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Science News for April 13, 2021


UBCO engineer cautions pregnant women about speed bumps

Researchers found that accelerating over speed bumps poses a danger for pregnant women and their fetuses, leading to minor injuries to the fetal brain and other complications. The study advises drivers to slow down over 45km/h when hitting a speedbump, with even lower speeds recommended for maximum safety.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Biomechanics·DateApr 13, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

ETRI develops a haptic film activated by LEDs

A Korean research team developed a technology generating various vibrations using LED light signals, allowing for localized and varied tactile sensations. The technology, developed by ETRI, is expected to be applied to industries such as automobiles and electronics, offering improved feedback and durability.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 13, 2021

Researchers discover new way to monitor & prevent nerve cell deterioration after TBI

A new study reveals a potential mechanism linking traumatic brain injury (TBI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD), as well as a method for preventing nerve cell degeneration after injury. Researchers discovered a blood biomarker of neurodegeneration that could stage severity and progression of TBI-induced nerve cell deterioration.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalCell·DateApr 13, 2021

Inside the protein channel that keeps bacteria alive

Researchers at Rockefeller University have developed a novel method to activate and visualize protein channels in bacteria, shedding light on their function. The findings offer potential new avenues for designing antibiotic drugs that target these channels, which are essential for bacterial survival.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 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.

Elusive particle may point to undiscovered physics

Researchers confirm the original findings that suggested a significant discrepancy in the muon's magnetic field from the Standard Model prediction. This discovery may indicate the presence of an undiscovered type of fundamental physics, leading to further investigation into the nature of particles and forces.

SourceCornell University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 13, 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.

Towards automatic design for freeform optics

Researchers developed a result-diversified automatic design method for freeform optics, generating various three-mirror systems with high imaging qualities. The method provides a brand new thought for fully automatic optical design, enabling exploration of solution spaces and changing the working mode in engineering applications.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateApr 13, 2021

New research shows how immune response to TB differs in babies

New research reveals fundamental differences in how baby and adult immune cells respond to TB, with a greater ability of adult cells to shift their energy profile after infection. The study highlights the importance of understanding how the immune system uses energy to develop better treatments for vulnerable populations.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateApr 13, 2021

Narratives can help science counter misinformation on vaccines

Author Michael Dahlstrom's paper examines how narratives or storytelling can help counter misinformation on vaccines by providing context and connection between facts. This approach recognizes the disproportionate influence of narratives on attitudes and behaviors, and highlights their potential as a tool for public health education.

SourceIowa State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 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.

Amoeba biology reveals potential treatment target for lung disease

Researchers identified a genetic pathway that could help treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by sweeping out excess mucus from the lungs. The pathway involves the ANT2 gene, which produces proteins that enhance cilia function and hydration layer formation in lung cells.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Cell Science·DateApr 13, 2021

Joyful screams perceived more strongly than screams of fear or anger

Researchers at the University of Zurich found that humans respond more quickly and with higher sensitivity to positive screams, which indicate joy, than to negative screams. The study revealed six distinct types of scream calls, including pain, anger, fear, pleasure, sadness, and joy.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 13, 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.

DNA structure itself is involved in genome regulation

A recent study published in Cell Reports reveals that DNA supercoiling is involved in regulating gene expression, rather than being just collateral damage. The researchers found that specific genes are massively activated in response to stimuli, and topoisomerase TOP2A plays a crucial role in this process.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 13, 2021

Lundquist investigator Chang's study in JAMA Internal Medicine

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that training physicians to use time-limited trials of ICU treatments improves the quality of family meetings. This approach engages families in decision-making, reducing unnecessary ICU treatments for critically ill patients with poor prognoses.

