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Science News for May 14, 2020


TRAPPIST-1 planetary orbits not misaligned

Astronomers have measured the stellar obliquity of TRAPPIST-1, a very low-mass star, and found it to be low and close to zero. This is the first detection of this effect for an exoplanet system with Earth-like planets, suggesting that planetary orbits may not be misaligned with star rotation.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMay 14, 2020

Forensic Genomics launching fall 2020

The new peer-reviewed journal Forensic Genomics will document advances in genetic testing and genome sequencing to support human identification. The Journal will accept original research papers and genealogical research on DNA testing technologies, algorithms, artificial intelligence, and genealogical methods.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalForensic Genomics·DateMay 14, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Beads made of boa bones identified in lesser Antilles

Archaeological finds of Boa vertebrae on Martinique and Guadeloupe suggest the snake's cultural significance in pre-Columbian Lesser Antilles. The discovery also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research to reconstruct lost pasts.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalThe Journal of Island and Coastal Archaeology·DateMay 14, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers provide guidance on effective serious illness communication over video or telephone during the COVID-19 pandemic. They also report cases of pulmonary arterial thrombosis in COVID-19 patients with fatal outcomes, highlighting the need for improved understanding of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 14, 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.

K-State infectious disease scientist offers road map for future COVID-19 research

A K-State University infectious disease scientist has co-authored a critical needs assessment for coronavirus-related research in companion animals and livestock. The study highlights the importance of studying COVID-19's potential spread between humans and animals, with key areas of focus including animal susceptibility and therapeuti...

SourceKansas State University·JournalVector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases·DateMay 14, 2020

Social good creates economic boost

A world-first study found social venture start-ups create more jobs than previously thought, with an average job creation effect per firm larger than for commercial counterparts. Social ventures address underserved markets and offer a growth advantage due to lower costs and tax breaks.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalSmall Business Economics·DateMay 14, 2020

The exposome: When our environment drives health and disease

The exposome concept captures diverse environmental factors affecting human health, including chemicals in air, water, and food. Recent technological advances and analytical tools are crucial for identifying unknown chemicals and their impact on health.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalScience·DateMay 14, 2020

Online exercise advice rarely aligns with national physical activity guidelines

A recent study from Oregon State University found that online exercise advice rarely matches the national Physical Activity Guidelines, which advise adults to engage in moderate aerobic activity for at least 150 minutes per week. The study analyzed fitness recommendations from various websites and found that professional associations w...

SourceOregon State University·JournalTranslational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine·DateMay 14, 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.

Oyster farming and shorebirds likely can coexist

A Rutgers-led study found that oyster aquaculture along the Delaware Bay does not significantly impact four shorebird species, including the federally threatened red knot. The research team discovered a small reduction in shorebird presence, but no detectable impact on foraging behavior.

SourceRutgers University·JournalEcosphere·DateMay 14, 2020

Unlocking the gate to the millisecond CT

A research team at Tohoku University has developed a new method for high-speed, high-resolution X-ray computed tomography (CT) using intense synchrotron radiation. This allows for imaging of samples within milliseconds without the need for extreme rotation, making it possible to control temperature and atmosphere conditions.

SourceTohoku University·JournalOptica·DateMay 14, 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.

Repurposed drug helps obese mice lose weight, improve metabolic function

A new study published in Cell Metabolism found that disulfiram, normally used to treat alcohol use disorder, can help obese mice normalize their body weight and reverse metabolic damage. The drug's anti-inflammatory properties are believed to be key to its beneficial effects.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 14, 2020

Latin America's livestock sector needs emissions reduction to meet 2030 targets

The study analyzed seven Latin American countries and found that widespread adoption of emission-reduction techniques is necessary to meet target. Researchers highlight barriers to adoption, including lack of access to inputs and information, and propose solutions such as formal systems of replication, subsidies, and technical assistance.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Food Systems·DateMay 14, 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.

