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Science News for December 10, 2021


A step toward “living biotherapeutics”

The coating protects bacteria during the freeze-drying and manufacturing process, allowing them to be used therapeutically. The researchers tested the coating on a strain of E. coli and another species that aids in digestion of plant starches.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 10, 2021

Nasal vaccine may aid fight against new viral variants

A new study found that intranasal vaccination provides broad-based protection against respiratory viruses in mice, while systemic immunization did not. The nasal vaccine triggers a localized immune response through IgA antibodies, which can be used to add reinforcements at the source of infection.

SourceYale University·JournalScience Immunology·DateDec 10, 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.

New biomarkers could predict rheumatoid arthritis susceptibility

Researchers identified epimutations in cheek cells that can predict rheumatoid arthritis susceptibility. The discovery could lead to a non-invasive diagnostic test for the disease. Biomarkers were found in both Caucasian and African-American women with rheumatoid arthritis, suggesting a strong signal for the disease.

SourceWashington State University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

New phenomenon: Forest mammals eavesdrop on messy monkeys

Researchers discovered that forest mammals eavesdrop on monkey meals to access fruit dropped by messy eaters. This eavesdropping strategy is crucial for these animals' survival, particularly during periods when almond trees produce abundant food.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalBiotropica·DateDec 10, 2021

Human-like brain helps robot out of a maze

Researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology developed a robot that can learn to move through a labyrinth using a human-like brain. The robot, based on the Mindstorms EV3 kit, uses synapses to 'tune' its resistance and navigate the maze in 16 runs. Its ability to generalize its learning makes it suitable for various applications.

SourceEindhoven University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Tumor evolution

Researchers analyzed 140 neuroblastoma samples to understand the genetic changes associated with the disease. They found that mutations can disappear and reappear, occurring in distinct sections or individual cells, making targeted therapy less effective.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 10, 2021

Grip or slip; robots need a human sense of touch

A recent study published in PNAS reveals that humans can instantly estimate slipperiness of a surface by detecting radial strain in the fingertip skin during initial contact. This innovation has significant implications for robotics and prosthetics design.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 10, 2021

River animals just go with the flow

Researchers observed diverse aquatic biota in post-flood communities, with changes in flow dynamics and water chemistry supporting biological adaptation. The study highlights the role of floods in shaping floodplain ecosystems.

SourceKyoto University·TypeObservational study·DateDec 10, 2021

Aging stiffens the blood vessels but their flexibility also fluctuates based on a woman’s hormone state

A study found that arterial stiffness increases with age, but hormonal fluctuations also play a role. Women's hormone levels, particularly estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone, were associated with stiffer arteries, while older women had stiffer vessels regardless of hormone status.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalFrontiers in Endocrinology·DateDec 10, 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.

AI models microprocessor performance in real-time

A new AI algorithm, APOLLO, accurately predicts microprocessor power consumption by analyzing just 100 signals out of millions, offering potential to improve efficiency and develop new processors. The technique has been validated on high-performance microprocessors and could help designers inform future chip design.

SourceDuke University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 10, 2021

A longer-lasting COVID vaccine? UCLA study points the way

Researchers at UCLA have identified rare T cells capable of targeting a protein found in SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses. By adding a fragment of this protein to vaccines, they hope to create a longer-lasting immune response and increase protection against new variants. This breakthrough could lead to more effective COVID-19 vaccines.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

Potentially serious side effect seen in patient after immunotherapy

A case study published in Nature Medicine reports a patient experiencing progressive neurological features resembling Parkinson's disease after CAR-T cell therapy, suggesting potential neurotoxicity. The study highlights the importance of monitoring for neurotoxicity in patients receiving BCMA-targeted CAR-T therapies.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 10, 2021

Access and equity around biodiversity data is at the forefront of international negotiations

The article highlights the importance of access and equity in sharing biodiversity data, with scientists warning that unequal distribution of genetic data and benefits is hindering innovation and conservation efforts. The CBD and Plant Treaty need reform to address this issue.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalPlants People Planet·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 10, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Development of a high-energy-resolution, LaB6 nanowire-based field emission gun

