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Science News Archive April 2021 - Page 27


Page 27 of 46

COVID-19 in combination with hemorrhagic stroke doubles death risk

A new study found that COVID-19 significantly increases the risk of in-hospital death among patients with hemorrhagic stroke, leading to longer hospital stays and more medical complications. Patients from racial and ethnic minorities, as well as those with obesity and diabetes, were particularly vulnerable.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 14, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

In pig brain development, nature beats nurture

Researchers found that piglets raised in a laboratory environment developed brain structures and function comparable to those raised on a traditional farm. The study used MRI scans to assess brain development over time and found no significant differences between the two groups.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateApr 14, 2021

Climate change is making Indian monsoon seasons more chaotic

The study predicts stronger and more erratic monsoon rainfall in India, with potentially grave consequences for the country's agriculture, economy, and food systems. Climate change is also causing more unpredictable weather extremes, posing a threat to the socio-economic well-being of the Indian subcontinent.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalEarth System Dynamics·DateApr 14, 2021

Protein can release trapped histones in the cell

Researchers discovered that protein DNAJC9 actively engages cellular protein folding machinery to release trapped histones. This process is crucial for proper chromatin organization and is essential for cancer cell viability.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalMolecular Cell·DateApr 14, 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.

Diabetes drug shows potential in fighting cancer

A new study suggests that immunotherapies combined with phenformin may be an effective way to fight cancer. Researchers found that phenformin has structural and therapeutic advantages over its sister compound metformin, which was previously used as an anti-diabetic agent.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalTrends in Cancer·DateApr 14, 2021

Adults who view TV and social media as news sources on COVID are less informed

A new study published in Current Medical Research & Opinion found that adults who trust television and Facebook for news about the coronavirus pandemic are less knowledgeable. The survey of 5,948 adults in Pennsylvania showed that those who relied on social media and TV for news were less likely to answer COVID-19 questions correctly.

SourcePenn State·JournalCurrent Medical Research and Opinion·DateApr 14, 2021

Climate change is making it harder to get a good cup of coffee

A new study finds that climate change may lead to a decline in suitable areas for high-quality specialty coffee types in Ethiopia, threatening the country's economy and coffee industry. The researchers suggest that tailored adaptation measures are needed to mitigate this trend.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 14, 2021

How to gain a sense of well-being, free and online

Researchers at Johns Hopkins and Yale found that free online courses teaching principles of positive psychology can enrich lives, reporting greater mental health benefits than a comparable course without exercises.

SourceYale University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 14, 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.

NIAID funds new influenza research network

The Centers for Excellence in Influenza Research and Response (CEIRR) will conduct studies on influenza-related research areas, including immune responses to vaccination and infection, and zoonotic transmission. The network will also study SARS-CoV-2 and other emerging viruses of pandemic potential.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 14, 2021

The ACMG Foundation presents 2021 Pfizer/ACMG Foundation Next Generation Fellowship Awards

Christina Tise, MD, PhD, and Daniel Pomerantz, MD, have been selected as recipients of the 2021 Pfizer/ACMG Foundation Next Generation Fellowship Awards to pursue postgraduate training in clinical laboratory biochemical genetics and medical biochemical genetics. The awards support their one-year fellowships at Stanford University and C...

SourceAmerican College of Medical Genetics and Genomics·DateApr 14, 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 diabetes subgroups show differences in biomarkers of inflammation

Researchers have identified five novel diabetes subgroups with distinct biomarker profiles, highlighting the importance of inflammation in diabetes-related complications. These differences may enable early detection and therapy in individual subgroups, particularly those with severe insulin resistance.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalDiabetes·DateApr 14, 2021

A European project to develop electrodeless plasma thrusters

The ZARATHUSTRA project aims to develop electrodeless plasma thrusters that consume less propellant, allowing for longer and more ambitious space missions. The new thruster design features a U-shaped geometry and a toroidal magnetic field, which should improve efficiency and durability.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·DateApr 14, 2021

Telling sunbathers what they don't want to hear: Tanning is bad

Researchers at Ohio State University found that using simple language and targeting specific audiences can increase the effectiveness of health campaigns. The study suggests that understanding audience psychology and designing messages with relevance in mind are crucial for changing behavior, especially when conveying risk information.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCommunication Studies·DateApr 14, 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.

