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Science News for April 7, 2021


The opportunities and risks of digitalization for sustainable development

A study by RIFS researchers highlights the need for digital innovation to be guided by a systemic perspective acknowledging environmental, economic, and socio-cultural impacts. This includes professional technology assessments and inclusive decision-making processes to foster sustainable development.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalGAIA - Ecological Perspectives for Science and Society·DateApr 7, 2021

Fewer breast cancer cases between screening rounds with 3D-mammography

A recent study published in Radiology found that 3D-mammography reduces the number of breast cancer cases diagnosed between routine screenings. The study included almost 15,000 women who received both 3D-mammography and traditional mammography, and compared cancers detected in between screenings.

SourceLund University·JournalRadiology·DateApr 7, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Predicting COVID-19 outbreaks with cell phone mobility data

Researchers analyzed anonymized smartphone data to predict COVID-19 outbreaks, finding a 10% increase in mobility outside the home correlated with a 25% increase in weekly SARS-CoV-2 growth rates. The study provides insights into estimating restrictions needed to control the pandemic.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 7, 2021

Digital twin can protect physical systems and train new users

Researchers developed a digital twin environment that mirrors physical welding setups to train new users and protect physical systems. The system tracks welders' behavior patterns, enabling efficient novice training and safe practice without risk of damage.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateApr 7, 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.

Ant responses to social isolation resemble those of humans

A study on ants found that social isolation alters their behavior, reducing interest in adult colony mates and increasing time spent on brood care. The isolated ants also exhibit downregulated immune system genes, similar to humans experiencing stress and weakened immunity during the pandemic.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateApr 7, 2021

South Korea data helps create framework to identify COVID-19 vulnerable areas worldwide

A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that South Korea's effective public health interventions and prompt measures helped decrease COVID-19 cases, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateApr 7, 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.

Scientists harness chaos to protect devices from hackers

Scientists have developed a new technology that uses chaos to create unique digital fingerprints for electronic devices, making it virtually impossible for hackers to crack. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize cybersecurity and provide an unprecedented level of security against even state-sponsored attacks.

SourceOhio State University·JournalIEEE Access·DateApr 7, 2021

Rice, Intel optimize AI training for commodity hardware

Researchers at Rice University have optimized artificial intelligence software to run on commodity processors and train deep neural networks up to 15 times faster than top GPU trainers. The 'sub-linear deep learning engine' (SLIDE) uses hash tables to solve the search problem of matrix multiplication, reducing training time for AI models.

SourceRice University·DateApr 7, 2021

Misogynistic tweets correlate with violence against women

A study by UNSW found that areas with high misogynistic tweeting had higher rates of domestic and family violence, even after controlling for other factors. The researchers used big data from Twitter and local law enforcement records to examine the relationship between online hate speech and real-world violence.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 7, 2021

Genome sequencing reveals a new species of bumblebee

Researchers from Uppsala University discovered a new species of bumblebee, Bombus incognitus, through genetic analysis of Rocky Mountains samples. The study reveals potential for speciation in arctic and alpine environments due to climate change.

SourceUppsala University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateApr 7, 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.

For girls, learning science outside linked to better grades, knowledge

A new study from North Carolina State University found that an outdoor science program improved fifth-grade girls' science grades and knowledge, while also addressing gender gaps in science. The program, Muddy Sneakers, used hands-on activities, hikes, and reflections to teach science in a natural environment.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInternational Journal of Science Education·DateApr 7, 2021

800-year-old medieval pottery fragments reveal Jewish dietary practices

Archaeologists have found evidence of a kosher diet in pottery fragments from Oxford's early medieval Jewish community. The findings, published recently, reveal that the inhabitants of two houses used only meats from cattle, sheep and goat, with no pig bones present.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalArchaeological and Anthropological Sciences·DateApr 7, 2021

Scientists at IRB Barcelona identify a potential target to treat lung cancer

Researchers at IRB Barcelona have discovered the HMCES enzyme to be a Achilles heel of some lung tumours with high mutations caused by the APOBEC system. Blocking HMCES is damaging to cancer cells but less so for healthy cells, making it a promising target for future treatments.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 7, 2021