A team of researchers from NIMS and JEOL have developed a lanthanum hexaboride (LaB6) nanowire-based field emission gun for high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The gun achieves an energy resolution of 0.2 eV, enabling atomic-level observation.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

Infant stars identified at the center of our galaxy

Three young stars have been discovered at the center of our galaxy, contradicting initial assumptions about a gas and dust cloud called G2. The unusual temperature of G2 has sparked debate among astronomers, but new observations reveal it is actually composed of three evolving young stars.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateDec 10, 2021

MicroRNAs: Biological indicators of the physiological status of animals

Researchers have discovered microRNAs that can detect ovulation and egg quality in fish, and also identify growth signatures. These findings could lead to the development of non-invasive biomarkers for monitoring animal physiological states, enabling cost-effective and accessible information on health.

SourceINRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment·JournalBMC Biology·DateDec 10, 2021

Anaerobic digestion: NMR, a fast and reliable method for assessing the gas production potential of organic waste

Researchers used NMR analysis to determine lipid content in organic waste, achieving higher accuracy and speed than Soxhlet method. The new technique is faster, more accurate, and environmentally friendly, paving the way for improved anaerobic digestion processes.

SourceINRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment·JournalWaste Management·DateDec 10, 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 understanding of plant nutrient response could improve fertilizer management strategies

A new study reveals that balancing iron and phosphorus levels is crucial to prevent chlorosis, a condition associated with yellowing leaves. The research team found that removing phosphorus can help restore photosynthesis, highlighting the need for more environmentally friendly agricultural practices.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

Did the Lockdown Lead to More or Fewer Non-COVID Deaths?

Research finds lockdowns led to significant reductions in non-COVID mortality, with a decrease of 12.5% after loosening measures, resulting in the prevention of 293,000 deaths. Improved air quality and increased sanitizing surfaces also contributed to fewer deaths from infectious diseases.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateDec 10, 2021

HKU teams develop the first anti-COVID-19 stainless steel

Researchers created anti-COVID-19 stainless steel with alloying elements, inactivating viruses on its surface. The material can replace frequently touched public products to reduce COVID-19 transmission risk.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateDec 10, 2021

Can diamonds originate methane?

Researchers successfully reproduced the formation of methane from diamonds under high-pressure conditions, shedding light on the deep Earth's carbon cycle. This finding suggests that hydrocarbons like methane can be created without biological activities, which has significant implications for our understanding of the planet's climate.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 10, 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.

Affordability of medical care among Medicare enrollees

A survey study of 13,000 Medicare enrollees found that unaffordable medical care is prevalent among those with lower incomes or worse health conditions. The study highlights the need for healthcare policies to address this issue and ensure access to necessary medical care for all eligible individuals.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateDec 10, 2021

Quantum communication research network launched

A €35 million German research project is developing a quantum communication network to enhance the security of sensitive information exchange. The network aims to overcome current limitations in transmitting quantum signals over long distances, enabling reliable communication over larger areas.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateDec 10, 2021

Development of a versatile, accurate AI prediction technique even with a small number of experiments

Researchers developed an AI technique to predict material properties using a small number of experiments, improving accuracy and facilitating digital transformation in materials development. The technique uses Bayesian optimization and incorporates measurement data into machine learning models.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalScience and Technology of Advanced Materials Methods·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 10, 2021

Resolving the puzzles of graphene superconductivity

Researchers provide explanation for superconductivity in trilayer graphene, reconciling two seemingly contradictory phenomena. The new theory suggests that an interaction between electrons provides the 'glue' that holds them together, leading to unconventional superconductivity.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 10, 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.

Atom laser creates reflective patterns similar to light

Researchers at Washington State University have created a technique to observe matter wave caustics in atom lasers, resulting in curving cusps or folds. These findings have potential applications for highly precise measurement and timing devices, including interferometers and atomic clocks.

