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Science News for April 26, 2021


Could heart medications increase COVID-19 risk?

A new mouse study found that ACE inhibitors can increase levels of SARS-CoV-2 receptors in the body. The researchers suggest that people taking these medications should work with their healthcare providers to manage their treatments.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 26, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Genetic discovery in songbird provides new insights

A study published in PNAS found that zebra finches have a low-density lipoprotein receptor gene with key domains missing, allowing them to carry high levels of good cholesterol while avoiding high cholesterol-related diseases. This genetic adaptation may hold clues for improving cardiovascular disease treatment.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Toward painless oral insulin administration

Researchers from Kumamoto University have successfully developed oral insulin using DNP peptides and zinc insulin hexamers. This breakthrough aims to improve the quality of life for diabetics who struggle with painful self-injection therapy.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalMolecular Pharmaceutics·DateApr 26, 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.

Shopping online or locally - an individual choice

A study by Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) found that personal opinions on purchasing security, environmental protection, and work conditions play a significant role in deciding whether to shop online or locally. The study used microeconometric models to analyze the shopping habits of 1,400 consumers in the Middle Upper-Rhine R...

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalApplied Geography·DateApr 26, 2021

Greenhouse warming of early Mars

A global climate model simulation suggests that a cloud greenhouse effect could have warmed early Mars to support liquid surface water, with low clouds and warm stable climates emerging near surface water-ice patches. The results are consistent with geological data indicating a warm, arid early climate for the planet.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Skin and bones repaired by bioprinting during surgery

Using bioprinting, researchers successfully repaired traumatic injuries to the skin and bones of the face and skull in a rat model. The technique involved printing both bone and soft tissue layers, achieving 100% closure of soft tissue in four weeks and 80% closure of bone in six weeks.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateApr 26, 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.

Nanobodies inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection

Australian researchers have identified neutralizing nanobodies that block the SARS-CoV-2 virus from entering cells, paving the way for alternative treatments. The discovery of a nanobody recognizing emerging global variants and original SARS virus suggests potential cross-protection against human coronaviruses.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Study evaluates biomarker criteria for assessing Alzheimer's risk

A new study used autopsy data to evaluate the AT(N) framework, a standard tool for assessing Alzheimer's risk. The researchers found that even in the highest-risk group, a third of individuals did not develop dementia, highlighting the complexity of Alzheimer's disease and the need for additional biomarkers.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·DateApr 26, 2021

Persuading consumers to go green

Researchers found that using gain language, which highlights positive benefits, can increase eco-friendly behavior. Anthropomorphism, such as giving objects human characteristics, also boosts green compliance. The study suggests that businesses can save money by shifting customers' behaviors to be greener.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalPsychology and Marketing·DateApr 26, 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.

Asteroid that hit Botswana in 2018 likely came from Vesta

An international team of researchers searched for pieces of the small asteroid 2018 LA, tracked in space and observed to impact Botswana on June 2, 2018. The recovered meteorites showed it likely came from Vesta, a second-largest asteroid in our Solar System.

SourceSETI Institute·JournalMeteoritics and Planetary Science·DateApr 26, 2021

Smell training, not steroids, best treatment for COVID-19 smell loss

A new systematic review suggests that corticosteroids are not an effective treatment for COVID-19-induced smell loss. Instead, 'smell training' - a process of sniffing different odours twice daily for several months - is recommended as a cheap and side-effect-free treatment option.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalInternational Forum of Allergy & Rhinology·DateApr 26, 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.

Six factors that determine success when working from home

Research from DTU found that young people experience better work-life balance, but more uncertainty about their work. Managers report higher efficiency and less lack of important work tools compared to employees. The six factors can help organizations understand how to promote efficiency and well-being when working from home.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateApr 26, 2021

Probing deep space with Interstellar

The Interstellar Probe mission aims to study how our Sun interacts with the local interstellar medium and learn more about the formation and evolution of the heliosphere. The probe will take 'images' of the heliosphere using energetic neutral atoms and observe extragalactic background light, shedding new light on the region.

SourceEuropean Geosciences Union·DateApr 26, 2021

Remotely sensing economic inequality

Researchers estimate economic inequality using satellite sensing of nighttime light emissions and population density data. The study finds that inequality is lower in high-income countries and hotspots are evident in Russia, China and Southeast Asia.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 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.

