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Science News Archive February 2021 - Page 39


Page 39 of 45

Research identifies more sustainable, cost-effective approach to treating citrus canker

Researchers have developed a more sustainable approach to treating citrus canker, which reduces copper usage by up to 80%. The new technique involves using less water and copper, resulting in lower costs and environmental impact. By adopting this method, citrus growers can minimize the risk of developing copper-resistant strains.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·DateFeb 3, 2021

Insulin can be stored out of refrigeration in hot settings!

A study by MSF and UNIGE found that insulin can be stored at temperatures ranging from 25°C to 37°C for four weeks without losing its potency or efficacy. This breakthrough allows people with diabetes to manage their condition independently, reducing the need for daily hospital visits.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 3, 2021

Digital health divide runs deep in older racial and ethnic minorities

A study by Florida Atlantic University found a deep digital health divide among older adults of African American, Afro-Caribbean, Hispanic American, and European American backgrounds. Factors contributing to this disparity include age, education level, income, and ethnic group affiliation. The researchers emphasize the need for univers...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities·DateFeb 3, 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.

First images of muon beams

Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a new imaging technique that can assess the quality of high-energy muon beams. This innovation allows for better understanding and control of these beams in various applications such as non-destructive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and cancer radiotherapy.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 3, 2021

New research to explore seaweed for ocean, economic health

A $900,000 grant will fund a project to explore kelp aquaculture's impact on ocean acidity and carbon sequestration. The study aims to create a tool to restore ocean health and productivity. Kelp can absorb high levels of CO2, creating temporary 'halo' areas with improved water conditions for other sea life.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·DateFeb 3, 2021
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.

Hypoxia, a feature inside solid cancer tumors, reprograms methylation of ribosomal RNAs

Researchers found that hypoxia upregulates RNA polymerase I activity and alters ribosomal RNA methylation patterns, leading to the creation of specialized ribosomes that can differentially regulate translation of specific messenger RNAs. The study supports a long-debated postulate that ribosomal protein factories can be reprogrammed in...

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournaliScience·DateFeb 3, 2021

True identity of mysterious gamma-ray source revealed

A team of researchers used novel data analysis methods and Einstein@Home computing power to track down a neutron star's gamma-ray pulsations in NASA's Fermi Space Telescope data. The study reveals the existence of a rapidly rotating neutron star in orbit with a stellar companion about six times the mass of our Sun.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateFeb 3, 2021

Popular breast cancer drugs don't work the way we thought they did

A University of Colorado Boulder study suggests that existing PARP inhibitors for hereditary breast and ovarian cancers may not work as intended. The research reveals a previously unknown interaction between the PARP protein and HPF1, which could lead to more effective treatments by targeting this co-protein.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 3, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New discovery sheds light on human history of symbols

Researchers have uncovered evidence of what may be the earliest-known use of symbols, dating back to around 120,000 years ago. The discovery was made on a bone fragment in central Israel and features six similar etchings that are believed to hold symbolic or spiritual significance.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalQuaternary International·DateFeb 3, 2021

Inside the battery in 3D: Powerful X-rays watch solid state batteries charging and discharging

A research team observed the internal evolution of materials inside solid-state lithium batteries as they charged and discharged using ultrabright X-rays. The detailed 3D information may help improve reliability and performance of the batteries, which use solid materials to replace liquid electrolytes in existing lithium-ion batteries.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 3, 2021

How SARS-CoV-2 mutates to escape antibody binding

Researchers discovered SARS-CoV-2 mutates by deleting small bits of its sequence, evading neutralizing antibodies. This pattern repeats itself in emerging variants like B.1.1.7, highlighting the need for multiple approaches to combat the virus.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience·DateFeb 3, 2021

Forming sound memories: Autism gene plays key aspect in birdsong

Researchers found that deactivating the autism-linked FoxP1 gene in young songbirds prevents them from forming memories of their fathers' songs. This finding may shed light on speech development in humans and potentially lead to new treatments for children with autism.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 3, 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.

