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Science News Archive April 2021 - Page 22


Page 22 of 46

Surpassing the lower limit on computing energy consumption

Researchers have found that using topological insulators in transistors could reduce switching energy by half and the overall energy used by each transistor by a factor of four. This breakthrough could lead to substantial reductions in computing energy consumption, as the industry continues to strive for sustainable technologies.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalNano Letters·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.

The auditory system tracks moving sounds

The brain's auditory system actively tracks the velocity of a sound, just like the visual system. This study reveals that people can improve their ability to track moving sounds over time.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateApr 19, 2021

New factor in the development of psoriasis discovered

A research team identified a new factor in the immune system's signal transmission that contributes to psoriasis development. The 'c-Jun' protein in dendritic cells promotes psoriatic skin inflammation, which can be alleviated by inhibiting this protein.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateApr 19, 2021

Sleep disorders and surgery: Anesthesia & Analgesia marks first decade of the Society of Anesthesia and Sleep Medicine

The Society of Anesthesia and Sleep Medicine celebrates its first decade of research achievements in the common ground between sleep and anesthesia. Studies examine the outcomes of patients with undiagnosed sleep disorders or breathing issues undergoing surgery, highlighting the potential for treating perioperative periods as opportuni...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalAnesthesia & Analgesia·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.

Association between hearing loss, physical activity

A study analyzed the association between hearing loss and level of physical activity among U.S. adults aged 60 to 69. The findings suggest a significant positive correlation, indicating that lower levels of physical activity may be associated with an increased risk of hearing loss in older adults.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 19, 2021

Making spaces on the high street for clothing repairs

Researchers propose marketing sewing as a wellbeing activity and using technology to encourage consumers to adopt slower fashion habits. The study suggests that creating spaces for clothing repair on high streets could help reduce fast fashion's negative environmental impacts.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateApr 19, 2021

Federal policy to reduce deaths from sepsis was mostly ineffective

A large-scale evaluation of a federal policy aimed at reducing deaths from sepsis found that it was mostly ineffective in improving patient outcomes. Despite significant investments, the 'all or none' guidelines, known as SEP-1, did not translate to clinically meaningful changes in care delivery or reductions in deaths.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·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.

UW researchers studying how to make online arguments productive

UW researchers studied how to make online arguments more productive and centered around relationship-building. They found that people want to have difficult conversations online, but often avoid them due to lack of nuance or space for discussion. The team developed 12 potential technological design interventions, including democratizin...

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateApr 19, 2021

Where's my horse-sized rabbit?

A research team at Kyoto University investigated the fossil record and evolutionary history of lagomorphs to answer why they don't rival horse sizes. They found that larger herbivore competitors and energetic disadvantage hindered their growth, with body sizes of ungulates being a key predictor.

SourceKyoto University·JournalEvolution·DateApr 19, 2021

Attacking aortic aneurysms before they grow

A team of researchers has discovered that JMJD3 enzyme promotes inflammation in monocyte/macrophages, leading to the development of abdominal aortic aneurysms. Blocking this enzyme prevents aneurysm formation, providing a potential new target for treatment.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 19, 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.

Proportion of Black physicians in US has changed little in 120 years

A new UCLA study reveals the proportion of Black physicians in the US has changed little in 120 years, with a significant income gap between white and Black male physicians. The research highlights pay discrimination and unequal access as contributing factors to this disparity.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 19, 2021

Single metasurface for simultaneous detection of SAM and OAM

A team of scientists has developed a single spin-decoupled metasurface that can distinguish between spatial angular moment (SAM) and orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes. The device exploits the geometric phase and dynamic phase to transform vortex beams into focusing patterns, enabling simultaneous detection of SAM and OAM.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateApr 19, 2021

Delineating epileptic tissue using EEG fast oscillations

Researchers developed a method to localize epileptic tissue using EEG fast oscillations, differentiating pathological from nonepileptiform signals. High-frequency oscillations riding spikes provide a potential tool for presurgical diagnosis and postsurgical evaluation.