Hand hygiene compliance rate during COVID-19 pandemic

Researchers evaluated hand hygiene compliance during COVID-19 in a hospital using an automated monitoring system. The study found improved adherence to hand hygiene protocols, resulting in reduced healthcare-associated infections.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 26, 2021

$2.5 million grant will support algebra teachers' professional development

A $2.5 million grant from the National Science Foundation will support algebra teachers' professional development at the University of Missouri-Columbia. The goal is to create new online materials that help students better understand algebra and develop critical thinking skills, ultimately leading to improved learning outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateApr 26, 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.

Stabilizing electrochemical interfaces using boron Lewis acids

Researchers stabilized electrochemical interfaces using boron Lewis acids, resulting in ultralow leak current and improved cyclic stability. The study demonstrates potential for designing high-performance boron-doped carbon materials towards energy storage applications.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateApr 26, 2021

New cancer algorithm flags genetic weaknesses in tumours

A new algorithm, MMRDetect, identifies tumours with mismatch repair deficiencies that can be targeted by immunotherapies. The algorithm uses mutational signatures from genome sequencing data to personalize cancer treatments.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Cancer·DateApr 26, 2021

Study looked at how nurses view touch as a form of care

A study by WSU College of Nursing faculty found that nurses perceive touch as an essential tool for emotional care and comfort. Nurses see massage as a valuable resource in patient care, but express concerns about boundaries and assessment of patient openness to touch.

SourceWashington State University·JournalWestern Journal of Nursing Research·DateApr 26, 2021

First village-level mapping of childhood undernutrition in India reveals local disparities

The study found substantial variations in undernutrition across villages, with some areas having rates as low as 5% and others exceeding 70%. A machine-learning model was developed to predict the prevalence of undernutrition in every village, enabling policymakers to prioritize villages struggling with high burdens of undernutrition.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 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.

Patients hospitalized with COVID-19 have a small risk of heart failure

A new Mount Sinai study found that patients hospitalized with COVID-19 have a small but significant risk of developing heart failure, even without a previous history of heart disease or cardiovascular risk factors. The study's findings may prompt clinicians to monitor for signs of congestive heart failure more closely in these patients.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 26, 2021

Material scientists find new angle toward better heat transfer

Researchers have developed a class of materials that manipulates thermal radiation, allowing for efficient energy conversion systems and improved sensing technologies. By directing heat in specific directions over broad spectra, the new material offers capabilities for imaging, sensing applications, solar heating, waste heat recovery, ...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 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.

What spurs people to save the planet? Stories or facts?

A Johns Hopkins University study reveals that stories about pollution, such as a man's death from contaminated shellfish, increase willingness to buy eco-friendly products among Democrats by 17%, whereas it decreases their spending by 14%. In contrast, Republican participants showed no change or even decreased spending after hearing th...

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalOne Earth·DateApr 26, 2021

Star light, star bright...as explained by math

KAUST researchers create a new approach to capture evolving periodicity in variable star brightness, expanding cyclostationary theory. This allows for modeling of phenomena like solar irradiance and climate change.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Signal Processing·DateApr 26, 2021

New rapid COVID-19 test the result of university-industry partnership

A novel COVID-19 test has been created by pairing mass spectrometry with machine learning, achieving high accuracy rates of 98.3% for positives and 96% for negatives. The test uses a mass spectrometer to analyze nasal swabs in minutes, providing rapid results.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 26, 2021

Implications are global in new study predicting human exodus in Bangladesh

A new study predicting human exodus in Bangladesh due to sea-level rise and climate change has significant global implications. The research model considers economic and human behavior factors, predicting that districts along the Bay of Bengal will be the first impacted, triggering a ripple effect across the country.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·DateApr 26, 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.

Can a newborn's brain discriminate speech sounds?

Researchers found that newborns' brains can process voice pitch but struggle with the spectral and temporal fine structure of sounds. The study's findings suggest that neural encoding of speech sounds develops over time, providing a potential biomarker for early detection of language impairments.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 26, 2021

Surprise in the deep sea

A team of scientists has discovered that sponges leave trails on the sea floor in the Arctic deep sea, leading to speculation about their possible active movement. The findings, published in Current Biology, challenge previous assumptions that most sponges are attached or passively moved by ocean currents.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 26, 2021

Do fish feel pain? UTA team says it's likely.

Research suggests that fish may experience painful events despite lacking certain brain regions associated with human pain processing. The UTA team drew on contemporary neuroscience to argue that the brain can compensate for such regions, implying a higher likelihood of pain in fish.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalPhilosophical Psychology·DateApr 26, 2021

Researchers demonstrate fully recyclable printed electronics

Engineers at Duke University have created the world's first fully recyclable printed electronics by demonstrating a fully functional transistor made from three carbon-based inks. The researchers successfully reclaimed nearly 100% of all-carbon-based transistors while retaining their future functionality.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Electronics·DateApr 26, 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.