New algorithm predicts optimal materials among all possible compounds

A new algorithm, Mendelevian Search, predicts optimal materials by searching through all possible combinations of chemical elements and crystal structures. The method has successfully predicted diamond and several dozen hard and superhard phases, including some new ones.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateMay 14, 2020

Scientists develop noninvasive ultrasound neuromodulation technique

Researchers developed a noninvasive ultrasound neuromodulation technique that inhibits epileptiform activities with an efficiency exceeding 65% in biopsy specimens from epileptic patients. The study demonstrates the potential clinical use of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound stimulation for epilepsy treatment.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalTheranostics·DateMay 14, 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.

Ozone-depleting chemical alternatives getting into our food and water

Researchers found that ozone-depleting chemical alternatives have increased dramatically in the Arctic since 1990, contaminating freshwater sources and affecting wildlife. The substances, known as scPFCAs, can travel long distances and accumulate in human blood and food crops.

SourceYork University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 14, 2020

Malaria parasite ticks to its own internal clock

Researchers discovered that malaria parasites can tick their own internal clocks, with 90% of genes showing rhythmic patterns. This internal metronome may help the parasite synchronize its escape from red blood cells and evade the human immune system.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·DateMay 14, 2020

Skilled partners in the conduct of HIV prevention trials join COVID-19 response

The HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN) and HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) launched a new clinical trial to study immune responses in SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals. The trial aims to develop antibody assays for reliable detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection, which will aid in the development and testing of a safe and effective vaccine.

SourceHIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN)·DateMay 14, 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.

BladeSense research advances rotor blade health monitoring

The BladeSense project has shown strong potential for advancing rotor blade health monitoring through real-time data collection. This technology could substantially save on lifecycle costs and provide new pathways for performance monitoring, using novel interferometric fibre optic shape measurement.

SourceCranfield University·DateMay 14, 2020

Is the simplest chemical reaction really that simple?

Researchers at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics found clear quantum interference in the H + HD reaction, verifying that Nature plays dice. The study reveals a new roaming mechanism, which occurs only 0.3% of the time, and highlights the complexity of chemical reactions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateMay 14, 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.

Ancient DNA unveils important missing piece of human history

A new study uncovers genetic relationships of ancient humans in northern and southern China, showing a closer connection between present-day East Asians and Neolithic populations. The research highlights the impact of population movement on human history, revealing continuity back 9,500 years.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateMay 14, 2020

Moffitt Cancer Center study suggests more could benefit from CAR T-cell therapy

A Moffitt Cancer Center study found that CAR T-cell therapy, Yescarta, is effective in patients with relapsed/refractory large B cell lymphoma who would not have qualified for clinical trials. The study showed an overall response rate of 82% and durable response rate of 47%, suggesting that these patients can benefit from the therapy.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMay 14, 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.

Saving livestock by thinking like a predator

A study led by University of California, Berkeley researchers suggests that effectively reducing encounters between domestic prey and wild predators requires knowing the principles governing ecological interactions among these players and their surrounding landscape. By considering the ecology of how predators hunt, how their prey beha...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalConservation Biology·DateMay 14, 2020

Precision medicine guides choice of better drug therapy in severe heart disease

A study by University of Alabama at Birmingham researcher Nita Limdi and colleagues found that patients with loss-of-function variants who were treated with clopidogrel had elevated risks of heart attacks and death. In contrast, prasugrel or ticagrelor proved to be more effective and cost-effective alternatives for genotype-guided anti...

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalThe Pharmacogenomics Journal·DateMay 14, 2020

Researchers reveal largest and hottest shield volcano on Earth

Researchers have identified the largest and hottest shield volcano on Earth as Pūhāhonu, which is nearly twice as big as Mauna Loa. The study reveals that hotspots can undergo pulses of melt production, rewriting the textbooks on mantle plumes.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateMay 14, 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.