For highly active, sustainable catalysts, just add phosphorus

Osaka University researchers have developed an air-stable and highly active single-crystal cobalt phosphide nanorod catalyst for the reductive amination of carbonyl compounds. The catalyst overcomes limitations of conventional cobalt catalysts, retaining high activity after multiple uses.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJACS Au·DateApr 7, 2021

Losing weight through exercise

A recent study published in Nutrients investigated the influence of exercise on food intake. The results showed that physical activity increased the amount and urgency of food consumption, particularly after exercise. This finding highlights the importance of considering post-exercise eating habits for optimal weight loss.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNutrients·DateApr 7, 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.

Why lists of worldwide bird species disagree

Researchers compared four main bird species lists worldwide, finding that they agree on most birds but disagree in some regions. The lists differ by application, and some regions are understudied, leading to missed species. This highlights the need for true diversity recognition to conserve biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateApr 7, 2021

Mounting hope for new physics

The Muon g-2 Collaboration has published the first result of its measurement, revealing a discrepancy of 4.2 standard deviations between experiment and theory. The result strengthens evidence for the existence of new physics, potentially indicating previously unknown particles or forces.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 7, 2021

Using AI to diagnose neurological diseases based on motor impairment

A new Heidelberg-based computerized approach recognizes motor impairments and provides information about underlying diseases through artificial intelligence. The uBAM algorithm uses machine learning to analyze movement patterns, highlighting pathological deviations and aiding in diagnosis and treatment.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateApr 7, 2021

Parkinson's discovery points to possible future treatment approaches

Scientists have found that the parkin protein acts as a powerful antioxidant and storage site for dopamine radicals in brain cells. This discovery may lead to new treatments for early-onset Parkinson's disease by delivering antioxidants or a healthy copy of the parkin gene.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateApr 7, 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.

A new mouse model gave surprising findings about Folling Disease

Researchers discovered a link between the mutated enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) and increased oxidative stress in mouse models of Folling Disease. This finding may explain some comorbidities found in adult PKU patients and has implications for understanding the disease.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 7, 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.

Chain length determines molecular colour

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed an approach to generate a broad palette of colours by adjusting the chemical structure of molecules themselves. By varying the chain length of fluorescent organic polymers, they can produce polymers with different colours, including yellow, green, and blue.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 7, 2021

Silver linings to New Zealand lockdown

A University of Otago survey found 64% of New Zealanders experienced positive aspects during the lockdown, including pride in the country's response and increased time for family and hobbies. The study suggests that these silver linings can help people survive and thrive under adverse circumstances.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 7, 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.

Heavy water tastes sweet

Heavy water (D2O) is found to have a distinct sweet taste in humans, unlike ordinary water (H2O), which is mediated by the human sweet taste receptor TAS1R2/TAS1R3. The study uses molecular dynamics simulations, cell-based experiments, and mouse models to confirm this finding.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalCommunications Biology·DateApr 7, 2021

Cleaner solutions for marine and off-road transport

The Clean Propulsion Technologies project aims to create a common vision and sustainable business solutions for the Finnish powertrain industry. The research focuses on developing groundbreaking engines working in fuel-flexible RCCI mode and hydrogen-fueled engine concepts.

SourceUniversity of Vaasa·DateApr 7, 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.

Comfort care beneficial for hospitalized stroke patients, yet disparities in use persist

Hospitalized ischemic stroke patients who received palliative or hospice care experienced improved quality of life. However, disparities persist in comfort care utilization, particularly among non-white patients. Factors associated with higher comfort care utilization included older age, female sex, and private health insurance.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateApr 7, 2021

Eucalyptus trees can be genetically modified not to invade native ecosystems

A team of scientists has successfully genetically modified eucalyptus trees to prevent sexual reproduction, reducing the risk of invasive spreading in native ecosystems. The CRISPR Cas9 gene editing technique was used with nearly 100% efficiency to knock out LEAFY, the master gene behind flower formation.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateApr 7, 2021

New biosensor makes control hormone auxin visible in cells

Scientists have developed a novel sensor that makes auxin visible in living plants, providing new insights into plant development and growth. The sensor allows for real-time detection of changing environmental conditions and the influences of external stimuli.

SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalNature·DateApr 7, 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.

Reversing a genetic cause of poor stress responses in mice

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have discovered a way to reverse the genetic cause of poor stress responses in mice by targeting specific brain cells and feedback loops. The discovery was made possible by understanding how a particular gene, Ophn1, regulates brain activity and stress tolerance.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNeuron·DateApr 7, 2021

Study finds late night snacks may hurt your workplace performance

A recent study found that unhealthy eating behaviors at night can negatively impact workplace performance and well-being. Participants who engaged in late-night snacking reported physical problems, emotional strains, and declines in helpful behavior the next day.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateApr 7, 2021

Understanding why people engage in 'extreme' drinking

Experts at the University of Missouri are gathering data on extreme drinking behaviors to inform future public health interventions. The five-year grant will provide accurate information on factors influencing drinking habits, including biological and environmental factors.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateApr 7, 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.

The science of turning milk into cheese

Researchers at the UCO Dairy Laboratory found a link between milk pH and cheese-making capacity in Churra sheep, suggesting genetic selection can improve yield. The study analyzed over 1,000 sheep samples to identify optimal parameters for increasing cheese production efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateApr 7, 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.

Visionary bone damage study

A novel technique using an ancient inorganic salt-based material has been developed to pinpoint and illuminate bone damage, potentially leading to more efficient X-ray diagnostics and treatment. The new method could also be used for advanced applications such as bioimaging and optogenetics.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAggregate·DateApr 7, 2021

Evaluating anxiety, depression among transgender children, teens

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that transgender children and teens experience significantly higher levels of anxiety and depression compared to their cisgender peers. The research highlights the need for better mental health support services for this vulnerable population.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 7, 2021

The structure and function of cortical brain cells modulated by attention

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals how cognitive control and sensory information relate to cortical machinery. Researchers found that signal propagation between cortical areas V1 and V4 is modulated by attention, challenging previous theories about parallel processing flows.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 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.

Crunching on coral

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara found that coral predators have a significant impact on young coral growth and survival, even when protected by fish. The study suggests that density has little effect on predation, as corals are vulnerable to predators regardless of group size or protection.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalCoral Reefs·DateApr 7, 2021

Perinatal patients, nurses explain how hospital pandemic policies failed them

A new study by the University of Washington found that hospital pandemic policies harmed families and nurses, leading to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and mistrust. The policies also exacerbated existing racial biases in care, particularly for Black women and birthing people.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGlobal Qualitative Nursing Research·DateApr 7, 2021

Association of race/ethnicity, sex, income with well-being during COVID-19

A recent study has quantified the association of race/ethnicity, sex, income, and state-specific lockdown measures with six well-being dimensions in the United States. The research highlights disparities in well-being among different groups, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address these inequalities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 7, 2021

Fungi are present in your lungs

Researchers discovered fungi present in both healthy and diseased lungs, with no difference in composition between individuals with COPD using or not using inhaled steroids. The unique lung environment is dominated by the fungus Candida, which can cause disease when outcompeted.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 7, 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.

Measuring space-time 'entanglement' of electromagnetic waves

Scientists quantify space-time nonseparability of electromagnetic pulses using quantum state tomography and calculate fidelity, concurrence, and entanglement. They propose novel concepts for measuring space-time entanglement in structured light, opening new avenues for ultrahigh-capacity communication and high-security encryption.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateApr 7, 2021

Society is not ready to make human brains

A new paper by Kyoto University researchers highlights the ethical implications of brain organoid research, which could lead to breakthroughs in treating diseases like dementia or schizophrenia. However, transplanting brain organoids raises concerns about consciousness, morality, and potential risks to patients.

