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Science News for April 30, 2020


Unlocking promising properties to create future technologies

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have discovered an optical version of the quantum hall effect, unlocking new properties of excitons in two-dimensional semiconductors. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in quantum computing, memory storage, and solar energy harvesting.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalPhysical Review X·DateApr 30, 2020

Study on firms' return policies offers guidance on pricing, returns, refunds

A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers offers insights into the optimal refund strategies for firms operating in multiple channels. The findings suggest that firms can benefit from offering full refunds to customers who are uncertain about product valuation, particularly those who visit physical stores before purchasing.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalManagement Science·DateApr 30, 2020

High cost of cancer drugs not always justified

A new study by researchers from the University of Zurich and Harvard Medical School found that the high cost of cancer drugs in the US is not always justified. The study analyzed the costs of 65 cancer drugs in five countries and found no correlation between monthly treatment costs and clinical benefit.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

Research reveals possibly active tectonic system on the moon

A team of researchers has discovered a system of ridges on the nearside of the Moon topped with freshly exposed boulders, which could be evidence of active lunar tectonic processes. The findings suggest that the Moon may still be experiencing ongoing geological activity.

SourceBrown University·JournalGeology·DateApr 30, 2020

Scientists use phononic crystals to make dynamic acoustic tweezers

Researchers have developed a method using phononic crystals to generate tunable, time-variant sound fields that can trap and transport particles and cells in microchannels. This technology has potential applications in display technology, biomedical sensors, and diagnostic tools.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateApr 30, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Stroke experts offer guidelines for treatment during pandemic

Researchers from the University of Cincinnati have published recommendations for stroke therapy during the pandemic, emphasizing that a COVID-19 diagnosis should not prevent patients from receiving life-saving treatment. The guidelines aim to balance patient care with staff safety and scarce resources.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalStroke·DateApr 30, 2020

Virginia Tech researchers link rare medical condition to its cause

Virginia Tech researchers used CRISPR genome editing in zebrafish to find that PHETA1-like proteins are necessary for renal function and craniofacial development. The study linked the protein mutation to kidney and craniofacial problems observed in a patient with an undiagnosed disease.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·DateApr 30, 2020

A new way to accurately estimate COVID-19 death toll

A Rutgers engineer has developed a mathematical model that accurately estimates the COVID-19 death toll in the United States, predicting approximately 68,120 cumulative deaths by late June 2020. The model shows high confidence in its predictions, with reported death totals closely matching its estimates.

SourceRutgers University·JournalMathematics·DateApr 30, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Climate-smart agricultural practices increase maize yield in Malawi

A University of Illinois study finds climate-smart agricultural practices increase maize yields, particularly when farmers have access to training and resources. The practices, such as absorption trenches and agroforestry fertilizer trees, help conserve water and soil nutrients.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalFood Policy·DateApr 30, 2020

Guide released for supporting the mental health of frontline COVID-19 staff

The study highlights the psychological impact of working in healthcare during the pandemic, including acute stress reactions, burnout, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and 'moral injury'. The paper offers pragmatic recommendations for individuals, teams, and organizational leaders to provide tangible support.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateApr 30, 2020

Intricate magnetic configuration of 3D nanoscale gyroid networks revealed

The study demonstrates that nanoscale magnetic gyroids can adopt a large number of stable states, exhibiting ferromagnetic behavior without a unique equilibrium configuration. The findings establish gyroids as a candidate system for research into unconventional information processing and emergent phenomena relevant to spintronics.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 30, 2020

Eyes send an unexpected signal to the brain

A subset of retinal neurons sends inhibitory signals to the brain, affecting subconscious behaviors such as synchronizing circadian rhythms with light/dark cycles. This discovery sheds light on how eyes influence our behavior and vision in response to light intensity.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

HRM practices a predictor for business resilience after layoffs

A new study from University of South Australia and others found that businesses with strategic HRM systems focused on participation and collaborative communication practices are stronger in times of adversity. These systems developed a culture of trust, encouraging employees to share responsibility and step up to help management move t...

