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Science News for April 8, 2021


Fostered flamingos just as friendly

Researchers found that fostered flamingo chicks formed stable social ties and behaved like parent-reared birds after rejoining their species. The study provides valuable insights into the success of fostering for conservation breeding programs.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens·DateApr 8, 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.

MOF data set provides 10k structures free for academic research

The CSD MOF Collection offers 10,636 metal-organic framework crystal structures for free access to academics, simplifying computational research. This collection is expected to advance fundamental research and support the growing industry interest in MOFs.

SourceCCDC - Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre·JournalMatter·DateApr 8, 2021

'Pain is always a perception': Physical therapy can help prevent, treat opioid use disorder

A new model in physical therapy education aims to address opioid use disorder by incorporating topics such as women's health, pediatric care, and sports therapy. By understanding the complex interplay between physical activity, pain perception, and addiction, physical therapists can provide holistic care to patients across the lifespan.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalPhysical Therapy·DateApr 8, 2021

Stanford researchers and others illuminate mystery of sea turtles' epic migrations

A Stanford-led study illuminates the mystery of North Pacific loggerhead turtles' epic migrations between Japan and Baja California, providing evidence of a 'thermal corridor' that allows them to cross inhospitably cold ocean barriers. The findings could inform conservation measures to protect sea turtles amidst climatic changes.

SourceStanford University·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateApr 8, 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.

Gut bacteria "talk" to horse's cells to improve their athletic performance

A study published in Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences found that certain types of equine gut bacteria produce chemical signals that communicate with the mitochondria in horse cells, delaying low blood sugar and inflammation. This discovery paves the way for dietary supplements to enhance equine athletic performance.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Biosciences·DateApr 8, 2021

Supportive partners protect relationship quality in people with depression or stress

A new study by UMass Amherst researchers found that couples where one partner is responsive and supportive can maintain better relationship quality despite the other's depression or external stress. The study involved over 200 newlywed couples and found that responsiveness was associated with improved relationship outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateApr 8, 2021

Research gives new insight into formation of the human embryo

Researchers have discovered a unique regenerative property of human early embryo cells, allowing them to regenerate trophectoderm and produce placental cell types. This breakthrough may benefit assisted conception treatments and help understand causes of infertility and miscarriage.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 8, 2021

The spintronics technology revolution could be just a hopfion away

Researchers have successfully demonstrated and observed 3D hopfions emerging from skyrmions at the nanoscale, a major breakthrough in realizing high-density, high-speed, low-power magnetic memory devices. The discovery could lead to significant advancements in spintronics technology.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 8, 2021

Archaeologists uncover earliest evidence of domesticated dogs in Arabian Peninsula

The discovery reveals a significant finding about the lives of ancient humans and their animals. The site contains 26 fragments of dog bones alongside human remains, dated to circa 4200-4000 BCE, indicating a long-term bond between species. The research challenges current understanding of Neolithic periods in the Middle East.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Field Archaeology·DateApr 8, 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.

Third of Antarctic ice shelf area at risk of collapse as planet warms

A third of Antarctic's ice shelf area could collapse into the sea if global temperatures reach 4°C above pre-industrial levels, new research shows. Limiting temperature rise to 2°C could halve the area at risk and potentially avoid significant sea level rise.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 8, 2021

A new agent for the brain diseases: mRNA

Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University have developed an mRNA delivery system that effectively produces BDNF protein in rat brain to protect neurons from ischemia. The system, known as an mRNA nanomicelle, increases the survival of hippocampal neurons and shows long-term therapeutic benefits.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalBiomaterials·DateApr 8, 2021

Curiosity rover explores stratigraphy of Gale crater

The Curiosity rover has explored the stratigraphy of Gale crater, providing insights into Mars' early climatic history. The study reveals alternating wet and dry depositional environments recorded in the sedimentary sequence, shedding light on the Red Planet's environmental changes during the Hesperian age.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateApr 8, 2021

Leisure physical activity is linked with health benefits but work activity is not

