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Science News for May 28, 2020


A deep dive into better understanding nitrogen impacts

Human activity significantly disrupts the natural balance of nitrogen, posing a threat to terrestrial and aquatic life. The special issue examines the cascading consequences of rising nitrogen levels in circulation.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateMay 28, 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.

Electric pulses precisely shape 3D-printed metal parts

Researchers at Saarland University have developed a non-contact method to transform 3D-printed metal parts into precision-finished components with complex geometries and tight tolerances. The technique combines metal 3D printing and electrochemical machining to produce high-precision functional surfaces.

SourceSaarland University·DateMay 28, 2020

ESPRESSO confirms the presence of an Earth around the nearest star

The ESPRESSO spectrograph has confirmed the existence of Proxima b, a planet the size of Earth orbiting Proxima Centauri in just 11.2 days. The discovery reveals that Proxima b is located in its star's habitable zone and could potentially harbor life.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateMay 28, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

CT findings of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in children 'often negative'

A case series of 30 pediatric patients with COVID-19 found that 77% had negative chest CT findings, while the subset with positive results showed common patterns such as bilateral ground-glass opacities and lower lobe predominance. Age correlated with increasing severity of findings.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateMay 28, 2020

MRI pregnancy study gives new insights into the all-important placenta

Researchers used MRI to investigate blood flow to the placenta in healthy and pre-eclampsia pregnancies, identifying differences in blood flow and a new phenomenon called the 'uteroplacental pump'. This finding could help explain why babies born to mothers with pre-eclampsia are often small and premature.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 28, 2020

Heart surgery stalled as COVID-19 spread

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant reduction in cardiac surgeries worldwide, with an average of 50-75% decrease in procedures. Hospitals are now working to resume operations while protecting patients and staff from SARS-CoV-2. Experts have developed recommendations for safely resuming cardiac surgery activity.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalCirculation·DateMay 28, 2020

A new horizon for vibrational circular dichroism spectroscopy

Researchers developed solid state and time-step VCD methods to study chirality amplification in supramolecular systems. These enhancements allowed detection of chiral gels, metal complexes, and molecular pairs on solid surfaces, opening a new horizon for VCD spectroscopy.

SourceEhime University·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateMay 28, 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.

New study finds cannibalism in predatory dinosaurs

Researchers found high frequencies of theropod bite marks on large-bodied sauropods, armored Mymoorapelta, and other dinosaurs at the Mygatt-Moore Quarry site. The data suggests an ecosystem where dinosaur remains lay out for months, providing a food source for multiple predators and scavengers.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 28, 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.

Scientists discover a gene to stay thin

Researchers identify ALK as a candidate gene for thinness by studying Estonian population cohort and finding it is involved in regulating energy expenditure and sympathetic tone. ALK deficient mice exhibit reduced fat mass and protected against diet-induced obesity.

SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalCell·DateMay 28, 2020

Reusable face mask could be answer to PPE shortfall

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are developing a reusable face mask that can kill viruses caught on its surface using heat. The design features a thin, breathable film made from engineered carbon nanomaterials as a heatable filter retrofitted onto commercial masks.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateMay 28, 2020

Stanford Medicine study details molecular effects of exercise

A new Stanford Medicine study provides a comprehensive analysis of the molecular effects of exercise, shedding light on how physical fitness is determined at a molecular level. The research reveals a strong correlation between specific molecules and an individual's aerobic fitness, paving the way for the development of a blood test tha...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalCell·DateMay 28, 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.