How cells decide the way they want to recycle their content

Scientists from Tokyo Medical and Dental University discovered a key phosphorylation site on the protein Ulk1 that regulates alternative autophagy, a process by which cells recycle dysfunctional contents. The study found that this site is essential for the activation of alternative autophagy under genotoxic stress conditions.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2020

Researchers find one-two punch may help fight against Salmonella

A natural product called dephostatin has been found to be an effective partner for the antibiotic colistin in treating infections caused by the bacteria Salmonella. The combination significantly prolonged animal survival and used a lower concentration of colistin, reducing its toxic effect.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateMay 14, 2020

Research shows fungicides effective in fighting Fusarium wilt of watermelon

Research shows that fungicides Prothioconazole and pydiflumetofen provide effective control of Fusarium wilt in watermelon, regardless of application rate or method. These findings suggest that pydiflumetofen could be used as an additional mode of action for growers, reducing selection for fungicide resistance.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Health Progress·DateMay 14, 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.

Genetic origins of hybrid dysfunction

Scientists have identified two genes responsible for a melanoma that develops near the tails of male highland-sheepshead hybrids. These findings provide insight into the genetic causes of hybrid dysfunction and its effects on disease, highlighting the importance of understanding gene interactions in different species.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateMay 14, 2020

A lost world and extinct ecosystem

Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered the earliest evidence for symbolic behavior, complex pyrotechnology, and projectile weapons in South African archaeological sites. The study reveals that a vast plain, now submerged undersea, was a key foraging habitat for early modern humans during glacial phases.

SourceArizona State University·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateMay 14, 2020

'Lean lab' approach enables quick research ramp down

The Conformable Decoders Group at MIT's Media Lab implemented a lean lab approach, reducing time spent on closing down operations from over an hour to just 15 minutes. This led to significant cost savings, increased productivity, and a strong safety record.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·DateMay 14, 2020

Cornell research traces how farmlands affect bee disease spread

A new Cornell University study found that 65% of bee species and 75% of flower species carried pathogens, with diseases transmitted between bees and flowers. In simplified landscapes with more farmland, the dominant bumblebee species spread pathogens across many more flowers, reducing individual bee exposure to new pathogens.

SourceCornell University·JournalEcology Letters·DateMay 14, 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.

Study identifies group of genes with altered expression in autism

A new study has identified a group of genes with altered expression in autism spectrum disorder, affecting communication among neurons. The discovery could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment by targeting these genes.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 14, 2020

Fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and major diseases at the same time

The COVID-19 crisis has already changed the research community, enabling international collaboration and accelerated data sharing. Biomedical researchers now advocate for smart, lasting investments in global health to address chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalCell·DateMay 14, 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.

Compact electronic nose to identify human lung diseases

A compact sensor system using modified carbon nanotubes detects high concentrations of nitrogen dioxide in exhaled air, indicating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or other respiratory issues. The device's sensitivity is shown to detect biomarkers for specific diseases, including lung cancer and asthma.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateMay 14, 2020

Retinal texture could provide early biomarker of Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at Duke University have developed a new imaging device that can measure the thickness and texture of the retina, potentially providing an early warning system for Alzheimer's disease. The device combines two technologies to spot structural changes in the retina, which could be indicative of the disease.

SourceDuke University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 14, 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.

ACMG updates seminal laboratory standard on CFTR variant testing

The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics has released an updated technical standard for CFTR variant testing, incorporating revised information about cystic fibrosis and the CFTR gene. The new guidelines aim to improve the accuracy and efficiency of genetic screening and diagnosis.

SourceAmerican College of Medical Genetics and Genomics·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateMay 14, 2020

Designing vaccines from artificial proteins

Researchers at EPFL have developed an algorithm to design artificial proteins that precisely guide the body's immune system to produce specific antibodies. The proteins were tested in animal models, triggering a strong immune response against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a leading cause of serious lung infections.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience·DateMay 14, 2020

Icosapent ethyl found to significantly reduce revascularizations in statin patients

Icosapent ethyl significantly reduces first and subsequent revascularizations, including coronary stenting and cardiac bypass surgery, in statin-treated patients with elevated triglycerides. The study found a 34% reduction in first revascularization events and higher reductions in subsequent events among statin-stabilized patients.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·DateMay 14, 2020

Rice engineer wins grant to study temperature and coronavirus

Daniel Preston, a Rice engineer, has received a National Science Foundation grant to investigate the effect of varying temperatures on SARS-CoV-2. His project aims to provide evidence-based guidelines for PPE sterilization and predict virus lifetime in different climates.

