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Science News for April 27, 2021


Texas Biomed shares critical work in development of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine

The article discusses the critical role of Texas Biomed in the development of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine through preclinical testing. Scientists tested two mRNA vaccine candidates in rhesus macaques, showing high effectiveness in protecting against SARS-CoV-2, and highlighting the importance of rapid therapy and vaccine development.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·JournalNature·DateApr 27, 2021

Omega-3 supplements help kids with high cholesterol improve lipid profile

A new study found that fatty acid supplements may protect children with high cholesterol from heart disease by increasing their blood levels of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. The researchers discovered that an EPA supplement improved the lipid profile in the blood, reducing the risk of coronary artery disease and promoting healthy aging.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

Toward a feasible alternative to liver organ transplant

Researchers have made new discoveries about fetal liver cells that could help make liver cell transplants more effective. Fetal liver cells can multiply and maintain function for long periods when used in transplants, but adult liver cells do not share this ability.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

Hepatitis C drugs boost Remdesivir's antiviral activity against COVID-19

Researchers found that four hepatitis C drugs boost remdesivir's efficacy by up to tenfold in cell cultures. This combination therapy may provide an immediate treatment for unvaccinated individuals or those with waning immunity. The study aimed to develop an oral drug that inhibits SARS-CoV-2 like remdesivir.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 27, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study of oak forests of European Russia elucidates climate change in the region

A study of oak forests in European Russia has provided new insights into the region's climate change. Researchers developed a classification system based on the Braun-Blanquet method, identifying two new associations and demonstrating the uniqueness of steppe oak forests compared to xero-mesophytic European oak forests.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalVegetation Classification and Survey·DateApr 27, 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.

Study suggests that silicon could be a photonics game-changer

Researchers discovered silicon's strongest nonlinearity, allowing for extremely weak beams to be used in photonic applications. This breakthrough could lead to the production of silicon processors with built-in light beam control capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateApr 27, 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.

New duckbilled dinosaur discovered in Japan

A new genus and species of hadrosaur, Yamatosaurus izanagii, has been identified in Japan, revealing insights into the herbivores' migration from Asia to North America. The discovery also highlights an evolutionary step as dinosaurs transitioned from bipedalism to quadrupedalism.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 27, 2021

Physicists net neutron star gold from measurement of lead

Researchers made a precise measurement of the lead nucleus's neutron skin, revealing it's thicker than expected. This thickness has implications for the physical processes in neutron stars and their size.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 27, 2021

New AI tool calculates materials' stress and strain based on photos

Engineers can now determine material properties like stress and strain from images of their internal structure, reducing computational complexity. The AI-powered approach uses computer vision and machine learning to generate estimates in real-time.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 27, 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.

Extinct 'horned' crocodile gets new spot in the tree of life

A new study resolves the horned crocodile's evolutionary relationships, placing it on a separate branch of the crocodile family tree. The research suggests that modern crocodiles likely originated in Africa, contradicting previous scientific thinking.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalCommunications Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

Solar-powered desalination unit shows great promise

Researchers in China have created a highly efficient desalination device powered by solar energy that can remove salt from seawater, producing freshwater. The device uses a titanium-containing layer and special paper to absorb sunlight and condense water vapor.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateApr 27, 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.

New 2D superconductor forms at higher temperatures than ever before

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have created a new 2D superconductor that forms at the interface of an oxide insulator, enabling high-temperature superconductivity and raising fundamental questions about its properties. The discovery could lead to breakthroughs in quantum information processing and quantum sensing.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateApr 27, 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.

Middle East and North Africa: Heatwaves of up to 56 degrees Celsius without climate action

A new study predicts that ignoring climate change will lead to life-threatening heatwaves in the region, with temperatures reaching up to 56 degrees Celsius and affecting 600 million people. The research team recommends immediate climate change mitigation measures to avoid such extreme events.

SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·DateApr 27, 2021

NIST study suggests how to build a better 'nanopore' biosensor

Researchers at NIST and VCU have developed a new approach to building better 'nanopore' biosensors by measuring the energy required for molecules to interact with these sensors. This laser-based heating method enables faster and more accurate measurements, potentially revolutionizing disease detection and treatment.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 27, 2021

Association of facial paralysis with mRNA COVID-19 vaccines

Researchers analyzed COVID-19 vaccination data and found no significant association between mRNA vaccines and facial paralysis. The study suggests that compared to other viral vaccines, mRNA COVID-19 vaccines do not display a signal of facial paralysis.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 27, 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.