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalHuman Resource Management·DateApr 30, 2020

A world first: Assessing kidney quality before transplantation using photoacoustic imaging

Researchers have developed a non-invasive method to visualize damage in donor kidneys using photoacoustic imaging. This technique allows for accurate assessment of kidney scarring and can potentially revolutionize transplantation protocol by matching organs with patient life expectancy, reducing costs and improving outcomes.

SourceRyerson University - Faculty of Science·JournalJCI Insight·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

Understanding the diversity of cancer evolution based on computational simulation

A new simulation model describes various modes of cancer evolution in a unified manner, shedding light on therapeutic resistance and novel strategies. The study found that linear evolution occurs with strong driver mutations, while intratumor heterogeneity is shaped by natural selection or neutral evolution.

SourceThe Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalPeerJ·DateApr 30, 2020

Marine litter in the Bay of Biscay

The Bay of Biscay has been identified as a hotspot for marine litter, with microplastics found in over 50% of water and sediment samples. The polymers most prevalent are polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, and polystyrene, often originating from the breaking up of larger objects.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateApr 30, 2020

Nanodevices for the brain could thwart formation of Alzheimer's plaques

Scientists have developed nanodevices that capture and trap beta-amyloid peptides, a key component of Alzheimer's plaques. The devices show promise in preventing plaque formation and reducing cell death, with over 90% efficiency compared to control particles.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

Optical 'nanomixer': Scientists propose new method for mixing liquids

Researchers from ITMO University and Czech Academy of Sciences develop nanoantenna to efficiently manipulate light, creating an optical vortex that mixes liquids and reagents. The system uses gold nanoparticles as a stirring 'spoon', amplifying diffusion by hundreds of times while minimizing side effects.

SourceITMO University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateApr 30, 2020

Cardiorespiratory fitness assessment improves accuracy of health predictions

A new study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that incorporating cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) into traditional risk factor assessments improves mortality risk prediction accuracy. CRF was strongly associated with a lower risk of mortality, particularly when combined with age, sex, blood pressure, cholesterol, and smoking.

SourceElsevier·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateApr 30, 2020

Risky business: Courtship movements put katydids in danger

Researchers found that bats prefer moving katydid models over still or vibrating ones, posing a risk to both signalers and searchers during courtship. This study highlights the importance of predator avoidance in tropical ecosystems.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalBiology Letters·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

Does 'participatory budgeting' lead to political patronage?

A study by NYU Wagner found that participatory budgeting in NYC has led to smaller, more numerous capital projects and potentially increased political patronage. The process allows citizens to determine priorities for public spending, but the analysis suggests that city legislators may be using it to dispense patronage instead.

SourceNew York University·JournalAdministration & Society·DateApr 30, 2020

Making safe choices: It's in our DNA

DNA repair mechanisms choose between pathways to limit harmful chromosomal combinations that may be predisposed to cancer and genetic diseases. The study found Rad52-dependent single-strand annealing leads to gross chromosomal rearrangements at centromeres, while Rad51 promotes conservative non-crossover recombination.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

Researchers offer ways to address life under COVID-19

A new analysis from NYU researchers outlines ways to manage life under COVID-19 by combating racially driven bias and fake news. The study suggests using pre-bunking approaches and social norms understanding to reduce misinformation and increase cooperation.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateApr 30, 2020

Creating buzz with potential end-users helps entrepreneurs with crowdfunding campaigns

A study by University of Oregon researchers found that companies that successfully engage with their target audience and incorporate feedback into their prototypes are more likely to reach their fundraising goals and attract media coverage. Engaging with potential end-users early on can create buzz and increase the chances of success i...

