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Science News Archive March 2021 - Page 15


Page 15 of 53

New anti-cancer therapy: Converting glioma cells into neurons

A novel gene therapy has been developed to convert glioma cells into functional neurons, offering a new approach to treating the disease. This technology may prolong treatment time by arresting rapid proliferation of malignant glioma cells.

SourceGuangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University·JournalCancer Biology and Medicine·DateMar 23, 2021

Changes in Antarctic marine ecosystems

A new study reveals that intense summer blooms of phytoplankton alter the structure of coastal benthic systems in Antarctica. The research team analyzed C and N stable isotopes to identify ecological niches of marine species, finding a significant geographical variation in carbon sources.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalMarine Environmental Research·DateMar 23, 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.

In-person, telehealth care, costs before, during COVID-19 pandemic

The study analyzed patterns of care among working-age individuals enrolled in private health plans from March 2019 to June 2020. The findings revealed significant changes in healthcare utilization and costs during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for adaptive healthcare strategies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 23, 2021

A divided visual field

Researchers discovered that hummingbird hawkmoths divide their visual field into two areas: one for flight control in the lower half and another for orientation in the upper half. Optic flow in the lower half provides information on movement and flight speed, while patterns in the upper half are used for orientation.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 23, 2021

'Zombie' genes? Research shows some genes come to life in the brain after death

Researchers found that certain genes in inflammatory cells called glial cells increased their activity and grew longer appendages after death. This discovery challenges current understanding of post-mortem gene expression and cell activity, which may impact research on disorders like autism, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 23, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Telehealth consults increased more than 50-fold among privately insured working-age patients during first phase of the pandemic

A study found that telehealth consults accounted for nearly 24% of outpatient consults, with mental health consults leading the way in COVID-19 hot spots. The use of telehealth was associated with lower medical care costs, with a 15% drop in total costs per person per month.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 23, 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.

World-first aged care monitoring and alert technology unveiled

The REMi system, featuring innovative sensor tech developed by RMIT University, has been launched to deliver real-time and non-invasive resident monitoring and alerts. It enables the aged care workforce to non-intrusively monitor residents during the night and receive alerts at critical moments.

SourceRMIT University·DateMar 23, 2021

Short-lived plant species are more climate-sensitive

Researchers found that plant characteristics like generation time can predict how sensitive species are to changing climates. Short-lived plant species were shown to be particularly vulnerable to climate extremes. The study highlights the need for new population ecology research on woody plant species and tropical plants.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 23, 2021

USPSTF statement on screening for hearing loss in older adults

The USPSTF recommends no routine screening for hearing loss in asymptomatic adults 50 and older due to insufficient evidence. Nearly 16% of U.S. adults report difficulty hearing, which is associated with increased risks of falls, hospitalizations, social isolation, and cognitive decline.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 23, 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.

Physical activity helps curb low-grade inflammation in children

A recent Finnish study found that accumulating brisk and vigorous physical activity can curb adiposity-induced low-grade inflammation in children. The study, conducted among researchers from Finland and the UK, also reported no independent association between diet quality and low-grade inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalEuropean Journal of Sport Science·DateMar 23, 2021

Researchers hunt for drugs that keep HIV latent

A team of researchers from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has identified five new chemicals that can promote latency in HIV, providing a potential solution to the disease. By screening over 1800 compounds, they discovered compounds that can suppress viral reactivation and reduce the risk of disease progression.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 23, 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.

Fewer rural students applying to medical school

The number of rural students applying to medical school has decreased over the past 15 years, raising concerns about access to primary care providers in these areas. The study found that socioeconomic factors, such as limited educational opportunities and financial constraints, contribute to this trend.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateMar 23, 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.

Neutrons reveal unpredicted binding between SARS-CoV-2, hepatitis C antiviral drug

Researchers used neutron scattering to investigate interactions between telaprevir and the SARS-CoV-2 main protease, discovering unforeseen changes in electric charges that were not predicted by computer simulations. This finding suggests that assumptions about binding behaviors should be based on individual atom-level observations rat...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateMar 23, 2021

Containing the coronavirus effects on the nervous system

Research from INRS identifies ways to prevent coronavirus infection in the central nervous system, using protein S cleavage and innate immunity. The study suggests two potential therapeutic approaches to limit viral spread and severity of neurological disorders.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalJournal of Virology·DateMar 23, 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.