Bacteria that cause periodontitis are transmitted from parents to children

A study by researchers at the University of Campinas found that adults with periodontitis transmit bacteria to their children, leading to subgingival bacterial colonization at an early age. This highlights the importance of preventive care in infancy to avoid developing this inflammatory disease of the gums.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 14, 2021

How we can reduce food waste and promote healthy eating

Researchers suggest reducing food waste in various settings, including schools, homes, and restaurants, while promoting healthy nutrition. Strategies include implementing behavioral cues, reusing leftovers, and developing cooking education curricula for low-income households.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateApr 14, 2021

Researchers establish intracellular interaction network in breast cancer

Researchers at HSE University have identified key molecules responsible for breast cancer metastasis by developing an algorithm that recreates the networks of intercellular interactions in cancer cells. The program detects prognostic genes, with transcription factor E2F1 playing a major role in predicting patient outcomes.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 14, 2021

Water and quantum magnets share critical physics

Physicists discovered a discontinuous phase transition in a quantum magnet, mirroring the behavior of water, allowing for precise control over its quantum properties. The study reveals critical-point physics, which is essential for understanding topological phases and protected qubits in these materials.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateApr 14, 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.

The American public is responsible for identifying over a quarter of new invasive species

A new study by Resources for the Future found that at least 27% of new invasive pests in the US were initially detected by members of the public. The researchers suggest leveraging the public's role to improve early detection and control of invasive species, which cause significant economic and environmental harm.

SourceResources for the Future (RFF)·JournalConservation Science and Practice·DateApr 14, 2021

New in the Hastings Center Report, March-April 2021

Family clustering is a confirmed phenomenon associated with COVID-19, causing extreme emotional and physical distress among family members. The article provides strategies for patients, doctors, nurses, and families to navigate this challenging situation, including addressing guilt and shame stemming from transmission of the disease.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateApr 14, 2021

SARS-CoV-2: New findings on the persistence of neutralizing antibodies

Research from the Rhineland Study in Bonn, Germany, suggests that neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 decline significantly within 4-5 months after infection. The study found that only about one-third of individuals testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies actually had specific antibodies against the virus.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 14, 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.

Suicides fallen by 4% during the Covid-19 pandemic

An international study of 70 scientists in 21 countries found that suicides fell by 4% during the Covid-19 pandemic, with similar trends reported globally. The study attributes this decline to swift implementation of supportive measures, including psychotherapy and crisis intervention services.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateApr 14, 2021

Picosecond electron transfer in peptides can help energy technologies

Scientists have observed unusually fast picosecond electron transfer in peptides mediated by hydrogen bonds, a rate 1 million times faster than previously known. This discovery has the potential to improve chemical transformations, energy conversion, electronic devices, and photonic technologies.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 14, 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.

When does a bruise on an infant or young child signal abuse?

A refined screening tool called TEN-4-FACESp can improve earlier recognition of child abuse in young children with bruising. The tool reliably signals high risk for abuse when bruising appears on specific body regions.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 14, 2021

ER visits for suicidal behavior declined during the first 8 months of pandemic, U-M study shows

A University of Michigan study found that emergency room visits related to suicide attempts and self-harm decreased by 40% during the first eight months of the pandemic. The decline was observed despite initial concerns about an increase in suicidal behavior during a worldwide crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateApr 14, 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.

Expert reviews discuss key topics in bone disorders and chronic kidney disease

A new special issue of Calcified Tissue International brings together state-of-the-art reviews on key issues in CKD-MBD. The reviews cover topics such as pathogenesis, epidemiology, challenges in management, including after kidney transplantation, and the role of bone biopsy in management.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalCalcified Tissue International·DateApr 14, 2021

Women describe specific techniques to increase their own pleasure

A nationally representative survey of US women identified four techniques to increase pleasure during vaginal penetration: Angling, Rocking, Shallowing, and Pairing. These techniques were previously unnamed in the literature, but provide language for women to communicate and advocate for their sexual pleasure.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 14, 2021

Photonic MEMS switches going commercial

Researchers demonstrate commercialization of photonic MEMS switches fabricated on silicon-on-insulator wafers using regular photolithographic and dry-etching processes. The switch design includes a 32x32 matrix of replicated elements, achieving excellent light power loss, optical bandwidth, and switching speed.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateApr 14, 2021

Self-assembling nanofibers prevent damage from inflammation

Researchers at Duke University developed self-assembling nanofibers that activate key cells in the immune system to limit damaging inflammation. The nanofibers, which include a protein called C3dg, were shown to be effective in treating psoriasis and other inflammatory diseases.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 14, 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.

