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Science News for April 29, 2021


Lateral flow testing should not be used as a green light for activities

A study published in PLOS Biology suggests that Lateral Flow Devices (LFDs) are more effective at detecting higher quantities of SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA, but struggle to identify infections in individuals with lower viral loads. The research highlights the need for frequent testing, particularly in early or late stages of infection.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 29, 2021

Expressing variety of emotions earns entrepreneurs funding

A recent study published in the Journal of Business Venturing found that entrepreneurs whose facial expressions conveyed a mix of emotions during funding pitches were more successful. The study analyzed nearly 500 pitch videos and found that varying three emotional expressions (happiness, anger, fear) led to the most fundraising success.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Business Venturing·DateApr 29, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New law of physics helps humans and robots grasp the friction of touch

Researchers discovered a new law of physics that accounts for elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) friction, crucial for developing reliable haptic and robotic devices. This breakthrough enables the creation of more functional devices in applications like telesurgery and manufacturing.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 29, 2021

A third of kids develop a mental health problem after concussion

A third of children and adolescents experience mental health problems after a concussion, which can persist for several years post-injury. The review emphasizes the importance of evaluating mental health as part of standard pediatric concussion assessment and management.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateApr 29, 2021

The Arctic's greening, but it won't save us

New research suggests that the Arctic's increasing plant biomass is not enough to absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide, as most of it is released through fires and timber harvests. The study estimates that only 430 million metric tons of biomass have accumulated over 31 years, with much of it being lost due to wildfires.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 29, 2021

Icebreaker's cyclone encounter reveals faster sea ice decline

A recent study published by University of Alaska Fairbanks researchers found that sea ice declined 5.7 times faster than normal during the Great Arctic Cyclone of 2016. The rapid decline was driven by cyclone-triggered processes within the ocean, including warm water upwelling and surface turbulence.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 29, 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.

New algorithm for the diagnostics of dementia

A new algorithm developed by researchers from the University of Eastern Finland uses blood biomarker measurements to aid in early diagnosis and differentiation between types of dementia. This innovation aims to provide precise diagnoses, enabling targeted treatment and improving patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalDiagnostics·DateApr 29, 2021

New optical hydrogen sensors eliminate risk of sparking

A new study from the University of Georgia has developed an inexpensive and spark-free optical-based hydrogen sensor that detects hydrogen presence without electronics, making it safer for widespread use. The sensor boasts faster response time and increased sensitivity compared to previous models, addressing key hurdles in hydrogen pow...

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 2021

Six out of every 10 teachers believe that changing the design of the classroom is key to improving learning

A recent study by Universitat Oberta de Catalunya found that 6 out of 10 teachers believe changing the classroom design is crucial for improving learning. The researchers emphasized the need for flexible spaces that prioritize physical and psychological well-being, allowing students to take an active role in their learning. Additionall...

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalLearning Environments Research·DateApr 29, 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.

Risk factors for a severe course of COVID-19 in people with diabetes

A new study has identified risk factors for a severe course of COVID-19 in people with diabetes, including male sex, older age, high blood glucose levels, and existing comorbidities. Chronic metformin treatment was found to be associated with a reduced risk of severe COVID-19.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalDiabetologia·DateApr 29, 2021

Ultra-high field MRI detects differences in brain's 'hippocampus'

Researchers used ultra-high field MRI to map the brains of people with Down syndrome, detecting subtle differences in hippocampal structure and function. The study provides insight into how subregions of the hippocampus are connected to other brain areas.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalBrain Communications·DateApr 29, 2021

Geisinger awarded $3.6 million to study genetics of cancer

Geisinger Health System has been awarded a $3.6 million contract from the National Cancer Institute to analyze genetic data from its MyCode Community Health Initiative. The study aims to identify specific gene variants linked to cancer risk, expanding the list of genes used for genetic cancer screening.