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalOrganization Science·DateApr 30, 2020

Cracking the Lyme disease code

Researchers at Washington State University have identified a key protein in Borrelia burgdorferi that shields the immune system from fighting Lyme disease. By understanding this 'VlsE' protein, they hope to develop effective vaccines against the disease.

SourceWashington State University·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

New AI enables teachers to rapidly develop intelligent tutoring systems

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a new AI-powered teaching interface that allows teachers to create intelligent tutoring systems in minutes, rather than hours. This innovation has the potential to increase the adoption of AI-based tutors and provide deeper insights into learning processes.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateApr 30, 2020

New Princeton study takes superconductivity to the edge

Researchers detect a superconducting current along the exterior edge of a topological semi-metal, suggesting ways to unlock 'topological superconductivity' for quantum computing. The discovery uses a crystalline material called molybdenum ditelluride and measures the critical current as it varies with magnetic field.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

COVID-19 diagnostic tests highlighted in special report

Researchers compiled a special report on COVID-19 diagnostic tests, highlighting the need for fast, convenient, and accurate methods. The report provides an overview of molecular and serological assays underlying these tests, as well as over 200 diagnostic tests currently available.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateApr 30, 2020

Double bubbles pierce with less trouble

A new study by University of California, Riverside engineers shows that two microscopic bubbles penetrate soft materials better than one, creating long, fine jets with only five pulses. This breakthrough could lead to compact, device-free alternatives for needle-free applications.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateApr 30, 2020

Sun is less active than similar stars

A study of 369 solar-like stars reveals that the Sun's solar brightness variations are among the weakest, with fluctuations typically about 5 times stronger in other stars. The research suggests that our star may have been unusually inactive over the past 9000 years.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Solar System Research·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

Novel method produces life-saving T cells from mesenchymal stromal cells

Researchers have developed a novel method to induce regulatory T-cells from mesenchymal stromal cells, which could lead to new treatments for various chronic inflammatory diseases. The study found that MSCs can produce an abundant replacement for naturally occurring T-cells, increasing the count and frequency of Treg-like cells.

SourceAlphaMed Press·JournalStem Cells·DateApr 30, 2020

Astronomers could spot life signs orbiting long-dead stars

Cornell University astronomers have created a spectral field guide to help future scientists identify biosignatures in the atmospheres of Earth-like exoplanets orbiting white dwarfs. The guide provides template for possible biosignatures, including methane and ozone, which could indicate life on these distant worlds.

SourceCornell University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 30, 2020

NASA's Webb Telescope to unravel riddles of a stellar nursery

The James Webb Space Telescope will survey the Trapezium Cluster in the Orion Nebula to understand how young stars and planets form. The team will study the distribution of masses, planet formation phases, and jets from young stars, shedding light on stellar nursery riddles.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

Blood clotting a significant cause of death in patients with COVID-19

A study by RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences found that Irish patients with severe COVID-19 infection experience abnormal blood clotting, leading to micro-clots in the lungs. This abnormal blood-clotting disorder contributes to a worse prognosis and increased risk of ICU admission.

SourceRCSI·JournalBritish Journal of Haematology·DateApr 30, 2020

COVID-19 personal protective equipment causes serious skin injuries

A new study revealed that 42.8% of medical staff treated COVID-19 patients experienced serious skin injuries related to personal protective equipment (PPE) use. The most common types of skin injuries were device-related pressure injuries, moist associated skin damage, and skin tears.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAdvances in Wound Care·DateApr 30, 2020

New players in the programmed cell death mechanism

Researchers from Skoltech have made significant progress in understanding the apoptotic program, a crucial process for removing unneeded or abnormal cells. The study has identified key proteins involved in this process, which could lead to new therapeutic targets for treating cancer.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalBiomolecules·DateApr 30, 2020
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Researchers are developing potential treatment for chronic pain

A new treatment for chronic pain has been developed by researchers at the University of Copenhagen, tested in mice and published in EMBO Molecular Medicine. The targeted peptide Tat-P4-(C5)2 achieves complete pain relief without side effects.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateApr 30, 2020