Personalized screening to identify teens with high suicide risk

A new universal screening tool, CASSY, helps caregivers predict an adolescent's suicide risk by identifying risk factors such as suicidal thoughts, sleep disturbance, and family issues. The tool has been shown to be accurate in predicting future suicide attempts with over 88% accuracy.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateFeb 3, 2021

Modern anti-cancer drugs work via tiny molecular motions

Researchers studied how modern immunotherapeutic anti-cancer drugs interact with the immune system, finding that tiny molecular motions are key to their effectiveness. The study, published in Cancers, reveals how these drugs bind to specific receptors on killer cells without activating them.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalCancers·DateFeb 3, 2021

BU study: New vaginal film, MB66, is safe

Researchers found that MB66, a vaginal film product containing monoclonal antibodies, is safe and effective in preventing HIV-1 and HSV-2. The product provided excellent antiviral protection for up to 24 hours after use, with high acceptability among women.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 3, 2021

New piezoelectric material remains effective to high temperatures

A new piezoelectric material developed by Penn State researchers remained effective at elevated temperatures, allowing for the creation of self-powering sensors and energy harvesters. The material performed well beyond 482 F (250 C), enabling potential applications in aerospace, automotive, and wearable devices.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateFeb 3, 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.

Scientists discover plants' roadblock to specialty oil production

Researchers uncover the reason behind reduced oil production in genetically modified plants producing specialty fatty acids. They found that feeding these plants additional endogenous fatty acids triggers a shutdown mechanism, slowing down oil synthesis.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateFeb 3, 2021

Study suggests environmental factors had a role in the evolution of human tolerance

A new study published in Journal of Archaeological Method and Theory suggests that environmental pressures played a key role in the evolution of human tolerance. The research found that populations which shared resources were more likely to succeed and survive harsh environments, leading to long-term benefits for everyone involved.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalJournal of Archaeological Method and Theory·DateFeb 3, 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.

Synthetic biology reinvents development

Researchers used synthetic biology to develop a genetic design that reproduces key processes in natural systems, such as symmetry breakage observed in embryos. The new platform can generate spatial patterns seen in more complex animals like Drosophila melanogaster and humans.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateFeb 3, 2021

13-year analysis sheds new light on wheat crop disease patterns in Ethiopia

A 13-year analysis of wheat rust outbreaks in Ethiopia reveals long-term trends and hotspots, potentially leading to improved surveillance and control efforts. The study found a 'boom-and-bust' outbreak cycle due to genetic resistance breakdowns, emphasizing the importance of sustained pest management for food security.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 3, 2021

Epigenomic map reveals circuitry of 30,000 human disease regions

A comprehensive epigenome map has been created, revealing genetic control elements linked to hundreds of human traits. The researchers identified 300 modules controlling specific biological processes and predicted links between control elements and target genes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateFeb 3, 2021

European hibernating bats cope with white-nose syndrome which kills North American bats

Researchers found that European greater mouse-eared bats have sufficient baseline levels of key immune parameters to tolerate infection throughout hibernation. In contrast, North American bats frequently arouse from hibernation to trigger an immune response, leading to starvation and death.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalDevelopmental & Comparative Immunology·DateFeb 3, 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.

What the Biden-Harris administration means for chemistry

The Biden-Harris administration aims to create research and development opportunities in clean energy and switch the US to cleaner sources. Climate change policies and updates to regulations will also be prioritized to protect public health from toxic substances. Immigration reform may lead to more scientific collaboration and access f...

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 3, 2021

Thoughts on plant genomes

The sequencing of plant genomes has accelerated significantly, with over 181 horticultural species now sequenced. These advancements have provided new insights into the inheritance of traits and evolutionary aspects of various plant species, including fruit development and ripening. The data will benefit future research projects and pr...

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateFeb 3, 2021

Politicians must be held to account for mishandling the pandemic

A senior editor at The BMJ argues that politicians' inaction during the pandemic amounts to 'social murder' and demands accountability through legal and electoral means. The BMJ editorial calls for citizens to lobby their representatives for a public inquiry and for professionals to speak out against negligent leaders.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 3, 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.

