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Science News for May 15, 2019


Excitonic radiative decay faster than thermal dephasing in ZnO thin films

Researchers at Osaka University have discovered that zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films exhibit the fastest excitonic radiative decay rate ever recorded, surpassing thermal dephasing rates. This breakthrough could lead to the development of ultra-fast and energy-efficient photonic devices with non-thermogenic properties.

SourceOsaka University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 15, 2019

New research finds unprecedented weakening of Asian summer monsoon

New research using tree ring records reveals a 80-year decline in Asian summer monsoon rainfall, resulting in regional droughts and hardships. The study attributes the decline to man-made atmospheric pollutants, specifically sulfate aerosols, which coincide with industrial development and emissions in China.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Genomic collision may explain why many kidney transplants fail

A genomic collision may explain why many kidney transplants fail due to genetic incompatibility between donor and recipient. The study found that recipients with two copies of a deletion near the LIMS1 gene had a significantly higher risk of rejection when the donor kidney had at least one full-sized version of the same gene.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 15, 2019

Study paves way for better treatment of lingering concussion symptoms

A La Trobe University study has found significant levels of fatigue and poor brain function can persist after concussion, with implications for diagnosis and treatment of persistent post-concussion syndrome (PCS). The study used innovative brain technology to assess brain functioning in a way that has never been done before.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalNeuroscience·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Where there's waste there's fertilizer

Researchers at Tel Hai College and MIGAL Institute in Israel have developed a method to make phosphorus fertilizer from dairy wastewater and aluminum water treatment residue. This innovative approach has the potential to recycle the element without lowering crop yields, reducing the reliance on non-renewable resources.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateMay 15, 2019

Mapping microbial symbioses in forests

Researchers mapped over 1.1 million forest sites and 28,000 tree species to understand how symbiotic partnerships structure the world's forests. The study revealed a new biological rule, Read's Rule, which predicts massive changes to the symbiotic state of the world's forests if carbon emissions continue unabated.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Opioid-exposed newborns may react to pain differently after birth

Researchers found that opioid-exposed babies react more strongly to pain and have higher skin conductance, suggesting they may need early intervention. The study suggests that these babies handle pain worse than their non-exposed counterparts, highlighting the need for better care.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine·DateMay 15, 2019

Faster walkers more likely to live longer

A new study found that people who walk faster have a higher life expectancy than those who walk slower, regardless of their weight status. The research used data from the UK Biobank and found that underweight individuals with a slow walking pace had the lowest life expectancy.

SourceNational Institute for Health Research·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Framework improves 'continual learning' for artificial intelligence

Researchers have developed a new framework that enables deep neural networks to learn new tasks while minimizing the loss of previously learned information. The Learn to Grow framework demonstrates improved performance in both new and old tasks, with backward transfer occurring when learning a new task enhances previous task accuracy.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateMay 15, 2019

When biodegradable plastic isn't

Researchers tested biodegradable, oxo-biodegradable and compostable plastic bags in three natural environments over a 3-year period. The results show that none of the bags reliably deteriorated within 3 years, with conventional polyethylene bags remaining intact.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 15, 2019

Experimental brain-controlled hearing aid decodes, identifies who you want to hear

A new brain-controlled hearing aid technology developed by Columbia engineers can identify and amplify the correct speaker in a crowded environment. The device uses artificial intelligence to monitor wearers' brain waves and boost the voice they want to focus on, solving the 'cocktail party problem' that modern hearing aids struggle with.

SourceThe Zuckerman Institute at Columbia University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 15, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New drug could help treat neonatal seizures

Researchers have identified a small organic compound called gluconate that acts as an anticonvulsant, inhibiting seizures by targeting chloride ion channels. The study found that gluconate suppresses seizure activity more effectively in neonatal animals than adults.