SourceKyoto University·JournalAJOB Neuroscience·DateApr 7, 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.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Story tips from Johns Hopkins experts on COVID-19

A recent Johns Hopkins Medicine study compared inpatient and outpatient surgical volumes during the pandemic and found significant declines, especially in regions hardest hit. Outpatient volumes recovered quickly, while inpatient volumes improved to near-pre-pandemic levels by September 2020.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateApr 7, 2021

Paranoia therapy app SlowMo helps people 'slow down' and manage their fears

A new clinical trial has shown that the SlowMo therapy app is an effective means of treating paranoid thoughts in people experiencing psychosis. The app, which uses a personalized approach to help individuals feel safer in daily life, has been found to reduce paranoia and improve quality of life.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateApr 7, 2021

Framework could support more reliable electric power distribution systems

Texas A&M researchers have developed a reliability framework to improve the distribution system, reducing interruptions by 50% and customer average interruption duration by 45%. The framework can also test the impact of installing rooftop solar and energy storage on the system.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Sustainable Energy·DateApr 7, 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.

'Patchwork' tumors prevalent across multiple cancer types

Researchers found that tumour samples from over 2,600 patients with different types of cancer contain a high prevalence of genetic diversity within individual tumours. This variation is a challenge for doctors as treatment may not be effective against another subclone, and certain subclones can initiate tumour spread or drug resistance.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalCell·DateApr 7, 2021

Genomes of the earliest Europeans

Researchers sequenced the genomes of the oldest Europeans, finding they contributed genes to present-day East Asians and had extensive Neandertal DNA. This suggests frequent mixing with Neandertals when first modern humans arrived in Europe.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateApr 7, 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.

Study revises understanding of cancer metabolism

A recent study by Vanderbilt researchers reveals that non-cancer cells in a tumor, primarily immune cells called macrophages, have the highest glucose uptake, upending traditional models of cancer metabolism. This finding could lead to new therapies and imaging strategies.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature·DateApr 7, 2021

Crohn's disease may be caused by immune signaling failure

Researchers found that T cells in the small intestine have evolved a molecular sensing mechanism to protect themselves from toxic bile acids. This mechanism can be manipulated with small drug-like molecules, reducing inflammation and improving symptoms.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature·DateApr 7, 2021

Anticoagulation and cerebral small vessel disease

A new study links cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) to intracerebral hemorrhages under anticoagulation, suggesting SVD as a precondition. The study suggests blood thinning alone can no longer be considered a cause of intracerebral hemorrhages.

SourceInselspital, Bern University Hospital·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·DateApr 7, 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.

Estimating costs of uterine transplantation

A study of nine uterine transplants from living donors has provided an initial estimate of costs, with total average cost per transplant reported as EUR 74,564. Sick leave accounted for the largest portion of these costs.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateApr 7, 2021

Weather radar for ecological forecasting can lessen hazards for migratory birds

Researchers used weather radar to create a forecasting system for nocturnal bird migration in the US, finding that just 10 nights of action can reduce risk by 50% for avian migrants passing over an area. This data enables more 'mindful' approaches to protect migrating birds from threats like light pollution and collisions with structures.

SourceColorado State University·JournalConservation Biology·DateApr 7, 2021

Unraveling the mysteries of sleep disorders in multiple system atrophy

A new study reveals that sleep disorders are a common symptom of multiple system atrophy, with greater severity correlating to more neuronal damage. The research found specific associations between sleep-related symptoms and MSA severity, including the parkinsonism subtype.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·DateApr 7, 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.

Manual workers face twice the risk of developing ALS

Researchers found that manual workers are twice as likely to develop ALS, with close to two-thirds of patients reporting a blue-collar job. The study also discovered that jobs involving sustained physical exertion, such as construction and carpentry, were associated with a higher risk of bulbar-onset ALS.