Scientists observe complex tunable magnetism in a topological material

Researchers at Ames Laboratory observe complex helical magnetic ordering in EuIn2As2, a topological compound that supports exotic electrical conduction. The discovery has significant implications for functional topological properties and may lead to advanced technology applications.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 23, 2021

Scientists created edible food films for food packaging

Researchers from India and Russia developed edible film technology using sodium alginate and ferulic acid, extending shelf life and preventing oxidation processes. The films can be produced at a low cost and meet food production standards.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalJournal of Food Engineering·DateMar 23, 2021

Giant fossil's 'bird-brain'

Researchers examine brain structures of extinct giant birds, finding similarities with modern chickens and ducks. The analysis reveals that these ancient birds had well-developed stereoscopic vision and a diet of soft leaves and fruit.

SourceFlinders University·JournalDiversity·DateMar 23, 2021

Demonstration of unconventional transverse thermoelectric generation

Researchers at NIMS demonstrated a record-high transverse thermopower using a composite of thermoelectric and magnetic materials. The hybrid structure generated +82 μV/K positive and -41 μV/K negative thermopowers, more than 10 times larger than the previous highest recorded thermopower.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 23, 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.

More than words: Using AI to map how the brain understands sentences

A recent study used neuroimaging and AI to uncover the brain's network for sentence understanding, finding activity in multiple regions including anterior and posterior temporal lobes. The researchers also predict patterns of brain activity using an AI model trained on Facebook data.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·DateMar 23, 2021

Last Ice Age: Precipitation caused maximum advance of Alpine Glaciers

Researchers from the University of Innsbruck found that increased solid precipitation in the Alps between 26,500 and 23,500 years ago caused the ice volume to reach its maximum. This period, known as the Last Glacial Maximum, lasted around 3100 years and was characterized by a significant increase in autumn and winter precipitation.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 23, 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.

How UK, South Africa coronavirus variants escape immunity

The UK and South Africa coronavirus variants are more contagious and deadly than the original virus due to mutations in their spike protein. The Frontera supercomputer aided in building infection models of these variants.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalResearch Ideas and Outcomes·DateMar 23, 2021

Virtual pollination trade uncovers global dependence on biodiversity for food consumption

A recent study assesses global market flows and shows that biodiversity conservation is essential to sustain consumption patterns. The researchers discovered a strong link between the expansion of cropland in developing countries and loss of pollinator habitats, highlighting the need for collaborative governance strategies to balance i...

SourceUniversidade de Brasília·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 23, 2021

Novel thermometer can accelerate quantum computer development

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a novel thermometer to measure temperatures during quantum calculations with extremely high accuracy. The breakthrough provides a benchmarking tool for quantum computing and opens up experiments in quantum thermodynamics.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review X·DateMar 23, 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.

Social context affects gendered views of STEM subjects in England and Japan

A new model explains how social climate surrounding gender roles contributes to the masculine image of physics and mathematics in Japan and England. The study found that negative views of intellectual women are correlated with a masculine image of mathematics only in Japan, while a focus on avoiding sexism affects STEM choice in England.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPublic Understanding of Science·DateMar 23, 2021

Massey researcher finds new strategy for fighting brain cancer

Researchers at VCU Massey Cancer Center have identified a crucial link between the development and growth of glioblastoma multiforme, the most aggressive type of brain cancer. The gene YTHDF2 drives increased cholesterol levels in GBM cells, paving the way for potential new treatments targeting this gene.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 23, 2021

Medicaid expansion made mouths healthier, study finds

A new study found that Michigan Medicaid expansion's dental coverage improved oral health in 57% of enrollees, with Black respondents and those uninsured for a year or more experiencing the greatest improvements. The program also helped participants find work or improve their job search by 76%.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Public Health Dentistry·DateMar 23, 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.