A large study of over 100,000 adults found that leisure time physical activity was associated with a 26-40% reduced risk of death, while work activity had the opposite effect. The researchers suggest that occupational activities often do not sufficiently increase heart rate to improve fitness and may even increase blood pressure.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateApr 8, 2021

Enhanced X-Ray emissions coincide with giant radio pulses from crab pulsar

Researchers observed that X-ray emissions coincide with giant radio pulses from the Crab Pulsar, providing constraints on mechanisms underlying these phenomena. The study found that total emitted energy during GRPs is tens to hundreds of times higher than previously known.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 8, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A song of ice and fiber

Sandia National Laboratories has successfully analyzed the first seafloor dataset from under Arctic sea ice using a new underwater technique. The team detected natural and human-caused activities, including ice quakes and transportation activities, while also monitoring for climate signals and marine life.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateApr 8, 2021

Unique method to fabricate freeform structures of thermoplastics in microparticulate gels

Researchers at Singapore University of Technology and Design have developed a unique method to fabricate freeform structures of thermoplastics in microparticulate gels. This innovation uses immersion precipitation of polymer inks in microparticulate gels, enabling the creation of mechanically strong components without support materials.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalACS Applied Polymer Materials·DateApr 8, 2021

'Emotional' reviews predict business success, new study shows

A Northwestern University study finds that emotional reviews, not star ratings, predict business success in various industries such as movies, books, and restaurants. The research uses computational linguistics to analyze the emotionality of reviews and shows that higher emotionality is associated with greater success.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateApr 8, 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.

A discovery that "literally changes the textbook"

A team of international researchers has shown that the network of nerves connecting eyes to brains evolved at least 450 million years ago in ancient fish, predating animals living on land. This discovery challenges existing theories and has implications for future health research.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience·DateApr 8, 2021

Even "safe" ambient CO levels may harm health, Yale study finds

A Yale study analyzing 40 million deaths found that even short-term exposure to ambient CO below current guidelines was associated with increased mortality. The research suggests reducing ambient CO concentrations could achieve considerable public health benefits through stricter control of traffic emissions.

SourceYale University·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateApr 8, 2021

Higher rates of chronic pain in women linked to genetics

A new study published in PLOS Genetics has found that genetic differences may contribute to higher rates of chronic pain in women. The study analyzed genetic variants associated with chronic pain in 209,093 women and 178,556 men, revealing sex-specific differences in gene activity.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateApr 8, 2021

Accelerated cellular aging associated with mortality seen in depressed individuals

A study found that cells from people with major depressive disorder (MDD) have accelerated DNA methylation clocks, indicating an increased risk of mortality. The researchers discovered that these changes persisted even after accounting for lifestyle factors, suggesting a potential biological mechanism underlying the condition.

SourceWalter Reed Army Institute of Research·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateApr 8, 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.

Association of symptoms of PTSD with posttraumatic psychological growth among US veterans during COVID-19 pandemic

A national survey of US veterans found that those with symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experienced positive psychological changes, including personal growth and appreciation for life, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study suggests a complex relationship between PTSD symptoms and posttraumatic psychological growth.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 8, 2021

Graphene: Everything under control

A team of scientists from Bielefeld and Berlin successfully controlled graphene's nonlinearity by applying modest electrical voltages, enabling efficient processing of high-frequency signals. This breakthrough paves the way for using graphene in THz frequency converters, mixers, and modulators.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 8, 2021

New test to study language development in youth with Down syndrome

A new test, expressive language sampling (ELS), has been validated as a reliable tool to measure communication development in youth with Down syndrome. The study found that ELS measures were generally valid and reliable across ages and IQ levels, demonstrating strong validity for vocabulary, syntax, and speech intelligibility variables.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders·DateApr 8, 2021

Corals carefully organize proteins to form rock-hard skeletons

Scientists discovered that coral structures consist of a biomineral containing organized organic mix of proteins. This process is critical to forming a rock-hard coral skeleton. The research suggests that corals will withstand climate change due to their impressive biomineralization process.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateApr 8, 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.