SourcePenn State·JournalMolecular Brain·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Washable, wearable battery-like devices could be woven directly into clothes

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed wearable electronic components that can be directly incorporated into fabrics, enabling flexible circuits, healthcare monitoring, and energy conversion. The devices are based on low-cost, sustainable, and scalable dyeing of polyester fabric using graphene inks.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNanoscale·DateMay 15, 2019

Ragweed compounds could protect nerve cells from Alzheimer's

Researchers have identified compounds in ragweed that can help nerve cells survive with Alzheimer's disease peptides. The compounds, including terpenoids and spermidine conjugates, showed promise in protecting neurons from Aβ-induced toxicity.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Natural Products·DateMay 15, 2019

User-friendly smartphone platform sounds out possible ear infections in children

A new smartphone-based platform can quickly detect possible ear infections in children by analyzing reflected acoustic signals. The system uses a commercial phone's speakers and microphones to send sound into the ear canal, detecting middle ear fluid with high accuracy.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 15, 2019

Clean and effective electronic waste recycling

Researchers at Kumamoto University have developed a novel e-waste recycling method using pulsed power, which successfully separates metal from plastic in CD-ROMs. The technique uses high-voltage electrical discharges to break down materials, resulting in efficient separation and minimal environmental impact.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalWaste Management·DateMay 15, 2019

Applying precious metal catalysts economically

Researchers developed a new method to use rare and expensive catalysts sparingly by encasing precious metal salts in micelles. The process efficiently catalyzes oxygen reduction in fuel cells, outperforming traditional methods.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Once-per-month HIV drugs on the horizon

Researchers are developing longer-acting injectable HIV treatments that target different components of the virus and can be administered once every few weeks. These therapies have shown promising results in clinical trials, with one treatment demonstrating effectiveness for at least a month and high patient satisfaction.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMay 15, 2019

Association between benzodiazepine use in early pregnancy, miscarriage risk

An observational study of over 442,000 pregnancies in Canada found that benzodiazepine use in early pregnancy was associated with a higher risk of miscarriage. The study suggests that physicians should carefully evaluate the risks and benefits of prescribing benzodiazepines in early pregnancy due to alternative treatment options.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMay 15, 2019

Artificial intelligence tool vastly scales up Alzheimer's research

Researchers developed a machine-learning approach to distinguish critical markers of Alzheimer's disease using computer-aided analysis. The tool can process large amounts of data quickly and accurately, enabling neuropathologists to analyze thousands of times more samples than before.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Companies benefit from giving congressional testimony, study finds

Researchers found that investors responded favorably to firms' congressional testimony, particularly those with high regulatory risk and negative tone from committee members. Companies also benefited from their competitors' testimony, albeit to a limited extent.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateMay 15, 2019

Chronic insomnia and memory problems: A direct link is established

A study examining sleep data from a pan-Canadian cohort of 28,485 participants found that chronic insomnia disorder is directly associated with cognitive problems in people aged 45 and over. The main type of memory affected was declarative memory, independent of other factors.

SourceConcordia University·JournalSLEEP·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Some LGBT employees feel less supported at federal agencies

A new study by University of Michigan researchers found that LGBT employees report worse job experiences, less respect from supervisors, and lower job satisfaction compared to their non-LGBT colleagues. Racial/ethnic minority LGBT respondents also face additional challenges.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalILR Review·DateMay 15, 2019

Research links civic engagement to resilience

A University of Otago study found that acts of civic engagement, such as volunteering and helping a neighbor, buffer people from adversity and promote well-being. These simple acts of kindness not only benefited victims but also strengthened the well-being and resilience of those giving them.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalThe Australian and New Zealand Journal of Organisational Psychology·DateMay 15, 2019

Century-scale deep-water circulation dynamics in the North Atlantic Ocean

Researchers at HKU Earth Sciences have discovered multi-century-scale abrupt deep-water warming events that likely caused by reduction in deep-water circulation. These deglacial-Holocene dynamics are important for understanding present and future trends in the climatic system, which can impact global ecosystems and society.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalGeology·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Do you trust politicians? Depends on how you define trust

A recent study from Michigan State University suggests that there are more layers to political trust than previously thought. The researchers tested a vulnerability-centered definition of trust and found that three key dimensions - ability, benevolence, and integrity - play a crucial role in shaping public trust in the government.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 15, 2019