Ludwig Lausanne study charts the immune landscape of multiple brain cancers

The study profiles 14 subtypes of immune cells in 100 brain tumor samples and reveals five types that predominantly sculpt the brain TME. The researchers found distinct patterns of immune cell composition and function among different glioma subtypes, including low-grade and high-grade gliomas.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalCell·DateMay 28, 2020

Material and genetic resemblance in the Bronze Age Southern Levant

The study reveals strong genetic resemblance among Bronze Age Southern Levant populations, including a significant Caucasus/Zagros component and Chalcolithic Zagros ancestry. The movement of people from the northeast into the region started as early as 4,500 years ago and continued throughout the Bronze Age.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalCell·DateMay 28, 2020

Algorithm quickly simulates a roll of loaded dice

The Fast Loaded Dice Roller (FLDR) algorithm simulates the roll of loaded dice to produce random integers with the best combination of speed, accuracy, and low memory requirements. FLDR can use up to 10,000 times less memory storage space than existing methods.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMay 28, 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.

Two paths better than one for treating patients with heart stents

A recent study by cardiologists at the University of Alberta found that combining a blood-thinning drug rivaroxaban with aspirin daily reduces major adverse events and mortality rates in patients with chronic coronary disease who have had an angioplasty. The treatment was found to be significantly better than aspirin alone in preventin...

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalCirculation·DateMay 28, 2020

Modelling predicts COVID-19 resurgence if physical distancing relaxed

Research suggests that if physical distancing measures are relaxed too much or too quickly, hospitals may be overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients and experience exponential growth in deaths. The study found that increasing contacts above 50% of pre-pandemic levels would lead to a spike in hospitalizations and deaths.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 28, 2020

The death marker protein cleans up your muscles after exercise

Researchers found that a single intense bike ride increases Ubiquitin tagging on worn-out proteins, leading to their degradation and removal. This process helps maintain muscle health and function by replacing damaged proteins with new ones.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMay 28, 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.

Stronger tropical cyclones strengthen the Kuroshio Current, further heating high latitudes

Intensifying tropical cyclones strengthen ocean eddies feeding the Kuroshio Current, accelerating it and transferring more heat energy to mid- and high-latitude ocean waters. This phenomenon highlights a positive feedback loop between TCs and climate warming, potentially impacting future climate predictions.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 28, 2020

Hydropower plants to support solar and wind energy in West Africa

A new study maps the potential for 'solar-wind-water' strategies in West Africa, finding that flexibly dispatched hydropower can increase renewable power generation by over 30%. Hydropower plants can support solar and wind energy, reducing CO2 emissions and environmental impact

SourceKU Leuven·JournalNature Sustainability·DateMay 28, 2020

Student-school mismatch

Researchers found that up to 28% of students in Moscow chose a university below their academic ability, limiting life opportunities. The study highlights the impact of family background and parental influence on undermatching, with parents from lower socioeconomic status often advising less prestigious universities.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalEuropean Journal of Education·DateMay 28, 2020

New marine molecules with therapy potential against Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at the University of Barcelona discovered two marine molecules, meridianine and lignarenone B, that can alter GSK3B activity without causing neurotoxic effects. These compounds promote neuronal plasticity and may offer a promising starting point for developing new drugs against Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalBiomolecules·DateMay 28, 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.

Convenient location of a near-threshold proton-emitting resonance in 11B

Researchers found a collective resonance in 11B that explains the mysterious β-delayed proton decay of the neutron halo ground state of 11Be. The resonance has features similar to a nearby proton emission channel, suggesting that it may be involved in a quasi-free decay process.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 28, 2020

A single proton can make a heck of a difference

Researchers at RIKEN found that knocking out a single proton from a fluorine nucleus transforms it into a neutron-rich isotope of oxygen. This transformation has a significant effect on the state of the nucleus, defying conventional wisdom and sparking further investigation.

SourceRIKEN·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 28, 2020

Human mobility and Western Asia's early state-level societies

Archaeogenomic analysis reveals two influential genetic events and evidence of long-distance individual movement in Anatolia, Northern Levant, and the Southern Caucasus. Genetic mixing and individual mobility were key factors in the development of regional genetic melting pots and early state-level societies.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalCell·DateMay 28, 2020

'Bottom-heavy squirmers' adopt characteristic group behaviours

A team of scientists found that groups of living organisms that move through squirming exhibit distinct collective properties depending on their velocities and bottom-heaviness. These characteristics can lead to intriguing emergent behaviors, such as clusters forming at the bottom or top of a container.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMay 28, 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.

