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Science News for January 8, 2021


Botulism breakthrough? Taming botulinum toxin to deliver therapeutics

A new treatment approach and delivery vehicle has been developed to reverse botulism paralysis in mice, showing promise for treating other neurological disorders. The therapy uses a detoxified botulinum toxin as a delivery vehicle for a mini-antibody derived from camels.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 8, 2021

Antibiotic resistance from random DNA sequences

Researchers discovered that random DNA sequences can generate new genes producing antibiotic resistance, which can spread quickly among bacteria. The study used laboratory experiments with E. coli and found six peptides causing Colistin resistance by modifying the cell membrane.

SourceUppsala University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJan 8, 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.

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 findings help explain how COVID-19 overpowers the immune system

USC researchers discovered that COVID-19 uniquely reduces levels of mitochondrial proteins, affecting cellular protective response and energy production. This finding may explain why older adults and people with metabolic dysfunction are more severely affected by COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 8, 2021

Possible explanation for more efficient maize growth

Researchers at HHU have discovered a novel phloem loading mechanism in maize leaves, which enables efficient transport of photoassimilates. This mechanism, found in the abaxial bundle sheath cells, is likely linked to maize's high productivity rate and C4 photosynthesis.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateJan 8, 2021

New statistical method exponentially increases ability to discover genetic insights

Researchers have developed a new statistical method called Sum-Share that exponentially increases the ability to discover genetic insights. The method uses summary-level data from multiple sites to generate significant insights, outperforming existing methods in detecting genetic variations associated with cardiovascular conditions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 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.

Nanocrystals that eradicate bacteria biofilm

Researchers developed nanocrystals with a unique surface texture that increases mobility and generates reactive oxygen species lethal to bacteria. The system is effective in killing embedded bacteria resistant to antibiotics and can be easily controlled.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNano Letters·DateJan 8, 2021

'Invisible' stem cells evade natural killer cells using immune 'off-switch'

Researchers at UCSF have discovered a new method to control immune responses using CD47-expressing hypoimmune stem cells. These cells can silence natural killer cells via the SIRPα checkpoint, paving the way for novel cell therapies and tissue implants that can evade immune rejection.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJan 8, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Single-dose COVID-19 vaccine triggers antibody response in mice

Researchers have developed a nanoparticle vaccine that elicits a virus-neutralizing antibody response in mice after just one dose. The spike/ferritin nanoparticles may be a viable strategy for single-dose vaccination against COVID-19, suggesting potential improvements over current two-dose regimens.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateJan 8, 2021

Perceiving prosthesis as lighter thanks to neurofeedback

Researchers have developed neurofeedback prostheses that restore sensory feedback to amputees, enabling them to perceive their prosthetic leg as lighter and reducing the effort required for walking. The study found a 23% reduction in perceived weight and improved motor-cognitive tasks, suggesting a more natural limb experience.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 8, 2021

Ferroptosis resistance in cancer: An emerging crisis of new hope

Researchers have identified ferroptosis resistance as a critical issue in cancer treatment, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic strategies. The study integrates current understanding of signaling mechanisms to develop targeted treatments for therapy-resistant cancers.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalBIO Integration·DateJan 8, 2021

New analysis highlights importance of groundwater discharge into oceans

A global assessment reveals that groundwater discharge plays a significant role in ocean chemistry, with elements like lithium and barium entering the sea from underground sources. The study suggests that groundwater inputs can account for up to 16% of river contributions to ocean chemistry.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 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.

Child marriage is legal and persists across Canada

A study by McGill University researchers found that child marriage remains a practice in Canada, with the majority of marriages being common-law unions. The study highlights the need for innovative approaches to address the issue and sheds light on the persistence of child marriage in the country.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPopulation and Development Review·DateJan 8, 2021

NIST publishes a beginner's guide to DNA origami

DNA origami is a technique that folds long DNA strands to create mini 3D structures for biosensors and drug delivery. A new guide from NIST provides a comprehensive resource for researchers to design efficient nanostructures using state-of-the-art tools.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of Research of the National Institute of Standards and Technology·DateJan 8, 2021

Researchers realize efficient generation of high-dimensional quantum teleportation

The team from University of Science and Technology of China demonstrated the teleportation of high-dimensional states using a linear optical system, achieving extremely high-fidelity. The study's findings pave the way for rebuilding complex quantum systems remotely and constructing scalable quantum networks.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 8, 2021

Accelerating AI computing to the speed of light

A team of researchers has developed an optical computing core prototype using phase-change material, accelerating neural networks and reducing energy consumption for AI applications. The technology is scalable and directly applicable to cloud computing, making it a promising solution for the growing demands of AI online.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 2021

COVID-19: Online tool identifies patients at highest risk of deterioration

Researchers developed an online risk-stratification tool to predict COVID-19 patients' likelihood of deterioration, using 11 measurements including age, oxygen levels, and laboratory tests. The '4C Deterioration Score' provides clinicians with a percentage risk score to support decision-making and potentially save lives.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateJan 8, 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.