SourceThe Lundquist Institute·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 13, 2021

Unlocking richer intracellular recordings

A team of Carnegie Mellon University researchers has developed a novel microelectrode platform using 3D fuzzy graphene to enable richer intracellular recordings of cardiac action potentials. This advancement could revolutionize research on neurodegenerative and cardiac diseases, as well as the development of new therapeutic strategies.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 13, 2021

Life expectancy lower near superfund sites

A nationwide review of hazardous waste sites found that living near a Superfund site could decrease life expectancy by over two months. Those with lower incomes and sociodemographic disadvantage face the greatest risk, with decreases in life expectancy ranging from seven to 15 months.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2021

'Our Changing Menu': Warming climate serves up meal remake

A new book from Cornell University Press explores how climate change will alter the world's dinner plate. Rising temperatures and changing weather patterns threaten staple crops like rice, avocados, and bananas, with some varieties facing yields reduced by up to 80%.

SourceCornell University·DateApr 13, 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.

New method of artificially creating genetic switches for yeast

Researchers from Kobe University and Chiba University developed a flexible method to create genetic switches for yeast, allowing for the control of gene expression. They successfully produced yeast that biosynthesized orange pigment under AND-gated control, paving the way for sophisticated, artificially regulated cells.

SourceKobe University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2021

Atom interferometry demonstrated in space for the first time

A team of scientists has demonstrated atom interferometry on a sounding rocket, enabling precise measurements of gravity and potentially detecting gravitational waves. The success of this experiment marks a significant milestone in the field of quantum technologies.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 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.

Tree hydraulics and water relations: Why trees die as a result of drought

Researchers discovered that trees experience a sudden collapse in their hydraulic systems during drought, leading to rapid death. The study found that this collapse occurs much sooner than previously thought, highlighting the importance of understanding tree water relations.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2021

Researchers streamline molecular assembly line to design, test drug compounds

By identifying key residues that affect extender unit selection, scientists can create molecules with improved efficacy against antibiotic resistance. This breakthrough enables precise reprogramming of the biosynthetic assembly line, paving the way for the design and testing of new drug compounds.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2021

Airborne laser scanning of gaps in Amazon rainforest helps explain tree mortality

A study using airborne laser scanning found that water stress, soil fertility, and anthropic forest degradation contribute to tree mortality in the Amazon. The researchers mapped gaps in the forest using LiDAR data, which showed a significant correlation with field mortality patterns.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 13, 2021

Novel theory addresses centuries-old physics problem

A new study by Hebrew University researcher Professor Barak Kol introduces a novel approach to the three-body problem, predicting the probability of each body escaping the system. The theory avoids infinite probabilities and provides strong agreement with computer simulations, indicating a paradigm shift in understanding the system.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalCelestial Mechanics and Dynamical Astronomy·DateApr 13, 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.

Scaling up genome editing big in tiny worms

Researchers use CRISPR-Cas9 to introduce thousands of mutations into C. elegans worms, then analyze the effects on physical traits and functions. They discover a surprise finding that mutations in specific microRNA binding sites can affect gene expression.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 13, 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.

Psychedelic experience may not be required for psilocybin's antidepressant-like benefits

Researchers found that psilocybin restored the pleasure response in mice with depression, even when the psychedelic effects were blocked. The study suggests that a version of the drug without or with less psychedelic effects could be developed to make therapy more accessible and cost-effective.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2021

Closer to human -- Mouse model more accurately reproduces fatty liver disease

Researchers developed a chimeric mouse model that accurately reproduces human non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by combining both human and murine cells. The study reveals striking differences in liver cell behavior, metabolism, and gene expression, providing new insights into the disease's mechanisms.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJHEP Reports·DateApr 13, 2021

Physical activity may reduce risk of poor COVID-19 outcomes

A Kaiser Permanente study found that regular physical activity significantly reduced the risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes, including hospitalization, ICU admission, and death. Even inconsistent exercise provided some protection against poor outcomes.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateApr 13, 2021
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.