SourceUniversity of Malta·JournalAmyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Degeneration·DateApr 7, 2021

NIH-funded researchers develop language test for people with Down syndrome

A new test has been developed to evaluate expressive language skills in individuals with Down syndrome, offering a more effective approach than current methods. The test was found to be reliable and consistent across different versions, making it suitable for most individuals between the ages of 6 and 23.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalJournal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders·DateApr 7, 2021

High index surfaces-exposed PtCu3@Pt3Cu@Pt nanodendrites as ORR electrocatalyst

Researchers designed a nanodendrite Pt-Cu alloy electrocatalyst with high-index surfaces and graded composition, achieving excellent mass and area activities for oxygen reduction reaction. The catalyst's unique morphology and composition provide a high specific surface area to improve Pt utilization and enhance ORR activity.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateApr 7, 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.

Urolithin A shows effective against muscular dystrophy

Researchers have found that Urolithin A can delay the progression of Duchenne Muscle Dystrophy in mice by restoring mitochondrial activity and increasing mitophagy. This natural compound has shown promise in improving muscle health and performance, with significant increases in grip strength and running performance.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 7, 2021

Nanoparticles reveal their location via mirror SELFI

Researchers used mirror SELFI to detect nanoparticles' size and location with nanometre resolution, enabling tracking of disease-causing viruses. This breakthrough could lead to new sensing methods for biomedical applications.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 7, 2021

Projecting cancer cases, types, deaths in US to 2040

Researchers project the most common and deadly cancers in the US by 2040, with breast cancer expected to remain top type. The study also highlights an increasing trend of cancers affecting younger populations, such as thyroid and testicular cancers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 7, 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.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic impacted peoples' interactions with nature?

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed people's interactions with nature in both positive and negative ways, providing valuable knowledge about these interactions. The article highlights the potential long-term consequences of this shift and recommends further research to establish actions that can positively impact humans and nature.

SourceWiley·JournalPeople and Nature·DateApr 7, 2021

Myositis-specific autoreactive T cells are pathogenic for dermatomyositis

Researchers used a mouse model to identify the role of autoreactive T cells against transcriptional intermediary factor 1γ (TIF1γ) in dermatomyositis. The study found that autoreactive CD8+ T cells contribute to the pathogenesis of the disease, while autoantibodies are non-pathogenic clinical markers.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateApr 7, 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.

Particle physics: Will muons lead us towards a new physics?

A new theoretical calculation of the muon magnetic moment has reduced the discrepancy with experimental measurements, but sparks debate on the standard model's fate. The calculation, involving CNRS physicists, used precise measurements made with electron-positron colliders and European supercomputers.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature·DateApr 7, 2021

Neanderthal ancestry identifies oldest modern human genome

Researchers have identified the oldest reconstructed modern human genome, dating back around 2,000 years, from a fossil skull in Czechia. The study suggests that early modern humans did not successfully adapt to Europe, with a possible explanation being the Campanian Ignimbrite volcanic eruption.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateApr 7, 2021

Wellness, burnout, and discrimination among BIPOC counseling students

A survey-based study of 105 BIPOC graduate-level counseling students found that discrimination negatively affects overall wellbeing and leads to burnout. The study emphasizes the need for proactive inclusion and diversity in counseling programs to address these barriers.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Multicultural Counseling and Development·DateApr 7, 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.

Carbon dioxide levels reflect COVID-19 risk

Researchers confirmed that doubling CO2 levels roughly doubles the risk of transmission. The model considers infection numbers in the local community but not air flow through rooms. Low CO2 levels can minimize COVID-19 risk, regardless of space activity.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateApr 7, 2021

A protein with a dual role: Both repair and mutation

The Mfd protein's dual role in repairing bacterial DNA and promoting mutations has been discovered, offering new avenues for fighting antibiotic resistance. This phenomenon could also lead to a better understanding of cancer cell resistance to chemotherapy.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 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.

How Japanese speakers confuse the pronunciations of /hi/ and /si/

A study by Toyohashi University of Technology found that Japanese speakers often confuse the pronunciations of /hi/ and /si/ due to palatalized tongue articulation. Real-time MRI and supercomputer simulations revealed that acoustic contrast between the sounds can be produced by differences in tongue shape in the transverse direction.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateApr 7, 2021

New method advances single-cell transcriptomic technologies

A new method called ACME has revolutionized single-cell transcriptomic technologies by enabling accurate cell fixation and dissociation without causing cell stress. This allows scientists to study thousands of individual cells from living organisms, one-by-one, and sequence each cell's genetic material.