Lockdown for genome parasites

Researchers at GMI discovered that Arabidopsis's Decreased DNA Methylation I (DDM1) gene product silences undesirable genetic elements and transposable elements, preventing genome instability. This mechanism dominates other known TE silencing mechanisms.

SourceGregor Mendel Institute of Molecular Plant Biology·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateApr 8, 2021

Cycling study transforms heart health of dialysis patients

Patients with kidney failure who cycled during dialysis showed improved heart health, including reduced scarring and stiffness of major blood vessels. The study found significant savings in healthcare costs, potentially benefiting the NHS.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalKidney International·DateApr 8, 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.

Altering traumatic memories

Texas A&M researchers have developed a method to indirectly retrieve and weaken fear memories, which could lead to more effective therapy for treating trauma. By reactivating traumatic memories through conditioning procedures, scientists can make them vulnerable to disruption.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 8, 2021

The fastest one wins

A team at the Indian Institute of Science developed a catalytic version of the Fischer indole synthesis that primarily produces one enantiomer. The reaction involves a dynamic kinetic resolution mechanism with a chiral catalyst, resulting in moderate yields and good to excellent enantiomeric selectivity.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateApr 8, 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.

Evolution of outcomes for patients hospitalized during the COVID pandemic

A retrospective analysis of 198,846 hospitalizations in France from March to November 2020 reveals major changes in the age and sex of hospitalized patients during the pandemic. The probability of ICU admission and death varied substantially over time, with a decrease followed by an increase in both cases.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·DateApr 8, 2021

The impact of COVID-19 on people with kidney failure

The study reveals that COVID-19 hospitalizations peaked between March 22 and April 25, with rates 40 times higher than in the general population. Patients undergoing dialysis had a 17% increase in death rates compared to 2017-2019 rates.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 8, 2021

Endophytic fungi as promising producers of bioactive small molecules

Researchers discovered a total of 23 new compounds in the endophytic fungus P. dangeardii, including azaphilone monomers, dimers, and trimers with unique structures. The compounds showed significant cytotoxicities, anti-inflammatory, or antioxidant activities.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Pharmaceutica Sinica B·DateApr 8, 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.

New pig brain maps facilitate human neuroscience discoveries

Researchers have updated a pig brain atlas, increasing its resolution and adding a new atlas for adolescent pigs. The updated atlases will enable more precise studies of brain development and the impact of nutritional interventions on human infants. With improved detail, researchers can now study brain development in pigs up to adulthood.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Neuroscience Methods·DateApr 8, 2021

The truth about doublespeak: Is it lying or just being persuasive?

A new study by the University of Waterloo found that using euphemistic language can bias people's evaluations of actions to be more favorable. The researchers used agreeable terms, such as 'enhanced interrogation,' instead of disagreeable ones, like 'torture,' to see how it affects people's judgments.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalCognition·DateApr 8, 2021

Energy transmission by gold nanoparticles coupled to DNA structures

Researchers have successfully created chiral objects using DNA origami and gold nanoparticles, exhibiting efficient energy transmission. The discovery enables potential applications in virus detection and optical computing, leveraging the unique properties of plasmonic transmitters.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 8, 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.

Children and Corona: More infections than reported cases during second wave in Germany

A German study found that preschool and school children were more infected with SARS-CoV-2 than previously reported cases during the second wave. Antibody tests revealed a significant increase in infections among both age groups, with antibody frequencies up to eight times higher than those reported via PCR testing.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalMed·DateApr 8, 2021

Billboard and storefront ads for cannabis linked to problematic use in teens

A new study found that adolescents who frequently see billboard or storefront advertisements for recreational cannabis are more likely to use the drug weekly and have symptoms of a cannabis use disorder. Researchers used social media sites and apps to recruit 172 teens, ages 15 to 19, who lived in states with legal recreational marijuana.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateApr 8, 2021

All-in-one device uses microwave power for defense, medicine

Researchers at Purdue University have created a new device that uses composite-based nonlinear transmission lines to generate high-power microwaves for biomedical and defense purposes. The system eliminates the need for bulky auxiliary equipment, making it more portable and efficient.

