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Science News Archive April 2021 - Page 29


Page 29 of 46

How nonprofits can drive more giving from their current donor base

Researchers identified strategies to increase repeat giving from individual donors and identify more committed givers. Multiple giving options and targeted marketing helped retain givers for longer periods. The study provides insights to nonprofits to structure their fundraising efforts and increase the impact of every dollar raised.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateApr 14, 2021

Mystery canine illness identified

A 2019-2020 canine vomiting outbreak was identified as a variant of canine enteric coronavirus (CeCoV), affecting male dogs more than females. A national surveillance system is being developed to monitor canine health.

SourceLancaster University·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateApr 14, 2021

Most young people eager for COVID-19 vaccine, poll shows

A recent survey of youth aged 14-24 found that most are willing to get vaccinated against COVID-19, with 75% unconditionally willing or already vaccinated. Black young people were more likely to express concerns about vaccine safety.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·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.

Magic mushroom compound performs at least as well as leading antidepressant in small study

In a small study, psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, was found to be at least as effective as a leading antidepressant medication in reducing depressive symptoms. The results showed that depression scores decreased more quickly and were greater in magnitude in the psilocybin group compared to the escitalopram group.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 14, 2021

Social wasps lose face recognition abilities in isolation

A new study found that solitary paper wasps experience reduced facial recognition abilities due to lack of social interaction. This impact is reflected in smaller visual areas of their brains, affecting individual identity processing and social behavior.

SourceCornell University·JournalBiology Letters·DateApr 14, 2021

Researchers map brain regions responsible for intoxicating effects of alcohol

A new study maps brain regions responsible for alcohol's intoxicating effects, revealing that acetate produced in the brain plays a key role in cognitive impairment. The research also suggests that abnormalities in enzyme production can lead to detrimental effects associated with alcohol misuse.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalNature Metabolism·DateApr 14, 2021

Increased risk of liver cancer in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver

A new registry study linked non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD) to a 17-fold increased risk of liver cancer, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma. NAFLD patients were also found to have a higher risk of other cancers, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions and personalized screening strategies.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalHepatology·DateApr 14, 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.

Get your head in the game -- One gene's role in cranial development

A study by researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University found that the Distal-less homeobox 5 (Dlx5) gene plays a significant role in directing cell fate in the mouse head. Higher expression levels of Dlx5 were linked to enhanced cartilage and bone formation, suggesting its importance in proper cranial development.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 14, 2021

Mediterranean diet with lean beef may lower risk factors for heart disease

A randomized controlled study found that a Mediterranean diet combined with small portions of lean beef helped lower LDL cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol levels. The study suggests that healthy diets can include a wide variety of foods, including red meat, while still being heart-friendly.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateApr 14, 2021

UBCO engineer cautions pregnant women about speed bumps

Researchers found that accelerating over speed bumps poses a danger for pregnant women and their fetuses, leading to minor injuries to the fetal brain and other complications. The study advises drivers to slow down over 45km/h when hitting a speedbump, with even lower speeds recommended for maximum safety.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Biomechanics·DateApr 13, 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.

ETRI develops a haptic film activated by LEDs

A Korean research team developed a technology generating various vibrations using LED light signals, allowing for localized and varied tactile sensations. The technology, developed by ETRI, is expected to be applied to industries such as automobiles and electronics, offering improved feedback and durability.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 13, 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.

Researchers discover new way to monitor & prevent nerve cell deterioration after TBI

A new study reveals a potential mechanism linking traumatic brain injury (TBI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD), as well as a method for preventing nerve cell degeneration after injury. Researchers discovered a blood biomarker of neurodegeneration that could stage severity and progression of TBI-induced nerve cell deterioration.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalCell·DateApr 13, 2021

Inside the protein channel that keeps bacteria alive

Researchers at Rockefeller University have developed a novel method to activate and visualize protein channels in bacteria, shedding light on their function. The findings offer potential new avenues for designing antibiotic drugs that target these channels, which are essential for bacterial survival.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2021

Elusive particle may point to undiscovered physics

Researchers confirm the original findings that suggested a significant discrepancy in the muon's magnetic field from the Standard Model prediction. This discovery may indicate the presence of an undiscovered type of fundamental physics, leading to further investigation into the nature of particles and forces.