Finding resiliency in local, community news gathering

Community newspapers across the US are reevaluating their business models in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, embracing self-advocacy and exploring new revenue streams. Journalists are now open to discussing the challenges facing their profession and recognizing the importance of community investment.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournalism Practice·DateApr 13, 2021

Inflammation a key to targeting pregnancy-associated breast cancer

Researchers found that breast cancer cells trigger uncontrolled inflammation and remodel tissue, making the cancer more aggressive. The study suggests targeting inflammatory pathways could improve treatment outcomes for pregnant women with breast cancer.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 13, 2021

Gene therapy shows promise in treating rare eye disease in mice

A gene therapy protects eye cells in mice with a rare disorder, suggesting a combination approach may preserve vision in people with retinitis pigmentosa. Researchers found that using Txnip gene therapies, along with treatments for oxidative stress and inflammation, provided additional protection for the cells.

SourceeLife·DateApr 13, 2021

Doctors still reluctant to prescribe medical cannabis: McMaster

Despite growing demand, Ontario doctors are hesitant to prescribe medical cannabis due to potential ill-effects and limited knowledge about its effectiveness as a painkiller. The study highlights the need for more evidence, education, and guidance to help physicians better assist patients seeking this treatment.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCMAJ Open·DateApr 13, 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.

Cloth face covering curbs exercise performance and physical capacity

A small clinical trial found that cloth face coverings reduce exercise performance and increase shortness of breath and claustrophobia at higher intensities. The researchers suggest modifying exercise frequency, intensity, duration, and type to compensate for the discomfort associated with mask-wearing.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateApr 13, 2021

3D biomaterial used as 'sponge' for stem cell therapy to reverse arthritis

Researchers develop a 3D biomaterial scaffold that slowly releases stem cells, reducing dosages and improving therapeutic effects in mice with osteoarthritis. The cryogel 'sponge' ensures implanted stem cells stay in the knee joint area longer, allowing for more effective treatment.

SourceDepartment of Orthopedics, Wuhan Union Hospital·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateApr 13, 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.

First patient-derived organoid model for cervical cancer

Researchers have created the first patient-derived organoid model for cervical cancer, allowing them to study human papillomavirus (HPV) and its impact on cervical tissue. The model's success holds promise for advancing research into cervical biology and associated diseases.

SourceHubrecht Institute·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 13, 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.

Glaucoma may be more than just an issue of eye pressure

Researchers at NYU Grossman School of Medicine found that citicoline restored optic nerve signals in rats with glaucoma, reducing vision loss and slowing nerve cell decay. The study suggests a new mechanism for treating the condition, which affects over 60 million people worldwide.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNeurotherapeutics·DateApr 13, 2021

Snow chaos in Europe caused by melting sea-ice in the Arctic

A recent study finds that melting Arctic sea-ice is causing severe cold and snowy mid-latitude winters in Europe. The loss of Arctic sea-ice has been implicated with increased open-water and winter evaporation, fueling more extreme snowfall further south across Europe.

SourceUiT The Arctic University of Norway·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 13, 2021

Influence of sea surface temperature in the Indian Ocean on air quality in the Yangtze River Delta region

Researchers found a significant positive correlation between December sea surface temperature in the Indian Ocean and haze days in January over the Yangtze River Delta region. The study reveals that favorable local meteorological conditions, including increased air temperature and southerly winds, facilitate haze formation.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateApr 13, 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.

Liver transplants: Improving waitlist mortality by improved risk assessment

Researchers at Medical University of Vienna improved liver transplant mortality prediction by adding laboratory parameters to the MELD score, which showed significant benefits in identifying high-risk patients. The study used vWF antigen and CRP levels to assess portal hypertension and inflammatory processes.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalHepatology·DateApr 13, 2021

UMass Amherst joins partnership to develop sustainable food products

The University of Massachusetts Amherst is collaborating with Big Idea Ventures on a $125 million fund to develop sustainable food products and agricultural innovation. Researchers at UMass will focus on plant-based proteins and their impact on the human microbiome, aiming to create tastier and more economically beneficial products.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateApr 13, 2021

COVID-19 in our dust may help predict outbreaks, study finds

Researchers at Ohio State University found COVID-19 virus genetic material persists in dust for up to a month, suggesting it could be used to monitor outbreaks. The study suggests dust monitoring could offer an alternative method to wastewater testing, particularly in high-risk communities.