SourceGeisinger Health System·DateApr 29, 2021

Digital mental health interventions for young people are perceived promising, but are they effective

Computerized cognitive behavioral therapy was found effective for anxiety and depression in adolescents and young people. However, the effectiveness of other digital interventions remains inconclusive. Engagement with a health professional or peer can strengthen the effectiveness of these interventions.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJMIR Mental Health·DateApr 29, 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.

Mammals evolved big brains after big disasters

The study reveals complex patterns in brain-body scaling, with many large-brained species having low relative brain sizes due to selective pressures. The authors conclude that the evolution of intelligence cannot be solely measured by brain size.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 29, 2021

NSU researcher part of a flagship study on vertebrate genomes

Researchers have sequenced high-quality genomes for 16 vertebrate species, revealing new avenues for increasing immune defenses against emerging diseases. The study also standardizes genome assembly quality metrics using novel algorithms, paving the way for thousands of future genome assemblies.

SourceNova Southeastern University·JournalNature·DateApr 29, 2021

Alzheimer's disease is composed of four distinct subtypes

Researchers have identified four distinct patterns of tau pathology in Alzheimer's disease, each leading to unique symptoms and prognoses. These subtypes include variant one, which primarily affects memory, and variants two, three, and four, which impact executive functions, visuospatial processing, and language ability, respectively.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 29, 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.

Kratom use rare, but more common among people with opioid use disorder

A study found that kratom use is relatively rare in the general US population, affecting only 0.7% of adults and adolescents, but more prevalent among people with opioid use disorder, who report a 10.3% rate of kratom use. Kratom use is also associated with depression, serious mental illness, and other factors.

SourceNew York University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 29, 2021

Study reveals need for equitable access of minimally invasive heart procedure

A study analyzing Medicare claims data between 2012 and 2018 found that TAVR hospital programs are predominantly located in metropolitan areas serving patients with higher socioeconomic status. As a result, the study reveals inequitable access to TAVR programs for non-metropolitan or lower-income areas across the country.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·DateApr 29, 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.

COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among patients undergoing dialysis

A nationwide survey of US patients on dialysis found that 20% were hesitant to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, with rates higher among certain groups. The study highlights the need for targeted outreach efforts to address concerns about vaccine safety and side effects.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 29, 2021

Mapping the 'superhighways' travelled by the first Australians

A team of experts used advanced modelling techniques to recreate the journey of Australia's indigenous people, who navigated the continent tens of thousands of years ago. The study reveals that prominent landscape features and water sources played a crucial role in their survival and growth.

SourceFlinders University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 2021

Avocado discovery may point to leukemia treatment

A University of Guelph study identifies a compound in avocados that targets an enzyme critical for cancer cell growth, offering a potential route to better leukemia treatment. The compound, derived from avocado, has been shown to inhibit the enzyme VLCAD involved in leukemia cell metabolism.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalBlood·DateApr 29, 2021

Baby mantis shrimp don't pull their punches

Larval mantis shrimp display impressive accelerations despite being smaller than expected, highlighting the limitations of theoretical models. Their transparent exoskeletons allow researchers to study the inner workings of their spring-latch mechanisms.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateApr 29, 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.

Silicon chip will drive next generation communications

Researchers have developed a new multiplexer made from pure silicon for terahertz-range communications, enabling ultra-broadband wireless communications. The device can support aggregate data rates of up to 48 Gbit/s, paving the way for applications in 6G and beyond.

SourceOsaka University·JournalOptica·DateApr 29, 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.

Fish have been swallowing microplastics since the 1950s

Researchers analyzed museum specimens to find that fish have been ingesting microplastics since the 1950s, with concentrations increasing over time. The study highlights the importance of natural history collections in museums and serves as a wake-up call for addressing plastic pollution.

SourceField Museum·JournalEcological Applications·DateApr 29, 2021

Poorer communities hardest hit by toxic pollution incidents

Research from Lancaster University Management School found that potentially polluting firms choose locations based on local income demographics, leading to higher toxic releases in poorer areas. Firms reduce pollutant releases and increase waste management spending in higher-income areas.

