Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive May 2021 - Page 20


Page 20 of 47

Modular photoswitch cpLOV2 developed for optogenetic engineering

Researchers designed cpLOV2 using circular permutation to simplify optogenetic device design. The new photoswitch maintained structural integrity and function, providing more choices for optogenetic application developments. It was successfully used to gate ORAI1 Ca2+ channel and control cell activities in a mouse model.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMay 18, 2021

Turn problems into opportunities: Photorespiration for improved plant metabolism

Scientists have developed a solution that synergistically couples photorespiration and C4 metabolism in plants, conserving nitrogen and accumulating C4 metabolites. This breakthrough connects two main targets in plant metabolism and has the potential to improve agricultural productivity and climate resilience.

SourceINsociety·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 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.

Researchers first achieve quantum information masking experimentally

The team achieved the first experimental demonstration of quantum information masking, a new protocol for transferring quantum information between multiple carriers. The fidelity of the entangled state was 97.7%, enabling secure transmission of simple images for three-party quantum secret sharing.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 18, 2021

A new theory for what's happening in the brain when something looks familiar

Researchers propose sensory referenced suppression theory, where brain corrects for changes in sensory input to isolate familiar activation. This could have implications for treating memory-impairing diseases like Alzheimer's and developing AI systems that work similarly to human brains.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 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.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New material could create 'neurons' and 'synapses' for new computers

Scientists have created elements comparable to brain neurons and synapses using spins, a magnetic property of electrons. This breakthrough could lead to the development of brain-like computer hardware that can interface with standard silicon-based circuits.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalFrontiers in Nanotechnology·DateMay 18, 2021

Study reveals huge pressures on anaesthesia and critical care workforce and hospitals during winter wave of COVID-19 pandemic, and devastating drop in surgical activity

During the winter wave of COVID-19, anaesthetic and critical care staff in the UK faced immense pressure due to a surge in newly admitted infected patients. Surgery rates plummeted by one quarter compared to previous years, with many hospitals expanding ICUs to accommodate the influx.

SourceAAGBI·JournalAnaesthesia·DateMay 18, 2021

Scientists to take a new step in the microelectronics' development

Researchers at Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University developed a new approach to determine the best electrode materials composition for solid-state lithium-ion batteries. The results demonstrated high charge capacity at high current densities using transition metal oxides.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalNanomaterials·DateMay 18, 2021

The importance of DNA compaction in tissue formation

Scientists have discovered that poor DNA compaction in mammary glands can lead to increased accessibility of retrotransposons, triggering an immune response and disrupting milk secretion. The findings highlight the importance of proper chromatin condensation for tissue development and function.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMay 18, 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.

AI predicts lung cancer risk

A new AI algorithm accurately predicts lung cancer risk from low-dose CT scans, outperforming established models and human clinicians. The algorithm may aid in optimizing follow-up recommendations for lung cancer screening participants.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMay 18, 2021

Hepatitis C screening doubles when tests ordered ahead of time

Researchers found that patients were more likely to complete hepatitis C screenings when the test was already ordered for them, with completion rates doubling. The study also showed that traditional mail notifications resulted in higher screening rates than online patient portals, particularly among Black patients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 18, 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 environmental trade-offs of autonomous vehicles

New research reveals autonomous vehicles will increase energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions across all categories studied. However, electric autonomous vehicles can change this outcome, particularly if adoption rates exceed 40%.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMay 18, 2021

New wound care best practice consensus document for pharmacy teams

A multidisciplinary group of experts has created a 'Consensus Document' to guide pharmacy teams in wound management and dressing selection. The document addresses the current lack of written information about pharmacist roles and responsibilities in wound care, providing principles and evidence-based guidelines.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·DateMay 18, 2021

Ancient horse DNA reveals gene flow between Eurasian and North American horses

A new study shows that horse populations on North America and Eurasia remained connected through the Bering Land Bridge, interbreeding multiple times over hundreds of thousands of years. The findings demonstrate genetic continuity between the horses that died out in North America and those domesticated in Eurasia.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMay 18, 2021

Icing muscle injuries may delay recovery

A study using a mouse model of eccentric contraction revealed that icing injured muscles delays muscle regeneration. The phenomenon is linked to pro-inflammatory macrophages' ability to infiltrate damaged cells, delaying the healing process.