Breaking up is hard to do (especially for sex chromosomes)

Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center have figured out how X and Y chromosomes pair up properly during meiosis. They discovered that a repeated sequence of DNA in the pseudoautosomal region (PAR) attracts double-strand break-related proteins, leading to frequent DNA breaks in this region.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalNature·DateMay 28, 2020

New drug combinations help overcome resistance to immunotherapy

Researchers at UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center found that combining toll-like receptor 9 agonists and NKTR-214 with PD-1 blockade can induce a potent immune reaction against resistant tumors. This combination therapy is being assessed in human clinical trials to improve cancer immunotherapy outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCancer Discovery·DateMay 28, 2020

Global environmental changes leading to shorter, younger trees

A PNNL-led study found that environmental changes are transforming forests worldwide, leading to a dramatic decrease in tree age and stature. Rising temperatures, carbon dioxide, and increased disturbances like wildfire and drought are contributing to this trend.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateMay 28, 2020

Imaging reveals unexpected contractions in the human placenta

High-resolution imaging of human placenta reveals uniform oxygenation levels and efficient blood flow, while also discovering rapid draining from veins and utero-placental pump contractions that facilitate better circulation and fetal growth. These findings improve placental models and optimize MRI protocols for better diagnosis.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 28, 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.

Stem cell treatments 'go deep' to regenerate sun-damaged skin

Researchers found that stem cell treatment eliminates sun-damaged elastin network and replaces it with normal tissues and structures, even in deeper layers of skin. The treatment triggers cellular- and molecular-level pathways involved in skin repair and regeneration.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateMay 28, 2020

'Distance' from the brightest stars is key to preserving primordial discs

A three-year study of Westerlund 2, a massive young star cluster, reveals that the material surrounding stars near the centre is mysteriously devoid of dense clouds of dust. This is caused by the brightest stars eroding and dispersing the discs of gas and dust of neighbouring stars.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateMay 28, 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.

Environmental groups moving beyond conservation

A new study reveals that environmental groups are increasingly focused on advocating for climate change and environmental justice. The researchers found that more than 40% of the most powerful organizations prioritize these areas in their mission statements.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 28, 2020

Revealing how flies make decisions on the fly to survive

Researchers studied how hoverflies process visual information to control their flight movements, finding that descending neurons adapt like sensory neurons but also persistently fire like motor neurons. This unique integration of responses offers insights into the brain-behavior link in flies and potentially all vertebrates.

SourceFlinders University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 28, 2020

The concept of creating &laquobrain-on-chip» revealed

A team of scientists proposes a memristive neurohybrid chip to create compact biosensors and neuroprostheses with high adaptability. The system combines neural cellular and microfluidic technologies for real-time registration, processing, and stimulation of bioelectrical activity.

SourceLobachevsky University·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateMay 28, 2020

Beyond the garnish: Will a new type of produce get the microgreen light?

A study by Colorado State University researchers found that microgreens are acceptable to consumers, with high scores for appearance, flavor, and texture. The findings suggest that microgreens could become a key food source for preventing nutrient deficiencies and promoting global health and environmental sustainability.

SourceColorado State University·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateMay 28, 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.

Topology sheds new light on synchronization in higher-order networks

Researchers propose a novel 'higher-order' Kuramoto model combining topology with dynamical systems to characterize synchronization in higher-order networks. The study found that higher-order synchronization occurs explosively, revealing how topology induces dramatic changes in dynamics at the onset of synchronization transition.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 28, 2020

Balancing the economy while saving the planet

A new research-based framework helps companies balance economic and sustainability factors when producing biochemicals. The framework assesses the true sustainability of biochemicals by combining economic and environmental impacts into a monetary single score.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·DateMay 28, 2020

Researchers identify mechanisms that make skin a protective barrier

A Mount Sinai research team has identified the scaffolding protein histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) as essential for proper skin development and barrier formation. Mice lacking HDAC3 in the epidermis fail to develop a functional skin barrier, leading to dehydration and death shortly after birth.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalGenes & Development·DateMay 28, 2020

Gold mining with mercury poses health threats for miles downstream

A study by Duke University scientists found that native communities hundreds of kilometers away from gold mining in the Peruvian Amazon have high levels of mercury exposure, leading to intellectual deficits and IQ losses. Children with higher mercury levels in their hair showed cognitive effects, even at lower exposure levels.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·DateMay 28, 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.

