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Science News Archive June 2021 - Page 10


Page 10 of 51

Seven students selected for national research program

Seven PhD students at DGIST have been chosen for a two-year research project funded by Korea's National Research Foundation. They will focus on developing new materials and nano-structural designs to overcome existing solar cell limitations.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·DateJun 25, 2021

Small-scale engineering could bring big progress in medical care

Researchers have developed a method to control the degradation of messenger RNA, which could lead to more efficient biotechnological functions and improved medical outcomes. This breakthrough has potential applications in vaccine development, genome engineering, and therapeutic treatments.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJun 25, 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.

Streptococcus pneumoniae sticks to dying lung cells, worsening secondary infection following flu

Researchers have identified a novel virulence trait of Streptococcus pneumoniae that increases the severity of S. pneumoniae superinfection following flu. The surface protein PspA, previously known to have several other virulence mechanisms, now functions as an adhesin to dying lung epithelial cells. This finding provides further expla...

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 24, 2021

Recycling next-generation solar panels fosters green planet

A new recycling strategy for perovskite solar panels has been developed, which could reduce the carbon footprint of these panels by up to 72.6%. The recycling process could also lower the primary energy consumption of perovskite solar cells.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJun 24, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Quantum simulation: Measurement of entanglement made easier

Researchers have developed a more efficient method for measuring entanglement in quantum simulators, allowing for new insights into the structure of the quantum state. The new protocol uses insights from quantum field theory to perform tomography with significantly fewer measurements.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 24, 2021

Research team discovers Arctic dinosaur nursery

A research team from the University of Alaska Fairbanks and Florida State University has found evidence that nearly all types of Arctic dinosaurs reproduced in the region and likely remained there year-round. The discovery contradicts previous hypotheses that the animals migrated to lower latitudes for the winter, suggesting they were ...

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 24, 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.

Gastrulation research reveals novel details about embryonic development

Researchers from Helmholtz Zentrum München have discovered a novel mechanism driving the formation of the endoderm germ layer during gastrulation. This finding has significant implications for understanding congenital diseases and potential targets for therapeutic intervention in cancer.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJun 24, 2021

Russian forests are crucial to global climate mitigation

New study confirms Russian forests have accumulated 40% more biomass than reported, with potential for 47% higher carbon sequestration. Close collaboration between science and policy is critical for adaptive forest management.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 24, 2021

Ethane proxies for methane in oil and gas emissions

A recent study using ethane proxies has found that oil and gas wells contribute significantly to greenhouse warming, exceeding EPA estimates by 48-76%. The researchers tracked ethane and methane emissions across the US over three seasons, providing new insights into fossil fuel sources.

SourcePenn State·DateJun 24, 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.

When did the first COVID-19 case arise?

A new study suggests that the first COVID-19 case arose in China between early October and mid-November 2019, with November 17 being the most likely date of origin. The analysis reveals a more rapid spread than previously confirmed cases imply, with the disease spreading globally by January 2020.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJun 24, 2021

Plant Protector: How plants strengthen their light-harvesting membranes against environmental stress

A study by an international consortium reveals the structure and mechanism of a protein that builds and maintains photosynthetic membranes in plants. The research provides new opportunities for engineering plants to be more resistant to extreme environmental conditions, helping to sustain human food supply and combat climate change.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalCell·DateJun 24, 2021

Better mental health supports for nurses needed, study finds

A new study found that nurses experienced high rates of depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly those working in long-term care. The survey of over 10,000 Canadian nurses revealed a significant decline in their well-being, with six out of 10 reporting anxiety in April.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAnnals of Epidemiology·DateJun 24, 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.

Research news tip sheet: Story ideas from Johns Hopkins Medicine

A recent study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers suggests that playing virtual reality games during a venipuncture procedure can reduce pain and anxiety in pediatric patients. However, the study also found that VR gameplay added an average of 4-6 minutes to the procedure time due to technical issues.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalHospital Pediatrics·DateJun 24, 2021

Burnout is a widespread reality in today's NHS

Burnout is a significant issue in today's NHS, with 44% of staff reporting work-related stress. Improving staff health and wellbeing is crucial for the moral, social, and economic priority it represents.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJun 24, 2021

UCLA study reveals how immune cells can be trained to fight infections

Researchers have discovered a key molecular mechanism underlying immune cell training, which determines whether cells respond aggressively to threats. By understanding this process, doctors may be able to 'hack' the immune system to strengthen it and prevent autoimmunity.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalScience·DateJun 24, 2021

Some good news for those with migraines

A new study from the University of Toronto found that 63% of Canadians with migraines experience almost daily happiness and high levels of social and psychological well-being. Those who had a confidant or used spiritual coping mechanisms were more likely to be in excellent mental health.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAnnals Of Headache Medicine Journal·DateJun 24, 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.