First smartphone app that can hear ear infections in children

A new smartphone app has been developed to detect fluid buildup in the middle ear, a common cause of ear infections in children. The app uses machine learning to analyze sound waves and determine the likelihood of fluid presence, showing promise as a quick and non-invasive screening tool.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 15, 2019

What artificial intelligence can teach us about proteins

A new algorithm called DeeProtein uses sensitivity analysis to unravel the secret of its predictions, providing valuable insights into protein functions. This technique enables researchers to identify critical regions in proteins that tolerate changes well or poorly, paving the way for targeted modifications.

SourceBIH at Charité·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Energy-free superfast computing invented by scientists using light pulses

Researchers at Lancaster University developed a method to record computer data using magnets and light pulses, reducing energy consumption. The new approach uses ultrashort pulses of light concentrated by special antennas on top of a magnet to switch the orientation of tiny magnets in magnetic hard-drives.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 2019

Liquid biopsy could identify cancer patients at risk of metastatic disease

Researchers at The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust developed a liquid biopsy test that detects DNA fragments shed by tumors into the bloodstream. The test identified 74% of patients with early-stage rectal cancer who were at risk of metastatic disease, and those with persistent DNA were more likely to develop metastatic disease.

SourceThe Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust·DateMay 15, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Does fracture risk differ between 2 common types of weight-loss surgery?

A study comparing nearly 42,000 patients who had weight-loss surgery found that those who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass had an increased risk of nonvertebral fractures compared to adjustable gastric banding patients. Over a 3.5-year follow-up, there were 658 nonvertebral fractures reported among RYGB patients.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMay 15, 2019

Combination therapy advisable for bowel disorder IBS

A study published in Gastroenterology suggests that patients with IBS who have multiple intestinal and brain abnormalities experience more severe symptoms, making combination therapy a potential solution to improve treatment outcomes

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateMay 15, 2019

Over-fed bacteria make people sick

A Kiel University team proposes that over-fed bacteria disrupt the human microbiome, leading to disease development. The researchers suggest that an unnatural nutrient supply decouples bacteria from their host organisms, promoting disease growth.

SourceKiel University·JournalmBio·DateMay 15, 2019

Mindfulness smoking-cessation app can change the brain

A mindfulness-based smartphone app was found to reduce self-reported daily cigarette consumption and decrease brain reactivity to smoking images in study participants. Those who showed the greatest reduction in cigarette consumption also exhibited decreased brain activity in a region associated with craving.

SourceBrown University·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Calling attention to gender bias dramatically changes course evaluations

A new intervention developed by Iowa State University researchers significantly improves course evaluation scores for female instructors. The study found that adding language to the evaluation form to mitigate gender bias resulted in a 0.41-point increase in teaching effectiveness ratings, as well as higher overall course evaluations.

SourceIowa State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 15, 2019

Brown undergraduate researcher teaches robots handwriting and drawing

A Brown University researcher has developed an algorithm that allows robots to mimic human handwriting and drawing, enabling them to communicate more fluently with humans. The robot can reproduce words and sketches in various languages with high accuracy, making it a significant step towards better communication between people and robots.

SourceBrown University·DateMay 15, 2019

Blood test can measure effectiveness of treatments for aggressive skin cancers

Researchers developed a blood test that measures tumor DNA, allowing for early detection of treatment response in patients with stage III or IV melanoma. The study found that the test detected BRAF mutations in 93% of patients before treatment and showed improved survival rates for those whose tumors shrunk after targeted therapy.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·DateMay 15, 2019

GW researcher seeks to improve diagnostic utility of neonatal EEGs

Researchers at George Washington University are developing a non-invasive diagnostic tool for newborn brain injury using electroencephalography (EEG). The team, led by Matthew Colonnese, aims to improve the interpretation and understanding of EEG in neonates, both preterm and term.