SourceLancaster University·JournalEuropean Economic Review·DateApr 29, 2021

New Geology articles published online ahead of print in April

The latest Geology articles publish research on shocked zircon, the Holocene Sonoran Desert, Himalayan collision dynamics, and more. Recent studies reveal nonlinear fault damage zones, a history of the Larsen C Ice Shelf reconstructed from sediment cores, and evidence for slow titanium diffusion in quartz.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateApr 29, 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.

Science snapshots From Berkeley Lab

A new desalination process removes nearly 100% of toxic metals, producing clean water while capturing valuable metals. An infant-warming device reduces neonatal mortality rates by threefold in Rwanda, proving safe and effective without electricity.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateApr 29, 2021

Many Hispanics died of COVID-19 because of work exposure

A new study by Ohio State University researchers suggests that Hispanic Americans are disproportionately affected by COVID-19 due to workplace exposure. The analysis of federal data showed that Hispanics of working age have died of COVID-19 at a higher rate than whites, with excess cases and deaths also highest among this group.

SourceOhio State University·JournalDemographic Research·DateApr 29, 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.

Methane release rapidly increases in the wake of the melting ice sheets

A new study reveals that rapid methane release occurs in response to Arctic ice sheet melting, with thousands of years of data showing a correlation between deglaciation events and methane emissions. The research suggests that the release of this potent greenhouse gas is strongly linked to the retreat of ice sheets.

SourceUiT The Arctic University of Norway·JournalGeology·DateApr 29, 2021

More than 25% of infants not getting common childhood vaccinations, study finds

A recent study from the University of Virginia Health System found that more than a quarter of American infants in 2018 had not received all recommended childhood vaccines. Disparities were observed among African-American infants, low-income families, and those with lower education levels. The researchers warn that these gaps can lead ...

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalHealth Equity·DateApr 29, 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.

The new study of emerging materials helping in detection of COVID-19

Researchers from Ural Federal University developed a new method for detecting SARS-CoV-2 using electrochemical biosensors made of emerging materials. The sensors offer high sensitivity, specificity, and portability, making them a promising tool for virus detection. Further research is needed to commercialize the technology.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalJournal of Electroanalytical Chemistry·DateApr 29, 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.

Florida Inventors Hall of Fame announces 2021 inductees

The 2021 class includes notable inventors like Dean Kamen and Mark Dean, whose work on the Segway and original IBM PC revolutionized technology. The inductees collectively hold over 675 U.S. patents, addressing pressing issues like healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·DateApr 29, 2021

Exploring extremes -- When is it too hot to handle

A machine learning algorithm predicts the life expectancy of critical components in extreme environments. The model is trained on data from electrochemical capacitors operated at temperatures up to 200°C, enabling safe and resilient operations in applications like downhole drilling equipment.

SourceHeriot-Watt University·JournalIEEE Access·DateApr 29, 2021

Mantis shrimp larvae punch just like Ma and Pa

Researchers discover that mantis shrimp larvae can unleash powerful punches as little as 9 days after hatching, with limb accelerations reaching blistering speeds. The tiny creatures' appendages operate similarly to those of adult mantis shrimp, but scaled down, and can hurl the limb at rotational speeds of ~16,500deg/s.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateApr 29, 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.

Hubble watches how a giant planet grows

The Hubble Space Telescope has captured the first-ever direct image of a giant exoplanet, PDS 70b, which is feeding off material surrounding its young star. The observations provide a unique look at radiation from extremely hot gas falling onto the planet, allowing scientists to estimate how fast it's gaining mass.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·DateApr 29, 2021

Was North America populated by 'stepping stone' migration across Bering Sea?

Researchers propose 'stepping stone' migration theory, where migrants used islands in the Bering Transitory Archipelago as a route to cross the Bering Sea. The study suggests that these islands provided a suitable refugium with internal connectivity and outward isolation, allowing for the genetic drift seen in Native American DNA.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalComptes Rendus Géoscience·DateApr 29, 2021

Illinois, Nebraska scientists propose improvements to precision crop irrigation

Researchers developed a way to fuse high-resolution satellite data into one integrated product to track soil and plant conditions. The technology aims to redefine drought based on plant-centric metrics and provide precision irrigation with high accuracy, addressing farmer adoption challenges.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateApr 29, 2021

How does the brain flexibly process complex information?

Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Human Development discovered that the brain rapidly shifts from a rhythmic to a 'noisy' state when task demands increase. This shift enables flexible information processing, allowing individuals to adapt to changing environments and make better decisions.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Development·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 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.

Partially sighted may be at higher risk of dementia

A new study published in Ageing Clinical and Experimental Research found that older people with vision loss are more likely to suffer mild cognitive impairment, a precursor to dementia. The research examined World Health Organisation data on over 32,000 people and found a significant correlation between vision loss and increased risk o...

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalAging Clinical and Experimental Research·DateApr 29, 2021

New cell atlas of COVID lungs reveals why SARS-CoV-2 is deadly and different

Researchers created a detailed cell atlas of COVID lungs, revealing a trifecta of detrimental effects: runaway inflammation, direct destruction, and impaired regeneration of lung cells involved in gas exchange. This study provides leads on why survivors experience long-term respiratory complications due to lung scarring.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature·DateApr 29, 2021

How to level up soft robotics

Researchers propose a three-tiered categorization system to push soft robotics forward and increase its impact. The system includes Level 0 for exploratory studies, Level 1 for performance improvement, and Level 2 for applications beyond soft robotics.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience Robotics·DateApr 29, 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.

Risks of restoring the ancestral microbiota in industrialized populations

Experts warn that rewilding the modern gut microbiota without careful consideration of microbial evolution could lead to health problems. Restoring the preindustrialized microbiome may not necessarily improve health, but rather reflect adaptive responses to industrial society.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 29, 2021

Implementing Industry 4.0 in SMEs by focusing on the customer

A new methodology developed by the UPV/EHU helps SME software departments create software services aligned with Industry 4.0, improving customer experience and after-sales support. The methodology uses semantic technologies and 3D visualization to analyze shortcomings and generate new services, enhancing customer loyalty.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalComputers in Industry·DateApr 29, 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.

Doctors should screen over-50s for cannabis use, say researchers

A study of over 17,000 US adults aged 50 and over found that many are using cannabis to relieve health problems without discussing their use with doctors. The research highlights the need for healthcare professionals to screen for cannabis and other substance use, as well as educate patients about potential safety issues.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalThe American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse·DateApr 29, 2021

Creation without contact in the collisions of lead and gold nuclei

Experiments show that photon collisions lead to excess particles, previously unexplained. Theoretical description now includes photon interactions to explain data collected from LHC and RHIC collisions.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalPhysics Letters B·DateApr 29, 2021

Battling public health misinformation online

A team of researchers from Penn Nursing created the Dear Pandemic social media campaign, providing comprehensive information on COVID-19. The initiative has been successful in combating misinformation, engaging nurses, and inspiring public action.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalPublic Health Nursing·DateApr 29, 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.

Global glacier retreat has accelerated

A new study reveals that global glacier retreat has accelerated by 267 gigatonnes of ice per year on average between 2000 and 2019, contributing to rising sea levels. The loss of glacial mass is having a profound impact on mountain glaciers in the Himalayas and other regions.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateApr 29, 2021

Light, in addition to ocean temperature, plays role in coral bleaching

Researchers at University of Guam discovered that shade can mitigate coral bleaching caused by high temperatures and light exposure. The study's findings suggest practical ways to reduce light impact on corals, particularly during recovery from elevated temperatures, which could inform reef management and outplanting efforts.

