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Science News Archive March 2021 - Page 50


Page 50 of 53

Common bacteria modified to make designer sugar-based drug

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute modified E. coli to produce chondroitin sulfate, a drug used to treat arthritis, in an animal-free fashion. The process allows for fast and efficient production of the drug, with potential applications in therapeutics and regenerative medicine.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 2, 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.

Protein Science Best Papers for 2020

Yu-Ting Huang's unexpected finding that ATP can alter human protein folding through destabilization may be relevant in studying cancer cells. Samuel Junod and Joseph Kelich were recognized for their studies of intrinsically disordered proteins' transport routes through nuclear pore complexes.

SourceThe Protein Society·DateMar 2, 2021

Creamy or gritty?

Scientists at UC Santa Barbara found that fruit flies use a mechanosensory channel called TMEM63 to detect the gritty texture of their food. This discovery sheds light on how animals perceive food and may have implications for human taste perception.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 2, 2021

University launches isolated power supply chip with new design

Researchers at University of Science and Technology of China launched an isolated power supply chip with a new design, achieving 46.5% peak transformation efficiency. The chip's power density is also improved to 50mW/mm2, making it more efficient than traditional designs.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·DateMar 2, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ultrasonic cleaning of salad could reduce instances of food poisoning

A new study finds that gentle streams of water carrying sound and microscopic air bubbles can effectively clean salad leaves, reducing bacterial contamination and the risk of food poisoning. The method has implications for combating anti-microbial resistance and extending food shelf life.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalUltrasound in Medicine & Biology·DateMar 2, 2021

Rice plant resists arsenic

A Chinese-German research team has identified a rice plant variant that can neutralize arsenic toxins, with grains containing less than half the amount of arsenic as conventional rice. The astol1 rice variant also exhibits an elevated content of essential trace element selenium.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 2, 2021

Vaccine shows signs of protection against dozen-plus flu strains

Researchers have developed a vaccine that demonstrates promising signs of protection against more than a dozen swine flu strains and outperforms leading commercial vaccine. The Epigraph vaccine stimulates an immune response against multiple closely related viral strains, providing broader immunity and better cellular-level responses.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 2, 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.

Reclamation awards $3.6 million to improve desalination technologies

The Bureau of Reclamation is awarding $3.6 million to 10 projects focused on advanced water treatment research and development, aiming to make desalination more affordable and increase water supplies nationwide. The funding supports President Biden's Executive Order on Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad.

SourceBureau of Reclamation·DateMar 2, 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.

UT Plant Sciences' Senseman receives highest honor from WSSA

Scott Senseman, UT Department Head, receives highest honor from WSSA for his work in weed science and education. He emphasizes the importance of developing the next generation of weed scientists to address global food security challenges.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateMar 2, 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.

Ultra-fast electron measurement provides important findings for the solar industry

The study provides important findings for the solar industry by analyzing solar cell processes at an ultra-fast scale. The researchers used time-resolved X-ray photoemission spectroscopy to identify a previously unobserved channel for charge separation, revealing new insights into quantum efficiency and optimization possibilities.

SourceUniversity of Freiberg / TU Bergakademie Freiberg·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 2, 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.

USC study shows promising potential for marine biofuel

A new aquaculture technique using a kelp elevator increases kelp growth by four times, yielding more biomass than natural processes. The technique shows promise as a low-carbon biofuel crop alternative to corn and sugarcane, with potential environmental benefits.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateMar 2, 2021

Unusual earthquakes highlight central Utah volcanoes

Researchers have detected unusual earthquake sequences in central Utah's Black Rock Desert, highlighting the region's active volcanic system. The quakes were shallower and produced lower-frequency seismic energy than usual, suggesting a different origin than other Utah earthquakes.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 2, 2021

Only 50% of CO clinicians are willing and able to counsel women on abortion

A new study finds that only 48% of Colorado clinicians can provide unbiased information on abortion options, while 79% say they lack experience or education on the topic. The majority of clinics refer patients to crisis pregnancy centers, despite professional health organizations recommending informed counseling.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateMar 2, 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.

Heart disease is in the eye of the beholder

A study published in EClinical Medicine found a correlation between retinal ischemic perivascular lesions and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Researchers identified this mark in patients who underwent optical coherence tomography scans, suggesting it could serve as a biomarker for heart disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalEClinicalMedicine·DateMar 2, 2021

How the trap-jaw ant got its ultrafast bite

Researchers discovered how trap-jaws evolved from simpler ancestral jaw mechanisms through minor changes in form and function, resulting in diverse trap-jaw forms across continents. High-speed videography revealed the fastest accelerating animal body part with resettable motion.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 2, 2021

Aggressive intervention recommended to prevent pediatric diabetes

A research review recommends physicians conduct regular screenings, adopt a high level of suspicion, and intervene early with families at risk for pediatric Type 2 diabetes. The study highlights the importance of addressing underlying factors such as weight issues, food insecurity, and stress to slow the youth diabetes epidemic.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalJournal of Osteopathic Medicine·DateMar 2, 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.

New study proposes a low cost, high efficiency mask design

Researchers propose a tri-layer mask design that includes a graphene oxide mixture for enhanced anti-bacterial activity. This coating simplifies the number of layers in the design while maintaining high filtration efficiency, making it suitable for reusable N95 masks.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalOxford Open Materials Science·DateMar 2, 2021

Solving the biochemical conundrum at the dawn of life on Earth

Researchers at UNC-Chapel Hill develop collaborative strategy to test hypothesis on how tiny chemicals formed basic biochemistry four billion years ago. They aim to enhance understanding of cellular processes to detect new disease treatment strategies and inspire life outside Earth.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·DateMar 2, 2021

'Fish DJ' tackles fish hearing

PhD candidate Rebecca Poulsen designed a speaker system to study brain networks and hearing in baby fish, finding they can hear high-frequency sounds. Whole-brain imaging revealed how larvae process different types of sounds, raising questions about their brain's interpretation.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 2, 2021

Here's how insects coax plants into making galls

Researchers identified insect genes that directly guide gall development in aphids, transforming ordinary plant parts into intricate shelters. The discovery of "bicycle genes" reveals a novel mechanism by which insects reprogram plant growth.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 2, 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.