SourceGeorge Washington University·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

3D images reveal how infants' heads change shape during birth

Researchers captured detailed images of infants' skulls and brains before and during delivery using 3D MRI, finding that fetal head molding occurs in all seven infants, with different parts of the skull overlapping. The study suggests that infants experience greater skull stresses during birth than previously thought, potentially under...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 15, 2019

How climate change will affect the rural northeast: Expect three weeks of heat

By 2060, rural Northeast counties will experience record-breaking heat for three weeks a year, with those in low-income areas most affected. The study finds that vulnerable counties will see a decline in population while the poor population grows, highlighting the need for heat adaptation strategies.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalAnnals of the American Association of Geographers·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

A new way of diagnosing and treating disease -- without cutting skin

Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a specialized microscope that can diagnose diseases like skin cancer and perform precise surgery without cutting skin. The technology uses ultrafast infrared lasers to scan tissue quickly and selectively treat diseased structures.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 15, 2019

What are the neurological side effects of CAR T-cell therapy?

A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that 77% of patients experienced at least one neurological symptom after CAR-T treatment, which were often temporary. The symptoms included encephalopathy, headache, tremor, weakness, and language dysfunction, with most effects being reversible.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalBrain·DateMay 15, 2019

How loud is too loud when it comes to sports whistles?

A new CDC study cautions that sports whistles used by referees, coaches, and others are a risk factor for hearing loss. The study measured the acoustic signature of 13 whistle brands, finding sound levels between 100-120 decibels, which can exceed safe daily exposure within just a few seconds.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Cellular rivalry promotes healthy skin development

In a recent study, Rockefeller scientists found that skin cells in mice engage in two forms of competition, one during early embryonic development and the other before birth. Loser cells are eliminated by winners, promoting healthy tissue development. Disrupting this process leads to slower skin development and reduced barrier function.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 2019

On the way to fighting staph infections with the body's immune system

Researchers have discovered that gamma/delta T cells are the specific cells mediating the mouse's defense against Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection. In a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers identified V gamma 6/Vdelta 4+ gamma/delta T cells as the key players in this response.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 2019

Major questions concerning the role of microscopic life and our future

A recent study explores the role of microscopic life in shaping the Earth's evolution and its impact on climate change. Microorganisms have been instrumental in creating a hospitable climate for human growth, but their responses to global warming pose significant threats.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalNature Reviews Microbiology·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Blood flow command center discovered in the brain

A team of researchers from Australia, France, New Zealand, and the UK have discovered a group of brain cells that function as a 'master-controller' for the cardiovascular system. These cells, found in the medulla oblongata, coordinate activity across the cardiovascular system, including blood flow to the heart and blood vessels.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateMay 15, 2019

Neanderthals and modern humans diverged at least 800,000 years ago

A new study has found that Neanderthals and modern humans diverged at least 800,000 years ago, contradicting previous estimates of around 300,000-500,000 years. The research used dental evolutionary rates to analyze early Neanderthal fossils from Sima de los Huesos, Spain.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 15, 2019

Scientists suss out the secrets of human screams

Human screams exhibit a wide range of acoustic factors, including high pitch and roughness, which can vary in emotional context. The study's findings suggest that humans may use different-sounding screams in various situations, warranting further investigation into their interpretation.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 15, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

New AI sees like a human, filling in the blanks

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed an AI agent that can gather visual information and reconstruct a full 360-degree image of its surroundings. The agent uses deep learning to choose the most informative shots, similar to how humans would take pictures in different directions based on prior experience.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience Robotics·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Optimizing device implantation in patients with atrial fibrillation and risk of stroke

Researchers developed a web-based platform to optimize left atrial appendage occluder device therapies for patients with atrial fibrillation and stroke risk. The VIDAA platform combines biophysical models, interactive interfaces, and computational simulations to identify optimal device configurations and positioning strategies.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 15, 2019

