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Science News Archive May 2021 - Page 44


Page 44 of 47

New look at a bright stellar nursery

High-resolution VLA radio images of W49A show changes in ionized gas regions, including new activity and supersonic gas motions. Astronomers plan to continue observing this region to track changes and reveal details about star formation processes.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateMay 4, 2021

Concussions among US adolescents

A recent survey study estimated that the percentage of US adolescents who reported at least one diagnosed concussion during their lifetime has increased. The study found that nearly 3% of adolescents in the United States experienced a concussion, with higher rates among males and those participating in contact sports.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 4, 2021

New clinical practice guideline on community acquired pneumonia

The American Thoracic Society has published a new clinical practice guideline on community-acquired pneumonia, addressing the use of nucleic acid-based testing for non-influenza viral pathogens. The guidelines recommend testing only for patients with severe CAP or immunocompromised patients.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMay 4, 2021

Being around children makes adults more generous

A new study found that adults are up to twice as likely to donate to charity when children are around, indicating a 'child salience effect'. The presence of children influences compassionate motivations and behaviors in adults. This effect was observed across different age groups, parents, and non-parents.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateMay 4, 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.

Prenatal environmental contaminants and childhood disease

The Pediatric Academic Societies meeting discussed prenatal environmental contaminants and childhood disease, highlighting epigenetic mechanisms associated with transgenerational disease. Three generational animal models demonstrated that fetal exposure to pesticides, dioxins, and other toxins leads to multigenerational diseases.

SourcePediatric Academic Societies·DateMay 4, 2021

Matching exascale supercomputers work with complex petascale data

George Slota, a computer scientist at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, has been granted a $490,000 grant to develop approaches for mapping complex petascale data to exascale hardware. His work aims to create scalable open-source software and frameworks to enable the broader scientific community to easily address these challenges.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateMay 4, 2021

Snakeskin can inspire to safer buildings

New research from Aarhus University and UC Davis investigates the interaction between soil types and snake-inspired surface geometries. The study found that piles with asymmetric micro-structural features increase load-bearing capacity in sand, reducing resistance during installation by 25-50%.

SourceAarhus University·JournalActa Geotechnica·DateMay 4, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Changes in proteins play important role in aging kidneys

Researchers studied age-related changes in kidney function, combining protein analysis with gene transcription. They found that aging kidneys have increased immune cells, inflammation, and decreased mitochondrial energy production. This suggests that therapies promoting protein building or slowing breakdown may help treat age-related k...

SourceeLife·DateMay 4, 2021

People with familial longevity show better cognitive aging

Individuals from long-lived families demonstrate improved baseline cognitive performance compared to their spouses. The study also found a slower rate of cognitive decline in younger generations within these families, particularly on the symbol coding test.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalGerontology·DateMay 4, 2021

Using personalized medicine to avoid resistance to leukemia treatment

A new combination treatment targeting two proteins may improve survival for T-ALL patients who don't respond to standard chemotherapy. By inhibiting Kinase C and Notch1, researchers aim to overcome drug resistance and enhance treatment efficacy.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 4, 2021

Research reveals Medicaid expansion is still improving hospital finances

A new study published in Medical Care Research and Review found that Medicaid expansion provided a financial boost to hospitals, with uncompensated care costs declining by 28% in states that expanded Medicaid relative to 2013 levels. The study analyzed critical data at state and national levels using IRS and CMS data sources.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalMedical Care Research and Review·DateMay 4, 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.

A sweet solution to hard brain implants

Researchers at McGill University developed a novel approach using silicone and sugar to create the softest brain implant yet. The new implants have shown reduced inflammation and higher neuronal density compared to traditional hard implants.

SourceMcGill University·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateMay 4, 2021

The next four years: Forecasting child health policy issues

The Pediatric Academic Societies Meeting predicts major child health legislative and policy changes over the next four years. The session will focus on five key areas, including health insurance coverage, pediatric drug development, and healthcare disparities/poverty, with experts estimating their impact on vulnerable populations.

