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Science News for February 27, 2022


New insights: How potassium and sodium are conducted through ion channels

The study reveals a novel technique using ammonium ions to observe ions in the selectivity filter of ion channels for the first time. This breakthrough enables researchers to investigate pharmacological effects and gain new perspectives on ion channel research.

SourceLeibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New study improves the thermoelectric properties of NbFeSb-based materials

Researchers from Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, have successfully improved the thermoelectric performance of half-Heusler materials, including NbFeSb. The new compounds exhibit lower thermal conductivity and higher electrical properties than the original material.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateFeb 27, 2022

New study reveals ultra-high magneto-mechanical damping in Fe-Ga single crystals

Researchers from the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science have revealed ultra-high anisotropic damping in large-sized Fe-Ga single crystals, with a maximum value of 0.13 under torsional deformation conditions. This high damping effect is attributed to the irreversible motion of domain walls under alternating stress.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalScripta Materialia·DateFeb 27, 2022

Improved fuel cell performance using semiconductor manufacturing technology

Researchers at KIST developed a novel synthesis method for metal nanoparticles using sputtering technology, resulting in improved catalyst activity and efficiency. The new method overcomes limitations of existing chemical synthesis methods, enabling the creation of high-performance nanoparticle catalysts.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalNano Today·DateFeb 27, 2022
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.

Ancient human impact on Island environment in Africa

New research reveals how medieval East African farming societies altered their island habitat through intensive land use, impacting shoreline modification and community decline. The study examines the effects of urban growth, trade, and waste on coastal sediments, shedding light on early globalization and maritime trade networks.

SourceFlinders University·JournalThe Journal of Island and Coastal Archaeology·TypeCase study·DateFeb 27, 2022

Your lunchtime walks in the summer could be making you less productive

A study by researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that taking a 15-minute walk outside on a hot summer day can impair cognitive performance. This effect was more pronounced in men who slept less than 5 hours, suggesting that heat stress may negatively impact learning and productivity.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBuilding and Environment·DateFeb 27, 2022

A possible therapeutic approach to COVID-19

The article suggests a potential treatment option for COVID-19 by targeting SARS-CoV-2's interaction with ACE2 receptors. Combining DPP4 inhibitors and spironolactone may mitigate COVID-19 complications and infections without adverse side effects.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalEndocrine Metabolic & Immune Disorders - Drug Targets·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 27, 2022
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 root of it: Understanding molecular basis of lateral root development in rice

Researchers discovered two WOX genes controlling lateral root primordium size in rice, improving drought stress tolerance and crop production. QHB/OsWOX5 regulates S-type roots, while OsWOX10 mediates L-type root development, enhancing water uptake under drought conditions.

SourceNagoya University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2022