SourcePurdue University·DateApr 8, 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.

Failure to rescue a major driver of excess maternal mortality in Black women

A study analyzing over 73 million hospitalizations found that site of delivery is a key factor contributing to racial disparities in maternal mortality. Black women are more likely to die from severe maternal morbidity at birth or immediately after childbirth compared to White and Hispanic women.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateApr 8, 2021

Bacteria help plants grow better

A new study found that bacteria in the soil enhance plant growth by promoting lateral root formation and improving nitrogen absorption. This breakthrough could lead to more sustainable agriculture practices by reducing fertilizer use and environmental pollution.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Plants·DateApr 8, 2021

How did 500 species of a fish form in a lake? Dramatically different body clocks

Researchers identify a single nocturnal species of Lake Malawi cichlid that exhibits dramatic differences in body clocks, suggesting an acute response to light. The study reveals that nocturnal behavior is associated with increased eye size, providing insights into the molecular and neural basis underlying variation in nighttime activity.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateApr 8, 2021

Study: Scant evidence that 'wood overuse' at Cahokia caused collapse

A new study from Washington University in St. Louis challenges the long-held theory that the collapse of Cahokia, a pre-Columbian Native American city, was caused by excessive tree cutting and deforestation. Researchers found no evidence of flooding issues or environmental missteps, contradicting previous narratives about ecocide.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalGeoarchaeology·DateApr 8, 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.

Solar and wind power could mitigate conflict in northeast Africa

A new study suggests that expanding solar and wind power across the region could alleviate disagreements between Ethiopia, Sudan, and Egypt over Africa's largest hydropower plant. Integrating GERD operation with solar and wind power would provide regional win-win situations, benefiting all countries involved.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalNature Energy·DateApr 8, 2021

Can a 3D printed beetle model simulate the real thing?

Researchers designed and tested 3D printed beetle models to study mate choice in insects. The results show that the models are effective in simulating real behavior, with males preferring chemical signals and color cues over 2D counterparts.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalChemoecology·DateApr 8, 2021

How to tame a restless genome

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory found that a protein called Asterix/Gtf1 suppresses small specific regions of mobile genetic elements by binding to tRNA molecules. This discovery could lead to understanding how cells protect themselves against these elements and potentially tame an overly restless genome.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 8, 2021

Complete chromosome 8 sequence reveals novel genes and disease risks

The full assembly of human chromosome 8 has been completed, revealing novel genes and potential disease risks. The sequence fills in gaps missing from the current reference genome and provides new insights into immune disorders, brain development, and heart defects.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·DateApr 8, 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.

'Bug brain soup' expands menu for scientists studying animal brains

Researchers at the University of Arizona have developed a new technique to approximate neuron counts in individual animal brains, providing a more meaningful metric than traditional studies measuring brain size or weight. The study reveals that certain species of bees have a higher density of brain cells than even some species of birds.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateApr 8, 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.

A breakthrough that enables practical semiconductor spintronics

Scientists have constructed a semiconductor component that allows for efficient information exchange between electron spin and light at room temperature. The new method uses an opto-spintronic nanostructure with quantum dots to control the electron spin of the nanoscale regions, achieving higher spin polarization than previous research.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 8, 2021

University of Tartu scientists develop materials for future fusion reactor

Researchers aim to create diamond windows that can withstand high levels of radiation, a crucial step towards building safer fusion reactors. The University of Tartu's three-year project involves partnerships with German and Latvian institutions to develop materials and technologies necessary for the DEMO reactor.

SourceEstonian Research Council·DateApr 8, 2021

Health impacts of holocaust linger long after survival

Researchers analyzed death records of over 22,000 Holocaust survivors and found a significant increase in cancer and heart disease mortality rates among women and men. The study supports theories that survivors experience general health resilience combined with vulnerabilities to specific diseases.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateApr 8, 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.

