowing users to feel sensations in their residual limb, and is potentially low-cost for low-income families.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateAug 16, 2021

Evaluation of data from a large-scale SARS-CoV-2 surveillance study reveals that comorbidities predict positive RT-PCR testing. Study finds equal risk of asymptomatic infection among children, teenagers, and working-age adults

A large-scale surveillance study in Madurai, India, found that comorbidities are a significant predictor of positive RT-PCR testing. The study also revealed an equal risk of asymptomatic infection among children, teenagers, and working-age adults, highlighting the importance of non-communicable disease control in COVID-19 containment s...

SourceCenter for Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateAug 16, 2021

Locations of Riemann Zeros accurately measured

A team from USTC measures first 80 Riemann zeros using a trapped-ion qubit in a Paul trap, achieving high precision. This work provides an experimental basis for studying the Hilbert–Pólya conjecture and understanding the connection between Riemann hypothesis and quantum systems.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·Journalnpj Quantum Information·DateAug 16, 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.

Russian scientists investigate the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 variants

Researchers assessed effectiveness of T-cell immune response to 11 SARS-CoV-2 variants, identifying HLA gene variants with significantly changed virus peptides. The T-cell COVID-19 Atlas portal (T-CoV) provides a comprehensive resource for understanding the impact of viral mutations on immunity.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateAug 15, 2021

Researchers develop new way to study neurodegenerative diseases

Rutgers researchers have developed a novel technique to quantify protein droplets involved in neurodegenerative diseases. The technique measures the surface tension and viscosity of protein droplets, allowing for improved understanding of disease mechanisms and potential drug treatments.

SourceRutgers University·JournalBiophysical Reports·DateAug 13, 2021

Russian researchers present ultra-precise brain imaging tool

A team from the Russian Quantum Center developed a novel solid-state supersensitive room-temperature magnetometer capable of registering weak electrical sources in the brain. The device successfully detected alpha rhythm, a sinusoidal electric current in the back of the brain, and showed higher sensitivity than existing systems.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 2021

‘Missing jigsaw piece’: engineers make critical advance in quantum computer design

Quantum engineers at the University of New South Wales have discovered a new technique to control millions of spin qubits, a critical step towards building a practical quantum computer. This breakthrough uses a novel component called a dielectric resonator to focus microwave power and deliver uniform magnetic fields across the chip.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 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.

Uncovering trends and gaps in Hispanic population health research

Researchers analyzed over 100 datasets to identify changes in Hispanic population health research from 1960 to 2019. They found an increase in studies including adult populations and measures of ethnic and racial identity, but noted gaps in data on children and youth, gender identity, and immigration status.

SourceTexas A&M University·TypeNews article·DateAug 13, 2021

Back to the land: Research helps farmers sequester soil carbon

Research by Wuletawu Abera and his team has shown that vegetation cover combined with earthworks like retaining walls or trenches can help increase the amount of carbon stored in the soil. The studies focused on the Ethiopian highlands, where land degradation has led to erosion and loss of soil organic matter.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·DateAug 13, 2021

Men, Conservative Party supporters and Brexit-backers more likely to support the use of nuclear weapons, study shows

A recent study published in the European Journal of International Security found that men and supporters of the Conservative Party are more likely to support the use of nuclear weapons. The study analyzed data from the new UK Security Survey and found that those who voted to leave the EU and endorsed superior military power worldwide w...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEuropean Journal of International Security·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 13, 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.

COVID-19-related insurance coverage changes, access to care disparities

A survey study found significant disparities in insurance coverage and access to health care among low-income families and people of color across four Southern states during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study revealed increased challenges in accessing medical care due to limited insurance coverage and other factors.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateAug 13, 2021

Three-layered control of mRNA tails

A new study reveals that multiple pathways regulate poly(A) tail lengths in yeast, involving poly(A) binding proteins and a self-regulating pathway. This discovery sheds light on the complex control of mRNA tails and their impact on protein production.

SourceAarhus University·JournalGenes & Development·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 2021

Why boiling droplets can race across hot oily surfaces

Researchers at MIT have quantified the phenomenon for the first time, finding that boiling droplets on hot oily surfaces move rapidly due to a thin oil cloak coating the outside of each water droplet. This cloak acts as a kind of balloon skin, holding vapor bubbles in place and imparting momentum.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 13, 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.

Corals survive the heat with bacterial help

Researchers found that a probiotic cocktail of beneficial bacteria increases coral survival after a bleaching event. The approach could be administered in advance to help corals recover from high sea temperatures. Probiotic treatment improved coral response and recovery, boosting survival from 60% to 100%.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 2021

Just 10% of kids with ADHD outgrow it, study finds

A new study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that most children diagnosed with ADHD don't outgrow the disorder. In fact, researchers followed a group of 558 children with ADHD for 16 years and found that only 10% completely outgrew it.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateAug 13, 2021

‘Likes’ and ‘shares’ teach people to express more outrage online

A new Yale University study reveals that social media platforms like Twitter amplify expressions of moral outrage over time, encouraging users to express more outrage with increased likes and shares. This finding has significant implications for leaders and policymakers who use these platforms.