SourceRice University·DateMay 14, 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.

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.

The carnivorous plant lifestyle is gene costly

Three carnivorous plant species, including Venus flytrap, sundew, and waterwheel, have a shared genetic basis for their insect-trapping mechanisms. Despite their unique adaptations, these plants are among the most gene-poor known, with fewer genes than most other plants.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 14, 2020

Army researchers develop new ways to nudge the brain

Researchers have successfully modified brain activity using non-invasive techniques and characterized its dynamics. The study provides foundational knowledge for future technologies that may expedite cognitive processes and enable adaptive teaming neurotechnologies.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalNetwork Neuroscience·DateMay 14, 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.

Can COVID-19 spread through fecal matter?

Early studies indicate COVID-19 genetic material can be detected in stool samples, but it's unclear if infectious virus is present. Further research is needed to determine the risk of transmission through feces.

SourceRice University·JournalInternational Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateMay 14, 2020

How particulate matter arises from pollutant gases

An international team has discovered that the high local concentration of vapors in city streets accelerates nanoparticle growth, contributing to winter smog's particulate matter. Climate researchers attribute this process to the condensation of ammonia and nitric acid onto nanoparticles, causing rapid growth within minutes.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature·DateMay 14, 2020

How range residency and long-range perception change encounter rates

A multidisciplinary team found that incorporating home ranging behavior into encounter rates could drastically change results, but only under narrow conditions. The more realistic models mimicked mass-action encounter only in specific scenarios, making it challenging to predict the direction of predictions.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·DateMay 14, 2020

General descriptor sparks advancements in dye chemistry

Researchers from SUTD and international partners developed a theoretical descriptor to quantitatively design PET-based fluorescence probes, accelerating biological research. The descriptor enables the accurate prediction and development of new fluorescent stains for live cell bioimaging.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 14, 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.

CFC replacements are a source of persistent organic pollution in the Arctic

A new study reveals that CFC replacements are accumulating in the Canadian Arctic, with levels of degradation products tenfold increasing between 1986 and 2014. The findings suggest that these substances are as concerning as their predecessors and do not break down, posing a threat to the ecosystem.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 14, 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.

Cahokia's rise parallels onset of corn agriculture

A new study suggests that corn was not grown in Cahokia until between A.D. 900 and 1000, a relatively late date corresponding to the start of the city's rapid expansion. The researchers analyzed charred corn kernels and carbon isotopes in human teeth and bones, revealing a sudden increase in corn consumption around this time.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAmerican Antiquity·DateMay 14, 2020

New Chicago Booth research suggests patients prefer expert guidance for medical decisions

Patients favor expert guidance in healthcare decisions, rather than full autonomy, according to new research from University of Chicago Booth School of Business Professors Emma Levine and Celia Gaertig. In experiments, participants preferred paternalistic advice over autonomy, even when the outcome was unfavorable.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Booth School of Business·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 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.

Vitamin B3 revitalizes energy metabolism in muscle disease

Researchers report that vitamin B3 niacin boosts energy metabolism and slows disease progression in mitochondrial myopathy patients by increasing NAD+ levels in blood and muscle tissue. The study reveals niacin's therapeutic effect in delaying disease progression, offering a promising treatment option for this progressive muscle disease.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 14, 2020

Scientists develop tool to sequence circular DNA

Scientists have developed a new method called CIDER-Seq to sequence circular DNA, providing insight into its function in bacterial and viral genomes. The tool also sheds light on extrachromosomal circular DNA in human and plant cells, which has been difficult to study due to the lack of effective methods.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Protocols·DateMay 14, 2020