SourceOhio State University·JournalmSystems·DateApr 13, 2021

New Skoltech sensor tracks 'stress hormone' in real time

Researchers developed a fluorescence-based sensor for continuous cortisol detection, overcoming existing laboratory methods. The new sensor showed low levels of detection and reversible response in vitro, paving the way for an implantable sensor for real-time monitoring.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalTalanta·DateApr 13, 2021
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.

Smoking cannabis significantly impairs vision, study finds

A University of Granada study found that smoking cannabis significantly worsens visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and glare sensitivity. Notably, over 90% of users believe the drug has no effect on their vision, highlighting a need for awareness-raising campaigns to inform users about the risks.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 13, 2021

Modeling past and future glacial floods in northern Greenland

Hokkaido University researchers have developed a model that explains the causes of past glacial river floods in northern Greenland and predicts future flooding risks. The study reveals that torrential rainfall was the primary driver of the 2016 flood, while warm temperatures were responsible for the 2015 event.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of Glaciology·DateApr 13, 2021
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.

Five research-backed steps to a pro-vaccination social media campaign

Researchers developed guidelines to promote vaccines on social media, analyzing a grassroots campaign and finding that 78.9% of tweets were anti-vaccine despite the event's intention. The team recommends using personal narratives, partnerships, and inclusivity to create effective pro-vaccination campaigns.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalVaccine·DateApr 13, 2021

ISSCR launches new podcast

The International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) has launched a new podcast called The Stem Cell Report with Martin Pera, which delves into the inspiration and stories behind stem cell research. The podcast features interviews with leading researchers and experts in the field.

SourceInternational Society for Stem Cell Research·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateApr 13, 2021

NIH experts discuss post-acute COVID-19

A recent NIH workshop highlighted the need for further research on post-acute COVID-19, a condition characterized by heterogeneous symptoms and long-term effects. The workshop presented important knowledge gaps in understanding the underlying pathophysiology of PASC.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 13, 2021

Consumers are willing to pay for ecosystem services

A study found that 79% of households are willing to pay extra for cropping diversification, valuing agroecosystem services and socio-cultural benefits. The total non-market value of cropping diversification can be up to 47-95% compared to annual market revenues.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalEnvironmental Management·DateApr 13, 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.

Ancient ammonoids' shell designs may have aided buoyancy control

Researchers used 3-D printed models to explore fractal-like interior shell patterns in ancient ammonoids. The study suggests that the intricate sutures and septa may have retained more liquid through surface tension, helping the ammonoids fine-tune their buoyancy.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 13, 2021

The role of hydrophobic molecules in catalytic reactions

A team of researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum and Sorbonne Université has discovered the significant contribution of small hydrophobic molecules to the energy costs of electrochemical reactions. The study found that these molecules interact with water at interfaces, leading to a crucial role in the chemical reactions.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2021

Human screams communicate at least six emotions

A study published in PLOS Biology found that human screams communicate multiple emotions beyond fear, including pain, anger, fear, pleasure, sadness, and joy. Researchers used four experiments to investigate the acoustic diversity of scream calls and found that listeners responded more quickly and accurately to non-alarm screams.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 13, 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.

Physical inactivity linked to more severe COVID-19 infection and death

A large US study found that physical inactivity is associated with more severe COVID-19 infection and a heightened risk of dying from the disease. Patients who were consistently inactive during the pandemic were more likely to be admitted to hospital, require intensive care, and die than those who met physical activity guidelines.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateApr 13, 2021

There is no 'one size fits all' approach to treat severe asthma; this study shows why

A recent study has identified two distinct immune profiles in severe asthma patients, which could lead to personalized treatment approaches. The research, conducted by a team of scientists at the University of Pittsburgh and Stanford University, used advanced tools to characterize immune cells within the airways of severe asthma patients.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 13, 2021

Novel guidelines help select optimal deconvolution method

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine developed guidelines to select the best deconvolution method for RNA-seq data analysis. They evaluated 11 methods and identified their strengths and weaknesses in various scenarios, providing a benchmark for scientists to choose the optimal method for their needs.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenome Biology·DateApr 13, 2021

