Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive April 2021


Page 34 of 46

Antipsychotic drugs may have protective effect against COVID-19

Studies found that patients treated with antipsychotics had a lower risk of becoming infected or suffering a milder form of the disease. The protective effect was attributed to the reduction of inflammatory and immunological pathways associated with COVID-19 severity.

Foliar application boosts the zinc content of wheat grain by up to 50%

Researchers from the University of Córdoba found that foliar application is an efficient strategy to increase zinc content in plants by up to 50%. This method was more effective than soil application and can be beneficial for growers in developing countries where diets are limited to vegetable products grown in low-nutrient soils.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Abrupt ice age climate changes behaved like cascading dominoes

Researchers analyzed ice-core data to understand Dansgaard-Oeschger events, finding that changes in ocean currents, sea-ice, and wind patterns were intertwined and likely triggered each other. This discovery has implications for predicting future climate change and highlights the importance of limiting anthropogenic emissions.

Better solutions for making hydrogen may lie just at the surface

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory found that tuning the surface of lanthanum cobalt oxide perovskites with strontium enhances their activity and stability for the oxygen evolution reaction. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and cost-effective methods for producing hydrogen fuel.

Interleukin-33 involved in immunity to Sars-CoV-2

A recent study has linked Interleukin-33 to immunity against Sars-CoV-2. The researchers found that memory T cells and high levels of antibodies persisted in recovered patients, suggesting a strong immune response. This discovery could pave the way for better understanding of Sars-CoV-2 immunity and potential therapies.

Study investigates link between lactation and visceral, pericardial fat

Research supports health benefits of breastfeeding by linking it to lower visceral and pericardial fat volumes. Lactation duration is associated with a 50% lower relative risk of progression to Type 2 diabetes in women, independent of their metabolic profiles and body size before pregnancy.

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.

Vaping vs. smoking: Impact on cells compared

A recent study published in Mutagenesis found that vaping products exhibit little to no DNA damaging potential, contrary to previous concerns. The study used the ToxTracker suite to compare vape e-liquids and aerosols to combustible cigarette smoke, showing significant harm reduction potential for adult smokers

AGS names Dr. Faith Atai Clinician of the Year

Dr. Atai, a skilled clinician and medical administrator, has been recognized by the American Geriatrics Society for her exceptional work in teaching geriatrics trainees and providing high-quality patient care. Her empathetic listening skills and compassionate bedside manner have earned her the respect of her colleagues and patients.

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.

COVID-19 vaccine prioritization

A survey study examines US adults' beliefs on who should be prioritized for access to COVID-19 vaccines. The study found that some groups, including young children and individuals with underlying health conditions, are more likely to be prioritized over others.

New research on why 'poo' transplants effectively treat C. diff

Researchers have uncovered a molecular reason why faecal transplants are effective in treating C. diff infections, suggesting new therapeutic targets. The study identified specific microRNAs that contribute to disease pathogenesis and protect bowel cells from bacterial toxins.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Popeye with a whiff of rotten eggs

Researchers have discovered a sulfosugar from green vegetables that stimulates the growth of key gut bacteria, producing energy-rich compounds. This finding has implications for understanding the interactions between nutrition and the microbiome, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.

Obesity is linked to heavy periods and impaired womb repair

A study published in the Journal of Endocrinology found an association between higher body weight and greater menstrual blood loss, potentially due to delayed womb lining repair. The research used a combined approach of human and mouse studies, suggesting obesity may contribute to heavier periods through increased inflammation.

Exploration of ocean currents beneath the 'Doomsday Glacier'

The study reveals a deep connection between the glacier and Pine Island Bay, and identifies distinct paths for warm water to access and attack the ice shelf. This could lead to increased melting and instability in the Thwaites Glacier, with implications for global sea level rise.

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.

US children, adolescents diagnosed with COVID-19

A recent observational study found that demographic and clinical characteristics are significantly associated with severe COVID-19 illness among US pediatric patients hospitalized with the virus. The study analyzed data from over 1,100 children and adolescents to identify risk factors for severe disease.

Amounts of organic molecules in planetary systems differ from early on

A study of 50 protoplanetary-disk forming regions found differences in the abundance of complex organic molecules, with some regions having higher concentrations of methanol and acetonitrile. The findings suggest a possible common production mechanism for these molecules, shedding light on their formation in space.

Popeye with a whiff of rotten eggs

A study by researchers at the University of Konstanz and Vienna discovered that specialized gut bacteria cooperate to process sulfoquinovose, a sulfonic acid derivative found in green vegetables. The analysis revealed that this process produces hydrogen sulfide, which has disparate effects on human health.

Genes and immune cells predict immunotherapy success in bladder cancer

A study published in Clinical Cancer Research found that specific gene signatures and immune cells can predict response to immunotherapy in bladder cancer patients. The researchers identified potential biomarkers for treatment resistance and new combination therapeutic approaches to overcome such resistance.

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.

To nodulate or not? Uncovering how nitrate regulates gene expression in legumes

Researchers from the University of Tsukuba have discovered that interactions between proteins and nitrate control gene expression in legumes, leading to nodulation. The team found that specific proteins with varying DNA-binding properties regulate symbiotic genes involved in nodulation, which is induced by nitrate presence.