Understanding how to improve antibodies targeting OX40 for the treatment of cancer

Scientists at the University of Southampton have discovered that modifying antibodies to target OX40 can enhance immune responses against cancer cells. By adjusting the antibody's isotype, researchers found that one type can delete suppressive Treg cells and another can stimulate killer T-cells, leading to improved anti-tumor effects.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·DateJan 8, 2021

Bioenergetics: New features of ATP synthase

Cryo-EM studies have identified different types of ATP synthase organization, including a symmetry-deviated dimer and hexamer assemblies. These structures shape the bioenergetic membrane and are critical for maintaining bioenergetics in Apicomplexa.

SourceScience For Life Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 2021

Nanoparticle vaccine for COVID-19

Researchers at Stanford University have created a nanoparticle vaccine candidate for COVID-19 that shows promise in inducing immunity after just one dose. The vaccine uses nanoparticles studded with the virus's surface spikes to trigger an immune response, offering a potential alternative to traditional viral-based vaccines.

SourceStanford University·JournalACS Central Science·DateJan 8, 2021

When salespeople advocate for sellers and customers

A new study published in the Journal of Marketing suggests that salespeople should balance advocacy for the seller with advocacy for the customer. The research team found that high levels of both customer and seller advocacy lead to superior outcomes for both firms. Sellers are advised to encourage salesperson dual agency to their adva...

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJan 8, 2021

Tasmanian tiger pups found to be extraordinarily similar to wolf pups

Researchers used micro-CT scanning and digital reconstructions to compare Tasmanian tiger and wolf skulls across development stages. The study reveals that Tasmanian tiger pups were more similar to wolf pups than other marsupials, with similarities established from newborns to adults.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJan 8, 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.

Initial severity of COVID-19 not associated with later respiratory complications

A new study published in Annals of the American Thoracic Society found that COVID-19 patients with varying degrees of severity do not experience significant long-term respiratory problems. However, fatigue and ill health persist in many patients, suggesting ongoing need for follow-up care.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateJan 8, 2021

Study: Religion, psychology share methods for reducing distress

A new study found that religious individuals employ cognitive reappraisal and coping self-efficacy, two psychological strategies linked to reduced anxiety and depression symptoms. The research suggests a convergence between science and religion in promoting well-being and resilience.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Religion and Health·DateJan 8, 2021

Detecting COVID-19 antibodies in 10-12 seconds

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a nanomaterial-based biosensing platform that detects COVID-19 antibodies within seconds. The platform, which uses aerosol jet nanoprinted electrodes, can quantify patient immunological response to new vaccines with precision and has a very low error rate.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 8, 2021

Scientists paint multicolor atlas of the brain

Researchers develop coloring technique to 'paint' neurons with fluorescent colors, enabling identification of each neuron in an animal's nervous system. The NeuroPAL method allows scientists to record a whole nervous system in action and decode brainwide activity patterns.

SourceColumbia University·JournalCell·DateJan 8, 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.

USTC develops ultrahigh-performance plasmonic metal-oxide materials

The study creates a new metal-like semiconductor material with excellent plasmonic resonance performance using an electron-proton co-doping strategy. The material achieves a metal-like ultrahigh free-carrier concentration, leading to strong and tunable plasmonic fields.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 8, 2021

Unravelling the mystery that makes viruses infectious

Scientists have identified the way viruses like poliovirus and common cold virus 'package' their genetic code, allowing them to infect cells. The discovery opens up possibilities for developing drugs or anti-viral agents that can stop such infections.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJan 8, 2021

New tech helping cancer patients manage symptoms

A UK trial using computer algorithms shows that early-stage cancer patients can better manage their symptoms and improve their physical wellbeing through remote monitoring. The eRAPID system provided instant advice on symptom management, leading to a cost-effective solution with better patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 8, 2021

Bacteria can tell the time

Researchers discovered that free-living non-photosynthetic bacteria, such as Bacillus subtilis, possess circadian rhythms that adjust to light and temperature cycles. This finding has implications for biotechnology and could lead to optimized drug delivery and crop protection strategies.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 8, 2021

Researchers take key step toward cleaner, more sustainable production of hydrogen

Researchers at Oregon State University have made a significant breakthrough in producing hydrogen from water using an electrochemical catalytic process. The study found that this method is cleaner and more sustainable than traditional natural gas-based production, with potential applications in fuel cells and industrial processes.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 8, 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.