Clever new robot rover design conquers sand traps

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology developed a new robot rover, the Mini Rover, that can climb sand-covered hills and avoid getting stuck. The rover uses a unique gait that combines paddling, walking, and wheel spinning motions to create a robust and adaptable locomotion system.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalScience Robotics·DateMay 14, 2020

How interstitial ordering affects high-strength steels

Researchers at MPIE and RUB have found that anharmonicity and segregation affect interstitial ordering in Fe-C steels. The study's findings suggest a critical concentration range for the order-disorder transition, which can be precisely calculated using specific binding energy and defect information.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 14, 2020

New evidence suggests malaria cycles are innate to the organism

Scientists have discovered that malaria's characteristic cycle of fever and chills is controlled by an intrinsic biological oscillator within the parasite. The study found that 87-92% of tracked genes were cyclical, providing strong evidence for an innate control mechanism.

SourceWalter Reed Army Institute of Research·JournalScience·DateMay 14, 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.

Surplus antioxidants are pathogenic for hearts and skeletal muscle

Researchers found that excessive antioxidants can lead to pathological changes in hearts, causing enlarged hearts and diastolic dysfunction. Chronic antioxidant consumption without knowing one's redox state might result in reductive stress, which can induce pathology and slowly damage the heart.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalAntioxidants and Redox Signaling·DateMay 14, 2020

The revolt of the plants: The arctic melts when plants stop breathing

Plant breathing reduces Arctic land surface temperature, but rising CO2 accelerates warming by closing stomata and reducing transpiration. This study confirms the physiological forcing effect on Arctic climate system, estimating that 10% of greenhouse effect is caused by plant stomatal closure.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2020

SCAI issues expert consensus on managing patients with out of hospital cardiac arrest

The SCAI has released an expert consensus statement outlining recommendations for the management of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. The guidelines emphasize a continuum of care from pre-hospital to hospital and post-hospital phases to enhance survival and quality of life.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateMay 14, 2020

Critical window for re-infection with HIV after stem cell transplantation

After allogeneic stem cell transplantation, a critical window of vulnerability exists for re-infection with HIV. New T-cell responses to HIV proteins from donor cells develop after this time, indicating a weak point that may explain incomplete removal of the virus.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 14, 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.

Tracking an organism's development, cell by cell

Researchers create a mouse model that can identify different cell types as they emerge and what genes each is turning on, providing a greater understanding of development, aging and disease. This system uses CRISPR gene editing technology and 'barcoding' to track thousands of cells simultaneously.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalCell·DateMay 14, 2020

Duality Technologies researchers accelerate privacy-enhanced collaboration on genomic data

Researchers detail accurate privacy-enhanced genome-wide association studies of over 25,000 individuals using homomorphic encryption to yield results 30 times faster than prior secure computation methods. The technology enables collaboration on large-scale genomic and clinical studies while protecting individual participant privacy.

SourceDuality Technologies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2020

Surrey unveils fast-charging super-capacitor technology

Researchers at Surrey's Advanced Technology Institute develop a new three-layer composite using carbon nanotubes, PANI, and hydrothermal carbon that demonstrates remarkable rate-capability at high energy densities.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEnergy & Environmental Materials·DateMay 14, 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.

Cell therapy treatment for cardiac patients with microvascular dysfunction provides enhanced quality

Researchers conducted a two-center trial of autologous CD34+ cell therapy in 20 NOCAD patients with persistent angina, showing significant improvement in coronary flow reserve, angina frequency, and quality of life. The results demonstrate the potential of CD34+ cell therapy as a promising therapy for CMD patients with angina and NOCAD.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·DateMay 14, 2020

New approach to design functional antibodies for precision vaccines

Researchers created a new computational protein design approach called Topobuilder to engineer de novo immunogens with complex epitopes. The approach successfully generated a robust immune response against RSV in mouse and non-human primate models.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 14, 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.

