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Science News for May 14, 2021


Climate change threatens one-third of global food production

New research by Aalto University warns that climate change could push a third of global food production out of safe climatic space if greenhouse gas emissions continue growing unchecked. The study assesses the impact of climate change on crop production and livestock, highlighting regions most vulnerable to changes.

SourceAalto University·JournalOne Earth·DateMay 14, 2021

New research will improve safety and quality of Heparin

A new analytical approach for detecting contaminants in Heparin has been developed, increasing sensitivity by over 100 times and reducing analysis time and material requirements. This technique has the potential to improve the quality and safety of the widely used anticoagulant drug.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateMay 14, 2021

Building a foundation for high-power tech

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are working on new soft magnetic materials and manufacturing processes to enable ultra-high frequency power electronics switching devices. The four-year project aims to establish a foundation for ultra-wide bandgap semiconductor materials in novel power electronics switching devices.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateMay 14, 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.

The eyes offer a window into Alzheimer's disease

A new study reveals that retinal scans can identify early signs of Alzheimer's disease by detecting changes in blood vessels associated with the APOE4 gene. The research provides a potential path forward for early detection and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateMay 14, 2021

Bio-inspired scaffolds help promote muscle growth

Rice University bioengineers have created electrospun scaffolds from decellularized skeletal muscle that mimic native tissue and direct the growth of myotubes. The tunable scaffolds promote muscle regeneration with minimal crosslinking agents, offering a promising solution for reconstructive surgeries.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 14, 2021

Is the past (and future) there when nobody looks?

Researchers investigate the limits of quantum theory in describing an observer's experience, leading to a 'no-go theorem' for the persistent reality of Wigner's friend perception. The study challenges traditional assumptions about the nature of reality and raises questions about the reliability of an observer's predictions.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalCommunications Physics·DateMay 14, 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.

Scientists rewrite the genesis of mosquito-borne viruses

Researchers have discovered a misinterpreted model of immature flavivirus particles, revealing an unexpected organisation that could lead to new and better vaccines. The study's findings define the exact wiring of the immature virus before it becomes infectious, providing a solid foundation for designing tomorrow's treatments.

SourceMonash University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 14, 2021

Access to overdose-reversing drugs declined during pandemic, researchers find

A study published in JAMA Health Forum found that nonfatal opioid overdose visits have more than doubled during the pandemic, while few patients who overdosed on opioids had received a prescription for naloxone. The number of individuals filling naloxone prescriptions fell by over 25% throughout the pandemic.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateMay 14, 2021

New immunotherapy 'highly effective' against hepatitis B

Scientists at UCL have identified a new immunotherapy that targets acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT), an enzyme helping to manage cholesterol levels in cells. Boosting ACAT inhibition boosts specific immune cells fighting both the virus and cancerous tumours, demonstrating its effectiveness as an immunotherapy.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Maternal stress during pregnancy may shorten lifespans of male lizard offspring

A Penn State-led study found that maternal stress during pregnancy can shorten the telomeres of male lizard offspring, leading to decreased lifespan. The researchers discovered a sex-specific effect, where stressed mothers give birth to sons with significantly shorter telomeres, highlighting potential implications for human longevity.

SourcePenn State·JournalComparative Biochemistry and Physiology·DateMay 14, 2021

New technology enables rapid sequencing of entire genomes of plant pathogens

A new technology has made it possible to quickly sequence the entire genome of plant pathogens, enabling faster diagnosis and identification of emerging pathogens. This breakthrough has great implications for the plant pathology field, allowing for more accurate identification of difficult-to-diagnose pathogens.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Health Progress·DateMay 14, 2021

Yoga and breathing exercises aid children with ADHD to focus

Researchers at Ural Federal University found that yoga and breathing exercises can improve attention and reduce hyperactivity in children with ADHD. The studies involved 16 children aged six to seven years who received special classes, including diaphragmatic rhythmic deep breathing exercises.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMay 14, 2021