SourcePediatric Academic Societies·DateMay 4, 2021

New study traces back the progenitor genomes causing COVID-19 and geospatial spread

Researchers reconstructed the SARS-CoV-2 progenitor genome, finding it was circulating worldwide months before the first reported cases of COVID-19 in China. The team's findings provide a genetic common ancestor to all current infections and could aid molecular epidemiology detective work.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateMay 4, 2021

The micro-environment of breast cancer in three dimensions

Researchers cultivated tumor microenvironments using metastatic triple-negative breast cancer cells and studied the genetic information of entire systems. They found that cellular communication in the microenvironment drives physiological changes in tumor behavior, including growth and movement.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Biology·DateMay 4, 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.

Chronic attack on the aging nervous system

Researchers discover that cytotoxic CD8+ T cells contribute to aging-related degeneration in the central nervous system, leading to motor and cognitive decline. The study provides a potential therapeutic target for mitigating age-related decline.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Aging·DateMay 4, 2021

Mobile gaming app enhances HIV care

Researchers developed a mobile gaming application to improve HIV care for young men living with the virus, achieving viral suppression and near-perfect ART adherence through gamification elements and social networking features. The app was shown to provide a significant head start in controlling the HIV virus.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalAIDS and Behavior·DateMay 4, 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.

Focused ultrasound enables precise noninvasive therapy

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a new noninvasive therapy using low-intensity focused ultrasound that can target specific cell types in the brain. The technology has shown promise in treating conditions such as Parkinson's Disease, epilepsy and insomnia.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 4, 2021

Human mesenchymal stem cells show promise in treating chronic lung infections

Researchers have developed a new model of NTM lung infection and found that human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are effective in treating this condition. The study identified donor-specific hMSC potency against NTMs, which could lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients with chronic NTM lung disease.

SourceAlphaMed Press·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateMay 4, 2021

The sensitive brain at rest

Researchers found that highly sensitive individuals' brains show activity suggesting depth of processing after emotionally evocative tasks. This trait is associated with a heightened appreciation of beauty and deeper bonds with others.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNeuropsychobiology·DateMay 4, 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.

Study explores how private equity acquisitions impact hospitals

A new study of short-term acute care hospitals acquired by private equity firms found that they have higher markups and profit margins, but slower staffing growth. Hospitals acquired by private equity firms had operating margins 5.6 percentage points higher than non-private hospitals at the start of the period.

SourceRice University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMay 4, 2021

One cup of leafy green vegetables a day lowers risk of heart disease

A recent study from Edith Cowan University found that consuming one cup of nitrate-rich leafy greens daily significantly reduces the risk of heart disease. The study, which examined data from over 50,000 people in Denmark, also revealed lower blood pressure and reduced risk of heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalEuropean Journal of Epidemiology·DateMay 4, 2021

Cancer researchers study cognitive dysfunction after chemo

Researchers are testing cognitive behavioral therapy called Memory and Attention Adaptation Training (MAAT) to improve memory problems and emotional resilience among breast cancer survivors. The study aims to evaluate the effects of MAAT and supportive therapy on cognitive dysfunction after chemotherapy.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateMay 4, 2021

Circadian rhythm research could turn early birds into night owls

Researchers have identified a complex network of genes controlling sleep cycles that can be understood and potentially changed. This knowledge could lead to medicines for individuals with disrupted circadian rhythms and improved crop production.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateMay 4, 2021

Forty years of nursing science in HIV/AIDS: JANAC marks progress and challenges

The Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care (JANAC) marks 40 years of nursing science in HIV/AIDS, highlighting lessons learned and ways forward. Nurse researchers lead the way in improving HIV prevention and patient care, particularly for women and minority populations.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care·DateMay 4, 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.

Laser light makes a comeback (literally)

Researchers from Osaka University have made a groundbreaking discovery about the behavior of laser pulses in free space. They found that laser pulse intensity can propagate in a straight line, with the forward-propagating velocity being the speed of light and the backward-propagating velocity being subluminal.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCommunications Physics·DateMay 4, 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.

With a zap of light, system switches objects' colors and patterns

Researchers at MIT developed ChromoUpdate, a color-shifting 'programmable matter' system that can rapidly update images on object surfaces using UV light. This technology accelerates product development by enabling designers to churn through prototypes quickly and easily.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMay 4, 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.

