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Science News Archive April 2021 - Page 21


Page 21 of 46

Disrupted sleep is linked to increased risk of death, particularly in women

A recent study published in the European Heart Journal has found a clear link between disrupted sleep and an increased risk of dying from diseases of the heart and blood vessels, as well as death from any cause. Women were found to have nearly double the risk of cardiovascular death compared to men.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateApr 19, 2021

DNA robots designed in minutes instead of days

Researchers at Ohio State University developed a new software tool called MagicDNA that can design more complex DNA robots and nanodevices in a fraction of the time. The software allows for 3D design and simulation, enabling fine control over individual component properties and increasing the complexity of overall geometry.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 19, 2021

Understanding interfaces of hybrid materials with machine learning

Researchers from TU Graz and FSU Jena discovered three opposing driving forces controlling the self-assembly of functionalized molecules at interfaces. A design principle using machine learning was established to predict structures and properties. This breakthrough enables the easy assembly of desired interfacial properties on demand.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 19, 2021

B cell activating factor possible key to hemophilia immune tolerance

A study by Indiana University School of Medicine researchers has found that B cell activating factor (BAFF) plays a role in the generation and maintenance of inhibitors in hemophilia A patients. Blocking BAFF with a combination therapy may induce tolerance in these patients, offering a potential solution to treatment failure.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 19, 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.

Can cirrhosis of the liver be treated with faeces transplantation?

Researchers from Aarhus University are conducting a treatment trial using faeces-microbiome transplantation to improve cirrhosis outcomes and lower mortality rates. The project replaces patients' sick intestinal bacteria with those from healthy donors, aiming to alleviate complications and disease progression.

SourceAarhus University·DateApr 19, 2021

Sustainable chemical synthesis with platinum

Researchers have created a new catalyst that allows for more efficient and sustainable production of aromatic hydrocarbons using renewable sources like woody biomass. The catalyst reduces the need for high temperatures and pressures, minimizing energy costs and emissions.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Catalysis·DateApr 19, 2021

Researchers drill down to the core of wellbeing worldwide

A meta-analysis of 400+ clinical trials involving over 50,000 participants found that mindfulness, positive psychological interventions, and cognitive behavioural therapy can increase wellbeing across different groups. Consistent and prolonged practice is crucial for these interventions to be effective in improving wellbeing.

SourceFlinders University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateApr 19, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Land use legacy affects ecosystem restoration

A study found that land use legacies, such as agriculture and forestry, can have lasting impacts on ecosystems, with only limited effects from restoration efforts. The researchers discovered that soil compaction, a common issue caused by agricultural use, was difficult to mitigate through restoration alone.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021

Study shows education is not enough to overcome inequality

A recent study by North Carolina State University found that education alone cannot overcome social inequality, particularly among men. The research examined data from over 56,000 individuals and found that a parent's social status continues to provide an advantage to their children in terms of earnings.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalThe Journal of Higher Education·DateApr 19, 2021

Microglia, Stockholm syndrome and miraculous cures in glioblastoma patients

Researchers at the University of Minnesota identified a new drug target for glioblastoma patients who defy conventional wisdom by surviving beyond expectations. Glioblastoma cells subvert immune system cells called microglia and macrophages, leading to tumor growth.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021

Intellectual disability is rarely inherited -- risk for younger siblings is low

A recent study conducted at the University of Helsinki found that the risk of intellectual disability in younger siblings is low. The study utilized exome sequencing to determine the genetic background of developmental disorders and identified 9 new candidate genes, including 1 potentially novel gene enriched in the Finnish population.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalHuman Genetics·DateApr 19, 2021

Defects in a specific cell type may cause ulcerative colitis

A new study from the University of Gothenburg suggests that defective goblet cells may contribute to ulcerative colitis by damaging the mucus protection layer. The research team identified specific types of goblet cells and found that their premature rejection leads to inflammation and increased cancer risk.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalScience·DateApr 19, 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.

Without major changes, gender parity in orthopaedic surgery will take two centuries

A recent study found that it will take over 200 years for women to reach parity in orthopaedic surgery, highlighting the need for substantial changes across education and leadership levels. The research emphasizes the importance of increasing representation of women in medical schools, residency programs, and subspecialty societies.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateApr 19, 2021

Stone Age black bears didn't just defecate in the woods - they did it in a cave too

Researchers from the Lundbeck Foundation GeoGenetics Centre have sequenced ancient DNA from soil for the first time, transforming the field of population genetics. The advance allows scientists to study the evolution of animals, plants, and microorganisms, with potential applications in climate change research.

SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 19, 2021

Snake venom complexity is driven by prey diet

Research reveals that pitviper species consuming more evolutionarily diverse prey produce more complex venom. The study found that the evolutionary distance between consumed prey species affects venom complexity, suggesting subtle differences in venom targets.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021

Bone microenvironment fosters breast cancer metastatic behavior

Two studies found that the bone microenvironment reduces ER expression in breast cancer cells, leading to resistance to endocrine therapy. The bone microenvironment also triggers reprogramming of cancer cells, promoting their ability to metastasize to other tissues and evade treatment.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell·DateApr 19, 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.

Light up your mind: A novel light-based treatment for neurodegenerative diseases

Researchers summarize growing knowledge on light therapy's mechanism, effectiveness, and applications in treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Light stimulation has been shown to restore memory and cognition, improve sleep quality, and reduce symptoms in patients with these conditions.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·DateApr 19, 2021

To forget or to do not forget?

Researchers discovered a new molecule, K162, that inhibits beta-amyloid toxicity and protects neurons from damage. The study provides hope for alternative therapeutic strategies against Alzheimer's disease.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalACS Chemical Neuroscience·DateApr 19, 2021

Archaeological data demand new approaches to biodiversity conservation

A multi-disciplinary team has reconstructed ancient population and land use, showing that humans shaped much of the terrestrial biosphere by 12,000 years ago. The study found a close correlation between areas of high biodiversity and areas long occupied by Indigenous peoples.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021

Adherence to CMS SEP-1 measures found to have variable effects on patient outcomes

A longitudinal study found that adherence to the Medicare Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock Early Management Bundle (SEP-1) had variable effects on sepsis treatment and patient outcomes. Researchers suggest that clinicians may have discretion in applying SEP-1 components to focus on aspects of care driving improvements in patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 19, 2021

3D deep neural network precisely reconstructs freely-behaving animal's movements

Researchers developed DANNCE, a 3D deep-neural network that can capture behavior and track movement in freely behaving animals from single video cameras. The tool has broad impact on animal behavioral studies, enabling standardized definitions of behaviors and tracing emergence of behavior over time.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalNature Methods·DateApr 19, 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 pulsed magnet reveals a new state of matter in Kondo insulator

Researchers have discovered an exotic new state of matter in the Kondo insulator ytterbium dodecaboride, which exhibits properties of both metals and insulators. The study used a newly developed 75-tesla duplex magnet to suppress insulating properties and measure quantum oscillations.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 19, 2021

More than 60 years to achieve gender equity?

The astronomy industry has a long way to go before achieving gender parity, with women making up less than one-third of professional astronomers by 2080. Implementing 50:50 hiring ratios and retention initiatives, such as exit surveys and work-life balance improvements, can help reach the goal of 30% female representation in a decade.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for All Sky Astrophysics in 3D (ASTRO 3D)·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 19, 2021

Anthropogenic transformation of terrestrial nature

A study found that human populations transformed wildlands into human biomes as early as 12,000 years ago, with 75% of the Earth's biosphere inhabited by humans. Anthropogenic land use reshaped more than 80% of the terrestrial biosphere by 2017 CE.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 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.

End-Permian extinction patterns in South Africa

A study analyzing 588 fossil land vertebrate specimens from the Karoo Basin, South Africa, found high extinction rates initially co-occurred with low origination rates. The ancient mammal relative Lystrosaurus experienced population peaks both before and after the end-Permian extinction event.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021

Leg muscle action assists blood flow independently of age

A recent study by Kanazawa University researchers found that leg muscle action can improve blood flow independently of age. The study used MRI imaging to measure changes in blood flow and pump action in the legs of healthy volunteers aged 24, 47, and 72 years.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalJapan Journal of Nursing Science·DateApr 19, 2021

Omega-3 supplements do double duty in protecting against stress

Researchers found that high-dose omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation suppressed damage and boosted protection during and after stressful events. This led to sustained anti-inflammatory activity and preserved telomere length in healthy but sedentary, overweight, and middle-aged individuals.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateApr 19, 2021

Two blood thinners at once: More risk with the same reward

A new study found that nearly one-third of patients prescribed a direct oral anticoagulant were also taking aspirin without a clear reason, leading to an increased risk of bleeding events. The researchers emphasize the importance of consulting with doctors to determine if combination therapy is necessary for individual patients.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 19, 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.