Study suggests scientists may need to rethink which genes control aging

Researchers found that only about 30% of genes associated with aging control the body's internal clock, while the rest reflect the response to bacteria. Antibiotics extended fly lives by up to six days and altered gene activity in many hallmark aging genes.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournaliScience·DateJun 24, 2021

Outcomes for COVID-19 patients 1 year after loss of smell

Researchers evaluated COVID-19 patients with loss of smell one year post-diagnosis, finding persistent cognitive and emotional impairments. Long-term follow-up studies like this one are crucial for understanding the lasting effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 24, 2021

People with fibromyalgia are substituting CBD for opioids to manage pain

A new study found that over 70% of people with fibromyalgia who use CBD substitute it for opioids or other pain medications, reporting improved symptom relief. CBD is being used as a harm reduction strategy due to its non-intoxicating properties and lower potential for abuse.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Pain·DateJun 24, 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.

Searching for the cell of origin of childhood brain cancer

A study coordinated by the University of Trento identified the cell of origin of medulloblastoma, a common and aggressive childhood brain cancer. The researchers used organoids, three-dimensional models of tumor tissue, to understand the genetic mechanisms responsible for this type of brain cancer.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 24, 2021

Kiwi disease study finds closely related bacterial strains display different behaviors

A recent study found that genes involved in bacterial signaling play a crucial role in the virulence of Psa3, a highly aggressive biovar of the pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae. This discovery highlights the importance of understanding the diversity of virulence strategies among closely related bacterial strains.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateJun 24, 2021

New microscopy method reveals single childhood cancer cells in unprecedented detail

Scientists at Princess Máxima Center developed a new imaging technique to study millions of cells in 3D tissue, revealing hundreds of features from each individual cell. The technique helps analyze molecular profiles and cell shape, potentially improving diagnosis and treatment for children's cancers.

SourcePrincess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 24, 2021

Mixed cultures for a greater yield

A study published in Nature Plants found that mixed cultures of crops can produce higher yields than monocultures due to the biodiversity effect. This approach involves sowing multiple species or varieties alongside each other, resulting in increased plant productivity and effective natural pest control without pesticides.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Plants·DateJun 24, 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.

How neurons get past 'no'

A new study reveals that inhibitory neurons increase signal transmission by targeting the weakest-responding neurons in the brain, enabling flexible information transfer. This discovery could help understand and treat disorders such as anxiety and attention deficit disorders.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 24, 2021

Structural biologists granted Wellcome Trust Investigator Awards

Researchers John Schwabe and Daniel Panne have been awarded £3.89 million to investigate gene regulation, with a focus on histone deacetylase complexes and DNA folding. The study aims to understand how genes are regulated and its potential in treating diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateJun 24, 2021

COVID-19 origins still a mystery

A recent study using computer modelling found that the SARS-CoV-2 virus binds more tightly to human cells than any other tested animal species, including bats and pangolins. The results suggest that the virus may have adapted to become an effective human pathogen through convergent evolution or genetic recombination.

SourceFlinders University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 24, 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.

Common plant fiber gel doubled rate of tumor eradication

Researchers developed a new dietary fiber formulation that modulates the gut microbiome, improving potency of immunotherapies against cancer. The inulin gel doubled the rate of tumor eradication in rodents with colon carcinoma and melanoma, expanding beneficial microbes in the gastrointestinal tract.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJun 24, 2021

Smooth muscle overexpression of PGC1α attenuates atherosclerosis in rabbits

This study highlights PGC1α's role in maintaining vascular smooth muscle cells' contractile phenotype and reducing atherosclerotic plaque formation. Overexpression of PGC1α attenuates high cholesterol diet-induced atherosclerosis in rabbits, showing its therapeutic potential for cardiovascular diseases.

SourceNanjing University School of Life Sciences·JournalCirculation Research·DateJun 24, 2021

Starting the day off with chocolate could have unexpected benefits

Researchers discovered that consuming concentrated chocolate in the morning can aid in burning fat and decreasing blood sugar levels. The study also found that eating chocolate at different times of day can influence hunger, appetite, microbiota composition, sleep, and metabolism.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJun 24, 2021

New findings unveil a missing piece of human prehistory

A joint research team led by Prof. FU Qiaomei has sequenced the ancient genomes of 31 individuals from southern East Asia, unveiling a missing piece of human prehistory. The study reveals three genetically distinct ancestries in southern East Asia and Southeast Asia: Fujian ancestry, Hòabìnhian ancestry, and Guangxi ancestry.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell·DateJun 24, 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.