Partnership with churches increases COVID-19 vaccine delivery among Black population

A partnership between Loma Linda University and local churches has successfully vaccinated over 400 people in the predominantly Black community of San Bernardino County. The initiative, which included mobile vaccine clinics in church parking lots, resulted in an increase of 3.6% in Black attendance at mass vaccination clinics.

SourceLoma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateMar 23, 2021

How human cells coordinate the start of DNA replication

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have discovered how human cells assemble and disassemble Origin Recognition Complexes to initiate DNA replication. The study reveals a specific interaction between ORC1 protein and CDC6, allowing them to work together in a coordinated manner.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 23, 2021

Algorithms inspired by social networks reveal lifecycle of substorms, a key element of space weather

Researchers at the University of Warwick used social media-inspired algorithms to analyze space weather observations and reveal the lifecycle of substorms. The study shows that these substorms manifest as global-scale electrical current systems associated with the aurora, covering most of the Earth's night-side at high latitudes.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 23, 2021

Exercise boosts blood flow to the brain, study finds

A new study by researchers at UT Southwestern shows that exercise programs for older adults with mild memory loss can increase blood flow to their brains. The results add to growing evidence linking exercise with brain health, suggesting that regular aerobic exercise may help improve cognition and memory in healthy older adults.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·DateMar 23, 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.

Though risk is minuscule, infection after COVID-19 vaccination is possible

A recent study of vaccinated healthcare workers found a low overall positivity rate among fully immunized individuals, supporting high protection rates of COVID-19 vaccines. However, the authors noted an elevated risk of infection after vaccination, possibly due to differences in demographics and behaviors.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 23, 2021

Corals may need their predators' poop

A recent study reveals that coral-eating fish excrete symbiotic dinoflagellate algae by the millions, potentially keeping reefs healthy. This unexpected twist on coral reef symbiosis confirms that poop from coral-eating fish is an important environmental source of beneficial coral symbionts.

SourceRice University·JournalAnimal Microbiome·DateMar 23, 2021

The economic fallout from a #MeToo scandal

New research from Copenhagen Business School found that sexual harassment incidents can cause significant financial losses for companies, with an average impact of $450 million. The study looked at nearly 200 incidents, including those involving high-profile companies like Disney and Facebook, and found that CEOs involved in the scanda...

SourceCopenhagen Business School·JournalJournal of Corporate Finance·DateMar 23, 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.

Taking microelectronics to a new dimension

Researchers from Fraunhofer ITWM and Technische Universität Kaiserslautern create a new photosensitive material that enables the fabrication of highly conductive microcomponents via direct laser writing. The approach demonstrates high material density and on-chip compatibility, offering vast potential for improving antenna performance.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMar 23, 2021

Outpatient management following diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism

A study of over 61,000 patients with acute pulmonary embolism found that disposition practices vary significantly between hospitals, resulting in high emergency department revisit rates. Most return visits did not lead to hospitalization, highlighting the need for standardized care and improved outpatient management protocols.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateMar 23, 2021

How to prevent and treat high blood pressure with exercise

The European Society of Cardiology recommends specific exercises for individuals based on their current blood pressure level. For those with hypertension, aerobic exercise is the most effective method to lower blood pressure. For people with high-normal blood pressure, dynamic resistance training is recommended, while those with normal...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateMar 23, 2021

Discovery of non-toxic semiconductors with a direct band gap in the near-infrared

Researchers at NIMS and Tokyo Institute of Technology have discovered a non-toxic semiconductor with a direct band gap in the near-infrared range. The compound, Ca3SiO, exhibits great potential to serve as a direct transition semiconductor, potentially replacing toxic elements like mercury and cadmium in existing infrared semiconductors.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalInorganic Chemistry·DateMar 23, 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.

Representation of Black Americans in clinical trials of cardiovascular drugs

A study by Jiarui Li and colleagues investigated representation of Black Americans in clinical trials for cardiovascular drugs approved by the FDA between 2006 and 2020. The researchers found that Black Americans were underrepresented in these trials, highlighting a need for increased diversity in clinical research.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 23, 2021