Reduced obesity for weighted-vest wearers

A new study from the University of Gothenburg finds that weighted vests can lead to a reduction in body weight and fat mass, particularly when wearing heavy weights, while maintaining muscle mass. The researchers suggest that this is due to a built-in energy balance system that endeavors to keep body weight constant.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEClinicalMedicine·DateApr 30, 2020

Pharmacists warn against malarial drugs as a cure for coronavirus

Despite preliminary trial results, experts caution against using antimalarial drugs like chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine to treat or prevent COVID-19. Serious side effects and limited clinical evidence make these drugs unsuitable for general use.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacy·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

Energy generated on offshore wind turbine farms, and conveyed ashore as hydrogen fuel

A new study by the University of the Basque Country confirms that offshore wind turbines can produce hydrogen fuel with significant increases in energy generation. The research found that adding vortex generators and Gurney flaps to wind turbines improved aerodynamics, resulting in 2.5% higher annual energy production.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateApr 30, 2020

Scientists suggest using machine learning to predict materials' properties

Researchers from Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University used machine learning methods to predict artificial sapphire crystals' properties. The goal is to minimize defects in crystal structure for modern technology development.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalJournal of Electronic Science and Technology·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

Defining geographic regions with commuter data

Researchers developed a new method to define metropolitan areas based on census commuter data, identifying 182 clusters that account for over 90% of commuters. These clusters are larger than traditional regional definitions, suggesting important connections extending beyond expected boundaries.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 30, 2020

Gentler, safer hair dye based on synthetic melanin

Researchers at Northwestern University developed a new hair dye process using synthetic melanin that mimics natural human hair pigmentation. The dye, tested under mild conditions, produces natural-looking colors that persist for at least 18 washes, avoiding toxicity and allergies associated with traditional hair dyes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalACS Central Science·DateApr 30, 2020

What's important to patients with glomerular disease and their caregivers?

A study of patients with glomerular disease and their caregivers reveals that they highly value kidney function, mortality, and need for dialysis or transplant. They also stress the importance of addressing factors related to life participation, fatigue, anxiety, and family impact.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 30, 2020

Better understanding of nature's nanomachines may help in design of future drugs

A research team at McGill University has gained a deeper understanding of nonribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs), tiny natural machines that produce biologically active compounds. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of new potent antibiotics, immunosuppressants and other modern drugs by leveraging bacteria and fungi.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

NASA space laser missions map 16 years of ice sheet loss

Researchers used ICESat-2 to track changes in ice sheet elevation over 16 years, finding significant losses in West Antarctica and Greenland's shrinking ice sheet, responsible for 14 millimeters of sea level rise. The study also reveals complex patterns of change in individual glaciers and ice shelves.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2020

New STM technique points way to new and purer pharmaceuticals

Researchers use ultra-thin STM needle to map molecular bonds on surface of materials, enabling precise identification of impurities and halogen bonding. This technique could lead to the production of new pharmaceuticals that are purer than ever.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

The commercial consequences of collective layoffs

A study by Erasmus University Rotterdam and IESE Business School found that collective layoff announcements lead to decreased sales, lower advertising elasticity, and reduced advertising spending for affected brands.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateApr 30, 2020

Heart attack, stroke risk declines among people with diabetes

A 20-year study by the Endocrine Society found that cardiovascular complications among individuals with diabetes have declined. Meanwhile, mortality rates remain higher than those in the general population, highlighting ongoing concerns about cancer and dementia risks for people with diabetes.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

UCF researchers develop groundbreaking new rocket-propulsion system

Researchers at the University of Central Florida have developed a rotating detonation rocket engine that can sustain continuous Mach 5 explosions, improving rocket-engine efficiency and reducing fuel consumption. This technology has the potential to increase space mission capabilities and reduce emissions.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalCombustion and Flame·DateApr 30, 2020