Embryologists reveal a secret of a worm with regeneration super abilities

Biologists at St Petersburg University studied mechanisms of regeneration of marine animals and found that suppression of FGF protein activity disrupts the ability of Alitta virens to restore lost body segments. Similar proteins are found in humans, suggesting potential therapeutic approaches for regenerative medicine.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalGenes·DateJun 24, 2021

Mini-brains reveal cause of rare syndromes

A recent study reveals that different brain syndromes are caused by damage to the HUWE1 gene, leading to intellectual disabilities. The research, led by Professor Barbara van Loon, used mini-brains created from stem cells to demonstrate the common cause of these disorders.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateJun 24, 2021

Preventing the break-in of the toxoplasmosis parasite

Researchers have identified the structure and functions of RON13, a kinase essential for the invasive mechanism of Toxoplasma gondii in humans. The parasite's ability to infect cells is hindered without RON13, providing a potential target for new therapies.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 24, 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.

Cosmic dawn occurred 250 to 350 million years after Big Bang

A new study suggests that cosmic dawn, when stars formed for the first time, occurred between 250 and 350 million years after the beginning of the universe. The study used data from the Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes to estimate the age of distant galaxies.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 24, 2021

New findings on body axis formation

Researchers at Heidelberg University discovered an enzyme that breaks down Wnt proteins, shaping body axis development in the freshwater polyp Hydra. This discovery may play a role in human diseases such as cancer.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalBMC Biology·DateJun 24, 2021

A low Omega-3 index is just as strong a predictor of early death as smoking

A new study found that a low Omega-3 Index is associated with increased risk of early death, comparable to the risk of smoking. The research used data from the Framingham Heart Study and suggested that biomarkers integrating lifestyle choices could help identify individuals at risk and inform treatment approaches.

SourceWright On Marketing & Communications·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJun 24, 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.

A 'tasty' protein may lead to new ways to treat metabolic and immune diseases

Researchers at Van Andel Institute have published high-resolution images of TRPM5, a taste-sensing molecule that may serve as targets for new medications to control blood sugar in diabetes. The findings also reveal potential applications for low-calorie alternative sweeteners that mimic sugar.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJun 24, 2021

Study highlights racial inequity in health care access, quality

A recent study found that states with higher levels of systemic racism have pronounced racial disparities in healthcare access and quality, benefiting white people more than Black people. The researchers also discovered that Black individuals who experienced provider racism reported lower quality of care.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJun 24, 2021

Spreading of infections = need for collaboration between biology and physics

The spread of infections requires collaboration between biology and physics to understand superspreaders, who account for 80% of transmission. Researchers develop computer models considering family context, work context, and random contexts, highlighting the importance of time in modeling disease behavior.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 24, 2021

Decoding humans' survival from coronaviruses

An international team analysed genomes of over 2,500 humans from 26 populations to understand human adaptation to historical coronavirus outbreaks. They found signs of adaptation in 42 different human genes encoding viral interacting proteins (VIPs), which primarily active in the lungs and interact with coronaviruses.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 24, 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.

Coronavirus crisis and social citizenship in India

A new project funded by the German Research Foundation is analyzing the coronavirus crisis in India to understand its effects on social policy, regional variations, and local experiences of access to social entitlements. The project aims to capture the dynamism of social perceptions during this period.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·DateJun 24, 2021

Researchers solve a puzzle to design larger proteins

A team of researchers identified the design principles for creating large ideal proteins, paving the way for designing proteins with new biochemical functions. They found that while designed proteins are structurally ideal, they lack functional sites due to internal energetic frustration.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 24, 2021

Higher doses of neutralizing antibody could protect humans against HIV

Researchers argue that a broader application of neutralizing antibodies could be key to developing an effective HIV vaccine and treatment strategy. The study's findings suggest that higher serum titers of infused therapeutic antibody may provide broad protection against various HIV strains.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 24, 2021

Leopard gecko skin tumors traced to cancer gene

A genetic analysis of leopard geckos has identified a cancer gene linked to skin tumors, shedding light on the animals' unique coloration patterns. The study, published in PLOS Genetics, suggests that the geckos' bright colors may be caused by an error in the gene, leading to overproduction of white skin cells and reflective crystals.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJun 24, 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.