In planet formation, it's location, location, location

Astronomers found that stars in the cluster's periphery have planet-forming dust clouds, while those near the center lack them. The observations suggest that location plays a crucial role in planet formation, and massive stars may alter disk properties, making it harder for planets to form.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateMay 28, 2020

Recurrent positive RT-PCR results for COVID-19 in discharged patients

Researchers investigated COVID-19 patients with recurrent positive reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) results after hospital discharge. The study found these patients experienced prolonged viral persistence, indicating a need for extended monitoring and potential long-term treatment strategies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 28, 2020

Smart windows that self-illuminate on rainy days

Researchers at POSTECH developed a variable color filter using metal-hydrogel-metal resonator structure and combined it with solar cells to create a self-powering humidity sensor. The sensor detects changes in surroundings by converting light's energy into electricity, making it suitable for use in IoT technology.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateMay 28, 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.

Sea snakes have been adapting to see underwater for 15 million years

A study led by the University of Plymouth found that sea snakes' vision has been modifying genetically over millions of generations, enabling them to adapt to new environments. The research reveals that diving sea snakes share their adaptive properties with some fruit-eating primates.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 28, 2020

Antarctic ice sheets capable of retreating up to 50 meters per day

Researchers used seismic data to calculate the maximum speed at which an ice sheet can retreat, revealing historic retreat rates that are almost ten times faster than those observed today. The study found that the ice sheets surrounding Antarctica's coastline retreated at speeds of up to 50 meters per day during regional deglaciation.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateMay 28, 2020

New technology enables fast protein synthesis

Researchers at MIT develop an automated tabletop machine that can synthesize hundreds of amino acids within hours, reducing the time required to generate synthetic proteins. This technology could speed up the manufacturing of on-demand therapies and enable scientists to design artificial proteins with superior biological function.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMay 28, 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.

Restoring nerve-muscle communication in ALS

A study found that replenishing the SV2 protein can restore synaptic function and prevent cells from dying in a genetic form of ALS. This suggests that SV2 is a promising therapeutic target for slowing disease progression and prolonging muscle strength.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateMay 28, 2020

SUTD developed a simple method to print planar microstructures of polysiloxane

Researchers from SUTD developed a simple method to fabricate reproducible planar microstructures of polysiloxane without changing its properties. The new approach, embedded ink writing (EIW), enables direct patterning of polysiloxane on different soft and rigid substrates.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 28, 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.

UNH researchers find wildfires can alter arctic watersheds for 50 years

Researchers at UNH found that forest fires in the Arctic can significantly impact stream chemistry, altering nutrient levels and potentially harming humans who depend on these waterways. The study showed that aftereffects of a burn can last up to five decades, with decreased carbon and increased nitrogen affecting local streams.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 28, 2020

Exploiting viruses to attack cancer cells

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed an adenovirus that specifically replicates in and kills cancer cells using RNA-stabilizing elements. The virus, AdARET, was found to be effective against a range of cancer types, including those without a mutated RAS gene.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalCancers·DateMay 28, 2020

Inequities in access to kidney transplantation exist even with universal healthcare

A new study found that patients with lower socioeconomic status and additional illnesses are less likely to be put on transplant waiting lists in the UK, despite universal healthcare. The study suggests that patient factors, such as age and health literacy, play a significant role in determining access to transplantation.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 28, 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.

