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Science News for April 2, 2021


Scientists developed a safe and cheap technology of disinfection of the packed eggs

Researchers developed a safe and cheap technology to disinfect packed eggs with an electron beam. The technology kills bacteria without affecting the quality of meat or eggshell composition. Healthy chickens emerge from disinfected eggs, leading to improved immunity against diseases like Newcastle disease.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalFood and Bioproducts Processing·DateApr 2, 2021

Announcing the launch of Global Africa, a new African academic journal

Global Africa aims to report on various issues in Africa and worldwide, fostering international-level evaluation standards. The journal's launch is part of a program that includes training courses, pop-up seminars, and conferences to cultivate African research production and dissemination ecosystem.

SourceInstitut de recherche pour le développement·DateApr 2, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Science snapshots from Berkeley Lab -- April 1, 2021

Researchers used X-ray microscopy to analyze lithium batteries and employed machine learning to speed up the learning curve about process that shortens battery life. Infrared microscopy also goes off-grid with new technique, enabling time-sensitive experiments and broadening biological spectromicroscopy scope.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 2, 2021

Realtime imaging of female gamete formation in plants

Researchers from Nagoya University successfully capture images of female gamete formation in Arabidopsis thaliana, revealing how cell fate is determined and providing insights into plant adaptation. The study's findings have significant implications for understanding fertilization rates and environmental resistance in plants.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 2, 2021

Science has not kept pace with aquaculture

A new analysis found that only 84 of the 408 farmed species had available scientific studies on their welfare, while the majority lacked information. The researchers warn that aquaculture's expansion poses great risks to individual animal lives due to insufficient knowledge.

SourceNew York University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 2, 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.

Fungi could manipulate bacteria to enrich soil with nutrients

A team of researchers has discovered a group of bacteria that may help fungi and plants acquire soil nutrients. The bacteria form unique communities on the hyphae surfaces of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, which could enhance phosphate acquisition and improve crop yields.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateApr 2, 2021

How pathogenic bacteria weather the slings and arrows of infection

Researchers discovered that transfer RNAs (tRNAs) play a crucial role in controlling the activation of the stringent response pathway. The MurM enzyme, involved in cell wall synthesis, acts as a quality control manager to ensure accurate translation and prevent toxic tRNA buildup.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 2, 2021

Covid-19 mask study finds layering, material choice matter

A recent study from Georgia Institute of Technology found that the type of material and number of fabric layers used in homemade masks significantly affect Covid-19 exposure risk. The best-performing materials for masks were blackout drapery and sterilization wrap, which provide an overall filtration efficiency of about 50% for submicr...

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalAerosol Science and Technology·DateApr 2, 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.

Most US adults who vape want to quit, study finds

A study published in JAMA Network Open found that over 60% of US adults who vape are interested in quitting, with former cigarette smokers having the highest intentions. Despite e-cigarettes being seen as a potential tool for smoking cessation, many users struggle to quit, and current treatments may not be effective for all users.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 2, 2021

Michigan's Middle Eastern and North African population face barriers to optimal health

A new study found that Middle Eastern and North African individuals in Michigan are more likely to experience chronic illness, mental health issues, and poor overall health due to various barriers. The survey also highlighted the prevalence of food insecurity, transportation issues, and financial strain as major risk factors for poor h...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Immigrant and Minority Health·DateApr 2, 2021

Protein based biomarker identifies the chemo drug sensitivity

Researchers at Niigata University have identified a protein biomarker, APM2, that can indicate the permissible level of the chemotherapeutic drug cisplatin. The study found a significant relationship between high APM2 expression and cisplatin resistance in liver and gastric cancer cells.

SourceNiigata University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 2, 2021

COVID-19 patients can be categorized into three groups

Researchers identify three COVID-19 phenotypes with different comorbidities, complications, and clinical outcomes. Phenotype II showed the worst clinical outcomes, while Phenotype III had the best outcomes despite higher respiratory comorbidity rates.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 2, 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.

Prioritizing who gets vaccinated for COVID-19 saves lives

A study by University of California, Davis researchers found that prioritizing vaccination for vulnerable populations like seniors and essential workers can reduce deaths, infections, and years of life lost by 17-44%. The optimal strategy depends on the outbreak conditions, including vaccine supply and transmission rates.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 2, 2021

MOF-based sensor for water quality testing

Researchers at Shinshu University developed an affordable portable sensor using lanthanide metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to detect fluoride levels in drinking water. The device is compatible with local populations and can be produced locally, aiming to improve access to safe water and sanitation for all

SourceShinshu University·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateApr 2, 2021

Racial, ethnic differences among children enrolled in HMOs

Researchers analyzed national survey data to compare HMO enrollment rates among children with commercial and public coverage by race and ethnicity. The study reveals racial and ethnic differences in HMO enrollment rates, highlighting disparities in healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 2, 2021

Scientists turn to deep learning to improve air quality forecasts

A team of scientists developed a deep learning model that improves air quality estimates by combining satellite and ground-based observations. The model achieved higher spatial and temporal resolution, enabling more accurate predictions of nitrogen dioxide levels in the Los Angeles area.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateApr 2, 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.

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.