SourceOxford Brookes University·JournalGenome Biology·DateApr 7, 2021

A drug that can stop tumors from growing

Researchers at the University of Colorado Cancer Center have discovered an NLRP3 inhibitor that can reduce inflammation in melanoma cells, potentially leading to reduced tumor growth and progression. The study's findings suggest that inhibiting NLRP3 could improve patient care for those resistant to checkpoint inhibitors.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2021

Are early treatments for cerebral palsy effective?

Research on early treatments for cerebral palsy has generated limited supportive data, but emerging efforts aim to improve developmental motor outcomes in children with the condition. Newer, more targeted interventions are being explored to provide novel insights and transform treatment approaches.

SourceWiley·JournalDevelopmental Medicine & Child Neurology·DateApr 7, 2021

One in ten have long-term effects 8 months following mild COVID-19

A study by Karolinska Institutet found that 1 in 10 healthcare workers who had mild COVID-19 experienced long-term symptoms lasting at least 8 months, including fatigue, respiratory problems, and loss of smell and taste. These findings suggest that even mild cases of the virus can have a significant impact on quality of life.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA·DateApr 7, 2021

Designing selective membranes for batteries using a drug discovery toolbox

Researchers designed a polymer membrane with molecular cages that increase lithium ion flow by an order of magnitude, improving battery power and efficiency. The solvation cages selectively capture and transport lithium ions faster than their counter anions, enabling high-voltage battery cells to operate more efficiently.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateApr 7, 2021

The future of biodiversity collections

The biodiversity collections community should implement a global plan by 2030 to maximize its value to the scientific enterprise. The plan should draw on existing capacity and highlight five pillars: collecting new samples, digitization, data integration, education, and infrastructure.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateApr 7, 2021

Entropy measurements reveal exotic effect in "magic-angle" graphene

Scientists at Weizmann Institute of Science and MIT measure electronic entropy in twisted bilayer graphene, revealing giant magnetic entropy. The discovery provides an electronic analogue to the Pomeranchuk effect, where a material can exhibit unusual phase transitions.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature·DateApr 7, 2021

Skoltech scientists create a new electronegativity scale

Researchers at Skoltech created a new electronegativity scale, improving Pauling's original scale with a formula that treats molecule stabilization as a multiplicative effect. The new scale works for both small and large differences in electronegativity, accurately predicting chemical bond energies and reactions.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 7, 2021

New findings on how diabetes impacts bone health

Type 1 diabetes and diabetic neuropathy contribute to various bone structure impacts but don't fully explain higher fracture risk in patients. Balance and muscle strength also play a role in increased fracture risk, according to new findings.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateApr 7, 2021

Why our brains miss opportunities to improve through subtraction

A study by University of Virginia researchers reveals that people systematically default to additive strategies, overlooking subtractive ideas. This habit can lead to missed opportunities to improve the world through subtraction, with implications across various contexts, including engineering and policy.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature·DateApr 7, 2021

Conspiracy theories and cognitive biases in the COVID-19 pandemic

A study of 1,600 people found that 1 in 10 agreed strongly with COVID-19 conspiracy theories, with younger, stressed individuals more likely to hold extreme views. Cognitive biases were also identified, with those who believed in conspiracies being less critical of contradictory information.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateApr 7, 2021

Program may help patients with rheumatic diseases quit smoking

A new protocol called Quit Connect has been shown to increase electronic referrals to free, state-run tobacco quitlines among patients with rheumatic diseases. The program, which leverages electronic health record prompts for nurses and medical assistants, resulted in a 71% increase in referrals.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateApr 7, 2021

The case for embedding equity into incident command

The authors argue that a structural change to national Hospital Incident Command System (HICS) guidelines is needed to ensure inclusion of an Equity Officer and health equity specialists. This change could help mitigate inequities in hospital responses during disasters, particularly for historically marginalized populations.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 7, 2021