Genes associated with COVID-19 risk identified

Research identified specific genetic variants associated with COVID-19 risk, including the ABO gene and others like SLC6A20 and ERMP1. These variants can increase the chances of developing COVID-19, highlighting the importance of genetic factors in disease susceptibility.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 14, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Researchers pinpoint possible way to prevent permanent hearing loss caused by cancer drug

University of Alberta scientists have identified Toll-like receptor 4 as a potential target for preventing permanent hearing loss caused by the chemotherapy drug cisplatin. By inhibiting this receptor, they may be able to eliminate toxic side effects from the drug that cause hearing loss in childhood cancer survivors.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalEMBO Reports·DateMay 14, 2021

New pre-clinical model could hold the key to better HIV treatments

Researchers developed a unique pre-clinical model of long-term HIV infection using subset of human CD4 cells, excluding those prone to attacking mouse tissue. The model showed that memory CD4 cells can be infected and killed by HIV or protected by anti-HIV drugs, paving the way for T-cell based therapies

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMay 14, 2021

Few realistic scenarios left to limit global warming to 1.5°C

Only a few hundred climate scenarios avoid significantly overshooting the 1.5°C limit, according to a new study. All realistic scenarios require significant emission reductions and rely on multiple mitigation levers, including carbon removal and land use changes. The window for meeting the target is rapidly closing.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMay 14, 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.

Cataloging breast cells to find cancer origins

The study created a comprehensive catalog of healthy breast tissue cells, enabling scientists to pinpoint the origin of abnormal changes. By tracking gene activity in over 15,000 cells, the team redefined healthy breast tissue and identified subpopulations with different responses to therapies.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalJournal of Mammary Gland Biology and Neoplasia·DateMay 14, 2021

Solar wind from the center of the Earth

Researchers from Heidelberg University found solar noble gases in an iron meteorite, indicating that solar wind particles encased in the Earth's core over 4.5 billion years ago. The discovery suggests a new perspective on the Earth's mantle and its geochemical development.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateMay 14, 2021

Pandemic boosts demand for postal delivery of abortion pill

Two studies published in Contraception found that telehealth abortion improves access to reproductive health services, particularly for low-income persons and those living in rural areas. The studies also showed that most patients prefer receiving abortion pills through the mail and interacting with healthcare providers via telehealth.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalContraception·DateMay 14, 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.

U-M researchers trace path of light in photosynthesis

Researchers at the University of Michigan have determined the first steps in converting light into energy for a type of bacteria that uses photosynthesis. By studying heliobacteria's reaction centers, they identified which pigments initially donate and accept electrons during charge separation.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2021

Emergence of a new heteronanostructure library

A research team at USTC reports a new class of axial superlattice nanowires (ASLNWs) that enable large lattice-mismatch tolerance and vast material combinations. They achieve this by designing an axial encoding methodology for predictable, high-precision synthesis.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 14, 2021

Researchers develop first-in-class inhibitors against key leukemia protein

A team of researchers has developed first-in-class small molecules to inhibit the SET domain of the ASH1L protein, preventing critical molecular interactions in leukemia development. The lead compound, AS-99, successfully reduced leukemia progression in mouse models.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 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.

New research optimizes body's own immune system to fight cancer

A groundbreaking study by University of Minnesota researchers shows how engineered immune cells can move faster and more effectively through tumors, improving cancer therapies for millions worldwide. The research uses advanced gene editing technologies to modify T cells, enabling them to recognize and destroy cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2021

Fairness 'important - but not enough'

Researchers discovered that fair treatment alone is insufficient to foster a sense of value in groups; instead, recognizing individual talents and qualities provides a sense of inclusion while promoting mental health. This approach complements the idea of 'fitting in' by allowing individuals to stand out and feel valuable.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 14, 2021

Fibre-optics used to take the temperature of Greenland Ice Sheet

Researchers used fibre-optic sensing to obtain highly detailed temperature measurements from the surface of the ice sheet to its base, revealing a heterogeneous temperature distribution. This finding contradicts previous theories and highlights limitations in current models, including those predicting global sea-level rise.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 14, 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.