'Smart shirt' takes a trip to space for science

Researchers developed a non-intrusive Bio-Monitor shirt to track astronauts' health during spaceflight, providing continuous measurements of heart rate, breathing rate, and physical activity. The study found significant reductions in physical activity during spaceflight, highlighting the potential for early warning systems.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

Study reports links between blood types and disease risks

Researchers have found a link between certain blood types and increased risk of diseases such as kidney stones, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and bleeding conditions. A study scanning health data on over five million people revealed new connections and confirmed previously reported associations.

SourceeLife·DateApr 27, 2021

New algorithm makes it easier for computers to solve decision making problems

A new approach to solving multiagent decision making problems using agent-by-agent optimization leads to reduced computational complexity, performing at par with standard rollout algorithms. The result is a dramatic reduction in computation cost with linear growth in computation with the number of agents.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateApr 27, 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.

Future drones likely to resemble 300-million-year-old flying machine

Researchers at the University of South Australia have designed a dragonfly-inspired drone that boasts superior aerodynamic performance. The drone's unique body shape and long abdomen mimic those of the insect, allowing it to hover, cruise, and perform aerobatics with ease.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalDrones·DateApr 27, 2021

Lactic acid bacteria can extend the shelf life of foods

Researchers developed natural lactic acid bacterium that secretes antimicrobial peptide nisin, extending food shelf life and reducing waste. Nisin is approved for use in various foods to prevent spoilage and foodborne illness.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateApr 27, 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.

Researchers show new holistic approach to genetics and plant breeding

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered a new method for plant breeding that considers the internal 'calculator' of plant seeds, allowing for more efficient crop improvement. The approach uses NIRS to analyze the chemical composition of grains and identify optimal genetic traits.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalTrends in Plant Science·DateApr 27, 2021

Study first to explore combined impacts of fishing and ocean warming on fish populations

A new study by the University of Melbourne found that combining fishing and ocean warming has a devastating impact on fish populations. The research, published in PNAS, discovered that four generations are needed for the effects to manifest, with strongest declines observed where large individuals were fished out.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 27, 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.

Gene changes might explain long-haul COVID-19 symptoms

Researchers discovered that exposure to SARS-CoV-2 spike protein can cause persistent gene expression changes in airway cells, which may contribute to COVID long-hauler symptoms. The study's findings suggest a potential genetic basis for the lingering symptoms and could lead to personalized treatment approaches.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

Marine biodiversity: Enormous variety of animal life in the deep sea revealed

A recent study has shown that the deep sea is home to a vast array of unique and highly specific organisms, including protists, foraminifera, and ciliates. The diversity of these organisms was found to be highly specific to individual deep-sea basins, with little overlap between them and coastal regions.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCommunications Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

Why older people should chill when it's hot out

A new study suggests that cooling breaks can improve autophagic function in older adults, potentially reducing cellular damage from extreme heat. Researchers found that visiting a cooling center reduced core body temperature and improved markers of autophagy in participants.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 27, 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.

Researchers find breastfeeding linked to higher neurocognitive testing scores

Researchers found that breastfed children scored higher on neurocognitive tests, with the strongest association seen in those breastfed for more than 12 months. The study, which analyzed over 9,000 participants, suggests that any amount of breastfeeding has a positive cognitive impact.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateApr 27, 2021

Nature provides inspiration for breakthrough in self-regulating materials

Researchers at UMass Amherst have developed a platform for interactive soft materials that can respond to external stimuli in predictable ways. By mimicking the natural oscillators found in animals, the team created a diverse array of oscillators that can move in unison and adapt to changes in light and temperature.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 27, 2021

Cholestenone shows antibiotic properties against H. pylori

Cholestenone inhibits H. pylori cell wall biosynthesis by suppressing CGL production, effective against clarithromycin-resistant strains and eradicating bacteria in mice fed with cholestenone-containing diets.

SourceShinshu University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 27, 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.