SourceWashington State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

Women, older adults with college degrees more likely to feel socially isolated during COVID-19

A new study suggests that women and older adults with college degrees are more likely to report feeling socially isolated during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research highlights the need for culturally sensitive initiatives to mitigate social isolation in vulnerable populations, including Hispanic and African American communities.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateDec 10, 2021

First structure of human protein complex with ‘licence to kill’

Researchers have visualized the first structure of a human cell death complex linked to autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. The discovery could lead to new treatments for inflammatory bowel disease, renal injury, diabetes, and other conditions. The study reveals how RIPK3 proteins regulate necroptosis, a type of inflammatory cell death.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 10, 2021

A new mechanism for generation of vesicles that transport molecules and vaccine nanoparticles into living cells

Scientists have identified a biomolecular condensate as the key to initiating endocytosis, a process by which cells absorb nutrients and regulate hormone sensitivity. The discovery sheds light on how membrane buckling occurs and has implications for understanding diseases such as cancers, heart disease, and neuropsychiatric disorders.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 10, 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.

Infant immune systems are stronger than you think

A new study reveals that infant immune systems are robust and efficient, allowing them to quickly respond to new pathogens. This may explain why infants are less affected by COVID-19 than adults, who take longer to react.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

Mutations in TP53 gene linked to aggressive prostate cancer

A study found that men with Li-Fraumeni syndrome have a 25-fold increased risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer, and those with inherited TP53 variants are diagnosed at a young age. Routine screening for prostate cancer is recommended for these individuals.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalEuropean Urology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 10, 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.

Widespread plants displace rarer species across habitats

A new study reveals that widely distributed plant species are outcompeting rarer species for resources in European habitats. This shift is driven by increased nutrient levels in soils due to human activity, leading to competitive exclusion of smaller-ranged specialist species.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalEcology Letters·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 10, 2021

Seasonal temperature impacts patient lab results

Temperature fluctuations in labs affect over 90% of individual tests and 51 assays, including kidney function and lipid panels. Laboratories can statistically adjust for ambient temperature to reduce weather-related variability.

SourceCell Press·JournalMed·TypeObservational study·DateDec 10, 2021

Differentiating friends from foes in the fungal root microbiome

Researchers found that many beneficial fungi in plant roots retain ancestral pathogenic capabilities, with some strains causing detrimental effects. A key gene family encoding enzymes that degrade plant cell walls was identified as a driver of these negative effects.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 10, 2021

A mechanism that allows cells to stop their polarized growth when under stress conditions described

Researchers from the Oxidative Stress and Cell Cycle Research Group at UPF have discovered a mechanism by which cells stop their polarized growth when under stress conditions. The study, published in Cell Reports, found that the MAP kinase Sty1 pathway deregulates the equilibrium between Cdc42 activators and inhibitors.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 10, 2021
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.

Chemicals from hair and beauty products impact hormones, especially during pregnancy

A new Rutgers study found that the use of hair products like hair dyes, bleach, relaxers, and mousse is associated with lower levels of sex steroid hormones in pregnant women. Disruptions to these hormones may contribute to adverse maternal and pregnancy outcomes. Socioeconomic variables also influence personal care product use among p...

SourceRutgers University·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeObservational study·DateDec 10, 2021

A newly discovered anti-senescence function of Vitamin B2

Researchers at Kobe University discover that adding Vitamin B2 to stressed cells increases mitochondrial energy production and prevents cellular senescence. This finding has potential implications for preventing age-related disorders and extending healthy lifespans.

SourceKobe University·JournalMolecular Biology of the Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

Speaking "baby talk" to infants isn’t just cute: It could help them learn to make words

Research from the University of Florida found that baby talk can stimulate motor production of speech in infants. By mimicking infant vocal tracts, babies learn how words should sound coming out of their mouths. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the role of baby talk in language development.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalSpeech Language and Hearing·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 10, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Asthma may reduce risk of brain tumors -- but how?

Researchers found that asthma causes immune cells to behave in a way that prevents brain tumor growth, suggesting a potential new therapeutic approach. The findings suggest reprogramming T cells to act like those in asthma patients could be a new treatment for brain tumors.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

Dinosaurs and amber: a new window to the Cretaceous world from 110 million years ago

Researchers have reconstructed a swampy paleoenvironment with conifers and diverse plants from 110 million years ago, featuring dinosaurs like Proa valdearinnoensis and Europelta carbonensis. The study of Ariño amber has enabled the differentiation of two types of resin, one produced by tree roots and another by branches, providing ins...