SourceCornell University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 13, 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.

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.

Towards automatic design for freeform optics

Researchers developed a result-diversified automatic design method for freeform optics, generating various three-mirror systems with high imaging qualities. The method provides a brand new thought for fully automatic optical design, enabling exploration of solution spaces and changing the working mode in engineering applications.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateApr 13, 2021

New research shows how immune response to TB differs in babies

New research reveals fundamental differences in how baby and adult immune cells respond to TB, with a greater ability of adult cells to shift their energy profile after infection. The study highlights the importance of understanding how the immune system uses energy to develop better treatments for vulnerable populations.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateApr 13, 2021

Narratives can help science counter misinformation on vaccines

Author Michael Dahlstrom's paper examines how narratives or storytelling can help counter misinformation on vaccines by providing context and connection between facts. This approach recognizes the disproportionate influence of narratives on attitudes and behaviors, and highlights their potential as a tool for public health education.

SourceIowa State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 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.

Amoeba biology reveals potential treatment target for lung disease

Researchers identified a genetic pathway that could help treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by sweeping out excess mucus from the lungs. The pathway involves the ANT2 gene, which produces proteins that enhance cilia function and hydration layer formation in lung cells.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Cell Science·DateApr 13, 2021

Joyful screams perceived more strongly than screams of fear or anger

Researchers at the University of Zurich found that humans respond more quickly and with higher sensitivity to positive screams, which indicate joy, than to negative screams. The study revealed six distinct types of scream calls, including pain, anger, fear, pleasure, sadness, and joy.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 13, 2021

DNA structure itself is involved in genome regulation

A recent study published in Cell Reports reveals that DNA supercoiling is involved in regulating gene expression, rather than being just collateral damage. The researchers found that specific genes are massively activated in response to stimuli, and topoisomerase TOP2A plays a crucial role in this process.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 13, 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.

Lundquist investigator Chang's study in JAMA Internal Medicine

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that training physicians to use time-limited trials of ICU treatments improves the quality of family meetings. This approach engages families in decision-making, reducing unnecessary ICU treatments for critically ill patients with poor prognoses.

SourceThe Lundquist Institute·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 13, 2021

Unlocking richer intracellular recordings

A team of Carnegie Mellon University researchers has developed a novel microelectrode platform using 3D fuzzy graphene to enable richer intracellular recordings of cardiac action potentials. This advancement could revolutionize research on neurodegenerative and cardiac diseases, as well as the development of new therapeutic strategies.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 13, 2021

Life expectancy lower near superfund sites

A nationwide review of hazardous waste sites found that living near a Superfund site could decrease life expectancy by over two months. Those with lower incomes and sociodemographic disadvantage face the greatest risk, with decreases in life expectancy ranging from seven to 15 months.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2021

'Our Changing Menu': Warming climate serves up meal remake

A new book from Cornell University Press explores how climate change will alter the world's dinner plate. Rising temperatures and changing weather patterns threaten staple crops like rice, avocados, and bananas, with some varieties facing yields reduced by up to 80%.

SourceCornell University·DateApr 13, 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.

New method of artificially creating genetic switches for yeast

Researchers from Kobe University and Chiba University developed a flexible method to create genetic switches for yeast, allowing for the control of gene expression. They successfully produced yeast that biosynthesized orange pigment under AND-gated control, paving the way for sophisticated, artificially regulated cells.

SourceKobe University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2021

Atom interferometry demonstrated in space for the first time

A team of scientists has demonstrated atom interferometry on a sounding rocket, enabling precise measurements of gravity and potentially detecting gravitational waves. The success of this experiment marks a significant milestone in the field of quantum technologies.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2021

Tree hydraulics and water relations: Why trees die as a result of drought

Researchers discovered that trees experience a sudden collapse in their hydraulic systems during drought, leading to rapid death. The study found that this collapse occurs much sooner than previously thought, highlighting the importance of understanding tree water relations.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2021

Researchers streamline molecular assembly line to design, test drug compounds

By identifying key residues that affect extender unit selection, scientists can create molecules with improved efficacy against antibiotic resistance. This breakthrough enables precise reprogramming of the biosynthetic assembly line, paving the way for the design and testing of new drug compounds.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 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.