California campaign lowers statewide C-section rate, Stanford-led study finds

A four-year effort in California has lowered the state's C-section rate for low-risk, first-time mothers to below the national average, according to a Stanford-led study. The campaign, which included messaging, public reporting, and quality improvement initiatives, resulted in a reduction from 26% in 2014 to 22.8% in 2019.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateApr 27, 2021

Ship traffic dropped during first months of Covid pandemic

Researchers tracked global ship movements and found a 70.2% decrease in Exclusive Economic Zones during the pandemic's early stages. The impact of reduced boat traffic allowed some marine ecosystems to recover, with clearer water observed in Venice's canals and reduced underwater noise at Vancouver.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 27, 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.

Linguists predict unknown words using language comparison

Researchers use computer-assisted techniques to reconstruct ancient pronunciation of undocumented words, achieving a success rate of 76% in predicting word forms. The study's findings improve understanding of Western Kho-Bwa languages and their linguistic history.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalDiachronica·DateApr 27, 2021

Using big data to save babies

Researchers used machine learning to analyze data from preterm infants with BPD, identifying clusters that predicted comorbidities and rehospitalizations. This could lead to earlier and more precise diagnoses, enabling personalized treatments.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 27, 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.

The science of sound, vibration to better diagnose, treat brain diseases

A team of engineers is exploring new methods to focus ultrasound waves through the skull, offering a safer and less expensive alternative to MRI technology. The researchers are also investigating how vibrations and waves across different frequencies can be used to extract information from or focus energy on the brain.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalUltrasound in Medicine & Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

Exercise reduces risk of airway disease

A recent study published in Radiology found that regular exercise can reduce the long-term risk of bronchiectasis, a potentially serious airway disease. The study, which analyzed data from over 2,000 healthy young adults, found that preservation of cardiorespiratory fitness was associated with lower odds of developing bronchiectasis.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateApr 27, 2021

Physical activity reduces cardiovascular risk in rheumatic patients

People with autoimmune rheumatic diseases are more likely to develop heart attacks and strokes due to chronic inflammation. Regular exercise improves vascular function, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and promoting structural recovery of damaged arteries.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalRheumatology·DateApr 27, 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.

Canola growth environments and genetics shape their seed microbiomes

A study examined how seed microbiomes of canola are assembled, finding that both genetic and environmental factors play a role. The researchers discovered a core microbiome in all seed samples with potentially beneficial microbes like Pseudomonas spp., which promote plant growth.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·DateApr 27, 2021

Fair climate policy could help reduce extreme poverty

A new study suggests that ambitious climate policies can alleviate poverty reduction challenges by redistributing emission pricing revenues and promoting fair international burden sharing. The research projects that implementing these measures could lead to a small reduction in global poverty of around 6 million people by 2030.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 27, 2021

Light therapy helps veterans treated for traumatic brain injury

A new study by researchers at the VA Portland Health Care System found that morning bright light therapy improved physical and mental symptoms for veterans with traumatic brain injury. The therapy showed significant benefits in cognitive function, sleep, depression, and neuropsychiatric trauma symptoms.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 27, 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.

Heat-inactivation method successfully neutralizes coronavirus in less than a second

A team of researchers at Texas A&M University has successfully developed a heat-inactivation method that can neutralize the coronavirus in less than a second. This innovative approach uses high temperatures to break down the virus, providing a potential solution for mitigating the spread of COVID-19. The findings have significant impli...

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalBiotechnology and Bioengineering·DateApr 27, 2021

Depression medication could also protect against heart disease

Researchers found that duloxetine inhibited platelet function and protected against clot formation, potentially benefiting patients with both depression and cardiovascular disease. The study aims to develop new drugs based on the structure of duloxetine to protect from thrombosis.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

Climate crises in Mesopotamia prompted the first stable forms of State

Severe droughts prompted landowners to grant rights to non-elites, who promoted institutional changes through cooperation. Climate shocks also influenced agricultural activities and social orders in developing countries., Climate crises in Mesopotamia led to the development of cooperative relationships between elites and non-elites.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 27, 2021

The first comprehensive single-cell atlas of human teeth

A team of researchers has created the first-ever single-cell atlas of the human teeth, revealing cellular heterogeneity and stem cell populations with great regenerative potential. The study highlights the importance of microenvironmental specificity in functional differences between stem cells in various tooth compartments.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournaliScience·DateApr 27, 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.

International research team discovers new two-dimensional material

A global research team has created a previously unknown two-dimensional material called beryllonitrene, which exhibits a distorted electronic lattice structure. This new material has great potential for applications in quantum technology, including high-performance computing and secure communication.

SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 27, 2021

An atlas of HIV's favorite targets in the blood of infected individuals

Gladstone researchers have identified specific subsets of CD4+ T cells that are most susceptible to HIV infection. The team used a technology called CyTOF/PP-SLIDE to classify these cells and found that remodeling caused infected blood cells to alter their surface, potentially helping the virus infect more cells.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 27, 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.

Pandemic significantly increases insomnia in health care workers

The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a 44% increase in insomnia disorder among health care workers, with the highest rates among those who spent less time in direct patient care. Surprisingly, about 10% of faculty physicians and nurses reported their insomnia improving after the onset of the pandemic.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateApr 27, 2021

Fishing in African waters

African waters contribute to global fish supply, generating $15 billion for Africa's GDP in 2011. However, climate change and pollution threaten fish stocks, raising concerns about sustainability. A new study uses AIS satellite data to describe spatial characteristics of African and foreign industrial fishing activities.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateApr 27, 2021

The new EU climate target could phase out coal power in Europe as early as 2030

A new EU climate target of cutting emissions by 55% by 2030 will dramatically speed up the decarbonization of Europe's power sector, leading to a significant phaseout of coal power. Renewable energies are expected to contribute nearly three-quarters of power generation in 2030 and reach zero emissions in the power sector by 2040.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalApplied Energy·DateApr 27, 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.

Five studies point to dangers of environmental exposures

Recent studies point to links between environmental exposures and health risks, including respiratory problems from hog farms and inflammation caused by triclosan. Gulf War veterans may also be more susceptible to alcohol-induced liver damage due to environmental factors.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

Do senior faculty publish as much as their younger colleagues?

A study found senior faculty's research publication activity exceeded expectations across disciplines, with a focus on book and chapter publications. Senior scholars are uniquely positioned to invest time in long-term publication efforts.

SourceAcademic Analytics Research Center (AARC)·JournalScientometrics·DateApr 27, 2021

NUS researchers discover protein that promotes chemotherapy resistance

Researchers identified DUSP16 as a protein that promotes chemotherapy resistance in four types of cancer. Elevated DUSP16 levels can lead to reduced treatment effectiveness, highlighting its potential use as a biomarker for sensitivity to chemotherapy.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 27, 2021

ASBMB announces its first class of fellows

The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology has launched an honorific program to recognize members who have made significant contributions to the field. The first class of 30 fellows includes renowned scientists from around the world, who will be honored at the society's annual meeting.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateApr 27, 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.

Switching to light

A team of scientists at the University of Freiburg has developed a new optogenetic tool called BLADE that allows for controlled expression of genes in Escherichia coli using blue light. This breakthrough simplifies biotechnology methods and enables targeted protein production and signaling process studies.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

SARS-CoV-2 spike protein alone may cause lung damage

A new mouse model of acute lung injury reveals that exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein alone can induce COVID-19-like symptoms. The study's findings suggest a previously unknown mechanism causing lung damage, potentially leading to new targets for therapeutic development.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 27, 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.

U-M RNA scientists identify many genes involved in neuron development

A team of University of Michigan researchers identified many genes crucial for fruit fly neuron development, including three previously unknown ones. The discovery provides insights into the complex process of neurogenesis and may lead to new approaches for understanding human brain development and regeneration.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 27, 2021

SARS-CoV-2 curtails immune response in the gut

Researchers created human intestinal cells to study SARS-CoV-2 infection process. The findings indicate the virus silences immune response in infected cells, suggesting new ways to treat it.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

New clues on how networks such as Twitter are organized to respond to viral news

Scientists analyzed Twitter data during the 2019 Spanish general elections and Charlie Hebdo attack, finding a modular structure with internal hierarchies responding to user interests. This breakthrough in network analysis sheds light on the conditions required for coexistence of macro-scale patterns.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 27, 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.

Don't go fracking my heart

A new study found that people living near fracking sites are at a higher risk of heart attacks, with rates increasing by 1.4-2.8% depending on age group and level of activity. The research also highlights the potential negative impact of fracking on cardiovascular health in rural communities.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateApr 27, 2021

Plasma acceleration: It's all in the mix

Researchers at DESY have achieved two critical milestones in developing innovative plasma accelerators. By combining nitrogen and artificial intelligence, they significantly reduced the energy distribution of accelerated electron bunches, a crucial property for various applications. The team also successfully used AI to optimize the ac...

