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Science News Archive May 2021


Page 25 of 47

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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

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.

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.

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.

Living in redlined areas associated with lower lung function in those with asthma

Researchers found that individuals with asthma living in historically redlined neighborhoods have lower lung function than those in non-redlined areas. This association was independent of race and co-occurring diseases, suggesting that environmental factors play a significant role in worsening asthma outcomes in these communities.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

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.

Lundquist investigator research on mucormycosis, the deadly 'black fungus'

Researchers at the Lundquist Institute have discovered an antibody that can protect against mucormycosis, a deadly fungal infection with a high mortality rate. The humanized monoclonal antibodies are being manufactured by Vitalex Biosciences and aim to improve treatment outcomes for patients with COVID-19.

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.

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...

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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...

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.