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Science News Archive May 2021


Page 41 of 47

340B hospitals offer more assistance removing barriers to medication access

According to a new study, hospitals participating in the 340B Drug Pricing Program provide more medication access services than comparably sized non-340B hospitals. The study found that 340B hospitals offered an average of 6.2 services, including prior authorization assistance and free or discounted outpatient medications.

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.

Revealing the impact of 70 years of pesticide use on European soils

A study analyzing 340 European soil samples reveals high levels of pesticide residues in conventional agriculture, while organic farming practices show lower contamination. The research emphasizes the need for regulations and reference points to protect soil biodiversity and quality.

Secondhand smoke linked to higher odds of heart failure

A study by the American College of Cardiology found that nonsmokers exposed to secondhand smoke have a 35% increased risk of developing heart failure. The association was strongest in men and among those with previous heart conditions, highlighting the need for education and stringent smoke-free policies.

Worth 1000 words: How the world saw Australia's black summer

International media focused on wildlife, habitat destruction, and climate change, while Australian outlets prioritized human impact, firefighters, and politicians. This disparity in coverage highlights the distinct visual news values of domestic versus international media.

Prediabetes may not be as benign as once thought

A study by the American College of Cardiology found that people with prediabetes are at a significantly higher risk of heart attacks and strokes compared to those with normal blood sugar levels. The researchers suggest that preventing prediabetes from the start may be the best approach, rather than just focusing on preventing diabetes.

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.

FAU gets CDC grant to test PPE efficacy and workplace virus transmission

Researchers at Florida Atlantic University will assess safety measures against airborne transmission of viral infections. They will evaluate various protective measures, including facemasks and air filters, to develop experimentally verified computational strategies for mitigating airborne transmission.

Pandemic poses health risk to moms of preschoolers

A study published in Women's Health found that the pandemic significantly increased stress levels among mothers with preschoolers, leading to reduced sleep, physical activity, and a higher risk for obesity and poor health. The researchers recommend providing reliable childcare options and support systems to help mothers balance work an...

Reduced kidney function linked to increased risk of dementia

Researchers found that people with reduced kidney function have an increased risk of developing dementia, with those with moderate chronic kidney disease having a 71% higher risk. The study highlights the importance of identifying and treating cases of kidney disease to reduce the risk of dementia.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Large bumblebees start work earlier

Researchers found that larger, more experienced bumblebees begin foraging at dawn despite poor visibility. This suggests that knowledge of food locations helps them navigate safely, and they can capitalize on the benefits of extra foraging time during early morning.

Personalized sweat sensor reliably monitors blood glucose without finger pricks

Researchers have developed a personalized sweat sensor that accurately estimates blood glucose levels without the need for finger pricks. The device uses a polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel and electrochemical sensors to measure glucose in sweat, providing an accurate estimate of blood sugar levels with an accuracy rate of over 95%.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Researchers create leather-like material from silk proteins

Tufts University researchers develop a silk-based leather material with similar texture and flexibility to real leather, using sustainable sources and environmentally friendly chemical processes. The material can be printed into various patterns and textures and is biodegradable.

Release of drugs from a supramolecular cage

Chemists create supramolecular cage using Pd6(TPT)4 cages that can transport and release pharmaceutically active molecules like ibuprofen and progesterone. The system uses ultrasonification to break the bonds, releasing the drugs at the desired location.

WHO 'needs to act' on suicides caused by pesticides

A recent study has identified discrepancies in World Health Organization (WHO) classifications of pesticide hazards, leading to the continued use of potentially lethal pesticides in developing countries. The researchers propose eliminating all pesticides with fatality rates above five per cent to reduce suicides.

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.

Ancient DNA reveals origin of first Bronze Age civilizations in Europe

The study found that ancient civilizations in Greece were genetically homogenous, suggesting critical innovations like urban centres and metal use came from local Neolithic groups. Migration waves from the Pontic-Caspian steppe also shaped present-day Greece, supporting theories on Indo-European languages.

Meet the freaky fanged frog from the Philippines

Researchers at the University of Kansas have described a new species of fanged frog found in the Philippines, which was previously thought to be the same as another species on a neighboring island. The Mindoro Fanged Frog has distinct genetic differences and unique mating calls, setting it apart from its cousin.

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.

Large study links dementia to poor kidney function

A large observational study by Karolinska Institutet researchers found a clear link between poor kidney function and increased risk of dementia. The study of over 325,000 individuals suggested that an eGFR score of 30-59ml/min was associated with a 71% increased risk of dementia.

Which medications are most toxic to the liver?