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 27, 2021

Polymer-based coatings on metallic implants improve bone-implant integration

Researchers developed natural polymer coatings that significantly improved metal electrochemical corrosion properties and allowed for cell attachment while disallowing bacterial attachment. These coatings can be modified to possess multifunctionality, opening a new era of applications in bone tissue engineering.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiointerphases·DateApr 27, 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.

Circadian clock in the mouse placenta

A study reveals that the mouse placenta's circadian clock regulates the expression and activity of ABCB1, a drug efflux transporter, in a 24h rhythm. This finding suggests that the timing of maternal treatment could be crucial to avoid non-desirable effects on foetal development during pregnancy.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDevelopment·DateApr 27, 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.

Men's loneliness linked to an increased risk of cancer

A recent study by the University of Eastern Finland found that middle-aged men who experience loneliness are at an increased risk of developing cancer. The study, which followed 2,570 men over time, found that loneliness was associated with a 10% higher risk of cancer.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalPsychiatry Research·DateApr 27, 2021

ORNL licenses revolutionary AI system to General Motors for automotive use

General Motors has licensed the award-winning AI software system MENNDL from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to accelerate advanced driver assistance systems technology and design. MENNDL uses evolution to design optimal convolutional neural networks, dramatically speeding up the process of recognizing patterns in datasets.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateApr 27, 2021

Skoltech researchers propose a new data-driven tool to better understand startups

Researchers at Skoltech propose a new methodology for analyzing startup growth, leveraging Google Trends' big data. The approach enables building accurate and real-time data-driven growth paths for startups, offering an X-ray scan into technology-based ventures.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalTechnological Forecasting and Social Change·DateApr 27, 2021

New method preserves viable fruit fly embryos in liquid nitrogen

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a method to cryopreserve fruit fly embryos, preserving their viability for up to generations. This breakthrough enables genetic research, disease modeling, and potential pest control applications, such as combating the invasive Drosophila suzukii.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 27, 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.

Improved catalyst may translate to petrochemical production gains

Researchers have developed a new method for synthesizing zeolite catalysts that improves catalytic performance by up to five-fold. The improved hierarchical zeolite catalysts show unprecedented improvement in stability and selectivity, potentially reducing the need for costly turnarounds.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 27, 2021

New mouse model provides first platform to study late-onset Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at the University of California, Irvine have developed a new genetically engineered mouse model that mimics the most common form of late-onset Alzheimer's disease. The model, which embodies the remaining 95% of cases, holds promise for understanding causes of the disease and developing new treatments.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 27, 2021

Droperidol most effective sedation medication for agitation with less sides effects

A randomized trial found that droperidol was more effective than lorazepam or ziprasidone for sedation in patients with acute undifferentiated agitation. Additionally, it was associated with lower rates of respiratory depression compared to the other medications. The study suggests that larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateApr 27, 2021

Could corals use sound to communicate?

Researchers found evidence of sound-related genes in corals, which could enable them to use sound to interact with their environment. This discovery has significant implications for understanding coral communication and developing restoration and conservation projects to protect these critical ecosystems.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

EHR usability issues linked to nurse burnout and patient outcomes

A new study investigated associations between EHR usability and nurse job outcomes (burnout, job dissatisfaction) and surgical patient outcomes (inpatient mortality, readmission). The results found that EHR usability is critical to reducing nurse burnout and improving patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalMedical Care·DateApr 27, 2021

Limited value of tree plantations for biodiversity conservation

Research found tree plantations host significantly fewer beetle species, contributing to lower biodiversity compared to old-growth forests. Plantations' limited ability to support diverse food chains makes them less effective for forest conservation.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateApr 27, 2021

Diabetes drug could protect against dangerous infection

Researchers found that metformin inhibited the spread of Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) in three study models, including cell cultures and mouse models. The treatment reduced C. diff proliferation and increased the growth of closely related nonpathogenic bacteria.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

Nontoxic, flexible energy converters could power wearable devices

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new method to harness waste heat from wearables using nanotube-based thermoelectric generation. This technology converts uneven heat distribution into electrical energy, reducing the need for batteries and making wearable devices more sustainable.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 27, 2021