People may trust computers more than humans

A recent study by University of Georgia researchers found that people are more likely to rely on algorithms for decision-making, even when faced with complex challenges. As the task becomes harder, people prefer algorithm-generated suggestions over human advice or 'wisdom of the crowd', according to the study.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 13, 2021

Reducing ocean acidification by removing CO2: Two targets for cutting-edge research

A new study examines the feasibility of ocean alkalinization to simultaneously address global warming and ocean acidification. The research reveals that nearly doubling the carbon-dioxide uptake rate of the Mediterranean Sea after 30 years could mitigate climate change and counteract acidification.

SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalFrontiers in Climate·DateApr 13, 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.

The chillest ape: How humans evolved a super-high cooling capacity

Researchers discovered that humans evolved higher eccrine gland density due to accumulated changes in the hECE18 enhancer region, which drives EN1 expression. This trait is thought to have adapted to early hominins' hot habitats, promoting survival and evolution.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 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.

A molecule that responds to light

Researchers at KIT and Chimie ParisTech/CNRS create light-addressable qubit using europium(III) rare-earth ions, advancing quantum computer development. The molecule's nuclear spin levels can be polarized with light, enabling efficient processing of data in parallel.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2021

Rescuing street art from vandals' graffiti

Researchers developed a nanostructured fluid that slowly releases cleaning agents to remove over-paintings on street art without damaging the underlying layer. The technique, which uses low-toxicity solvents and biodegradable surfactants, has been tested successfully on laboratory mockups and real pieces of street art.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateApr 13, 2021

Silk moth's diapause reverts back to ancestors' through gene editing!?

Researchers at Shinshu University have successfully edited the silk moth's temperature sensor to induce dormancy based on day length, similar to its ancestral species. This breakthrough sheds light on the molecular mechanisms behind environmental adaptation in insects and has significant implications for the sericulture industry.

SourceShinshu University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 13, 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.

More exposure to political TV ads heightens anxiety

A new study by Cornell University researchers has found a positive association between exposure to televised campaign ads and reported diagnoses of anxiety among U.S. adults. The study analyzed two large national datasets and found that increased ad exposure was linked to higher odds of being diagnosed with anxiety.

SourceCornell University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateApr 13, 2021

Using emotion and humor to combat science misinformation

Researchers argue that limited science literacy and structural constraints make it hard to discern fact from falsehood. Emotion and humor may help address the issue by drawing attention to valuable information and humanizing sources.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 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.

A new fluorescent probe that can distinguish B cells from T cells

Researchers developed a new fluorescent probe, CDgB, that can selectively target the cell membranes of B lymphocytes over T lymphocytes. The probe works by exploiting differences in membrane structures between B and T cells, particularly phospholipid composition and cholesterol content.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 13, 2021

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers from NIH propose a new method to estimate vaccine efficacy by following original placebo recipients after vaccination, allowing assessment of durability and potential delayed harm. This approach enables timely access to the vaccine for placebo recipients while maintaining unbiased estimates.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 13, 2021

Northern Star Coral study could help protect tropical corals

A new study on the Northern Star Coral reveals its ability to recover from laboratory-induced stress, shedding light on coral resilience. Researchers found that coral with algal symbionts recovered their mucus microbiomes more consistently and quickly.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalmSystems·DateApr 13, 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.

Skoltech studies collective behavior of nanosatellites

Researchers at Skoltech's Space Center have developed an algorithm to measure the geomagnetic field using CubeSats in a tetrahedral orbital formation. The system uses Kriging interpolation to predict magnetic field values, enabling improved attitude control and station-keeping systems.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalAdvances in Space Research·DateApr 13, 2021

Genetic predisposition to schizophrenia may increase risk of psychosis from cannabis use

A new study published in Translational Psychiatry reveals that individuals with high genetic predisposition to schizophrenia are disproportionately affected by cannabis use, experiencing a 60% higher risk of psychotic experiences. Cannabis users, compared to non-users, have higher rates of psychotic experiences across the board.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateApr 13, 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.