Weight loss medicines underutilized by veterans

A new study found that weight loss medications are extremely lowly used among eligible veterans, with only about one percent receiving treatment. Barriers such as insurance coverage, age, and ethnicity drive underuse of these medications, highlighting the need for additional research to better understand obstacles.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalObesity·DateMay 15, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Hearing device separates simultaneous voices, amplifies the 'target' speaker

Researchers developed a system that automatically separates audio from different speakers in a crowded environment and compares these voices to the listener's brainwaves. This allows the voice of the speaker who is the center of the listener's attention to sound louder.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 15, 2019

Jawless fish take a bite out of the blood-brain barrier

Researchers developed molecules from the immune system of a parasitic sea lamprey that can deliver anti-cancer drugs directly to brain tumors. The matrix-targeting strategy allows drugs to accumulate in the extracellular matrix, sidestepping cell membrane problems and potentially increasing therapeutic doses.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Software locates sugarcane genes of interest

Brazilian researchers developed a software program called Polyploid Gene Assembler (PGA) to map specific portions of plant DNA, saving at least two orders of magnitude compared to mapping the whole genome. The technique uses publicly available data from related grasses to locate genes of interest for plant breeders.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalDNA Research·DateMay 15, 2019

End-of-career transitions for older surgeons

The article focuses on supporting an aging workforce while ensuring patient safety during end-of-career transitions. It emphasizes the need to balance continuity of care with workforce sustainability.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMay 15, 2019

rTMS improves memory in younger and older adults

Researchers found that rTMS improved working memory performance in both young and older adults, with the effect most pronounced when participants were actively using the information. The study suggests that brain stimulation may be a viable treatment option for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.

SourceDuke Department of Neurology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Quantum cloud computing with self-check

Researchers at IQOQI have developed a new method for quantum simulation that uses a programmable ion trap quantum computer with 20 quantum bits. This allows for complex simulations to be performed efficiently and accurately.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 2019

Big data helps identify better way to research breast cancer's spread

Researchers analyzed large volumes of genomic data to determine better research models to fight breast cancer's spread. They found substantial differences between lab-created cell lines and actual advanced tumor samples, with some cell lines showing little genomic similarities to patient tumor samples.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 15, 2019

Magic numbers make nickel nucleus stronger

The team found that the special nickel nucleus (78Ni) is more stable and rigid than other isotopes with similar numbers of neutrons. This discovery challenges current understanding of nuclear physics and has implications for our understanding of matter's origin.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 2019

Chewing gums reveal the oldest Scandinavian human DNA

Researchers discovered oldest Scandinavian human DNA in ancient chewing gums, providing a link between material culture and genetics. The study sheds light on the genetic composition of early Mesolithic populations from Scandinavia.

SourceStockholm University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Toy transformers and real-life whales inspire biohybrid robot

Researchers at Dartmouth College and City University of Hong Kong developed a swimming robot with a light-controlled cellular engine that can perform highly-targeted drug delivery. The biohybrid device transforms its shape when exposed to skin-penetrating near-infrared light, allowing it to drive and brake through fluid environments.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalSmall·DateMay 15, 2019

Researchers block protein that plays a key role in Alzheimer's disease

A study by Lund University researchers shows that blocking the galectin-3 protein reduces Alzheimer's plaque and inflammation in mice. The protein is also involved in Parkinson's disease and stroke inflammation. Inhibiting galectin-3 with inhibitors can reduce its effects, offering potential treatment avenues.

SourceLund University·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

Coherent? Voice disorders significantly affect listeners, too

Researchers found speakers with voice disorders showed a tenfold increase in speech intelligibility errors compared to healthy speakers. Listeners also struggled with understanding words, especially those with 'breathiness' quality in their voices.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Voice·DateMay 15, 2019

New surface treatment could improve refrigeration efficiency

Researchers at MIT have developed a new surface treatment that can improve the efficiency of refrigeration systems. By promoting droplet formation, the coating facilitates heat transfer, leading to an overall efficiency improvement of about 2%. The process is scalable and can be applied to various materials, making it a promising solut...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJoule·DateMay 15, 2019