Airborne laser scanning of gaps in Amazon rainforest helps explain tree mortality

A study using airborne laser scanning found that water stress, soil fertility, and anthropic forest degradation contribute to tree mortality in the Amazon. The researchers mapped gaps in the forest using LiDAR data, which showed a significant correlation with field mortality patterns.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 13, 2021

Novel theory addresses centuries-old physics problem

A new study by Hebrew University researcher Professor Barak Kol introduces a novel approach to the three-body problem, predicting the probability of each body escaping the system. The theory avoids infinite probabilities and provides strong agreement with computer simulations, indicating a paradigm shift in understanding the system.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalCelestial Mechanics and Dynamical Astronomy·DateApr 13, 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.

Scaling up genome editing big in tiny worms

Researchers use CRISPR-Cas9 to introduce thousands of mutations into C. elegans worms, then analyze the effects on physical traits and functions. They discover a surprise finding that mutations in specific microRNA binding sites can affect gene expression.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 13, 2021

Psychedelic experience may not be required for psilocybin's antidepressant-like benefits

Researchers found that psilocybin restored the pleasure response in mice with depression, even when the psychedelic effects were blocked. The study suggests that a version of the drug without or with less psychedelic effects could be developed to make therapy more accessible and cost-effective.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2021

Closer to human -- Mouse model more accurately reproduces fatty liver disease

Researchers developed a chimeric mouse model that accurately reproduces human non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by combining both human and murine cells. The study reveals striking differences in liver cell behavior, metabolism, and gene expression, providing new insights into the disease's mechanisms.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJHEP Reports·DateApr 13, 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.

Physical activity may reduce risk of poor COVID-19 outcomes

A Kaiser Permanente study found that regular physical activity significantly reduced the risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes, including hospitalization, ICU admission, and death. Even inconsistent exercise provided some protection against poor outcomes.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateApr 13, 2021

Finding resiliency in local, community news gathering

Community newspapers across the US are reevaluating their business models in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, embracing self-advocacy and exploring new revenue streams. Journalists are now open to discussing the challenges facing their profession and recognizing the importance of community investment.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournalism Practice·DateApr 13, 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.

Inflammation a key to targeting pregnancy-associated breast cancer

Researchers found that breast cancer cells trigger uncontrolled inflammation and remodel tissue, making the cancer more aggressive. The study suggests targeting inflammatory pathways could improve treatment outcomes for pregnant women with breast cancer.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 13, 2021

Gene therapy shows promise in treating rare eye disease in mice

A gene therapy protects eye cells in mice with a rare disorder, suggesting a combination approach may preserve vision in people with retinitis pigmentosa. Researchers found that using Txnip gene therapies, along with treatments for oxidative stress and inflammation, provided additional protection for the cells.

SourceeLife·DateApr 13, 2021

Doctors still reluctant to prescribe medical cannabis: McMaster

Despite growing demand, Ontario doctors are hesitant to prescribe medical cannabis due to potential ill-effects and limited knowledge about its effectiveness as a painkiller. The study highlights the need for more evidence, education, and guidance to help physicians better assist patients seeking this treatment.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCMAJ Open·DateApr 13, 2021

Cloth face covering curbs exercise performance and physical capacity

A small clinical trial found that cloth face coverings reduce exercise performance and increase shortness of breath and claustrophobia at higher intensities. The researchers suggest modifying exercise frequency, intensity, duration, and type to compensate for the discomfort associated with mask-wearing.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateApr 13, 2021

3D biomaterial used as 'sponge' for stem cell therapy to reverse arthritis

Researchers develop a 3D biomaterial scaffold that slowly releases stem cells, reducing dosages and improving therapeutic effects in mice with osteoarthritis. The cryogel 'sponge' ensures implanted stem cells stay in the knee joint area longer, allowing for more effective treatment.

SourceDepartment of Orthopedics, Wuhan Union Hospital·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateApr 13, 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.