SourceUniversity of Guam·JournalMarine Biology Research·DateApr 29, 2021

Study reveals extent of human impact on the world's plant-life

Research team analyzed fossilized pollen from 27 islands, finding a consistent pattern of accelerated vegetation turnover after human arrival. The study suggests that earlier settlements may have been more resilient to human impact, while later settlers' practices were more transformative.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScience·DateApr 29, 2021

How long is a day on Venus? Scientists crack mysteries of our closest neighbor

Researchers have pinned down the precise length of a day on Venus, the tilt of its axis and the size of its core. The new measurements reveal an average day on Venus lasts 243.0226 Earth days, roughly two-thirds of an Earth year, with variations in rotation rate due to the planet's heavy atmosphere.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 29, 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.

Baby's first poop can help predict risk of developing allergies

A new study has found that the composition of a baby's first poop is associated with whether or not they will develop allergies within their first year of life. Newborns with richer meconium have a lower risk of developing allergies, suggesting that early exposure to certain molecules in the womb may play a role in future health.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateApr 29, 2021

Eye changes after 1 year of spaceflight

Researchers investigated whether spending a year in space was associated with worsening eye changes. The study found that spaceflight led to structural changes in the eye, which can potentially affect vision.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateApr 29, 2021

Risk of eczema after early exposure to antibiotics

A Swedish study of over 100,000 children found that early antibiotic exposure before birth and during the first year of life increases the risk of developing eczema. The research suggests a potential long-term consequence of antibiotic use on childhood skin health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 29, 2021

Open-source GPU technology for supercomputers

Researchers compared GPU performance on AMD and Nvidia accelerators, porting LAMMPS to new open-source technology AMD HIP. The study found performance is influenced by both hardware and software environments, with ineffective drivers causing delays.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalThe International Journal of High Performance Computing Applications·DateApr 29, 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.

Blueprint for a robust quantum future

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory and international partners have developed guidelines for discovering new defect-based quantum systems, which could lead to breakthroughs in quantum communications, sensing, and computing. The guidelines provide a framework for designing qubits tailored to specific applications.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Reviews Materials·DateApr 29, 2021

How reef-building corals got their bones

Researchers found that corals' ability to grow calcium carbonate skeletons evolved between 308 and 265 million years ago, with necessary proteins present in their soft-bodied ancestors. The team identified genes responsible for transporting calcium and removing protons, as well as an acid-rich protein involved in skeleton building.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateApr 29, 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.

Finding the optimal way to repay student debt

A mathematical model suggests repaying loans quickly can minimize cost, but delaying payments may be more beneficial for large balances. Borrowers should consider maximizing early payments and switching to income-based repayment when forgiveness is near.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Financial Mathematics·DateApr 29, 2021

Decrease in prostate cancer diagnoses due to pandemic

A new study found a 36% decrease in prostate cancer diagnoses in Sweden during the first pandemic wave, with most pronounced declines among men aged 75 and over. The number of patients receiving curative treatment remained unaffected, suggesting that healthcare prioritized cancer care during the pandemic.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScandinavian Journal of Urology·DateApr 29, 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.

When does the green monster of jealousy wake up in people?

Research at NTNU found that gender differences in jealousy start as early as the early 20s, but this study revealed they appear even earlier, around age 16. The results showed men reacting more negatively to sex, while women react to love and feelings.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 29, 2021

Latest observations by MUSER help clarify solar eruptions

The study revealed key physics behind primary energy release, particle acceleration, and transportation in solar radio bursts. MUSER provides a unique tool for measuring solar magnetic fields and tracing dynamic evolution of energetic electrons.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalFrontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences·DateApr 29, 2021

Discarded ostrich shells provide timeline for our early African ancestors

Researchers have developed a technique using uranium-thorium dating of ostrich eggshells to precisely date garbage dumps in South Africa, revealing the site Ysterfontein 1 is over 100,000 years old and providing insight into early human settlement and population levels.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 2021

A silver lining for extreme electronics

A team of researchers at Michigan State University has developed more heat resilient silver circuitry by adding an intermediate layer of porous nickel, which helps to improve adhesion to ceramic components. The technology has the potential to benefit various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and energy.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScripta Materialia·DateApr 29, 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.