Researchers find CBD improves arthritis symptoms in dogs

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine found that CBD significantly reduces inflammatory molecules and immune cells associated with arthritis in dogs. The study showed that CBD treatment improved quality of life in 90% of the dogs, supporting future scientific evaluation of CBD for human arthritis.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalPain·DateMay 28, 2020

Climate could cause abrupt British vegetation changes

Research by the University of Exeter suggests that climate change could lead to sudden changes in British vegetation, particularly in regions with warmer and wetter conditions. This increase in plant growth is expected due to factors such as CO2 fertilization, but soil drying out can also cause rapid decreases in vegetation productivity.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMay 28, 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.

Modified Parkinson's drug shows potential in treating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Scientists from GIST developed a novel peripheral serotonin antagonist, which showed promising results in obese mice with impaired liver function. The compound improved symptoms of fatty liver disease and reduced body fat. Researchers hope the drug candidate will offer relief to patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateMay 28, 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.

Tackling airborne transmission of COVID-19 indoors

A study by the University of Surrey and Australian partners highlights the importance of adequate ventilation in indoor environments to prevent airborne transmission of COVID-19. Improving building ventilation is proposed as a key strategy to reduce the risk of infection, particularly in areas with high population densities.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalCity and Environment Interactions·DateMay 28, 2020

New study: Stroke patients are significantly delaying treatment amid COVID-19

A new study published in the Journal of NeuroInterventional Surgery found that ischemic stroke patients are arriving at hospitals and treatment centers an average of 160 minutes later during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to a similar timeframe in 2019. This delay has severe consequences, including impacting survival and recovery.

SourceSociety of NeuroInterventional Surgery·JournalJournal of NeuroInterventional Surgery·DateMay 28, 2020

Multinational consortium reports COVID-19 impact on cancer patients

A multinational consortium reports that people with cancer have a higher risk of dying from COVID-19, particularly those with active cancer and impaired performance status. The study found no association between cancer treatments and 30-day mortality, suggesting that these therapies can continue during the pandemic with caution.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 28, 2020

New stroke guidelines aim to improve care amid COVID-19

The new guidelines aim to improve stroke care by speeding up treatment and preventing the spread of COVID-19. The recommendations emphasize the use of telemedicine to connect patients with UVA stroke experts before arrival at the hospital.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalStroke·DateMay 28, 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.

A small twist leads to a big reaction

Scientists at the University of Tokyo have discovered a way to speed up chemical reactions involving amide bonds, which are key components of proteins. By applying a slight twist to their structure, they increased reaction rates by up to 14 times, potentially benefiting medical research and drug development.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMay 28, 2020

Researchers track how bacteria purge toxic metals

Researchers at Cornell University used single-molecule tracking and protein quantitation to study the mechanism of bacteria's resistance to toxic metals, revealing a complex series of steps that lead to detoxification. The discovery could lead to the development of more effective antibacterial treatments.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 28, 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.

New study examines impact of major life events on wellbeing

A recent study published in SSM - Population Health examined the impact of 18 major life events on wellbeing, including marriage, death of a loved one, and bankruptcy. The study found that some events had profound impacts on wellbeing, while others had little to no effect.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalSSM - Population Health·DateMay 28, 2020

Researchers in Brazil develop low-cost mechanical ventilators

Researchers at the University of São Paulo's Engineering School have developed a low-cost mechanical ventilator that costs approximately 7% as much as conventional ventilators. The device has already been tested in animals and humans and shows promise in treating patients with acute respiratory syndrome, a severe outcome of COVID-19.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateMay 28, 2020

New view on how tissues flow in the embryo

Scientists at Columbia University developed a new method to analyze cell shapes in fruit fly embryos, revealing that tissues can behave like fluids during rapid changes. By combining experimental studies with theoretical modeling, the team found that anisotropy plays a crucial role in predicting tissue flow and elongation.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 28, 2020

Blocking tumor signals can hinder cancer's spread

Researchers identified an enzyme, p38α kinase, as crucial for metastasis, which is the primary cause of cancer deaths. By blocking this enzyme using an inhibitor, they successfully reduced melanoma's spread to the lungs and prolonged survival time.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Cancer·DateMay 28, 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.