SourceYale University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 13, 2021

Polymer enables tougher recyclable thermoplastics

Cornell researchers created a chemically recyclable thermoplastic by synthesizing long polymer chains using a special catalyst. The resulting material, poly(1,3-dioxolane) or PDXL, has high tensile strength and can be easily depolymerized back to its monomer state, making it suitable for large-scale applications like packaging products.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateAug 13, 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.

Genetic program protects neurons from degeneration

Researchers at the University of Bonn identified a genetic program in fruit flies that controls neuron development and protection. The program, which involves the WNK gene, has similar functions in humans and may hold the key to understanding and treating neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNeuron·DateAug 13, 2021

Navigating the corn maze: FSU researchers develop technique to map out ‘light switches’ of maize genome

Researchers at Florida State University have developed a technique called MOA-seq to map DNA sequences in maize, allowing them to identify regulatory switches that control gene expression. This knowledge could lead to healthier plants, higher nutrient content, and better growth resistance, ultimately improving crop yields.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 13, 2021

Scientists develop a new instrument to measure atmospheric ammonia

A new instrument measures atmospheric ammonia with high sensitivity and fast response, allowing for accurate quantification of NH3 emissions from agricultural ecosystems. The open-path design overcomes challenges faced by close-path instruments, enabling long-term and automated measurements.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAgricultural and Forest Meteorology·DateAug 13, 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.

Scientists take step to improve crops’ photosynthesis, yields

Researchers at Cornell University have made a significant breakthrough in improving crop yields by enhancing photosynthesis. By removing the enzyme carbonic anhydrase from chloroplasts, scientists have found that plants can still undergo photosynthesis without compromising their growth, paving the way for more efficient food production.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 13, 2021

Dog coat patterns have ancient origin

A new study by Professor Danika Bannasch and colleagues reveals that five distinct dog coat patterns have an ancient origin, dating back over 2 million years. The research suggests that lighter coat colors would have been advantageous to an extinct canid ancestor in arctic environments during glaciation periods.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 2021

Fels and Fox Chase researchers highlight roles of TET2 and DNMT3A mutations in personalized medicine-guided synthetic lethality against leukemia

Fels and Fox Chase researchers found specific TET2 and DNMT3A mutations in leukemia patients that affect DNA repair pathways. These mutations make leukemia cells sensitive to PARP inhibitors, a type of targeted therapy, while others are resistant. The study aims to develop personalized therapies for patients with these mutations.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 13, 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.

Microbial study reveals extended lifespan of starved bacteria

A study led by Jay T. Lennon found that nearly all bacterial populations persisted for 1,000 days without external food, with some having lifespans exceeding 100,000 years. This suggests that microbes can survive long periods of energy limitation and evolve under such conditions.

SourceIndiana University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 2021

The Lancet Oncology: Excluding race factors during kidney function evaluation may impact treatment of Black cancer patients

An analysis of 15 years of phase 1 clinical trial data found that removing race factors during kidney function evaluation may decrease the proportion of Black patients recommended to receive full doses of anticancer drugs. This could ultimately affect their clinical outcomes. The study used the CKD-EPI equation, which calculates a high...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 13, 2021

Brain cholesterol regulates Alzheimer's plaques, study reveals

Researchers used advanced imaging techniques to show that cholesterol regulates the production of Amyloid Beta (Aβ) in the brain, a key feature of Alzheimer's disease. Cholesterol helps maintain clusters of molecules called lipid rafts, where enzymes cleave Aβ.

SourceScripps Research Institute·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 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.

Getting cell culture research right

A study analyzing 810 papers found that most cell culture experiments neglected environmental conditions, affecting the accuracy of results. The team recommends standard reporting procedures and instruments for better monitoring and control of culture environments.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 13, 2021

Cancer patients use less marijuana than general public

A study by Virginia Commonwealth University found that cancer patients reported lower rates of marijuana use between 2013 and 2018, with only 9% using the substance. Higher pain levels and certain demographics were linked to increased marijuana use in this population.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalCancer·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 13, 2021

UCI researchers find vital enzyme holds key to the fight against cancer and viral infections

A study by UCI researchers reveals two ways APOBEC3A is controlled in response to stress, offering potential therapeutic strategies against cancers and viral infections. The findings could lead to new treatments that prevent DNA mutations caused by the enzyme, reducing disease progression and resistance.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 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.