Preserving workers' hearing health by improving earplug efficiency

Researchers from ÉTS and IRSST developed new earplugs by understanding the relationship between ear canal shapes and earplug design. The study found that the 'first elbow' area of the ear canal is closely linked to noise attenuation, enabling the creation of more comfortable and effective earplugs.

SourceÉcole de technologie supérieure·DateJan 8, 2021

Gene therapy strategy found effective in mouse model of hereditary disease TSC

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a gene therapy strategy that effectively treats mice with a mutated TSC2 gene, causing the growth of noncancerous tumors. The treatment extends survival to 462 days and reduces brain damage in mice, suggesting potential for human clinical trials.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 8, 2021

Novel RNA factors may help cancer cells thrive

Researchers identified a circular RNA, circ2082, and an RNA-binding protein, RBM3, that form a complex with the enzyme DICER to disrupt microRNAome regulation in glioblastoma cells. This leads to increased survival rates in mice and longer lifespans in human patients with circ2082-dependent signatures.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 8, 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.

High-speed atomic force microscopy visualizes cell protein factories

Researchers use high-speed atomic force microscopy to visualize the structural dynamics and factor pooling of ribosome stalk proteins, shedding light on the translational GTPase factor mechanism. The study reveals two conformations of the stalk protein and provides evidence for a potential role in further stages of protein synthesis.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 2021

Autism theory 25 years in the making

A theoretical model describes the cause of autism as a combination of socially valued traits and co-occurring disabilities, accounting for most cases. The BAPCO-DMAP theory explains how positive traits of autism interact with development and disabilities.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalMedical Hypotheses·DateJan 8, 2021

Immune cells discovered in the lungs improve virus defense

Researchers at the University of Basel have identified immune cells resident in the lungs that persist long after a bout of flu, improving the immune response to reinfection by different strains. The discovery could lead to longer-lasting vaccinations against quickly-mutating viruses.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience Immunology·DateJan 8, 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.

How 'Iron Man' bacteria could help protect the environment

Researchers found Geobacter bacteria can coat themselves with cobalt nanoparticles, protecting them from toxic metal. This discovery opens doors to biotechnology applications in reclaiming and recycling cobalt from lithium-ion batteries, reducing dependence on foreign mines.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateJan 8, 2021

Shriners Hospitals for Children study reveals new link to arthritis

A new study by Shriners Hospitals for Children finds that biochemical signals released by fat cells are responsible for osteoarthritis. The investigation, led by Dr. Farshid Guilak, suggests a factor given off by fat cells makes cartilage susceptible to degeneration.

SourceShriners Hospitals for Children·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 2021

Which came first, sleep or the brain?

Researchers found that Hydra exhibit characteristics at a molecular and genetic level associated with sleep in animals with central nervous systems. The four-hour cycle of active and sleep-like states in hydras indicates that sleep may have evolved independently of brain development.

SourceKyushu University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 8, 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.

UCF engineering and biology researchers collaborate to aid coral reef restoration

A UCF engineering and biology team tested how well staghorn coral skeletons withstand natural forces and human impacts, discovering a unique safety feature: pores that relieve stress and prevent catastrophic failure. The findings will inform efforts to transplant nursery-reared coral into the wild and support future restoration efforts.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalCoral Reefs·DateJan 8, 2021

Entangling electrons with heat

Researchers from Aalto University have successfully entangled pairs of electrons using temperature differences in superconducting structures. This breakthrough has significant implications for quantum devices and applications, including exponential increases in computational capacity and secure information exchange.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 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.

Measuring racial inequities in COVID-19 testing

A study adapted a tool to measure racial inequities in COVID-19 testing, revealing disparities in access and health outcomes across racial groups. The analysis found significant disparities in vaccination rates, test uptake, and healthcare utilization among different racial and ethnic groups.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 8, 2021

Tiny wireless device sheds light on combating obesity

Researchers at Texas A&M University have designed a centimeter-sized wireless device that stimulates the endings of the vagus nerve to induce feelings of fullness. The device is controlled externally via radio frequency and has the potential to be used in conjunction with other devices to manipulate nerve endings throughout the gastroi...

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 2021