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Science News for April 9, 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.

New research reveals secret to Jupiter's curious aurora activity

A team of researchers has discovered that Jupiter's polar cap is threaded with both open and closed magnetic field lines, contradicting the long-held assumption of all lines being either open or closed. This finding reveals a complex topology of Jupiter's magnetosphere, raising new questions about its interaction with the solar wind.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalSchizophrenia Research·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalPlant and Soil·DateApr 9, 2021
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.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 9, 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.

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.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 9, 2021

Study snapshot: How do weighted funding formulas affect charter school enrollments?

A new study found that weighted funding formulas in California led to an increase in charter school enrollments of low-income students. However, the study also suggests that some charter schools may be 'cream skimming' high-achieving students, and that policymakers need to carefully design weighted funded systems to address this issue.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·DateApr 9, 2021

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

SourceImperial Brands·JournalMutagenesis·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·DateApr 9, 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.

Childhood diet and exercise creates healthier, less anxious adults

A new study published in Physiology & Behavior found that exercise and a healthy diet in childhood leads to adults with reduced anxiety levels and increased brain mass. The research also revealed that early-life exercise reduces anxious behaviors in adulthood.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPhysiology & Behavior·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 9, 2021

Helping people understand adverse events associated with COVID-19 vaccinations

A recent study examines potential associations between COVID-19 vaccinations and functional neurological disorder, a condition characterized by symptoms similar to those experienced during a neurologic event. The researchers aim to better understand the relationships between vaccination and neurological side effects.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateApr 9, 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 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.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceSociety for Endocrinology·JournalJournal of Endocrinology·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 9, 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.

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.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceRIKEN·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateApr 9, 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.

Bless You: Hay fever and asthma affect more people - and earlier

A study of 53,000 Danish blood donors found that hay fever and asthma rates have tripled since the 1970s, with symptoms occurring earlier in life. The large biobank provides valuable insights into genetic-environmental interactions and immune system responses.

SourceAarhus University·JournalClinical and Translational Allergy·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalSLEEP·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 9, 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.

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.

SourceMichigan State University Facility for Rare Isotope Beams·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 9, 2021

New biosealant can stabilize cartilage, promote healing after injury

Researchers developed a hyaluronic acid hydrogel system to stabilize damaged cartilage, pausing its degeneration and promoting the formation of a protective barrier. The therapy was shown to enhance healing and restore regular activity to chondrocytes in lab tests.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCell·DateApr 9, 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.

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.

SourceLund University·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalChemical Science·DateApr 9, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of North Texas Health Science Center·DateApr 9, 2021

Study finds to increase nurse practitioners prescribing buprenorphine falls short

A recent study found that nurse practitioners' buprenorphine prescribing has been limited by state restrictions and inadequate training. The researchers recommend relaxing scope-of-practice requirements and addressing practice-level barriers to improve treatment access for those with substance use disorders.

SourceIndiana University·JournalMedical Care Research and Review·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalJoule·DateApr 9, 2021

Removing race from estimates of kidney function: What happens next?

The ASN and NKF publish an interim report assessing alternative methods to diagnosing kidney diseases, highlighting the need for a standardized approach. The task force recommends replacing existing equations with a new method that is accurate, representative, and unbiased.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 9, 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.

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.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 9, 2021

COVID-19 pandemic highlights the urgent global need to control air pollution

New studies show a similar association between ambient air pollution and worse COVID-19 outcomes, with long-term exposure linked to increased risk of infection and death. The pandemic has highlighted the need for stricter air quality standards and improved respiratory health worldwide.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalScience·DateApr 9, 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.

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.

SourceSimon Fraser University·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 9, 2021

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 ...

SourceOhio State University·DateApr 9, 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.

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.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 9, 2021

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.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateApr 9, 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.

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.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·DateApr 9, 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.

Dismantling white supremacy in public health

A new analysis suggests that public health institutions must address white supremacy to achieve true equity. Researchers propose strategies for dismantling white supremacy, including tracking exposure to police brutality and educating policymakers on its impact.

SourceLehigh University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 9, 2021