SourceKobe University·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateMay 18, 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.

New model for infectious disease could better predict future pandemics

A new approach to modeling infectious diseases considers ecological and anthropological contexts, predicting disease emergence and spread. This framework integrates disease agents into general ecosystem models, enabling scientists to simulate pathogen behavior and predict risk.

SourceSmithsonian National Zoological Park·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 18, 2021

Study shows optimized multi-scale structure and chemical gradients in exoskeletons of mantis shrimps

Researchers discovered a four-layered exoskeleton with distinctive micro-structure and chemical characteristics that restrict crack propagation and maximize strain energy release during deformation. Bio-mimetic structures fabricated via 3D printing demonstrated improved toughness and strength, guiding high-performance composites fabric...

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 18, 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.

Maintaining self-control -- The careful balance of the immune system

A new study by University of Tsukuba researchers reveals how two receptors, DNAM-1 and TIGIT, maintain the necessary balance between immune activation and suppression to prevent autoimmune diseases. The findings suggest that an imbalance in this mechanism may contribute to autoimmunity, providing potential targets for treatment.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2021

Oregon researchers find cell division machinery that makes brain cells

Researchers at the University of Oregon have discovered a cell division machinery in fruit flies that produces brain cells, revealing a mechanical cycle involved in differentiation. The study provides insights into brain development and potential regenerative therapies for injuries.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 18, 2021

One-year results from the FUTURE-II trial

A randomized trial comparing a new, thin-strut bioresorbable scaffold with a metallic stent showed non-inferiority of the bioresorbable scaffold in terms of late lumen loss and covered struts. The trial's results may revitalize the concept of bioresorbable scaffolds.

SourcePCR·DateMay 18, 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.

Fannie and John Hertz Foundation announces 2021 graduate fellows

The Fannie and John Hertz Foundation has announced the 2021 recipients of the Hertz Fellowship, funding 12 PhD students working on groundbreaking projects. The fellows will receive five years of graduate research support, with a focus on improving treatments for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceFannie and John Hertz Foundation·DateMay 18, 2021

BU study: Racial disparities in COVID-19 mortality wider than reported

A Boston University study finds that state-level racial disparities in COVID-19 deaths are greater when accounting for age, revealing a significant impact of structural racism. The study quantifies these disparities and models their relationship with structural racism at the state level.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities·DateMay 18, 2021

Discovery increases likelihood of growing food despite drought

Researchers have uncovered genes that enable plants to make three key things: transport water and nutrients via xylem, produce lignin and suberin for drought protection, and regulate root meristem growth. These findings can be applied to crops like tomatoes and rice, potentially increasing their drought tolerance.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalCell·DateMay 18, 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.

'Bite' defects revealed in bottom-up graphene nanoribbons

Graphene nanoribbons exhibit structural disorder due to missing carbon atoms, known as 'bite' defects. These imperfections degrade electronic device performance but offer promising opportunities for spintronic applications with unique magnetic properties.

SourceNational Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) MARVEL·Journal2D Materials·DateMay 18, 2021

Management study examines fine line between lobbying, bribery

A new study by the University of Texas at Dallas examines the gray area between lobbying and bribery among multinational companies, especially in countries with weak institutional development. Firms from developed countries are more likely to influence host countries through lobbying, even when bribery is expected.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalBusiness & Society·DateMay 18, 2021

Gut check

Researchers at Harvard Medical School analyze the genetic makeup of gut bacteria and find links to various diseases including coronary artery disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and liver cirrhosis. The study identifies groups of bacterial genes that can predict disease risk or identify presence, paving the way for developing tests.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 18, 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.