A recent study analyzing 156,570 hospitalized patients found that anti-infective agents, cancer medications, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were the most toxic to the liver. Voriconazole, an antifungal medication, was associated with the highest incidence of drug-induced liver injury.

Africa's oldest human burial site uncovered

A team of researchers from CNRS has uncovered the earliest human burial site in Africa, dated to approximately 78,000 years ago. The discovery at Panga ya Saidi in Kenya reveals a complex funerary treatment involving a shroud and potential ritual participation from the child's community.

Biologists discover a trigger for cell extrusion

MIT biologists discovered that cells are squeezed out of tissue when they can't replicate their DNA during cell division. This process, called extrusion, may serve as a way to eliminate cancerous or precancerous cells.

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.

Dark matter detection

Scientists are certain that dark matter exists, but have no direct evidence. Researchers at the University of Delaware propose using tabletop sensors to detect ultralight dark matter particles. They plan to use optomechanical accelerometers to measure changes in acceleration between materials.

CMU lab leads development of pasta that morphs into shape when cooked

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have created flat-packed pasta that forms into familiar shapes when cooked, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional pasta. The pasta's unique grooves control its shape, allowing for reduced packaging, storage, and transportation needs.

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.

Dexamethasone treatment safe in surgery

A large clinical trial has definitively shown that dexamethasone, a steroid commonly used during anaesthesia before surgery, does not increase the risk of surgical wound infections. The study enrolled over 8,700 patients and found no significant difference in wound infection rates between those receiving dexamethasone and placebo.

Elegant constrictions in a cellular kill switch

Researchers have revealed the 3D atomic structure of the human PANX1 protein, a channel pore that plays a crucial role in pyroptosis, a form of cell death triggered by an immune response. The study provides new insights into the mechanism controlling pyroptosis and opens up potential avenues for developing targeted therapies.

Johns Hopkins scientists model Saturn's interior

Researchers simulate conditions necessary for Saturn's unique magnetic field, indicating higher temperatures at the equatorial region and lower temperatures at high latitudes. The findings advance the effort to map Saturn's hidden regions and provide insights into the planet's formation and evolution.

New ant species named in recognition of gender diversity

A new ant species, Strumigenys ayersthey, has been discovered in Ecuador's tropical forests, featuring a trap-jaw morphology and a scientific name that celebrates gender diversity. The species' name, inspired by artist Jeremy Ayers, uses the non-binary suffix -they to recognize non-conventional gender assignments.

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.

New mutation raises risk for AFib, heart failure for people of color

A new genetic mutation found in African Americans significantly increases risk of atrial fibrillation and heart failure, prompting researchers to recommend genetic testing for this population. The study also identifies a potential link between a newly discovered gene and early-onset AFib.

Fundamental regulation mechanism of proteins discovered

Researchers at Göttingen University have identified a completely novel on/off switch in proteins that controls their structure and function. The discovery of this lysine-cysteine redox switch has wide-ranging implications for protein design, medical applications, and drug development.

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.

Light pollution at night affects the calls of migratory birds

Research published in Ibis found that call rates of migratory birds were significantly higher in urban areas compared to villages, indicating a impact of artificial light on bird migration. The study suggests that improved management of urban lighting is necessary to mitigate this effect.

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.

Biophotonics in photomedicine

Researchers are bridging gaps between scientists from different fields to merge knowledge and create innovated, reliable products. Biophotonic innovations are expected to transform healthcare for the next few decades.

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.

Why robots need reflexes - interview

The study used a slap on the hand as a test subject to examine reflexes and their coordination. The researchers found that humans anticipate pain when reacting to potential harm, which could be applied to robot development for improved safety. Robots can learn from human reflex systems to develop intelligent protective mechanisms.

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.

How accurate are virtual assessments of cognitive function?

A study analyzed 121 published studies on virtual and in-person cognitive assessments for diagnosing dementia or mild cognitive impairment. The analysis found good reliability and accuracy of virtual assessments for diagnosing dementia, but identified barriers to implementing cognitive assessments for older adults.

Thin, large-area device converts infrared light into images

A new infrared imager developed by researchers at the University of California San Diego converts shortwave infrared light into visible images using organic semiconductors. The device is compact, simple, and provides better image resolution than existing systems.

Tracking down the tiniest of forces: How T cells detect invaders

Researchers observed T cells exerting a tiny force of up to 5 pico-newtons when recognizing antigens, allowing them to determine if the interaction is with the desired antigen. This study provides insights into how T cells function at the molecular level and could lead to significant advances in medicine.

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.