KICT's solution for monitoring massive infrastructures

KICT has developed an effective structural monitoring technique to monitor massive infrastructures, such as long-span bridges. The method uses multi-fidelity data fusion to combine point and distributed strain sensors for accurate responses over whole infrastructures.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalMechanical Systems and Signal Processing·DateApr 29, 2021

Nearly $500M a year in Medicare costs goes to 7 services with no net health benefits

A UCLA-led study reveals that seven preventive medical services have no likely health benefit to patients and may even be harmful. These services, including asymptomatic bacteriuria screening and prostate cancer screening, are ordered over 31 million times annually at a cost of nearly $500 million per year.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 29, 2021

An ocean 13 million years in the making

A new study finds that the Red Sea's seafloor spreading began 13 million years ago, with most of the basin composed of ancient oceanic crust. This discovery challenges existing geological models and sheds light on the region's formation history.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 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.

Data from China's Fengyun meteorological satellites available to global Earth system science applications

Fengyun satellite data is available for real-time users, scientific researchers, and public users, with over 10TB of daily data volume produced daily. The data has been validated with in-situ observations and cross-referenced with other well-known satellite products.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateApr 29, 2021

Combining solar panels and lamb grazing increases land productivity, study finds

A new study by Oregon State University has found that combining solar panels and lamb grazing increases land productivity. The research compared lamb growth and pasture production in pastures with solar panels to traditional open pastures, finding less overall but higher quality forage in the solar pastures.

SourceOregon State University·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Food Systems·DateApr 29, 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.

Northern forest fires could accelerate climate change

New research reveals that northern forests' ability to absorb atmospheric carbon is being hindered by increasing frequency and intensity of forest fires. The study found that these fires are releasing more carbon into the atmosphere, while also altering the composition of tree species, with conifers being replaced by hardwoods.

SourceBoston University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 29, 2021

Lightning flashes increase Earth's atmosphere's cleansing capacity, airborne study shows

A recent airborne study reveals extreme amounts of hydroxyl and hydroperoxyl radicals generated by lightning, suggesting a substantial proportion of global atmospheric oxidation. The results could indicate that lightning-generated oxidants are responsible for between 2-16% of the Earth's atmosphere oxidizing capacity.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 29, 2021

Rock humidity in Spain's dehesas: An additional source of water for vegetation

Researchers in Spain found rock humidity in dehesas can sustain vegetation during droughts by providing an alternative source of water. Soil moisture levels varied between slopes, with the north-facing slope having higher biomass and NDVI values, indicating improved plant growth due to increased water storage capacity.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalJournal of Hydrology·DateApr 29, 2021

New view of species interactions offers clues to preserve threatened ecosystems

A new analysis by researchers from around the world offers a deeper understanding of species interactions and their impact on ecosystem diversity. The study found that closely-related tree species interact weakly with each other, while distantly-related pairs can interact with surprising strength.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateApr 29, 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.

Well-digging horses and donkeys engineer water availability for desert species

Horses and donkeys dig wells in dryland ecosystems, increasing water availability for a variety of plant and animal species. This overlooked form of ecosystem engineering shows that equids can buffer water availability in dryland environments, providing a service crucial to desert resilience.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 29, 2021

How diet controls RNA maturation

Researchers at UNIGE discovered a new mechanism for regulating RNA maturation dependent on diet, finding that methylation of specific mRNA sequences leads to its degradation. This control mechanism ensures a fair balance of methylations and prevents aberrant reactions, which can cause diseases.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCell·DateApr 29, 2021

Unlocking herbaria biodiversity using a QR code sampling-to-sequencing workflow

Researchers have developed a QR code-based digitization workflow to streamline specimen collection, reduce errors, and make data more accessible. The workflow uses unique object identifiers, citizen science platforms, and QR codes to automate data entry and analysis, allowing for the creation of large-scale phylogenetic studies.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateApr 29, 2021

Simple device improves care after kidney transplantation

A simple device improved care after kidney transplantation by reducing swelling, hospital stays, and surgical site infections. Patients experienced a 31% reduction in swelling and a 60% decrease in wound infection rates.