Treating sleep apnea may reduce dementia risk

A new study found that positive airway pressure therapy for obstructive sleep apnea reduces Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia risk. Researchers analyzed Medicare claims of over 50,000 Medicare beneficiaries ages 65+, finding a significant association between PAP use and lower dementia risk.

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.

Children less infectious than adults with SARS-CoV-2

A new University of Manitoba-led research study found that children are less infectious with SARS-CoV-2 than adults, indicating safer in-person learning and daycare environments. The study analyzed samples from 175 children and 130 adults, revealing lower viral loads in the pediatric group.

Learning what makes the nucleus tick

Scientists Simin Wang and Witold Nazarewicz develop a computer model to reconstruct protons inside the nucleus based on detector data, enabling predictions about nuclear behavior. The model helps understand rare nuclei decay by emitting pairs of particles.

Optically active defects improve carbon nanotubes

Researchers at Heidelberg University have created a new reaction pathway to enable the controlled creation of specific optically active defects in carbon nanotubes. These defects emit light in the near-infrared and show single-photon emission, paving the way for applications in quantum cryptography and biological imaging.

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.

An on-off switch for gene editing

Researchers developed a reversible gene editing technology called CRISPRoff that allows controlling gene expression while leaving the underlying DNA sequence unchanged. The new method can silence the vast majority of genes with great homogeneity and in a reversible manner.

Bird blood is a heating system in winter

Researchers discovered that bird blood functions as a central heating system when it is cold, thanks to the presence of mitochondria. The study found that birds produce more heat through their blood cells during winter, challenging the common assumption that shivering and fluffing feathers are the primary methods for thermoregulation.

Toward a reliable oral treatment for sickle cell disease

A new oral treatment, FTX-6058, has the potential to address the root cause of sickle cell disease by increasing fetal hemoglobin levels. The drug could be formulated into a daily tablet and has shown better results than current treatments in preclinical experiments.

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.

CO2 mitigation on Earth and magnesium civilization on Mars

A team of scientists has developed a protocol using magnesium nanoparticles and bulk to convert CO2 into methane, methanol, and hydrogen. The reaction occurs at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, producing significant amounts of fuel and chemicals with minimal energy input.

UNT Health Science Center leads health literacy outreach in seven states

The Gibson D. Lewis Health Sciences Library at UNT Health Science Center is leading health literacy outreach in seven states through a $6.4 million grant from the National Library of Medicine. The library aims to promote health and health literacy among diverse communities, tackling severe health disparities and low health literacy rates.

X-ray study recasts role of battery material from cathode to catalyst

A recent X-ray study clarifies the reaction mechanism of lithium manganese oxide (Li2MnO3) and finds it suitable as a catalyst for high-energy electrode materials. The discovery paves the way for exploring alternative battery technologies, including lithium-air and lithium-carbon dioxide batteries.

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.

Balancing between build-up and break-down of bone

Researchers at Osaka University identified SLPI as a critical mediator in balancing bone build-up and break-down, mediated by parathyroid hormone. The molecule promotes bone formation and suppresses bone loss, suggesting potential new treatments for osteoporosis.

Glass injection molding

A team of researchers at the University of Freiburg has developed a process for injecting glass into molds, allowing for high-throughput production of transparent glass components. This new technology combines polymer and glass processing, enabling quick and cost-effective replacement of complex polymer structures with glass.

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.

SFU to lead new national infectious disease modeling network

The Canadian Network for Modelling Infectious Disease (CANMOD) will inform public health decisions and prepare Canada for future pandemics. CANMOD will build and coordinate national capacity by sharing research problems, models and estimates across a broader community of researchers.

Frontline health workers across US faced unique stressors during COVID

A recent study by the University of California - San Francisco found that nearly one-fifth of emergency department staff were at elevated risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to COVID-19. Regular testing for COVID-19 helped reduce stress among emergency personnel, particularly those with previous positive antibody results.

Computer model fosters potential improvements to 'bionic eye' technology

A computer model has been developed to potentially improve bionic eye technology by enhancing clarity and granting color vision to future retinal prosthetic devices. The model, which replicates the shapes and positions of millions of nerve cells in the eye, identifies ways to increase signal transmission and processing efficiency.

Masculine traits linked to better parenting for some dads

A new study found that men with traditional masculine characteristics like competitiveness and adventurousness were linked to better parenting behaviors when combined with a nurturing father role belief. The researchers discovered that these stereotypically masculine traits tended to be engaged with their kids, suggesting that men are ...

Brain disease transmitted by tick bites may be treatable

A new study describes broadly neutralizing antibodies that can prevent and potentially treat tick-borne encephalitis. These antibodies, known as VH3-48, have shown promise in preventing the disease and even treating it, as well as other tick-borne viruses.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Vaccines and functional neurological disorder: A complex story, say experts

Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a disruption in the brain's normal mechanisms for controlling the body and can be triggered by physical or emotional events, including vaccinations. Individuals with FND may experience symptoms such as limb weakness, gait problems, jerky movements, tremor and facial spasms.

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.

Decennial day to set the agenda for advancing safe healthcare

Researchers and healthcare professionals will discuss future innovations in patient care, effective practices for improving healthcare quality, and strategies for combating emerging pathogens. The event aims to identify gaps in infection control and expand prevention approaches across healthcare settings.

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.