Indoor air quality study shows aircraft in flight may have lowest particulate levels

A recent study found that aircraft cabins have the lowest levels of tiny aerosol particles, making them a good option for indoor spaces with low air pollution. The study measured air quality in various environments, including restaurants, offices, and vehicles, and found that aircraft air is exchanged frequently, removing pollutants.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalIndoor Air·DateMar 2, 2021

HKBU develops dual-targeting drug for EBV-related cancers

Researchers at Hong Kong Baptist University develop a peptide-linked drug targeting two viral proteins produced by Epstein-Barr virus, reducing cancer cell damage and increasing drug uptake rates. The novel drug has shown efficacy in animal models and is being further developed for clinical trials.

SourceHong Kong Baptist University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMar 2, 2021

A new blindness gene uncovered in a canine study

Researchers have identified a new blindness gene, IFT122, associated with inherited retinal dystrophy in dogs. The discovery has significant implications for understanding the genetic background of the disease and developing novel treatments.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalHuman Genetics·DateMar 2, 2021

Under 55's found lockdown most challenging, finds survey

A UK-wide survey of 2252 adults revealed that women and adults under 55 were most likely to report finding the lockdown challenging. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to address physical, psychological, and social impacts of the pandemic.

SourceNIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateMar 2, 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.

Child abuse surges in times of crisis - the pandemic may be different

A new study suggests that child abuse cases surged during the pandemic, despite initial declines in ER visits and hospital admissions. Researchers found little difference in the severity of injuries compared to pre-pandemic years, suggesting physical abuse may have decreased across all severity levels.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 2, 2021

Complex fluid dynamics may explain hydroplaning

Scientists used laser imaging and fluorescent particles to study water flow in tire grooves, finding vortices and bubbles that can contribute to hydroplaning. The study's findings may help improve tread designs to counteract this phenomenon.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateMar 2, 2021

Discovery of potential cosmic-ray accelerator in the galaxy opens window for PeV cosmic rays origin

The Tibet ASgamma experiment has discovered gamma rays beyond 100 TeV from a supernova remnant, suggesting that cosmic-ray nuclei are accelerated up to PeV energy and collide with a nearby molecular cloud. This discovery identifies the first candidate object in the Milky Way that can accelerate cosmic rays up to 1 PeV.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Astronomy·DateMar 2, 2021

Key steps discovered in production of critical immune cell

WEHI researchers have uncovered a process cells use to fight off infection and cancer that could pave the way for precision cancer immunotherapy treatment. The study found how the Flt3L hormone increases dendritic cell numbers, helping the immune system fight off cancer and infection.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMar 2, 2021

Scientists use forest color to gauge permafrost depth

Researchers developed a method using satellite imagery to measure the depth of thaw directly above permafrost in boreal ecosystems by analyzing variations in forest color. This approach provides more accurate estimates of permafrost depth, essential for climate modeling and monitoring permafrost thaw rates.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalApplied Vegetation Science·DateMar 2, 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.

Hassles with child car seats linked to unsafe child passenger behaviors

A study published in Academic Pediatrics found that parents who reported more child car seat hassles were less likely to follow American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations on child passenger safety. Parents who identified more hassles were more likely to have their children travel unrestrained or not use a car seat consistently.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalAcademic Pediatrics·DateMar 2, 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.

A fluid solution to dendrite growth in lithium metal batteries

Researchers propose a potential solution to dendrite growth in rechargeable lithium metal batteries, proposing the use of microfluidics to reduce dendrite growth by up to 99%. This study aims to extend the life of these high-energy density batteries while improving safety.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 2, 2021

Yale team finds dozens of genes that block regeneration of neurons

Researchers have identified 40 genes that suppress axon regeneration in central nervous system cells, hindering recovery from brain and spinal cord injuries. By editing out one gene, they restored axons in mouse models with glaucoma, suggesting a potential new approach to treating neural damage.

SourceYale University·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 2, 2021

Deep immune profiling shows significant immune activation in children with MIS-C

Researchers found highly activated T cells and vascular patrolling CD8 T cells in children with MIS-C, which subsided with clinical improvement. The study provides a broad immunologic foundation for understanding pathogenesis and recovery in this novel SARS-CoV-2-associated inflammatory syndrome.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalScience Immunology·DateMar 2, 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.

Willpower is the key to enhancing learning and memory: researchers uncover the mechanism

A study published in PNAS found that theta oscillations in the human brain, generated by the hippocampus, play a crucial role in active learning and memory formation. Active navigation improves learning efficiency, while two consecutive phenomena, encoding and retrieval, are facilitated by theta phase code.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 2, 2021

Galápagos volcano could help forecast future eruptions

A new study reveals details of Sierra Negra's eruption, filling gaps in scientists' understanding of volcanic processes. The research integrated geophysical data with chemical analysis of the erupted lava, capturing a unique dataset that provides insight into future eruptions.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 2, 2021

Chemistry goes under cover

Scientists have discovered that covering metal catalyst surfaces with thin two-dimensional oxide materials can significantly enhance chemical reactions. The new method uses partially covered palladium surfaces with silica films to boost carbon dioxide production by 20%. This approach allows for more efficient and effective catalytic co...

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 2, 2021