In search of drought-tolerant holm oaks

A study by the University of Córdoba has identified holm oak trees that exhibit greater resistance and tolerance to drought stress, root rot, and high temperatures. These 'elite' specimens may be used as molecular markers for drought-tolerant trees in reforestation programs.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateMay 18, 2021

SNU GRC holds US - Korea Strategic Infrastructure Summit

The summit will discuss strategies for Biden's infrastructure programs, their implications on the Korean New Deal, and opportunities for grand economic collaboration. It will also feature talks on integration of US national infrastructure investment plans and Korea's Digital Green New Deal.

SourceSeoul National University·DateMay 18, 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 gentler strategy for avoiding childhood dental decay

Researchers develop therapeutic strategy to disrupt sticky biofilm that causes early childhood caries, a severe form of dental decay. The treatment targets the bonds between bacteria and yeast, reducing biofilm volume and making it easier to remove.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalmBio·DateMay 18, 2021

Strengthening interpersonal relationships helps medical patients live longer

Research from Brigham Young University found that providing social support to medical patients through group meetings and family sessions promotes healthy behaviors and increases survival rates. The study analyzed data from 106 trials involving over 40,000 patients, showing a significant impact on patient outcomes.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMay 18, 2021

'We're playing Moneyball with building assets'

Researchers developed a tool using AI and text mining to analyze inspection reports, identifying urgent roof repairs and prioritizing spending. The 'Moneyball' approach uses data on buildings instead of subjective opinions to make informed decisions with limited budgets.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Building Engineering·DateMay 18, 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.

Rising energy demand for cooling

The global temperature rise will increase cooling degree days, leading to a higher energy demand for cooling buildings. In Switzerland, the energy demand for cooling is expected to increase significantly, with potential peaks on hot days.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalApplied Energy·DateMay 18, 2021

Disabled researcher calls for better support for faculty

Academic institutions must improve support for disabled faculty members, including those with visible and invisible disabilities. The commentary highlights the challenges created by high demands for grant money and frequent research publications, which can lead to reduced funding and staff retention.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Neurosciences·DateMay 18, 2021

Nanofiber filter captures almost 100% of coronavirus aerosols

A nanofiber filter made from polymer nanothreads captured 99.9% of coronavirus aerosols in an experiment, surpassing the effectiveness of commercial masks and air filters. The production technique, electrospinning, is cost-effective and scalable.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateMay 18, 2021

Grape genetics research reveals what makes the perfect flower

Researchers at Cornell University have identified DNA markers that determine grape flower sex and pinpointed the genetic origins of the perfect flower. This study provides breeders with a tool to screen seedlings for flower sex, reducing waste and increasing efficiency in breeding programs.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2021

New catalyst proved efficient to electrosynthesis of ammonia

Researchers have discovered a new oxygen-coordinated molybdenum single atom catalyst that exhibits high nitrogen reduction reaction activity and stability in producing ammonia. The catalyst, anchored on activated carbon, shows promising results for efficient electrosynthesis of ammonia.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalChemical Communications·DateMay 18, 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.

Novel method of labeling DNA bases for sequencing

Researchers developed a novel method for labeling DNA bases using electrochemical detection and redox labels. This approach allows for the identification of individual nucleotides in a single strand of DNA, enabling faster and more affordable DNA sequencing and diagnostic applications.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 18, 2021

New model helps predict heart attacks in high-risk patients

Researchers have developed a new approach to analysing the forces at play behind diseased heart vessels, which could help cardiologists predict heart attacks in patients. The study used optical coherence tomography images to generate patient-specific reconstructions of coronary plaques and analyse stress concentrations.

SourceeLife·DateMay 18, 2021

Epigenetics study draws link between hatchery conditions and steelhead trout fitness

A Washington State University study links alterations in hatchery-raised steelhead trout's epigenetic programming to reduced fertility and abnormal health. The research suggests that faster growth practices and environmental factors can lead to epigenetic changes passed down through generations, impacting wild fish populations.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEnvironmental Epigenetics·DateMay 18, 2021