Novel diarylamides as orally active diuretics targeting urea transporters

Researchers discovered novel diarylamides with excellent in vitro UT inhibitory activity, leading to the identification of a promising preclinical candidate. Oral administration of the compound showed a superior diuretic effect in vivo without causing electrolyte imbalance or toxicity.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Pharmaceutica Sinica B·DateApr 8, 2021

Chronic sinus inflammation appears to alter brain activity

Researchers found altered brain activity in individuals with chronic sinusitis, affecting neural networks that modulate cognition and response to external stimuli. Despite no significant clinical impairment, participants showed subtle brain region communication changes associated with attention decline and sleep disturbances.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·DateApr 8, 2021

Novel algorithm reveals birdsong features that may be key for courtship

Researchers have developed an algorithm to identify features of male zebra finch songs underpinning the distinction between courtship and non-courtship contexts. The study suggests a potential for 'bottom-up' approaches to drive discovery in vocal communication, uncovering previously unidentified features.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateApr 8, 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.

Mortality among US patients hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 infection

The study analyzed in-hospital mortality rates among US patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection over time, highlighting the impact of aging and pre-existing health conditions on patient outcomes. The analysis revealed a significant increase in mortality rates among older adults and those with comorbidities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 8, 2021

UBCO researchers find a new use for waste

Researchers at UBC Okanagan have developed guidelines to use wood-based pulp mill fly ash as an economically sustainable low-carbon binder for road construction. The use of untreated PFA reduces energy consumption and produces low-carbon emissions, making it a safe raw material for environmental applications.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateApr 8, 2021

Mountain growth influences greenhouse effect

A study in Taiwan found that mountain growth influences the greenhouse effect, with high erosion rates releasing more CO2 than sequestering it. Low erosion rates, on the other hand, lead to greater CO2 sequestration due to weathering processes that bind carbon dioxide.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 8, 2021

Heart failure and stroke rising in men under 40

A University of Gothenburg study found a significant increase in heart failure and stroke cases among men under 40 in Sweden, attributed to rising obesity rates and declining physical fitness. The study monitored over 1.2 million men for 20 years, revealing a sharp decline in heart attacks despite increasing obesity.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateApr 8, 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.

New method offers insights into tension-sensitivity of potassium channels

Researchers developed a time-lapse system to measure membrane tension and recorded the dynamic responsiveness of the KcsA ion channel. Their experiments revealed hysteresis, where channels activate only at high membrane tension and remain active for a short period even after returning to low tension.

SourceUniversity of Fukui·JournalJACS Au·DateApr 8, 2021

Transforming crop and timber production could reduce species extinction risk by 40%

A new metric, STAR, measures the impact of human activities on biodiversity, revealing that conserving 9% of land could reduce global extinction risk by half. By abating threats in key areas, companies and countries can report reductions in species loss and contribute to the global biodiversity target.

SourceInternational Union for Conservation of Nature·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateApr 8, 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.

One in four children want better pain treatment

A study of 940 children found nearly a quarter wanted stronger pain treatment after appendectomies and tonsillectomies, associated with sleep impairments and movement pain. Precautionary administration of non-opioid analgesics may reduce opioid use after surgery.

SourceInselspital, Bern University Hospital·JournalBritish Journal of Anaesthesia·DateApr 8, 2021

FSU engineering researchers visualize the motion of vortices in superfluid turbulence

Researchers at Florida State University have visualized the motion of vortices in superfluid helium-4, a quantum fluid that exists at extremely low temperatures. The study revealed that as vortex tubes appeared, they moved randomly and rapidly away from their starting point, exhibiting superdiffusion.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 8, 2021

Caught speeding: Clocking the fastest-spinning brown dwarfs

Three rapidly rotating brown dwarfs were discovered spinning around their axes once every hour, reaching speeds of about 350,000 kilometers per hour. This extreme rotation rate is ten times faster than Jupiter and poses a risk to the stability of these objects.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·DateApr 8, 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.