Chemical 'nose' sniffs critical differences in DNA structures

Researchers create system to sense unusual DNA folds using chemical receptors, which could silence genes linked to cancer or promote tumor growth. The technology has potential applications in disease research and gene regulation.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMay 4, 2021

Revealed: Coral fights back against crown of thorns starfish

New research reveals coral can fight back against juvenile crown of thorns starfish with stinging cells, damaging their arms and delaying growth. The study shows coral's defensive mechanism may not be enough to protect it from other threats like climate change.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateMay 4, 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.

Forest fires drive expansion of savannas in the heart of the Amazon

Researchers found that wildfires have killed trees, eroding soil and allowing native herbaceous cover to expand, while white-sand savanna tree species dominate the landscape. This shift threatens biodiversity and carbon storage in the Amazon ecosystem.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEcosystems·DateMay 4, 2021

New neuroimaging technique studies brain stimulation for depression

A new neuroimaging technique using diffuse optical tomography studied brain stimulation for depression, finding reduced brain activation in response to rTMS. The study suggests that treatment parameters may need adjusting for patients with severe depression.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 4, 2021

Testing tool can quickly distinguish between viral and bacterial infections

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center developed a gene expression method that can quickly identify the source of respiratory symptoms. The test has been shown to be accurate in distinguishing between viral and bacterial infections, with results available in under an hour, improving clinical care.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateMay 4, 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.

One step closer to efficient cannabis production

UConn researchers have successfully developed a micropropagation technique for cannabis, which can produce large quantities of healthy clones with predictable qualities. The method has the potential to meet the growing demand for medical cannabis by providing consistency and reliability in crops.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalHortTechnology·DateMay 4, 2021

New app makes Bitcoin more secure

A new mobile app is being developed to safeguard users of cryptocurrency by detecting vulnerabilities in popular 'wallet' applications used to manage Bitcoin. The app, called the Bitcoin Security Rectifier, monitors for signs of intrusions and alerts users when an attack is happening, providing remedies based on the type of attack.

SourceMichigan State University·DateMay 4, 2021

Citrus derivative makes transparent wood 100 percent renewable

Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology have developed a transparent composite material made from limonene acrylate, a monomer derived from renewable citrus. The material offers high optical transmittance and low haze, with applications in structural use and potential uses in smart windows and nanotechnology.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMay 4, 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.

Your stomach may be the secret to fighting obesity

A new study suggests that inhibiting GKN1, a stomach-specific protein, can lead to significant weight loss and reduced body fat in mice. The researchers found that models without GKN1 had improved metabolism and resistance to weight gain on high-fat diets.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 4, 2021

New study deconstructs Dunbar's number

A new study from Stockholm University debunks the idea that humans can maintain stable relationships with only 150 people, citing a lack of precision in available methods and data. The researchers found that the average maximum group size is often lower than 150, with confidence intervals ranging from 2 to 520 people.

SourceStockholm University·JournalBiology Letters·DateMay 4, 2021

MDI Biological Laboratory scientist identifies process critical to kidney function

A team led by Iain Drummond, Ph.D. has identified the signaling mechanisms underlying podocyte formation, a crucial process in kidney function. The discovery could lead to new therapies to stimulate regeneration of these cells, vital for ridding the body of toxins and treating conditions like chronic kidney disease.

SourceMDI Biological Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 4, 2021

New GSA Bulletin articles published ahead of print in April

New research reveals ancient Chinese arc magmatism preserved in the Chicxulub impact structure, shedding light on the Maya Block basement. Additionally, detrital zircon U-Pb ages from Antarctica's Victoria Land provide new constraints on the glaciation of southern Gondwana during the Late Paleozoic Ice Age.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalACM SIGSAM Bulletin·DateMay 4, 2021

Cellphone converts into powerful chemical detector

Scientists at Texas A&M developed a cellphone extension that detects chemicals, drugs, and biological molecules using fluorescence and Raman spectroscopy. The system's sensitivity is comparable to industrial Raman spectrometers but can be improved with HDR applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateMay 4, 2021
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Loan applications processed around midday more likely to be rejected

A study by University of Cambridge researchers found that credit officers are less likely to approve loan applications at midday, resulting in missed opportunities for customers and financial losses for the bank. The study suggests that regular breaks during working hours can improve performance and productivity.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMay 4, 2021