Methodology for credibility assessment of historical global LUCC datasets

A new methodology for assessing the credibility of historical global land use/cover datasets has been proposed, addressing temporal and spatial changes. The approach evaluates accuracy, rationality, and likelihood assessments through five case studies, providing a framework for improving data quality.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateMay 28, 2020

SSRI antidepressants associated with increase in violent crime in some patients

A study found an association between SSRI treatment and violent crime in adults and adolescents, with a significant increase during treated periods. The risk persisted for up to 12 weeks after stopping SSRI treatment, highlighting the need for clinical awareness of this potential side effect.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·JournalEuropean Neuropsychopharmacology·DateMay 28, 2020

Smart sponge could clean up oil spills

A Northwestern University-led team has developed a smart sponge that selectively soaks up oil in water, leaving clean water and unaffected marine life behind. The sponge can absorb more than 30 times its weight in oil and can be reused many dozens of times without losing effectiveness.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateMay 28, 2020

As hospitals walk the tightrope of patient data-sharing, one system offers a new balance

A new framework published in NEJM offers a responsible approach to patient data-sharing, allowing companies to access massive data troves with transparency and consent. The system includes an easy-to-understand informed consent document and a dedicated gatekeeper committee to review and approve projects.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 28, 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.

Using electrical stimulus to regulate genes

Researchers at ETH Zurich create implant that uses electrical signals to stimulate insulin production in diabetic mice, offering potential breakthrough for real-time glycemic control. The system is designed to be connected to the internet and controlled via an app, paving the way for a more integrated approach to diabetes management.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateMay 28, 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.

Increased activity not always the best advice for neck and back pain

Research found that physical activity at work may increase risk of neck and back pain, while leisure time activities have a positive effect. A balance between work and rest is key to reducing the risk of disability and impaired quality of life.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEuropean Journal of Pain·DateMay 28, 2020

Cincinnati children's HLH research points to treatment for COVID-19 cytokine storms

A transgenic mouse model of HLH has been found to be effective in treating severe COVID-19 patients by calming the 'cytokine storm', a common feature of children battling secondary HLH. Ruxolitinib showed promising results, with 90% of patients showing CT scan improvement within 14 days.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateMay 28, 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.

Featured research from NUTRITION 2020 LIVE ONLINE

Researchers at NUTRITION 2020 LIVE ONLINE explored the impact of COVID-19 on Nutrition 2020, which was canceled. The meeting covered various research findings, including the benefits of whole grains for diabetes risk and the dangers of empty calories in children.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateMay 28, 2020

Chinese pterodactyl wings its way to the United Kingdom

A team of researchers from the University of Portsmouth has discovered a unique pterodactyl jaw fragment in Sandown Bay, Isle of Wight, which is remarkably similar to previously found 'tapejarid' fossils in China and Brazil. The specimen, named Wightia declivirostris, lacks teeth and features distinctive sensory organs.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalCretaceous Research·DateMay 28, 2020

Study questions benefits of social networks to disaster response

A study by Carnegie Mellon University found that social networks actually worsen decision-making in emergency situations, leading to delayed evacuations and the spread of misinformation. The research suggests that communication within groups does not improve decision-making as expected.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateMay 28, 2020

New molecule stops drug cravings in mice, with fewer side effects

Researchers at Duke University developed a synthetic molecule that selectively dampens cocaine-induced hyperactivity and interferes with dopamine metabolism in the brain's rewards center. The treatment slowed down drug use by 20 minutes to an hour and reduced consumption by over 80 percent in mice.