The chemistry of magnesium turned on its head

Researchers at FAU have discovered a new class of magnesium complexes in which the metal has a zero-oxidation state, forming elemental Mg in complex compounds. This discovery represents a landmark in the chemistry of magnesium and opens up new avenues for research into its unusual reactivity.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature·DateMay 14, 2021

Above the noise

Scientists from Osaka University used machine learning methods to enhance signal-to-noise ratio in nanopore data, enabling higher precision measurements. The 'Noise2Noise' technique improved resolution of noisy runs, revealing faint features hidden by random fluctuations.

SourceOsaka University·JournalSmall Methods·DateMay 14, 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.

Nagoya University scientists reveal unprecedentedly versatile new DNA staining probe

Kakshine is a new DNA fluorescent dye with unprecedented versatility, enabling super-resolution imaging of mitochondrial DNA in living cells and deep tissue imaging. Its applications include electrophoresis, quantitative PCR, and flow cytometry, making it a promising tool for DNA analysis.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 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.

Most pediatric spinal fractures related to not wearing seatbelts

A study published in Spine Journal reveals that most pediatric spinal fractures occur in motor vehicle accidents where seatbelts are not used. The majority of these injuries (63%) occur in teenagers aged 15-17, who are at highest risk for MVA-related spinal fractures. Wearing a seatbelt significantly reduces the risk of death and spina...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalSpine·DateMay 14, 2021

You're so vein: Scientists discover faster way to manufacture vascular materials

Researchers at Beckman Institute develop new manufacturing process that shortens production time from two days to just minutes, enabling the creation of self-healing structural materials. The technology has potential applications in various fields, including aerospace and construction.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 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.

New cyanobacteria species spotlights early life

Researchers have discovered a new species of cyanobacteria, Anthocerotibacter panamensis, which can help study the dawn of oxygenic photosynthesis. The species lacks thylakoids and has unique carotenoid biosynthesis pathways, providing insights into the evolution of photosynthesis.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 14, 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.

E-cigarettes associated with wheezing, shortness of breath

A web-based survey found that e-cigarette users had a higher risk of asthma, wheezing, and shortness of breath compared to non-users. The study also showed that past 30-day e-cigarette use was associated with increased respiratory symptoms even after controlling for cigarette and cannabis use.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 14, 2021

New weapon in the fight against gastrointestinal disease in informal settlements

A new laboratory method called TaqMan Array Card (TAC) has been validated for detecting a diverse range of bacteria that cause diarrheal disease. The TAC is faster and cheaper than traditional methods while delivering comparable results, enabling comprehensive monitoring of enteropathogens in informal settlements.

SourceMonash University·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateMay 14, 2021

New research shows: Antoni van Leeuwenhoek led rivals astray

Researchers from Rijksmuseum Boerhaave Leiden and TU Delft used neutron tomography to examine a highly magnifying specimen without damaging it. The findings reveal that Van Leeuwenhoek's lenses were made using a common production method, contradicting long-held assumptions about his 'secret' technique.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 14, 2021
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Lockdown led to positive lifestyle changes in older people

A University of Stirling study found that COVID-19 lockdowns triggered feelings of loneliness in older adults but also encouraged them to engage with technology, reconnect with friends, and build new relationships with neighbors. The research highlights the importance of addressing loneliness and social support in older adults, particu...

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMay 14, 2021

The mechanism of action of genes with high mutation frequency in cancer

A University of Seville group discovered the mechanism by which BRG1 inactivation leads to genetic instability and tumour formation. The study reveals that the SWI/SNF complex plays a crucial role in resolving chromosomal conflicts, and its mutation can cause DNA replication defects and chromosomal breaks.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 14, 2021

Availability of US hospital price data

Researchers evaluated hospital compliance with CMS ruling requiring public listing of charges in a machine-readable file, revealing inconsistent results. The study found that many US hospitals failed to comply with the rule, hindering transparency in healthcare pricing.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 14, 2021

How moths find their flame - genetics of mate attraction discovered

Researchers have identified the gene responsible for a male European corn borer moth's preference for its female counterpart's pheromone. The discovery provides insights into the evolution of mating signals and could help predict the spread of resistance to genetically modified insecticides, offering potential benefits for pest control.