Study shows smartphone app can identify autism symptoms in toddlers

Researchers at Duke University developed a digital app that assesses eye gaze patterns of young children to identify potential autism symptoms. The app uses computer vision and machine learning to track attention patterns, potentially providing an early screening tool for autism.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 26, 2021

TBI: A new roadmap for advancing personalized treatment solutions

A new tool called PhenoBench standardizes data analysis for traumatic brain injury (TBI), enabling researchers to identify patient subgroups for personalized care. The study aims to provide tailored treatments that improve recovery and reduce long-term consequences of TBI.

SourceCohen Veterans Bioscience·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateApr 26, 2021

Cell adaptation in critically ill could be difference between life and death

A new study reveals that critically ill patients' cells adapt to their conditions by producing energy more efficiently, with differences observed in survivors versus non-survivors. The research found that cell complexes transport electrons more effectively in those who survived, suggesting a possible key to human resilience.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalRedox Biology·DateApr 26, 2021

UBCO researcher re-evaluates estimate of the world's high-altitude population

The study provides global and country-level estimates of humans living at high altitude, with 81.6 million people found to live above 2,500m. This data is crucial for understanding the impact of life at high altitude on human physiology, adaptation, health, and disease.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Study examines association between lifestyle patterns and BMI in early childhood

A new Australian study found that changes in lifestyle patterns during early childhood are longitudinally associated with concurrent changes in body mass index (BMI) z scores. The study identified three trajectory groups of child lifestyle patterns and BMI z scores, with a healthy lifestyle pattern being the most distinctive in reducin...

SourceThe Obesity Society·JournalObesity·DateApr 26, 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.

Police use of force and social hierarchies

Research finds that supporting social hierarchies is associated with increased police use of force by White officers. Non-White officers show no significant correlation between social hierarchy support and force use.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Fooling fusion fuel: How to discipline unruly plasma

Researchers have developed a method called 'quasi-symmetry' that can minimize the negative effects of magnetic field errors in fusion reactors, improving stability and energy confinement. This breakthrough could accelerate the development of fusion energy as a safe and limitless source of power.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 26, 2021

New study shows microbes trap massive amounts of carbon

A new study by an interdisciplinary team of scientists has discovered a vast microbial ecosystem living deep within the Earth's crust that traps massive amounts of carbon. The microbes, called chemolithoautotrophs, sequester carbon produced during subduction by using chemical energy to build their bodies.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 26, 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.

Airports could generate enough solar energy to power a city: Study

A study by RMIT University found that Australian government-owned airports could produce up to 10 times more electricity than residential panels in Bendigo, offsetting greenhouse gas emissions annually. The research suggests that installing large-scale rooftop solar systems at airports could power 136,000 homes and contribute towards a...

SourceRMIT University·JournalJournal of Building Engineering·DateApr 26, 2021

Stanford researchers reveal that homes in floodplains are overvalued by nearly $44 billion

A new Stanford University-led study estimates that single-family homes in floodplains are overvalued by nearly $44 billion collectively, with the average home losing around 2% of its value. The study suggests that inadequate disclosure laws and unaware buyers drive up financial risks, which could destabilize the real estate market.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Economic impacts of glyphosate regulation

A simulation study found a 10% carbon tax on glyphosate use would incur $98 million annual net economic loss but provide $6 million in human health benefits per year. The findings suggest caution in regulating glyphosate due to its environmental and economic concerns.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Hydrocracking our way to recycling plastic waste

University of Delaware researchers report a breakthrough process that can convert hard-to-recycle plastics into usable molecules. The hydrocracking process requires less energy than other technologies and can treat various plastics, even when mixed together.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 26, 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.

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.

Genomic study points to new treatment approaches for advanced small-cell lung cancer

Researchers at Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center identified distinct mutational and molecular changes in four SCLC subtypes, providing new insights into treatment resistance. The findings suggest that subtyping patients before systemic therapy could play a role in drug development and therapy selection.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJTO Clinical and Research Reports·DateApr 26, 2021

How the brain encodes social network structure

Researchers used Facebook data to map participants' social connections and found that brain activity patterns reflected the distance between individuals, with closer people having similar patterns. Information about each connection's personality was encoded in the medial prefrontal cortex.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournalJNeurosci·DateApr 26, 2021

Better hearing with optical cochlear implants

Researchers have developed an optical cochlear implant that uses light to stimulate auditory neurons, potentially improving frequency and intensity resolution. The new technology was tested on rodents and non-human primates, showing promise in enhancing speech comprehension.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Mental health promotes children's physical activity during lockdown

A recent study by Karlsruhe Institute of Technology found that children's mental health promotes physical activity during COVID-19 lockdowns. The research team analyzed data from over 1,700 children and adolescents and discovered a strong correlation between good mental health and increased physical activity.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalChildren·DateApr 26, 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.