Telemedicine transforms response to COVID-19 pandemic in disease epicenter

A study by NYU Langone Health shows a massive expansion of telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic, with virtual urgent care visits growing by 683% and non-urgent virtual care visits increasing by 4,345%. The rapid growth was made possible by US insurers expanding coverage and state licensing relaxations.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

Scientists find highest ever level of microplastics on seafloor

Scientists have discovered the highest levels of microplastics ever recorded on the seafloor, with concentrations concentrated by powerful deep-sea currents. Microplastics are mainly comprised of fibres from textiles and clothing, and their distribution is linked to sediment-transport processes.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2020

Study estimates cost of cancer care for Syrian refugees in wake of COVID-19

A new study reveals the economic burden of cancer care for Syrian refugees, estimating costs ranging from $3,000 to $7,000 per case. The findings highlight the urgent need for governments and international agencies to provide adequate funding and resources for cancer care in refugee populations.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

VCU study finds that many published psychology experiments lack evidence of validity

A VCU study examines 348 psychological manipulations and finds that roughly 42% have no validity evidence, while others are validated in limited ways. The study suggests that many psychological experiments rely on an untested foundation, prompting recommendations for experimenters to improve their practices.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

'Breathable' electronics pave the way for more functional wearable tech

Researchers at North Carolina State University created ultrathin, stretchable electronic material that is gas permeable, allowing sweat and volatile organic compounds to evaporate away from the skin. This breakthrough enables more comfortable long-term wear for biomedical or wearable technologies.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 30, 2020

Catastrophic outburst floods carved Greenland's 'Grand Canyon'

A team of scientists proposes that catastrophic outburst floods carved Greenland's megacanyon network, influenced by large meltwater-filled lakes. The study suggests that these floods could have impacted ocean circulation and caused abrupt climate changes with regional significance.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateApr 30, 2020

Racial inequalities in liver cancer deaths soared after launch of hepatitis C drugs

A recent study by Florida Atlantic University found that racial inequalities in liver cancer deaths soared after the introduction of hepatitis C drugs in the US. The study showed a significant increase in mortality rates among black Americans, with excess relative deaths increasing from 27.8% to 45.4% between 1998 and 2016.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalEClinicalMedicine·DateApr 30, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

9/11 research reveals effective strategies to cope with COVID-19 stress

Researchers drew on studies of the 9/11 attacks to develop coping techniques for COVID-19 stress, emphasizing control, coherence, and connectedness. These strategies include acceptance-based coping, mindfulness, and lovingkindness meditation to promote resilience and recovery.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalSeminars in Clinical Neuropsychiatry·DateApr 30, 2020

Smoking during pregnancy results in an increased risk of asthma even in adulthood

A recent study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that smoking by pregnant mothers increases the risk of asthma in their offspring between ages 31 and 46. The risk is higher for those with a history of respiratory symptoms or the RUNX-1 susceptibility gene, highlighting early airway vulnerability.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

A new approach to measuring inequalities in development

Researchers from IIASA and Hong Kong University of Science and Technology used the Human Life Indicator to measure progress in development, finding it easier to calculate and interpret than the Human Development Index. The new approach can provide a clearer idea of regional inequalities, helping policymakers design means to bridge gaps.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 30, 2020

Early predictor of severe respiratory failure in patients with COVID-19 identified

Researchers at Rush University Medical Center found that high plasma suPAR levels are associated with worse lung outcomes and increased risk of intubation. The study suggests that measuring suPAR could help identify patients who may need ventilatory support, enabling earlier intervention and potentially improving outcomes.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

Neurotrauma Reports launching Spring 2020

Neurotrauma Reports is a peer-reviewed open access journal publishing research on traumatic brain and spinal cord injury. The journal aims to provide a dedicated forum for the neurotrauma field, including original papers, review articles, and studies on regional scope or patient populations.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNeurotrauma Reports·DateApr 30, 2020