Study suggests common drug could be used to prevent certain skin cancers

Researchers at Ohio State University suggest that an oral drug currently used to treat neuromuscular diseases could help prevent a common form of skin cancer caused by UVB radiation. The study found that the neurotransmitter dopamine can stop the development and progression of certain UVB-induced precancerous squamous skin cancers.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateApr 13, 2021

What's in it for us: added value-based approach towards telehealth

A study by Kaunas University of Technology reveals the benefits of telehealth, including accessibility, convenience, and cost-saving. However, organizational and individual barriers, such as lack of digital training and reimbursement issues, hinder its widespread adoption.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Organizational Analysis·DateApr 13, 2021

Basketball Mathematics scores big at inspiring kids to learn

A six-week Basketball Mathematics program improved math motivation, self-determination, and mastery among 756 Danish schoolchildren. The study found that students who participated in the program showed a 16% increase in math motivation and a 14% rise in self-determination compared to those who did not participate.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateApr 13, 2021

World's protected areas need more than a 'do not disturb' sign

A global analysis of protected areas found that only 30% of forest loss in protected areas has been prevented, highlighting the need for improved enforcement and targeted conservation efforts. Protecting forests is crucial for sustainability, and scrutinizing protected areas across the globe can help direct efforts to the right places.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateApr 13, 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.

Study links structural brain changes to behavioral problems in children who snore

A large study of children found a positive correlation between habitual snoring and behavioral problems, such as inattention or hyperactivity. The research suggests that snoring may contribute to the development of behavioral problems, and highlights the importance of early evaluation and screening for oSDB.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2021

New advice for medics treating high blood pressure

A new study by NUI Galway researchers found no evidence that diastolic blood pressure can be harmful when reduced to levels previously thought too low. The study suggests treating systolic values between 100-130mmHg is beneficial, freeing doctors from worrying about diastolic readings falling too low.

SourceUniversity of Galway·JournalCirculation·DateApr 13, 2021

Tropical forest soils capture CO2 under elevated nitrogen deposition

Tropical forest soils capture carbon dioxide into organic matter interacting with soil minerals, leading to reduced CO2 emissions. Excessive nitrogen deposition stimulates soil carbon storage by 7-21% in tropical forests.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2021

Childbirth versus pelvic floor stability

A new study published in PNAS suggests that a smaller pelvic canal is biomechanically advantageous for supporting the fetus and organs, despite being disadvantageous for childbirth. This 'pelvic floor hypothesis' was tested through finite element analysis, revealing that larger pelvic floors deform disproportionately more under pressure.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2021

Habitual snoring linked to significant brain changes in children

Children who regularly snore have structural brain changes that may explain behavioral problems such as lack of focus, hyperactivity, and learning difficulties. Thinner gray matter in certain brain regions correlates with these issues.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2021

Guide for science outreach

The guide aims to improve science outreach by providing examples of successful programs, funding sources, and assessment methods. It also emphasizes the importance of considering context and supporting underrepresented students in STEM education.

SourceStanford University·JournalPlant Direct·DateApr 13, 2021

Study provides novel platform to study how SaRS-CoV-2 affects the gut

Researchers created human induced pluripotent stem cells-derived intestinal organoids to study SARS-CoV-2's effects on the gut. This new model enables testing of potential therapeutics and identifying common disease mechanisms that can be targeted by drugs.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateApr 13, 2021

Mindfulness can make you selfish

A new study by University at Buffalo researchers found that mindfulness can have both positive and negative effects on social behaviors. While it increases prosocial actions for those who view themselves as more interdependent, it decreases them for those who are more independent. The findings suggest that pairing mindfulness with inst...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 13, 2021

Why are there relatively few aftershocks for certain cascadia earthquakes?

Researchers found that Cascadia intraslab earthquakes produce fewer aftershocks, with rates lower by more than half the global average. The study suggests a 'clock-advance' model, where mainshock causes tectonically loaded fault patches to slip earlier.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateApr 13, 2021