Oncotarget receives 2021 Best of Orchard Park Award

Oncotarget, a journal honoring achievements and accomplishments of local businesses, has received the 2021 Best of Orchard Park Award for its exceptional marketing success. The award recognizes companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to customers and the community.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateApr 26, 2021

Plastic electronics: Ushering in the next generation of technology

Researchers have developed a new semiconductor material that can conduct electricity more efficiently than before, using inexpensive chemicals like dimethyl sulphoxide and hydrobromic acid. The material has the potential to improve solar cells, mobile phones, and wearable electronics, with costs 5000 times lower than existing materials.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 26, 2021

Psst! Have you heard that gossip isn't all bad?

A Dartmouth study reveals that gossip creates social connections and enables learning through indirect information sharing. The research finds that participants who engaged in private chats with their group members felt more connected and shared similar impressions of others.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 26, 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.

Freeze! New model to help protect ships from ice accretion

Researchers developed a mathematical model to predict ice accretion on ships, helping improve safety in the Arctic climate. The model simulates the freezing of water droplets moving in cold air and their interaction with ship surfaces.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalEnergies·DateApr 26, 2021

CRISPR/Cas-based diagnostics and gene therapy

CRISPR/Cas technology has advanced diagnostics and gene therapy, enabling fast and accurate disease diagnosis and treating untreatable diseases like cancer and blood disorders. Recent advances in CRISPR-Cas technologies are highlighted, with a discussion of the strength and challenges for its future clinical usage.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalBIO Integration·DateApr 26, 2021

Results of study could be biggest rehab advance in decades for patients after stroke

A study published in The Lancet found that patients who incorporated vagus nerve simulation during physical or occupational therapy showed a significant improvement in arm and hand function, up to 2-3 times more than those with sham stimulation. This breakthrough could be one of the most impressive advances in decades for stroke patients.

SourceMGH Institute of Health Professions·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 26, 2021

We've been at it a long time

A team of geologists and archaeologists from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem confirms that ancient humans were making simple Oldowan stone tools inside the Wonderwerk Cave 1.8 million years ago. The discovery also dates the deliberate use of fire by prehistoric ancestors to 1 million years ago.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateApr 26, 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.

Weight loss surgery reduces brain pressure in patients with neurological condition

A study published in JAMA Neurology found that weight loss surgery is more effective than dieting in reducing brain pressure in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). Bariatric surgery resulted in a significant reduction of brain pressure and weight loss, with the surgery group losing an average of 23Kg after 12 months.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateApr 26, 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.

Social tensions preceded disruptions in ancient Pueblo societies

Researchers found that Pueblo farmers persevered through droughts, but when social tensions were increasing, even modest droughts could end an era of development. The study suggests that societies with internal divisions are more susceptible to climate challenges, and warns of the relevance of this finding in today's world.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Association of preeclampsia with stroke in later life

A new study published in JAMA Network Open explores the link between preeclampsia during pregnancy and increased risk of stroke in later life. The research suggests that women with a history of preeclampsia may be at higher risk for stroke, highlighting the importance of monitoring and managing this condition.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 26, 2021

Foraminifera occupy a static thermal niche

Planktonic foraminifera retained a stable temperature preference over 700,000 years of glacial-interglacial climate fluctuations. The species' inability to adapt suggests they may be vulnerable to extinction if habitats shift suddenly.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Normally harmless cell molecule triggers neuron death

Researchers discovered that farnesyl pyrophosphate, an intermediate in normal cell metabolism, causes rapid and extensive cell death when present at high concentrations outside cells. Inhibition of TRPM2 channels or targeting its metabolic pathway may offer new avenues for reducing stroke damage.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 26, 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.