Triple combination therapy shows promise against a rare deadly asbestos cancer

Researchers at University Health Network found that combining immune-boosting drugs with radiation and surgery increased survival and anticancer immune response in mouse models of mesothelioma. The treatment extended survival and provided a durable immune response, even after re-injection of tumour cells up to 12 weeks later.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 14, 2021

Reliably measuring whether rivers or lakes run out of air

A new method introduces faster and more reliable measurement of water pollution by detecting oxygen consumption in wastewater samples. This approach distinguishes between pollutants from sewage and naturally occurring organic matter.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 14, 2021

Protein found to control drivers of normal growth and cancer

A new study reveals a long-sought enzyme, AMBRA1, that prevents cancer by controlling proteins driving cell growth. The findings also suggest that an existing drug class may be able to reverse such defects in the future.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateApr 14, 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.

Suicide risk among nurses, physicians

A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry estimated the risk of suicide among nurses and physicians compared to the general population. The study found that these professionals are at a significantly higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateApr 14, 2021

Dietary cocoa improves health of obese mice; likely has implications for humans

A study by Penn State researchers found that supplementing high-fat-fed mice with cocoa powder reduced the severity of their liver disease and improved markers of oxidative stress. The researchers suggest that similar benefits may be achieved in humans through dietary changes, but caution against overconsumption.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry·DateApr 14, 2021

Counting pedestrians to make pedestrians count

A new model developed by MIT's Andres Sevtsuk can estimate pedestrian journeys and trip distribution, providing a solution for planners and developers to better understand foot traffic in cities. The model uses network analysis and real-world data to calculate pedestrian flows, which can be applied to various urban settings.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Planning Association·DateApr 14, 2021

Backyard bird feeding sparks a songbird 'reverse migration'

Research shows Eurasian Blackcaps, a widespread warbler species, are adapting to changing climate by reversing their migration patterns to spend winters in British Isles backyard gardens. These birds have a steady food supply and better body condition, allowing them to move less and avoid predators more effectively.

SourceCornell University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateApr 14, 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.

Toxic gas in rat brains shows potential for new dementia treatments

Researchers have found that treatments to reduce levels of hydrogen sulfide in the brain may help ward off damage caused by the gas, which is involved in blocking key brain cell gateways. The study shows that H2S disrupts normal brain functioning and can lead to nerve cell death.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 14, 2021

With impressive accuracy, dogs can sniff out coronavirus

A study published in PLOS ONE found that specially trained dogs can identify positive COVID-19 samples with high accuracy, recognizing the unique odor of the infection. The research suggests large-scale training with diverse samples is crucial to ensure quality and validity for future applications.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 14, 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.

Significant spread of all coronavirus variants tracked in Houston area

A new study found that all six currently identified SARS-CoV-2 variants are widely spread across the Houston metropolitan area. Genome sequencing data showed geographically widespread dissemination of variants, with successful patient-to-patient transmission among communities.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateApr 14, 2021

Researchers receive $2.7 million to study sex differences in social reward

Researchers are investigating how oxytocin and dopamine act in the brain's reward circuits to make social interactions rewarding for males and females. The project has the potential to provide new mechanisms for understanding well-known sex differences in neuropsychiatric disorders and spur the development of gender-specific treatments.

SourceGeorgia State University·DateApr 14, 2021

Plasma device designed for consumers can quickly disinfect surfaces

A new plasma device designed for consumers has been demonstrated to eliminate 99.99 percent of bacteria on surfaces, including textiles and metals, in just 90 seconds. The device uses room-temperature plasmas to produce reactive oxygen and nitrogen species that destroy bacterial cell walls and kill cells.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 14, 2021