Robot therapists need rules

The use of embodied AI in psychiatry raises concerns about access, effectiveness, and social effects. While AI applications have enormous potential, urgent action is needed to establish guidelines and regulations.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateMay 15, 2019

How egg cells choose their best powerhouses to pass on

Researchers studied how egg cells in fruit flies choose the healthiest mitochondria to pass on. They found that mitochondrial selection is triggered by a drop in Mitofusin levels, allowing for the elimination of faulty mitochondria.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 2019

How a new father views his relationship with his partner

A new study found that first-time fathers feel closer to their mothers as co-parents and romantic partners when they believe they have her confidence in child care. The researchers used data from the New Parents Project, which investigated how dual-earner couples adjust to becoming parents for the first time.

SourceOhio State University·JournalFamily Process·DateMay 15, 2019
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.

New whistle alerts bats to steer clear of wind turbines

Researchers from Texas A&M University have developed a biomimetic whistle that uses bat's natural echolocation to deter bats from flying into wind turbine blades. The device, mounted on turbine blades, produces an ultrasonic sound detectable by bats at distances of up to 100 meters.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 15, 2019

As bumblebee diets narrow, ours could too

A new study reveals that bumblebees' dietary needs are crucial for their development and the production of favorite foods like tomatoes, blueberries, and strawberries. The loss of plant diversity can lead to developmental delays and stress on queens, ultimately affecting colony growth.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEnvironmental Entomology·DateMay 15, 2019

Membrane madness: The ins and outs of moving materials through the cell

New research reveals distinct features of membrane channels in skeletal and heart muscle cells, shedding light on the mechanisms behind inherited arrhythmias and providing a promising avenue for targeted drug development. The study also highlights the vital role of phosphatidylethanolamine in mitochondrial energy production.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 15, 2019

SAEM 2019:Gun safety, over testing and more

At SAEM 2019, experts like Rebecca Cunningham emphasized the need for gun safety beyond 'gun control', focusing on injury prevention. Meanwhile, a study found opportunities to reduce over-testing in emergency departments through data analysis and targeted quality improvement initiatives.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateMay 15, 2019

From Earth's deep mantle, scientists find a new way volcanoes form

Geoscientists have found evidence that material from the transition zone in Earth's mantle can percolate to the surface to form volcanoes. This discovery provides a new understanding of the relationship between the transition zone and volcanism, with implications for global geodynamics and the evolution of our planet.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 2019

Iceland volcano eruption in 1783-84 did not spawn extreme heat wave

A Rutgers-led study found that the massive Laki volcano eruption in Iceland did not lead to an extreme summer heat wave in Europe. Instead, it caused unusually cold winters due to natural climate variability and high-pressure systems. The eruption also had devastating effects on Iceland's livestock and human populations.

SourceRutgers University·DateMay 15, 2019

'Striking' differences in rates of HIV/AIDS within African nations

A new study reveals striking variation in HIV prevalence across African countries, with some areas experiencing over a 5-fold difference in numbers of people infected. The study's findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address persistent high infection rates in sub-Saharan Africa.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 2019

The Lancet Global Health: 1 in 7 babies worldwide born with a low birthweight

The study found that over 20 million babies were born with a low birthweight (less than 2500g) in 2015, with almost three-quarters of these babies born in Southern Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. The authors call for immediate action to tackle underlying causes of low birthweight and ensure clinical care for small babies.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateMay 15, 2019

Clinicians could prescribe fitness apps to help cancer survivor's exercise

Researchers evaluated 67 fitness apps on iOS and Android to assess their suitability for improving physical activity in cancer survivors. A fifth of the apps contained content suitable for people affected by cancer, focusing on aerobic-based activities with goal setting, monitoring, and feedback features.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalJournal of Cancer Survivorship·DateMay 15, 2019

Can sound protect eagles from wind turbine collisions?

Researchers tested natural and synthetic acoustic stimuli to determine their effectiveness in deterring bald eagles from flying into wind turbines. The study found that eagles were more responsive to natural calls than synthetic sounds, particularly a 'crow mobbing' signal.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 15, 2019