Electrolysis: Chemists have discovered how to produce better electrodes

Researchers at Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg have developed a method to significantly improve the properties of inexpensive nickel hydroxide electrodes during electrolysis. The treatment process increases the material's stability and activity, allowing it to outperform more expensive catalysts.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalACS Catalysis·DateMay 14, 2020

Bike commuting accelerated when bike-share systems rolled into town

A study by University of Washington professor Dafeng Xu found that bike-share systems can drive a population to commute by bike, increasing rates by 20% in US cities. Larger bike-share systems experience sharper increases in bicycle commuting, making cycling a more accessible and appealing option for commuters.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Policy Analysis and Management·DateMay 14, 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.

MU Health Care neurologist publishes guidance related to COVID-19 and stroke care

A University of Missouri Health Care neurologist has published new recommendations for evaluating and treating stroke patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection. The guidelines take into account increased clotting in COVID-19 patients, which raises their risk for stroke, and suggest modifications to manage these patients.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Stroke·DateMay 14, 2020

First look: NASA's James Webb space telescope fully stowed

The James Webb Space Telescope has achieved a significant milestone by being fully folded and stowed into its launch configuration. The observatory will unfold and stretch itself out in space before making groundbreaking observations of the cosmos.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 14, 2020

SCAI issues device selection guidelines for aorto-iliac arterial interventions

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions has released comprehensive guidelines for selecting devices used in aorto-iliac arterial interventions. The recommendations aim to provide clinicians with practical guidance based on comparative effectiveness data.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateMay 14, 2020

Ancient DNA reveals genetic history of China

A new study analyzed ancient genomes from across China to fill gaps in East Asia's genetic history. Analysis revealed a complex history of human movements and one major episode of admixture during the Neolithic period.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 14, 2020

2D sandwich sees molecules with clarity

Researchers at Rice University have created a 2D Janus compound that enhances the detection of biomolecules via surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy. The nonmetallic material boosts signal strength, reducing background noise and improving detection limits.

SourceRice University·JournalNanoscale·DateMay 14, 2020

Moffitt researchers develop model to predict prostate cancer aggressiveness

A new mathematical model predicts prostate cancer tumor growth and invasiveness based on stromal ecology, revealing that highly reactive stroma drives aggressive tumors. The model was validated in animal models and patients, suggesting improved prognosis with ecological metrics.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 14, 2020

Geography of childhood cancer in Switzerland studied

A study found increased cancer risks in two regions of Switzerland, particularly brain tumors, due to localized factors. The research suggests a need for intensified search for environmental risk factors and separate consideration of different brain tumor subgroups.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalInternational Journal of Health Geographics·DateMay 14, 2020

Patients prefer their consent to share their data and to manage it digitally

Researchers surveyed patients with diabetes on their understanding of sharing medical data, finding they prefer a digital consent application that offers empowerment and control. The Dovetail Digital consent application, using blockchain infrastructure, received favorable responses for its transparency and traceability.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalDigital Health·DateMay 14, 2020

Coping after breast cancer

A recent NIH-funded project explores how the fear of cancer recurrence affects the well-being and relationships of breast cancer patients and their spouses. The research team, led by Jean-Philippe Laurenceau, will focus on three main health behaviors that can be influenced by recurrence fears.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateMay 14, 2020

Making quantum 'waves' in ultrathin materials

Scientists have observed long-lived plasmons in a new class of conducting transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) called quasi 2D crystals. The study reveals that these plasmons could enhance light intensity by more than 10 million times, opening the door for renewable chemistry and electronic materials controlled by light.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2020

Persistence of forages is dependent on harvest intervals

Researchers found that longer alfalfa harvest intervals in the southeastern US result in positive outcomes, with harvesting at 42-day intervals producing maximum productivity. Growing alfalfa in mixtures with tall fescue also yields greatest forage mass and nutritive value.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·DateMay 14, 2020

AI successfully used to identify different types of brain injuries

Researchers developed an AI algorithm that can detect and identify different types of brain lesions on CT scans, with clinical validation showing high accuracy. The tool has the potential to improve patient outcomes by providing more personalized treatments for head injuries.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·DateMay 14, 2020