Cleaner water through corn

Researchers at the University of California - Riverside have developed an energy-efficient way to convert corn stover into activated carbon for water treatment. The process produces activated carbon that absorbs up to 98% of vanillin from water, showcasing a promising approach to combating climate change by repurposing idle resources.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalACS Omega·DateApr 26, 2021

AGS honors Dr. Megan Huisingh-Scheetz with Arti Hurria Memorial Award

Dr. Megan Huisingh-Scheetz, a geriatrician and epidemiologist, received the fourth Arti Hurria Memorial Award for Emerging Investigators in Internal Medicine Who are Focused on the Care of Older Adults. Her research investigates ways to advance frailty assessment and care through technology. Dr. Huisingh-Scheetz developed a program usi...

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·DateApr 26, 2021

New clues to the conundrum of mother-to-child HIV transmission

A Weill Cornell Medicine team found rare variants of the virus in mothers' blood that can escape broadly neutralizing antibodies. These variants are associated with increased transmission risk to infants, suggesting vaccines or treatments need to be effective against them. Researchers propose high-dose combination therapy for pregnant ...

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateApr 26, 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.

Football Fitness gives an important boost to health in women treated for breast cancer

A study by the University of Southern Denmark found that Football Fitness improves balance, strengthens muscles, and increases bone density in women treated for breast cancer. The 12-month training program reduced the risk of falls and broken bones, making everyday activities easier.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateApr 26, 2021

Tandem micro-LEDs for full-color displays

Tandem micro-LEDs featuring stacked red, green, and blue micro-LEDs enable full-color displays. This method alleviates the issues of reduced LED size performance.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 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.

Netflix commits to local productions to continue leading the streaming platform market

A study by Universitat Oberta de Catalunya researchers reveals Netflix's diverse strategy for original feature films, which includes premieres, film festivals and local production. The platform has increased its investment in in-house production and distribution to offer unique content and differentiate itself from rival platforms.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalCommunication & Society·DateApr 26, 2021

Genetic changes in head and neck cancer, immunotherapy resistance identified

A multi-institutional team of researchers has identified genetic abnormalities that drive pre-cancer cells into becoming invasive head and neck cancer. The study found that patients with specific genetic imbalances are less likely to respond to immunotherapy.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 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.

Higher education does not influence how the brain ages

A recent study by the Lifebrain consortium found that brains shrink at the same rate in highly educated and less educated individuals. Despite slightly larger brain volumes in highly educated people, their brains age similarly throughout life. The researchers measured brain aging using MRI scans from over 2000 participants and tracked ...

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Supervisors focused on others' needs get 'benefit of the doubt' from employees

Employees perceive prosocially motivated supervisors as fairer and are more likely to give them the benefit of the doubt, even when they make mistakes. Research from the University of Notre Dame found that supervisor motives impact fairness judgments and that focusing on prosocial motives can buffer the negative effects of low justice ...

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateApr 26, 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.

Taking vitamin D could lower heart disease risk for people with dark skin

New research suggests a link between vitamin D deficiency and higher rates of heart disease among African Americans. The study found that darker-skinned individuals may be at greater risk of vitamin D deficiency due to lower levels of nitric oxide availability, which can lead to blood vessel dysfunction and hypertension.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 26, 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.

Research result reporting set for boost under new system

A new MDAR Framework has been developed to harmonize outcome recording across major journals and establish basic minimum reporting requirements. The framework is designed to be flexible and adaptable to individual journal needs, aiming to reduce the burden on authors and editors.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Preeclampsia during pregnancy increases stroke risk later in life

Researchers at University of Utah Health found a strong association between preeclampsia and stroke risk in women who had the condition during pregnancy. Over an average follow-up period of 32 years, women with preeclampsia were 3.8 times more likely to have strokes compared to those without the condition.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 26, 2021

Common inflammatory bowel disease treatment blunts COVID-19 vaccine response

A large-scale study found that people treated with infliximab had significantly lower antibody concentrations after a single dose of COVID-19 vaccine. However, the vaccine-triggered antibody responses rose significantly in those who had previously been infected with COVID-19 or received a second dose. The researchers recommend prioriti...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGut·DateApr 26, 2021

A new perspective on the genomes of archaic humans

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new technique to analyze the genomes of archaic humans, revealing key differences in gene expression that may lead to physical traits. The study found associations with the vocal tract and cerebellum, suggesting rapid evolution of these organs in modern humans.