Researchers explore link between 'Alzheimer's gene' and COVID-19

A study by City of Hope researchers found that the ApoE4 gene increases the risk of severe COVID-19 symptoms. The team created brain cells infected with SARS-CoV-2 and discovered that those with ApoE4 were more susceptible to infection, damage, and cell death.

SourceCity of Hope·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateFeb 3, 2021

Women at higher-risk of fatal, nightime cardiac arrest

Research from the Smidt Heart Institute found women are more likely to experience sudden death during nighttime hours, with a higher prevalence of lung disease and asthma. Prescribing physicians may want to be cautious when recommending brain-affecting medications to high-risk patients, especially women.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalHeart Rhythm·DateFeb 3, 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.

Brain-related visual problems may affect one in 30 primary school children

A study by the University of Bristol found that one in every 30 children may have brain-related visual problems, which can affect learning outcomes. The research suggests that detailed vision checks could improve educational and wellbeing outcomes for affected children.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalDevelopmental Medicine & Child Neurology·DateFeb 3, 2021

Solving a puzzle

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) affects millions worldwide, causing cysts and benign tumors to form in the kidney, leading to kidney failure. Researchers led by Dr. Manoocher Soleimani found that changes in cells lining the collecting ducts are responsible for cyst formation, offering new avenues for potential treatments.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 3, 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.

Story of COVID's mental health impact - a thread

Researchers analyzed 94 million tweets to detect early signs of depression and suicidal thoughts during the pandemic. The study found a significant jump in depression levels at the start of the outbreak and a notable increase in users' social media time during lockdowns.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalIEEE Transactions on Computational Social Systems·DateFeb 3, 2021

Two studies shed light on how, where body can add new fat cells

Two studies shed light on the process of adding new fat cells, revealing a balance between existing fat cell expansion and new cell creation. A cancer drug can stimulate healthy fat cell formation, while inhibiting the development of new fat cells in one storage area can prevent diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateFeb 3, 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.

From waste heat to electrical power: A new generation of thermomagnetic generators

Scientists have developed a new generation of thermomagnetic generators that can convert waste heat into electrical power at small temperature differences. The devices, based on Heusler alloy films, increased electrical power per footprint by a factor of 3.4 and reached a maximum power of 50 microwatts per square centimeter.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalJoule·DateFeb 3, 2021

A revolutionary approach to increasing crop yield in rice

Scientists develop method to increase nutrient uptake and stomatal opening in rice, resulting in over 30% increase in crop yield. The technique uses a plasma membrane proton pump gene overexpression, reducing the need for fertilizers and improving carbon capture.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 3, 2021

Ostriches challenged by temperature fluctuations

Research reveals that ostriches face reproductive challenges when temperatures deviate by 5 degrees from ideal conditions, affecting up to 40% egg production and gamete release. A small proportion of females thrive in extreme temperatures, sparking hope for genetic adaptation as a potential solution.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 3, 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.

Life changes influence physical activity

A study by the University of Jyväskylä found that life changes significantly impact physical activity levels, particularly for women. The birth of a child reduces women's everyday steps, while employment affects aerobic steps in both men and women. Changes in residence also influence physical activity.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalJournal of Physical Activity and Health·DateFeb 3, 2021

Kangaroo overgrazing could be jeopardising land conservation, study finds

A study by University of New South Wales found that kangaroo overgrazing is having a detrimental impact on soil health and vegetation biodiversity, even more so than rabbits. The research suggests that conservation reserves need to rethink their management strategies to address the issue.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalGlobal Ecology and Conservation·DateFeb 3, 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.

New clues to how muscle wasting occurs in people with cancer

Researchers have discovered that cancer progression leads to fewer skeletal muscle ribosomes, resulting in muscle wasting. The findings suggest a new mechanism for muscle loss that could be relevant not just for people with cancer but also other conditions such as aging and malnutrition.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateFeb 3, 2021