SourceDuke University·JournalCell·DateMay 28, 2020

Smart window technology that automatically changes color by sunlight

Researchers developed a smart window technology that automatically changes color in response to sunlight intensity, reducing the need for power and lowering production costs. This technology can block sunlight and reduce cooling costs in buildings, making it suitable for large commercial buildings and automobiles.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·DateMay 28, 2020

Colorado tool, My-DST, may pick best multiple myeloma treatment

Myeloma Drug Sensitivity Testing (My-DST) uses liquid biopsies to test drug effectiveness on patient samples. The approach shows promise in predicting real patient responses, and may guide drug development for multiple myeloma treatment.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalBlood Advances·DateMay 28, 2020

NASA looks at Inland Rainfall from Post Tropical Cyclone Bertha

NASA analyzed rainfall generated by post-tropical cyclone Bertha, which brought heavy rain to the Carolinas and Midwest. The GPM core satellite measured rainfall rates of up to 1 inch per hour in south central West Virginia, prompting flash flood watches for several states.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 28, 2020

Novel targeted drug induced positive response for VHL-associated kidney cancer

A Phase II trial led by MD Anderson Cancer Center researchers found that treatment with MK-6482 resulted in a 27.9% objective response rate in patients with von Hippel-Lindau disease-associated renal cell carcinoma, with most side effects being grade 1 or 2. The drug directly targets HIF-2a and has been shown to be well-tolerated.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateMay 28, 2020

Yes, your dog wants to rescue you

A recent study by Arizona State University's Canine Science Collaboratory found that pet dogs will attempt to rescue their owners if they know how. Approximately one-third of the dogs in the experiment rescued their owners, suggesting that motivation alone is not enough, but rather a combination of understanding and ability are required.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 28, 2020

Who were the Canaanites? New insight from 73 ancient genomes

Researchers analyzed 73 ancient genomes and found that the Canaanites descended from a mixture of local Neolithic populations and Iranian/Caucasus-related ancestry. This study sheds light on the cultural and genetic similarity among city-states, and how migration from the northeast may have influenced the region's culture.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateMay 28, 2020

Mapping immune cells in brain tumors

A study by researchers at the University of Zurich mapped immune cells in different types of brain tumors, revealing tumor-specific instructions for tissue-invasive leukocytes. The findings provide a basis for developing tailored immunotherapies for various types of brain tumors.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCell·DateMay 28, 2020

Biophysicists reveal how optogenetic tool works

Researchers have obtained the structure of the light-sensitive KR2 protein in its active state, revealing the mechanism behind light-driven sodium ion transport. The study provides a detailed understanding of how this protein works and could lead to the development of new optogenetic tools.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 28, 2020

Electrogenetic device offers on-demand release of cellular insulin

Researchers have developed a wearable device that uses external electric fields to trigger insulin release from bioengineered cells, stabilizing blood glucose levels in mice. The approach opens the door for remote-controlled diabetes therapies and represents an expansion of electrogenetic toolboxes for human therapeutics.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 28, 2020

Autism severity can change substantially during early childhood

Girls with autism experience greater reduction and less rise in symptom severity than boys, according to a UC Davis MIND Institute study. Children's symptoms can change with age, and some may even lose their diagnosis entirely.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateMay 28, 2020

Those with IDD more likely to die from COVID-19, study shows

A new study published in the Disability and Health Journal found that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are at a higher risk of dying from COVID-19. The research revealed significantly higher case-fatality rates among those with IDD, particularly among younger age groups.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalDisability and Health Journal·DateMay 28, 2020

Delicate seafloor ridges reveal the rapid retreat of past Antarctic ice

New study reveals Antarctica's ice sheets retreated at a rate of over 10 kilometers per year, much faster than current rates. High-resolution seafloor mapping allows researchers to uncover the complex history of glacial dynamics and provide insights into past sea-level rise.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 28, 2020

New 'whirling' state of matter discovered in an element of the periodic table

Researchers at Radboud University and Uppsala University have discovered a new type of magnetic behavior in neodymium, where atomic spins form patterns that whirl like a helix but constantly change. This phenomenon, known as a self-induced spin glass, could pave the way for new materials for artificial intelligence.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalScience·DateMay 28, 2020