SourceStanford University·DateApr 26, 2021

COVID-19 lockdowns and snow melt in South Asia

The study found a 30% decrease in dust and soot on snow and ice, leading to the retention of 6.6 km3 of meltwater. The COVID-19 lockdowns delayed the onset of melt by absorbing less solar radiation.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Higher education and brain aging

A study of over 2,000 individuals found that higher education does not influence the pace of brain aging, contradicting previous assumptions. However, educational attainment is linked to improved cognitive outcomes and reduced risk of dementia.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Ozone pollution in Germany falls thanks to lower nitrogen oxide emissions

A recent study found that ozone pollution in Germany has decreased primarily due to reduced nitrogen oxide emissions. Ozone formation is often linked to NOx emissions from traffic and industrial processes. Lower NOx levels are positively correlated with lower ozone concentrations, especially in regions like southwestern Germany.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalAtmospheric Environment·DateApr 26, 2021

Is night shift really helping you sleep better?

A Brigham Young University study found that mobile night shift functions do not improve sleep quality, contrary to manufacturer claims. Researchers tested 167 emerging adults and found no significant differences in sleep outcomes between those using phones with Night Shift enabled or disabled.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalSleep Health·DateApr 26, 2021

Energy-saving gas turbines from the 3D printer

A research team has successfully used neutrons to non-destructively detect internal stress in complex 3D-printed components. The innovation could lead to energy-saving gas turbines by optimizing production processes and reducing destructive stresses.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Applied Crystallography·DateApr 26, 2021

How COVID-19 impacted UK healthcare

A new study by University of East Anglia researchers found that despite high levels of unmet healthcare need, the NHS upheld its principle of equal treatment for equal need, with no difference in access to hospital care between income groups. However, those on higher incomes had better access to GP consultations and medical helplines.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalHealth Economics·DateApr 26, 2021

Forensic scientists unlocking unique chemical signatures in tires

Researchers at the University of Central Florida have developed a new method to analyze tire skid marks and identify vehicles involved in crimes. By classifying the chemical profile of tires, forensic scientists can link vehicles to potential crime scenes, providing valuable evidence for investigations.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalApplied Spectroscopy·DateApr 26, 2021

Structure gives insight into how plants keep their "mouths" shut

Researchers at Chinese Academy of Sciences have uncovered the atomic structure of SLAC1, a protein responsible for closing stomatal pores in plants. The discovery sheds light on how plants respond to environmental changes, such as high CO2 levels and drought.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Discovery of an elusive cell type in fish sensory organs

Researchers identified a new cell type called neuromast-associated ionocytes in zebrafish sensory organs that play a crucial role in regulating the fluid composition. These cells are responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation, and their dysfunction is linked to hearing loss and vestibular defects.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateApr 26, 2021

Icy clouds could have kept early Mars warm enough for rivers and lakes, study finds

A new simulation led by University of Chicago geoscientist Edwin Kite finds that high-altitude water ice clouds could have created a greenhouse effect on early Mars, enabling the presence of flowing rivers and lakes. The study challenges previous assumptions about the Martian climate and offers insights into the planet's habitability.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Mapping childhood undernutrition in India

Researchers mapped child anthropometric failure across 597,121 Indian villages to identify geographic hotspots of undernutrition. The study highlights the need for targeted policies and precision mapping to address childhood undernutrition in rural India.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Against presbyopia

A team of researchers from UPV, UV, and AIKEN Foundation has created the first fully transparent trifocal corneal inlay that allows good eyesight for people with presbyopia at multiple distances. The inlay is designed to be compatible with laser refractive surgery and may offer an alternative to glasses or contact lenses.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 26, 2021

Anti-icing material with self-removing condensate

Researchers developed an anti-icing material that removes condensed water through self-propelled droplet jumping, inspired by wheat leaves. The material remains ice-free in temperatures as low as -50 °C and under high humidity, making it suitable for various environmental conditions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2021

Experimental proof for Zeeman spin-orbit coupling in antiferromagnetics

Researchers discovered Zeeman spin-orbit coupling in two different materials, demonstrating its generic nature and opening possibilities for spin manipulation. This breakthrough may lead to the development of fundamentally new electronic devices with high storage density and fast operation.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·Journalnpj Quantum Materials·DateApr 26, 2021

Female military veterans face additional barriers accessing mental health support

A study published in BMJ Military Health found that female military veterans experience unique barriers to accessing mental healthcare, including a lack of recognition of their veteran status and negative stereotypes. The research highlights the need for further studies to address these issues and ensure equal access to support services.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Military Health·DateApr 26, 2021

Prototype for mobile devices could screen children at risk for autism spectrum disorder

Researchers developed an eye-tracking app that can screen children at risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by tracking their gaze patterns while watching social videos. The study found that children with ASD were less likely to focus on social cues and visually track conversations in the videos.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 26, 2021