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournaleLife·TypeObservational study·DateDec 10, 2021

Melatonin exacerbates asthma discovers research group

A research group from Tohoku University discovered that melatonin, a sleep hormone, exacerbates asthma by potentiating bronchoconstriction. Melatonin weakens the relaxing effect of bronchodilators through the activation of the melatonin MT2 receptor.

SourceTohoku University·DateDec 10, 2021

Getting childhood obesity initiatives across the finish line

The Medical University of South Carolina's Boeing Center for Children's Wellness offers a menu of wellness initiative options that schools can tailor to their needs. Schools with health professionals on the wellness committee implement 25% more initiatives, leading to a culture change and increased student participation.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of School Health·TypeObservational study·DateDec 10, 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.

Collaborative project of quantum computer developers

The ATIQ project aims to develop reliable, user-friendly quantum computing demonstrators based on ion trap technology within 30 months. The consortium will optimize hardware for applications in chemistry and finance, paving the way for new approaches in credit risk assessment.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateDec 10, 2021

Studying the fabrics of the past to understand the ageing of the eco-materials of the future

The study of four Baroque-era paintings reveals that flax fibres from fabrics a few hundred years old have undergone more degradation than those from thousand-year-old Egyptian mortuary linens. The researchers used various high-resolution optical analysis methods to analyse the fibre structure without degrading the samples.

SourceINRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment·JournalJournal of Cultural Heritage·DateDec 10, 2021

Surviving ‘butterfly disease’: long-term success of a new gene and stem-cell therapy for EB verified

A new gene and stem-cell therapy has been proven to be effective in treating Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a genetic skin disorder, without any side effects. The treatment, which involves transplanting genetically modified skin cells, has resulted in stable results after five years, with the patient now 13 years old.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 10, 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.

First real-world study shows the potential of gait authentication to enhance smartphone security

A new study by the University of Plymouth has demonstrated the potential of gait authentication to protect smartphones from cyber crime. The system achieved an average accuracy rate of around 85% in recognizing individuals' stride patterns, with rates rising to almost 90% when participants were walking normally and fast.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalComputers & Security·TypeObservational study·DateDec 10, 2021

Doctoral student finds alternative cell option for organs-on-chips

A doctoral student at Texas A&M University has discovered blood outgrowth endothelial cells (BOECs) as an alternative to induced pluripotent stem cells (IPSCs) for organs-on-chips, offering a cheaper and more accessible option for patient-specific research. The new cells can be isolated from just 50-100 milliliters of blood and have sh...

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeNews article·DateDec 10, 2021

The tetra-neutron – experiment finds evidence for a long-sought particle comprising four neutrons

Physicists at Technical University of Munich discover potential existence of tetra-neutron, a bound state of four neutrons, which could significantly alter our understanding of nuclear forces. The experiment's results suggest a half-life of 450 seconds and stability comparable to the neutron.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalPhysics Letters B·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

New version of organic electronics for rational management of energy

Researchers at the University of Malaga have developed a new version of organic electronics that can manage energy consumption more efficiently. The technology, known as spintronics, uses carbon-based molecules to expand electronic material versatility and functionality.

SourceUniversity of Malaga·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 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.

Molecule from approved malaria medicine protects lung cells against COVID-19

Researchers from Aarhus University have shown that the approved medicine Atovaquone has a protective effect on human lung cells in laboratory settings, potentially preventing Covid-19 infection. The study reveals its potent antiviral properties against various coronavirus variants, offering hope for a new treatment option.

SourceAarhus University·JournalACS Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

Stop the clock: new therapeutic strategy targets “old” cells to prevent ageing

Researchers from Juntendo University developed a vaccine targeting senescent cells using glycoprotein nonmetastatic melanoma protein B (GPNMB). The vaccine showed significant improvements in mice with age-related diseases, including atherosclerosis and progeria. This breakthrough has exciting potential for new anti-aging therapies.

SourceJuntendo University·JournalNature Aging·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021