SourceLawson Health Research Institute·JournalCanadian Urological Association Journal·DateApr 29, 2021

Impact of randomized trial on use of minimally invasive surgery for cervical cancer

A new study found a substantial decrease in minimally invasive surgery use for cervical cancer after the publication of a major study in 2018. The study assessed 2,437 patients and showed that surgeons changed their methods, but still saw room for improvement at non-academic medical centers.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 29, 2021

Team builds better tool for assessing infant brain health

Researchers have created a new tool to evaluate infant brain health by assessing chemical markers in the brain. The tool uses standard values for several metabolites to provide a more reliable way to evaluate metabolite concentrations, allowing for early detection and intervention for potential brain development issues.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNMR in Biomedicine·DateApr 29, 2021

COVID-19 stress and remote schools worsened youth mental health

A survey of over 32,000 caregivers in Chicago Public Schools found that nearly a quarter of children and adolescents experienced stress, anxiety, or anger after pandemic-related school closures. Caregivers reported significantly worse psychological well-being after school closures compared to before.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 29, 2021

Less innocent than it looks

Researchers at the University of California - Santa Barbara have identified a major cause of limitations to efficiency in hybrid perovskite solar cells. A study found that missing hydrogen atoms in the organic molecules can cause massive efficiency losses due to unwanted energy dissipation, resulting in lower photovoltaic performance.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 29, 2021

Pharmacist-led smartphone app benefits kidney transplant recipients

A pharmacist-led smartphone app has been shown to significantly improve medication safety and reduce hospitalizations in kidney transplant recipients. The study found that participants who used the app were 61% less likely to experience medication errors and 45% less likely to experience serious side effects.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 29, 2021

Battery parts can be recycled without crushing or melting

Researchers at Aalto University have discovered a new recycling method for lithium-ion batteries that replenishes spent lithium in electrodes without crushing or melting. This process saves valuable raw materials and likely energy compared to traditional methods, which extract metals from crushed batteries by melting or dissolving them.

SourceAalto University·JournalChemSusChem·DateApr 29, 2021

Diseases affect brain's networks selectively, BrainMap analysis affirms

Researchers analyzed 43 brain disorders using BrainMap database, finding striking overlap between disease-related co-alteration networks and functional networks involved in normal behaviors. The study suggests metabolic stress in high-traffic hubs as a key underlying cause of network-based degeneration.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalCommunications Biology·DateApr 29, 2021

Widespread Amazonian depopulation and reforestation before Europeans' arrival

A new study found that Amazonian depopulation and forest regrowth began centuries before European arrival, rejecting the hypothesis of widespread reforestation contributing to reduced atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. Forest pollen records suggest land abandonment and regrowth started 300-600 years prior to European contact.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 29, 2021

Suppressing the impact of COVID-19 using controlled testing and isolation

A new technology-based method, proposed by Israeli researchers, aims to streamline epidemiological research and coronavirus testing. By identifying individuals with a high probability of infection before symptoms appear, the method can reduce unnecessary tests, quarantine duration, morbidity, and mortality.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 29, 2021

Coral symbionts have a genome like no other

Researchers have discovered an alternative way of organizing genes in coral symbiont dinoflagellates, with alternating unidirectional blocks and a 3D chromosome structure dependent on transcriptional activity. This unique genome organization challenges traditional understanding of eukaryotic genetics.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 29, 2021

Corals that "spit" algae

Corals use an ancient immune mechanism to select suitable microalgae as symbionts, tolerating them over time. The 'vomocytosis' process involves immune suppression that allows algae to establish a niche within the coral's cells, facilitating nutrient exchange.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateApr 29, 2021

Molecular biologists travel back in time 3 billion years

Scientists at Uppsala University resurrected 3.3 billion-year-old bacterial proteins to study their properties and evolutionary history. The researchers found that these ancient proteins had broader specificities than modern counterparts and could function with various types of ribosomes.

SourceUppsala University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateApr 29, 2021