New Lyme disease test distinguishes between early and late-stage disease

A new test for Lyme disease has been developed to reliably distinguish between early- and late-stage patients. The test targets genetic sequences left by a virus in Lyme-causing bacteria and can detect as few as one bacterial cell in a small blood sample, making it highly sensitive.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateApr 7, 2021

A new natural blue for food coloring

A new natural blue food coloring has been developed by converting anthocyanins in red cabbage using a custom enzyme. The discovery could provide an eco-friendly alternative to widely used synthetic blue dyes.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 7, 2021

The muon's magnetic moment fits just fine

Researchers estimated muon's magnetic field strength using a fully verified theory independent of experimental measurements. The result aligns with the standard model of particle physics, suggesting no need for new physics to explain the phenomenon.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateApr 7, 2021

Study demonstrates the need to monitor the bit area of event horses

A study by the University of Helsinki found that event horses wearing thin or thick bits had a greater risk of moderate or severe oral lesions compared to those wearing medium-sized bits. The research recommends using a jointed bit of moderate thickness, particularly for mares and certain horse breeds.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·DateApr 7, 2021

An amyloid link between Parkinson's disease and melanoma

Researchers found a molecular link between Parkinson's disease and melanoma, with amyloid proteins α-synuclein and Pmel interacting in melanoma cells. This interaction may lead to reduced pigment production, contributing to the increased risk of melanoma in Parkinson's patients.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateApr 7, 2021

Clinical trial completion rates decline during COVID-19 pandemic

Global clinical trial completion rates dropped by 13-23% during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new study. The decline was most significant in trials funded by government, academic or medical entities, and was attributed to reduced patient enrollment and increased challenges in following up on patients.

SourcePenn State·JournalClinical and Translational Science·DateApr 7, 2021

Research brief: Reflecting sunlight could cool the Earth's ecosystem

A team of researchers explored the effect of solar radiation modification technologies on ecology, focusing on a specific strategy called stratospheric aerosol intervention (SAI) that creates a sulfate aerosol cloud in the stratosphere to reduce incoming sunlight and radiation. The study highlights the complexity of cascading relations...

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2021

Having both hearing and vision loss may double risk of dementia

A new study published in Neurology found that losing function in both senses may put individuals at greater risk of dementia and cognitive decline years later. Researchers analyzed data from 6,520 people between the ages of 58 and 101, finding that those with both hearing and vision impairments were twice as likely to develop dementia.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 7, 2021

Johns Hopkins Medicine expert creates comprehensive guide to new diabetes drugs

A clinical practice review article by Rita Kalyani provides a systematic approach for treating patients with diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The article recommends using GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors, particularly for patients with heart or blood vessel disease, to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 7, 2021

US-Mexico asthma study examines hygiene hypothesis amid pandemic

The Binational Early Asthma and Microbiome Study (BEAMS) examines how the 'hygiene hypothesis' affects children's risk of asthma in Mexico and the US. The study explores the role of microbiomes, family health history, and environmental exposures in developing asthma.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·DateApr 7, 2021

Carbon dots from human hair boost solar cells

Researchers at Queensland University of Technology have developed carbon dots from human hair waste to enhance perovskite solar cell performance. The carbon nanodots form a wave-like layer surrounding the perovskite crystals, protecting them from environmental factors and improving power conversion efficiency.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateApr 7, 2021

State immigrant policies and preterm births

A study of 3.4 million live births in 2018 found that criminalizing immigrant policies were associated with higher preterm birth rates for Black women born outside the US, while inclusive policies were linked to lower preterm birth rates for all women born outside the US and particularly White women outside the US.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 7, 2021

Red deer have personality and it is related to their dominance behavior

Researchers identified a single personality component related to Confidence/Aggressiveness in red deer, which is also linked to dominance behavior. The study's findings suggest that understanding individual differences in animal behavior can improve welfare management decisions.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalBehavioural Processes·DateApr 7, 2021