Stanford researchers use AI to empower environmental regulators

A new Stanford University-led study uses AI and satellite imagery to locate and monitor hard-to-regulate industries, such as brick kilns in Bangladesh. The approach reveals that over three-fourths of kilns are illegally constructed near schools, and the government under-reports kilns with respect to regulations.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021

Study reveals the workings of nature's own earthquake blocker

Researchers found a naturally occurring 'earthquake gate' on New Zealand's Alpine Fault that decides which earthquakes grow into magnitude 8 or greater. The study suggests this gate could change the stress and break larger earthquake chains.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 19, 2021

Shedding light on the long and the short of plant growth

Researchers at John Innes Centre discovered two genes, ATH1 and DELLA, controlling plant compactness and elongation. These findings may lead to more precise ways to modify crop shape and height in agriculture.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 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.

SARS-CoV-2 variants from mink evade inhibition by antibodies

Researchers have found that SARS-CoV-2 variants from minks can evade inhibition by COVID-19 antibodies, reducing immune control. The study showed that the Y453F mutation in the spike protein reduces the effectiveness of both therapeutic and human-made antibodies.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 19, 2021

Beetles that pee themselves to death could be tomorrow's pest control

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered a better way to target and eliminate beetles using eco-friendly methods. The study found that beetles regulate their kidney function in a unique way, which can be exploited to disrupt their fluid balance without harming other insects.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 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.

How wind shapes genetic diversity in trees

A study found that wind patterns strongly affect genetic differentiation, gene flow, and genetic diversity in tree populations. Downwind populations tend to exhibit high genetic diversity.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 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.

Pandemic eviction bans found to protect entire communities from COVID-19 spread

A new study suggests that pandemic eviction bans reduced infection rates and protected not only evicted individuals but also entire communities from the spread of COVID-19. The researchers found that without eviction bans, people who experience eviction or live with evictees have a higher risk of being infected, increasing transmission...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 19, 2021

Addressing and integrating social determinants of health effective in reducing blood pressure in pat

A study found that addressing social determinants of health improved blood pressure control in patients with diabetes or hypertension in Kenya. The intervention combined community microfinance groups with group medical visits reduced systolic blood pressure by 44% compared to standard care.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 19, 2021

Mapping performance variations to see how lithium-metal batteries fail

Scientists identified depletion of liquid electrolyte as primary cause of failure in high-energy-density lithium-metal batteries. The study used high-energy x-rays to map performance variations and calculate cathode material state, enabling the discovery of dominant failure mechanism.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateApr 19, 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.

Energy consumption of urban electric vehicles

Researchers analyzed a database of over 3 million urban electric vehicles in China to understand energy consumption patterns. They found that energy consumption changes by up to 21% during winter-to-spring seasonal transitions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 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.

New model describes the (scaling) laws of the jungle

A new framework connects metabolic principles to forest patterns, revealing regularities beneath apparent randomness. The model allows for generalization to diverse species and situations, providing insights into forest structure and biological complexity.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021

Viking metalwork craft and expertise evolved from 8th to 9th century

Researchers analyzed tool fragments, raw materials, and complete objects excavated from two sites in Ribe, Denmark, to understand the evolution of Viking metalwork. They found rapid technological advances in combining metals into mixes and refining their process over time.

SourceSpringer·JournalArchaeological and Anthropological Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021

Green hydrogen: "Rust" as a photoanode and its limits

Research on haematite, a widely known rust material, has been hindered by low photocurrent conversion efficiency compared to theoretical maximum values. A recent study reveals that the wavelength of absorbed light in hematite thin films affects its photoelectrochemical properties.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 19, 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.

Novel drug regenerates erectile nerves damaged by prostate surgery

Researchers at Einstein College of Medicine developed a topical drug that regenerates and restores function of erectile nerves damaged by radical prostatectomy. The siRNA gel enhanced nerve regeneration and restored nerve function in rat models, restoring erectile function.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalJCI Insight·DateApr 19, 2021