Gaps in international law impede pandemic research

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for clear international laws governing the sharing of pathogen samples and genetic sequence data. Despite critical importance to global public health efforts, there is currently no legal obligation for countries to share such information, impeding scientific progress.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 14, 2020

New study to assess the efficacy of ivermectin against COVID-19

A new study launched by Clínica Universidad de Navarra and the Barcelona Institute for Global Health aims to determine if ivermectin can reduce viral replication in patients with mild COVID-19. The trial, which will be conducted at home, will monitor symptoms and nasal swabs over a month-long period.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·DateMay 14, 2020

SCAI releases official position statement on optimal percutaneous interventional therapy for complex coronary artery disease

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) has released a position statement on optimal percutaneous interventional therapy for complex coronary artery disease. The guidelines address the challenges of treating patients with advanced age, frailty, comorbidities, and compromised hemodynamic status.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateMay 14, 2020

COVID-19: Hospital response risks worsening health inequalities

The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened health inequalities in hospitals due to restricted clinical services and emergency department attendances. Marginalized groups, including homeless people and migrants, are disproportionately affected by these changes.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateMay 14, 2020

SCAI issues position statement on the performance of percutaneous coronary intervention in ambulatory surgical centers

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) has issued a position statement on the performance of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs). The guidelines recommend diagnostic procedures, procedural standards, and operator standards for ASCs, emphasizing patient suitability ...

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateMay 14, 2020

Pollinator-friendly flowers planted along with crops aid bumblebees

A new study by UMass Amherst and NC State biologists found that flower strips benefit common Eastern bumblebees despite some plants increasing pathogen infection rates. The researchers created three conditions with canola plants and different types of flower strips, showing that bees reproduce more with flower strips than without.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2020

IU School of Medicine study tracks COVID-19 spread in pediatric dialysis unit

Researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine tracked COVID-19 spread in a pediatric dialysis unit using antibody testing on patients, staff, and healthcare workers. The study found a high occurrence of COVID-19 antibodies among individuals interacting in the unit, suggesting that more healthcare workers may be antibody-positive.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateMay 14, 2020

Answers to these questions can help #Decision2020 build momentum for Americans as we age

The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) has released a high-priority question guide for the 2020 elections, addressing eight policy issues important to older adults. The guide focuses on increasing access to geriatric health professionals, expanding Title VII training programs, and prioritizing aging research to address chronic diseases.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMay 14, 2020

Scientists discover why some birds live fast and die young

A new study from the University of Sheffield reveals that bird species' development time is influenced by their lifestyle, environment, and evolutionary history. The research found that 'live fast die young' strategies allow birds to maximize offspring production in short periods.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2020

Danish researchers find new breast cancer gene in young people

Researchers have identified a new breast cancer gene, RBBP8, that may explain why some young women develop the disease. The study found that mutations in this gene can lead to cancer by damaging DNA and increasing the risk of genetic variants.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 14, 2020

New research into stem cell mutations could improve regenerative medicine

Researchers at the University of Sheffield have discovered ways to reduce DNA damage and mutations in pluripotent stem cells, a crucial step for regenerative medicine. The findings may allow for safer use of these cells in patients and significantly reduce the risk of genetic mutations.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateMay 14, 2020

Ticking time bomb: Malaria parasite has its own inherent clock

Research found that malaria parasites have an inherent clock that drives their activity, resulting in cyclical fevers in humans. The parasite's gene expression patterns remained consistent despite changes in lighting conditions and host circadian rhythms.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalScience·DateMay 14, 2020

Assessment of deaths from COVID-19, seasonal influenza

A recent study analyzed publicly available data on COVID-19 and seasonal influenza deaths, comparing mortality rates between the two. The research found that while both viruses cause significant morbidity, seasonal influenza was associated with a higher number of deaths compared to COVID-19.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 14, 2020