New approaches for teaching science remotely arise from the COVID-19 crisis

A new paper explores effective methods for teaching science remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic, including experiential hands-on activities, interactive labs, and environmental science research projects. These approaches enhanced student engagement, collaboration, and learning outcomes, despite the challenges of remote instruction.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Microbiology and Biology Education·DateApr 27, 2021

Life in a wheatbelt oasis

The study highlights the importance of creating and managing habitat oases to protect remaining species in threatened habitats. The research reveals that a diverse array of habitat types is critical for the survival and thrival of birds and other animals, such as the endangered Australian numbat.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalAustralian Journal of Zoology·DateApr 27, 2021

Study links child behaviour problems to prenatal tobacco smoke and traffic density

A recent study found that prenatal tobacco smoke exposure and increased residential traffic density are strongly associated with child behavioral problems. Children who received more hours of sleep, ate a healthy diet, and had strong parental ties or social connections exhibited fewer behavioral issues.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironment International·DateApr 27, 2021

Capsaicin analog could help treatment-resistant lung cancer

A new study found that a non-pungent synthetic capsaicin analog, arvanil, made small cell lung cancer cells more responsive to chemotherapy. The compound enhanced the anti-cancer activity of SN38, a commonly used treatment for relapsed small cell lung cancer.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

Five new insights in the fight against COVID-19

Researchers have made significant findings in the fight against COVID-19, including a link between long-term blood vessel problems and an increased risk of heart disease. Studies also suggest promising leads for antiviral treatments and potential therapies using stem cells, as well as changes in science education during the pandemic.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

Lack of educational opportunities influence drug use for rural youth

A recent study by University of Missouri researcher Wilson Majee found that rural youth who lack access to education are more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as substance abuse. The study suggests that a combination of factors, including poverty, unemployment, and lack of resources, can create feelings of hopelessness and desp...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalHealth & Social Care in the Community·DateApr 27, 2021

Women's football in Japan had a rich history before WWII

Researchers uncovered evidence of women's football in pre-war Japan through historical records and photographs. They found that football was a popular sport among girls, particularly during the Taisho era, with casual play and competitions involving throwing and kicking the ball.

SourceHokkaido University·DateApr 27, 2021

Horizontal transmission can cause severe and persistent eye inflammation

A new study by Tokyo Medical and Dental University clinicians reveals that horizontal transmission is responsible for HTLV-1 uveitis, a severe eye inflammation. The patient was treated with corticosteroids, showing promise in managing the condition, but highlighting the need to consider infection route in diagnosis and treatment.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateApr 27, 2021

Seaweed solutions

Researchers propose using cultivated seaweed to draw down available nutrients, limiting algae blooms and oxygen-poor dead zones. Seaweed aquaculture could also generate revenue through the production of biofuel, fertilizer, and food products.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalMarine Policy·DateApr 27, 2021

A new treatment that might keep COVID-19 patients off the ventilator

A new treatment has shown promising results in reducing the severity of acute respiratory distress syndrome caused by the flu in mice. The therapy, based on natural molecules, improves lung function and prevents progression of disease in infected animals.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology·DateApr 27, 2021

Few young adult men have gotten the HPV vaccine, study finds

A recent study found that only 16% of male teenagers received the HPV vaccine, highlighting a significant gap in vaccination rates. The vaccine is essential for preventing oropharyngeal cancer, which affects 80% of male patients diagnosed with this condition.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA·DateApr 27, 2021

Incentives could turn costs of biofuel mandates into environmental benefits

Researchers argue that targeted policies and incentives are needed to promote perennial bioenergy crops over cheaper options, reducing nitrogen runoff and improving water quality. In contrast, a cellulosic ethanol mandate with the right policies could provide substantial economic and environmental benefits.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateApr 27, 2021

Shoe scanner technology on the horizon

Researchers developed a holographic millimeter wave scanning technology that can detect threats concealed under clothing and footwear, reducing false alarms. The new technology allows for shoe scans while passengers wear shoes on, potentially speeding up the screening process by 15-20%.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateApr 27, 2021

HPV vaccination in young adults

The study estimates that only about 24% of young adults aged 18 to 21 in the United States have been fully vaccinated against human papillomavirus (HPV). The low vaccination rate is a cause for concern given the significant health risks associated with HPV infection, including cervical cancer and other types of cancer.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateApr 27, 2021