Configuring infrared spectroscopy tools to better detect breast cancer

Researchers have found that standard definition infrared spectroscopy can be sufficient for accurate diagnosis in urgent situations, challenging the notion that high-definition imaging is always superior. The study provides guidelines for choosing the optimal technology and instrument configuration for clinical work.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalClinical Spectroscopy·DateApr 8, 2021

Lessons in equity from the frontlines of COVID-19 vaccination

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center shares five key lessons on health equity from its COVID-19 vaccination campaign, including obtaining reliable patient data and addressing structural inequalities. The health system's approach aims to reach marginalized communities with trust-building strategies.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateApr 8, 2021

The tuberculosis pathogen releases its toxin by a novel protein transport system

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham have discovered a novel protein transport system in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, allowing the release of its toxin, tuberculosis necrotizing toxin (TNT), into human macrophages. The study reveals that two small Esx proteins form pores in membranes to facilitate TNT secretion.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 8, 2021

Research shows cytonemes distribute Wnt proteins in vertebrate tissue

Researchers identified how Wnt proteins orchestrate cell communication and patterning of body axis, revealing the role of Vangl2 in regulating cytoneme formation. Long and branched cytonemes reinforce distant Wnt signalling, leading to altered body axis patterning.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 8, 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.

Monuments that matter

A new open-access paper calls for archaeologists and history professionals to collaborate with marginalized communities to redress the harm perpetuated by colonialism. The authors suggest preserving damaged monuments alongside contextual exhibits highlighting acts of resistance against white supremacy, shifting attention from preservat...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalAmerican Antiquity·DateApr 8, 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.

Seeing quadruple

The discovery of 12 quadruply imaged quasars using machine-learning techniques will help determine the expansion rate of the universe and address mysteries like dark matter. Quasars are extremely luminous cores powered by supermassive black holes, providing a way to probe the intermediate range of the universe.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·DateApr 8, 2021

Blocking a protein could help overcome cancer resistance to PARP inhibitors

Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute found that blocking a specific protein, DNPH1, sensitised BRCA-defective cancer cells to treatment with PARP inhibitors. The discovery suggests a promising potential treatment combination that could lead to improved therapy for patients with inheritable breast cancers.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalScience·DateApr 8, 2021

Living fossils: Microbe discovered in evolutionary stasis for millions of years

A group of microbes that feed on chemical reactions triggered by radioactivity have been found to be at an evolutionary standstill for millions of years. Their identical genetic makeup suggests they have not changed since their physical locations separated during the breakup of supercontinent Pangaea.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateApr 8, 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.

Discovery could help lengthen lifespan of electronic devices

Researchers at the University of Sydney have made a breakthrough in understanding ferroelectric fatigue, a major cause of electronic device failure. By observing the degradation process at the nanoscale, they hope to inform the design of longer-lasting devices with better endurance.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 8, 2021

Dogs act jealously even when they don't see their rival

A new study published in Psychological Science found that dogs display jealous behaviors when their owners interact with a potential rival, including forcefully attempting to reach the owner. The researchers tested 18 dogs using realistic artificial dogs and fleece cylinders, demonstrating three human-like signatures of jealous behavior.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 8, 2021

Religion follows patterns of politicization during COVID-19

Research reveals that religion can both protect mental health and constrain crisis response among certain groups, ultimately affecting public health efforts. Highly religious Americans, especially evangelicals, experienced less distress during the early days of COVID-19 but were less concerned about addressing the pandemic.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal for the Scientific Study of Religion·DateApr 8, 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.

IntMEMOIR traces cell lineage though development and within native tissues

The new approach provides a powerful tool for recording cell lineage in diverse cellular systems. Researchers use intMEMOIR to reconstruct lineage histories and link cell fate, spatial structure, and tissue organization in mouse embryonic stem cells and fruit fly brain.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 8, 2021

Light shed on the coordination of neural stem cell activation

Scientists at Institut Pasteur have successfully visualized neural stem cell activation in adult zebrafish brains, demonstrating coordinated events in time and space. This breakthrough may improve understanding of regulation processes during brain tumor formation.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 8, 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.