A census of star brightness: The sun is less active and variable than similar stars

Researchers analyzed 369 solar-like stars and found that the Sun is less magnetically active and variable than similar stars. The study suggests that most stars are five times more variable than the Sun over the last 140 years, with potential explanations including long-term variability or unrecognized differences.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2020

New discovery explains how the prostate gland regenerates itself

Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center discovered that nearly all cells in the prostate gland contribute to its regrowth after androgen-deprivation therapy. Luminal cells acquire stem-like properties without hormone influence, leading to implications for prostate cancer treatment and potential therapeutic strategies.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2020

Civil engineering Professor Sharon Di wins NSF CAREER Award

Di's project aims to develop a novel modeling and simulation platform to project future mixed-traffic dynamics and assist in socially optimal policy-making. She will leverage her expertise in travel behavioral modeling and network optimization to create a game-theoretic framework that incorporates game theory, dynamic control, data sci...

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateApr 30, 2020

Obese adults facing Medicaid expansion gap

A recent study by the University of Georgia found a slower uptake of Medicaid enrollment among low-income obese individuals compared to non-obese counterparts. The study revealed a 5.6% increase in coverage for obese individuals versus 7.4% for non-obese individuals.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalObesity·DateApr 30, 2020
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.

Cultivating cooperation through kinship

Researchers attribute unique human cooperation to cultivating a shared social identity among group members, enabled by reflective self-consciousness. This fosters feelings of obligation toward cultural kin, sustaining cooperative behavior within the group.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalCurrent Anthropology·DateApr 30, 2020

Water is key in catalytic conversion of methane to methanol

Scientists have discovered three essential roles for water in the catalytic conversion of methane to methanol, which facilitates high selectivity while blocking unwanted side reactions. The findings could speed the development of catalysts that make use of methane escaping from gas and oil wells.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2020

Experts apply microbiome research to agricultural science to increase crop yield

Scientists at Northern Arizona University are studying the impact of microbial communities in soil on agricultural crops to increase yield and efficiency. The team found that traditional approaches to crop rotation may not be effective, but advances in microbiome science can help optimize agricultural systems.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateApr 30, 2020

Cardiovascular impairment in COVID-19

Researchers recommend using cardiovascular anti-inflammatory therapies to treat COVID-19 patients with severe cardiovascular problems, citing potential risks with current treatments. The study provides guidance for clinicians on selecting specific therapies depending on disease severity and patient response.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine·DateApr 30, 2020

Investors punish for social irresponsibility depending on proportion of company execs with law degrees

Research from the University of Notre Dame suggests that investors react more severely to corporate social irresponsibility (CSI) when top management executives have a higher proportion of law degrees. Firms with an average proportion of law-trained executives among their leadership teams tend to receive less punishment, while those wi...

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalBusiness and Society Review·DateApr 30, 2020

3D-printed concrete to help build offshore wind energy infrastructure

Researchers at Purdue University are working on a method to fabricate wind turbine substructures and anchors using 3D-printed concrete, which could reduce material costs and increase design flexibility. The team is collaborating with RCAM Technologies to develop concrete additive manufacturing for offshore wind energy technology.

SourcePurdue University·DateApr 30, 2020

Data from 2 space lasers comprehensively estimate polar ice loss and sea level rise

A new analysis of data from NASA's ICESat-2 and ICESat satellites estimates that polar ice losses from Greenland and Antarctica contributed to 14mm of sea level rise between 2003 and 2019. The study projects that melting ice from these regions will increasingly contribute to sea level rise within tens to hundreds of years.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Two new articles from Annals of Internal Medicine explore the availability of telemedicine services and pandemic surge modeling for COVID-19. A cross-sectional study found that many US hospitals lack existing telemedicine programs, while a podcast discussion highlights the importance of rapid investment in remote care infrastructure.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 30, 2020