SourceTufts University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 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.

Ventilating the rectum to support respiration

Scientists successfully deliver oxygen through the lining of the intestine, a process called enteral ventilation or EVA, to alleviate respiratory failure. The method shows promise for reducing negative effects of oxygen deprivation and has potential as a less invasive alternative to traditional ventilators.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalMed·DateMay 14, 2021

Compound may prevent risk of a form of arrhythmia from common medications

A multi-institutional team has identified a compound that prevents the lengthening of the heart's electrical event, preventing cardiac arrhythmia. The compound, C28, enhances the IKs potassium ion channel function without affecting normal action potentials.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2021

Harvesting light like nature does

Scientists at PNNL develop a novel material capable of capturing light energy, displaying high efficiency and programmability, with potential applications in photovoltaics, bioimaging, and beyond. The researchers' bio-inspired approach leverages natural hierarchical structures for exceptional properties.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 14, 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.

Where on Earth is all the water?

Researchers discovered that water can bond strongly with iron under extreme conditions, explaining the presence of significant amounts of hydrogen in the Earth's core. This finding suggests that much of the water that arrived on Earth during its formation might be stored in the core as hydrogen.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2021

Sensors developed at URI can identify threats at the molecular level

Researchers have developed sensors that can detect explosive materials, particles from deadly viruses, and illegal drugs at the part-per-quadrillion level. The technology has a wide range of applications, including monitoring wounds in soldiers and detecting roadside IEDs.

SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalNature·DateMay 14, 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.

Hanging by a thread: Imaging and probing chains of single atoms

Scientists at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology create novel technique to probe monoatomic chain bonds using transmission electron microscopy and quartz length-extension resonator. They successfully measure the strength of individual Pt bonds and observe the formation and breaking of monoatomic Pt chains in real-time.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateMay 14, 2021

Ecology-inspired mathematical models to understand social networks

The study adapts mathematical models from ecology to understand Twitter's interaction patterns. The researchers identified two primary behaviour patterns: a modular state with fragmented attention and a nested state during exceptional events.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 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.

Mammals can use their intestines to breathe

Researchers have found that rodents and pigs can survive with the help of oxygen administered through their rectum. A liquid-based alternative has also been developed, which reversed symptoms in both models without producing side effects.

SourceCell Press·JournalMed·DateMay 14, 2021

Which animals will survive climate change?

Researchers from McGill University studied threespine stickleback fish adapting to seasonal changes, finding genetic shifts that mirror past adaptations. The study's findings suggest predicting evolutionary future of populations under environmental stressors like climate change.

SourceMcGill University·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMay 14, 2021

Researchers develop 3D-printed jelly

North Carolina State University researchers have created a new type of 3D-printable gel called homocomposite hydrogel, composed of alginates found in seaweed. The gel has remarkable strength and flexibility, making it suitable for biomedical applications such as growing cells and wound dressings.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2021

Male hormones regulate stomach inflammation in mice

Scientists found that male sex hormones prevent stomach inflammation by suppressing immune cells, while females lack this protection. The study suggests treating males with stomach inflammation differently than females.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateMay 14, 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.

Terpen-tales: The mystery behind the unique fragrance of the lovely lavender

A team of scientists from China has sequenced the genome of Lavandula angustifolia to understand the genetics behind its distinctive fragrance. The study revealed that gene duplications and terpenoid diversification led to the evolution of unique compounds, with potential applications in stress relief, skin conditioning, and pollination.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateMay 14, 2021

New perspective on stress pandemics and human resilience from the analysis of COVID-19

A new study reveals the importance of nutrition in maintaining redox balance and coping with viral infections. The endothelium's regulatory function is also crucial in protecting blood cells from damage, while gasotransmitters play a key role in sensing environmental changes. These findings may inform future therapeutic approaches.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalAntioxidants and Redox Signaling·DateMay 14, 2021