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

NUS researchers discover protein that causes neurological complications in HFMD

Researchers at NUS have identified two new proteins that contribute to EV-A71's ability to invade the central nervous system, making them potential targets for treating severe HFMD cases. This discovery could lead to the development of more effective treatments, particularly for young children affected by this illness.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalEMBO Reports·DateApr 19, 2021

UK waters are home again to the bluefin tuna

Atlantic bluefin tuna numbers appear to be increasing in UK waters after a long period of decline. Researchers have documented this growth using data from citizen scientists, eco-tourism vessels, and fisheries records, revealing that these fish arrive in May and stay until January, with peak sightings between August and October each year.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalICES Journal of Marine Science·DateApr 19, 2021

Racial violence and the mental health of Black Americans

A new study analyzes the impact of highly publicized acts of racial violence on the mental health of Black Americans. Research suggests that experiencing racism, even vicariously, can harm mental and physical health, and that highly publicized anti-Black violence is strongly associated with poor mental health days among Black respondents.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021

Materials advances are key to development of quantum hardware

Researchers emphasize the need for material advances in quantum computing hardware to create complex qubits. The study explores various materials and proposes strategies for tackling technological challenges. Sophisticated control of these materials is crucial for achieving quantum advantage.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateApr 19, 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.

The perfect fit: A 'shoe-in' for a great start to school

A new study by the University of South Australia reveals that shoes one size too small restrict normal foot movement and comfort during walking. Well-fitted school shoes are crucial for children's comfort and participation in everyday activities.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalGait & Posture·DateApr 19, 2021

Surprising ionic and flow behaviors with functionalized nanochannels

University of Maryland researchers have made surprising discoveries about the behavior of functionalized nanochannels, including the phenomenon of overscreening, where a negatively charged polymer layer can become positively charged due to attraction of positive ions. The team also found that increasing the electric field strength can ...

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 19, 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.

Publicized racial violence and Black mental health

A study found that highly publicized anti-Black violence is associated with increased poor mental health days among Black individuals in the US. Reducing such violence may benefit Black mental health nationwide, according to researchers.

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

Deaths rising in workers using methylene chloride paint strippers

A comprehensive review of US fatalities linked to methylene chloride paint strippers reveals more deaths than expected, with 85 reported between 1980 and 2018, most in occupational settings. Safer alternatives are available, and experts urge the EPA to limit use and prevent further deaths.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 19, 2021

Ocean currents modulate oxygen content at the equator

The Equatorial Undercurrent has strengthened by over 20% since 2008, leading to increased oxygen concentrations and a habitat expansion for tropical pelagic fish. The strengthening of the current is mainly caused by strengthening trade winds in the western tropical North Atlantic.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 19, 2021

Common plants and pollinators act as anchors for ecosystems

Common generalist plants and pollinators play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and serving as buffers against climate change impacts. A study by University of Colorado Boulder researchers found that these species can persist over time and across landscapes, supporting robust communities and resilience to local extinctions.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEcology·DateApr 19, 2021

Incongruent messaging key to getting people to register as organ donors

A new study from the UBC Sauder School of Business found that a subtle shift in organ donor messaging can lead to a significant boost in registration. By combining descriptive and injunctive norms, registrations increased by 70%, suggesting that emphasizing low numbers while highlighting high support motivates people to register.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateApr 19, 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.

Gender-affirming hormone therapy may increase risk of high blood pressure

A study found that gender-affirming hormone therapy can lead to changes in blood pressure among transgender men and women, with an average decrease in systolic blood pressure for women and increase for men. The study highlights the importance of monitoring blood pressure and preventive measures in this patient population.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalHYPERTENSION·DateApr 19, 2021

Ice cap study promises new prospects for accurate local climate projections

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen gathered data from the Renland Ice Cap, combining airborne radar, on-site measurements, and satellite data to create a more accurate model. This study now allows for greater precision in projecting local climate conditions for smaller ice caps and glaciers around the world.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalJournal of Glaciology·DateApr 19, 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.