Excess deaths from COVID-19 and other causes in US

A study analyzing COVID-19-related deaths and all other causes in the US found that pandemic-excess mortality significantly surpassed pre-pandemic levels, resulting in a total of over 3.7 million excess deaths from February 2020 to December 2022.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateApr 2, 2021

Keep pace: Walking with a partner is great but might slow you down

A new study found that couples tend to decrease their walking speed when together, especially when holding hands. This decrease in speed can negate some of the health benefits associated with walking alone at a faster pace. On the other hand, older adults who are more active tend to maintain their gait speed.

SourcePurdue University·JournalGait & Posture·DateApr 2, 2021

Health and academic professionals with dependents at high risk of quitting after COVID-19

A new University of Utah Health study reveals that healthcare workers with caregiving responsibilities are most likely to contemplate leaving or reducing hours due to the pandemic's impact on their personal lives. The findings suggest that retaining highly trained doctors and nurses could be a significant challenge for healthcare systems.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 2, 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.

Study finds airborne release of toxin from algal scum

Researchers detected anatoxin-a, a deadly cyanotoxin, in air and water near a Massachusetts pond with algal blooms. The toxin can cause respiratory paralysis, muscular twitching, and loss of coordination at high concentrations.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalLake and Reservoir Management·DateApr 2, 2021

Xin Zhang receives NSF CAREER Award

Assistant Professor Xin Zhang received a $500,000 NSF CAREER Award to investigate how to align stakeholder interests with nitrogen reduction goals. The research aims to improve decision-making and develop innovative solutions for sustainable nitrogen management.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·DateApr 2, 2021

Kirigami-style fabrication may enable new 3D nanostructures

Researchers have developed a kirigami technique to fabricate complex 3D nanostructures with unprecedented ease. By strategically introducing cuts to a uniform structural film, the team can create sophisticated three-dimensional structures that can change shape in response to environmental changes.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 2, 2021

Consumer resistance to sustainability interventions

Researchers found that consumer resistance stems from the disruption of social practices, such as shopping, rather than individual behaviors. To overcome resistance, policy makers should focus on changing these practices, not just individual actions. The study provides a framework for designing practice-based sustainability interventions.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateApr 2, 2021

Study identifies possible COVID-19 drugs -- including several that are FDA-approved

A team of scientists at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has identified nine potential COVID-19 treatments, including three FDA-approved drugs. The study found that these drugs, such as cyclosporine, work by inhibiting the replication of the virus in respiratory cells and suppressing inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 2, 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.

UTA team working to predict lifespan of Texas roads

A UTA civil engineering professor is leading a $2.8 million project to analyze the condition and remaining service life of over 3,500 lane miles through TxDOT. The team will use AI, finite element modeling, and advanced spectroscopy tools to predict pavement lifespan.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateApr 2, 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.

Serving size, satisfaction influence food waste on campus

Researchers found that students who were satisfied with their meals wasted less food. Diners who visited the dining commons frequently and were familiar with the menu options also tended to waste less food. The study's results suggest that posting signs encouraging healthier choices could help reduce food waste.

SourceRice University·JournalFoods·DateApr 2, 2021

Toddler TV time not to blame for attention problems

A comprehensive review of early research on TV time and attention problems in children found no direct link, contrary to previous claims. The study's authors suggest that parents should not feel guilty for allowing their young children to watch TV.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 2, 2021

Study sheds light on interplay among PTSD, combat experience, alcohol use

A recent study found that combat experience is associated with a higher risk of alcohol use to cope with PTSD symptoms, but this link weakens when adjusting for PTSD severity. The study also reveals that trauma-exposed men without combat experience are more likely than those with combat experience to report an alcohol use disorder.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalJournal of Dual Diagnosis·DateApr 2, 2021

Experiences of a health system's employees during COVID-19

A survey study examined the effects of COVID-19 on healthcare employees' careers, productivity, childcare needs, and likelihood of leaving the workforce. The study found that many employees experienced burnout, reduced productivity, and increased childcare responsibilities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 2, 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.

Oxygen-promoted synthesis of armchair graphene nanoribbons on Cu(111)

Researchers successfully synthesize armchair graphene nanoribbons (AGNRs) on Cu(111) via lateral fusion of poly(para-phenylene). Oxygen introduction reduces temperature required for reaction, opening up new avenues for surface chemistry. This breakthrough could benefit various dehydrogenation reactions in on-surface synthesis.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·DateApr 2, 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.

Unravelling the secret of a critical immune cell for cancer immunity

Researchers at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have discovered a critical immune cell type called cDC1 that helps control cancer and infections. The study highlights the importance of DC-SCRIPT, a new regulatory protein, in producing effective dendritic cells.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalScience Immunology·DateApr 2, 2021

Dual-bed catalyst enables high conversion of syngas to gasoline-range liquid hydrocarbons

Researchers at Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics developed a dual-bed catalyst that achieves highly efficient and selective conversion of syngas to gasoline-range liquid hydrocarbons. The catalyst showed excellent stability, with selectivities of C5-11 and C3-11 in the hydrocarbon products reaching 80.6% and 98.2%, respectively.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChem Catalysis·DateApr 2, 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.

Unusual mechanism in rare mutation associated with Alzheimer's uncovered

A novel mechanism has been identified that might explain why a rare mutation is associated with familial Alzheimer's disease. The presence of the S198P mutation resulted in elevated levels of A? peptides due to rapid folding of APP, leading to faster production and deposition of A? peptides.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 2, 2021