Mars didn't dry up in one go

A French-US team has discovered that Mars' climate alternated between dry and wetter periods, with lake-deposited clays forming the base of Mount Sharp before drying up completely about 3 billion years ago.

SourceCNRS·JournalGeology·DateApr 8, 2021

Filling the gaps

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a frequency-based inpainting method that enables the use of both frequency and spatial information to generate realistic missing image portions. The technique outperforms state-of-the-art methods in quality metrics such as PSNR, SSIM, and L1.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Electronic Imaging·DateApr 8, 2021

Modern human brain originated in Africa around 1.7 million years ago

The modern human brain is believed to have originated in Africa around 1.7 million years ago, with significant advancements in brain structure and function occurring during this time frame. The study used CT scans to analyze fossil skulls and compared them to those of great apes and humans.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience·DateApr 8, 2021

Curtin research finds introduced honeybee may pose threat to native bees

A Curtin University study found that European honeybees can outcompete native bees for nectar and pollen resources in urban gardens dominated by non-native flowers. Planting more flowering plants preferred by vulnerable species and controlling honeybee density may help prevent native bee decline.

SourceCurtin University·JournalBiological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateApr 8, 2021

Bioengineer wins NIH grant to attack cystic fibrosis

Xue Sherry Gao, a bioengineer at Rice University, has won an NIH grant to develop tools that can correct multiple single mutations causing cystic fibrosis. Her approach uses CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing to fix the faulty CFTR gene, which is difficult to treat with traditional gene therapy.

SourceRice University·DateApr 8, 2021

Hospital rankings for complications after spinal fusion are 'unreliable'

A study of over 367,000 spinal fusion procedures found that hospital rankings based on complication rates are unreliable, as rankability is consistently low. The metric's ability to compare complication rates between hospitals varies depending on the year and volume of procedures performed.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalSpine·DateApr 8, 2021

Green chemistry and biofuel: the mechanism of a key photoenzyme decrypted

A team of scientists, including French researchers, uncovers the operating mechanisms of FAP (Fatty Acid Photodecarboxylase), an enzyme that converts fatty acids into hydrocarbons using light energy. The discovery opens up new opportunities for sustainable biofuel production and fine chemistry applications.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalScience·DateApr 8, 2021

M2D2 $200K Challenge names pitch contest winners

Acoustica Bio, a Cambridge-based company, has won the top prize in the Massachusetts Medical Device Development Center's $200K Challenge for its innovative reformulation of intravenous medications. The startup will receive $50,000 in seed funding to advance its invention.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateApr 8, 2021

Team cracks eggs for science

A team of scientists simulated the task of piercing an egg to understand how host birds defend against brood parasites. They found that nests and tool shape significantly affect the mechanics and energy requirements of avian eggshell puncture.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateApr 8, 2021

Novel PF74-like small molecules targeting the HIV-1 capsid protein

Researchers have identified four potent antiviral compounds targeting the PF74 binding site, exhibiting improved metabolic stability compared to PF74. One compound, analog 20, shows similar submicromolar potency and significantly longer half-life in human liver microsomes.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Pharmaceutica Sinica B·DateApr 8, 2021

Injection molding transparent glass like a plastic

Researchers have developed a novel approach for injection molding transparent fused silica glass at lower temperatures. This innovative process enables the production of high-quality glass components using conventional injection molding techniques, offering improved industrial efficiency.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 8, 2021

Sunlight linked with lower COVID-19 deaths, study shows

An observational study found that areas with higher levels of UVA rays had a lower risk of Covid-19-related deaths. The researchers suggest sunlight exposure could act as a simple public health intervention to reduce mortality rates, although the exact mechanism is still unclear.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·DateApr 8, 2021