Biomarker for COVID-19 risk

Researchers identified serum amyloid A (SAA) as a potential biomarker for COVID-19 risk, with higher levels associated with increased inflammation, clot abnormalities, and organ damage. This biomarker could help facilitate early identification of patients requiring aggressive management and monitoring.

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternational Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateApr 18, 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.

World's fastest photo-exfoliation

Researchers at Osaka City University have developed a method to exfoliate materials using UV light, achieving the world's fastest rate of 260 microseconds. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize photoactuator production and enable precise manipulation in areas inaccessible to traditional power sources.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalCrystal Growth & Design·DateApr 18, 2021

Corals go hungry long before they bleach

Researchers found that prolonged warm water causes coral heat stress, disrupting nutrient cycling and leading to starved corals. Monitoring nutritional status can help anticipate bleaching problems.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 2021

Run, process, run!

Researchers create nanostructured bimetallic catalysts with enhanced activity and stability, offering a cost-effective alternative to noble metal-based catalysts. The new material is stabilized on a conductive surface using a polymeric material, enabling predictable catalysis performance.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalNanoscale Advances·DateApr 18, 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.

Scientists find Galapagos volcano could help forecast future eruptions

Researchers have gained new insights into volcanic behavior and can now track unrest before eruptions, enabling early warnings for local authorities and the public. The study provides a detailed description of Sierra Negra's 2018 eruption, capturing its inflation, fracture, and caldera resurgence.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 17, 2021

Heart patients advised to move more to avoid heart attacks and strokes

A large study found that increasing physical activity levels is associated with a reduced likelihood of heart events and mortality in people with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Participants who showed moderate to large improvements in physical activity were 30% less likely to develop cardiovascular disease or die ...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateApr 17, 2021

Alpine plants are losing their white "protective coat"

Alpine plants are losing their white protective coat as snow cover melts earlier, extending the growing season and increasing frost risk. By the end of the century, continuous snow cover for 30 days below 1,600 meters is expected to be rare.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalClimatic Change·DateApr 16, 2021

Fast radio bursts shown to include lower frequency radio waves than previously detected

A team of researchers from McGill University has made a groundbreaking discovery about fast radio bursts (FRBs), revealing that they include lower frequency radio waves than previously detected. The study used the combined capacities of two radio telescopes, CHIME and LOFAR, to detect FRBs at frequencies as low as 110 MHz, shedding new...

SourceMcGill University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 16, 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.

Study sheds light on stellar origin of 60Fe

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the stellar beta-decay rate of 59Fe, which is essential for predicting the yield of 60Fe in massive stars. By measuring this rate, they eliminated a major nuclear uncertainty and found that the yield of 60Fe is 40% less than previously predicted.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 16, 2021

Hidden magma pools pose eruption risks that we can't yet detect

Researchers have discovered surprisingly shallow magma pools too small to be detected by common volcano monitoring equipment, posing new risks for eruptions. These hidden magma bodies challenge conventional views of magma detection and may lead to more explosive eruptions than expected.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateApr 16, 2021

ACS Spring 2021 press conference schedule

New methods to detect doping compounds in urine samples using ion mobility-mass spectrometry will help regulatory agencies track existing dopants and future 'designer' compounds. Baltic amber's therapeutic effects have been pinpointed, potentially leading to new medicines for antibiotic-resistant infections. Scientists also report a wa...

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateApr 16, 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.

New understanding of the deleterious immune response in rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers at Monash University have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the deleterious immune response in rheumatoid arthritis. By examining the molecular and cellular levels of T cell recognition, the team identified an immune signature that may provide a potential avenue for diagnostic development or therapeutic inter...

SourceMonash University·JournalScience Immunology·DateApr 16, 2021