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Science News for May 5, 2020


Evidence that human brains replay our waking experiences while we sleep

Researchers found that human brains replay neural firing patterns experienced while awake during sleep, supporting the idea of memory consolidation. The study used intracortical microelectrode arrays to record neuronal activity in two participants playing a sequence-copying game before and after sleep.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 5, 2020

Early government intervention is key to reducing the spread of COVID-19

A new study published in Frontiers in Medicine found that early government intervention was crucial in limiting the spread of COVID-19 cases in Hunan province, China. The research team used a modified SIR model to compare infection trends between Hunan and Italy, finding that early measures reduced infection rates by up to 70%.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Medicine·DateMay 5, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mutations in SARS-CoV-2 offer insights into virus evolution

Researchers identified close to 200 recurrent genetic mutations in the virus, suggesting it may be adapting and evolving to its human hosts. The study found a large proportion of global genetic diversity is concentrated in hardest-hit countries, indicating extensive global transmission from early on.

SourceUniversity College London·DateMay 5, 2020

Identifying light sources using artificial intelligence

Researchers developed a smart quantum technology that reduces light source identification measurements from millions to under hundred using AI. This enables quicker and less damaging light exposure in applications like microscopy and cryptography.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateMay 5, 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 race affects listening during political conversations

Researchers found that blacks were more likely to engage in political listening overall, but struggled to truly listen when discussing controversial race issues. Blacks reported it would be harder to listen to their white partners' views on topics like police treatment of blacks and Confederate flags.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPolitical Communication·DateMay 5, 2020

More berries, apples and tea may have protective benefits against Alzheimer's

A study of 2,800 people aged 50 and older found that low intake of flavonoid-rich foods was linked to a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Consuming more berries, apples, and tea may help prevent the condition, with even small amounts providing benefits.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMay 5, 2020

All-fiber optical wavelength converter

Scientists have developed an all-fiber optical wavelength converter using few-layer gallium selenide (GaSe) nanoflakes, enhancing efficiency by over four orders of magnitude compared to traditional microfibers. The converter can operate in a wide wavelength range, covering C, L telecom bands and the O band, with minimal power consumption.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMay 5, 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.

Potato power: Spuds serve high quality protein that's good for women's muscle

Researchers found that consuming potato protein isolate increased the rate at which muscles made new protein in young women, highlighting its potential as a plant-based alternative for supporting muscle maintenance. The study suggests that current dietary recommendations may be inadequate to support muscle growth and development.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNutrients·DateMay 5, 2020

Financial incentives boost doctor training in opioid treatment medication

A new study shows that financial incentives can increase the number of emergency department physicians trained to prescribe buprenorphine, a potentially life-saving medication for opioid overdose. By offering reimbursement and a $750 incentive, 89% of physicians were fully trained in six weeks.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateMay 5, 2020

Laws that punish pregnant drug abusers aren't working, new study finds

Laws punishing pregnant drug abusers are ineffective in reducing substance use during pregnancy, instead decreasing treatment admissions by 29% and referrals to healthcare professionals by 18%. The study found no significant reduction in babies born with withdrawal symptoms or exposed to narcotics.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMay 5, 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.

Liquid metal research invokes 'Terminator' film -- but much friendlier

Researchers developed a liquid metal lattice material that can regain its shape after heating, with potential applications in NASA space missions and private space-faring companies. The material absorbs energy when crushed and can be reused, making it a promising solution for satellite design and future lunar or Martian settlements.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateMay 5, 2020

Study finds unexpected suspect in age-related macular degeneration

Researchers have identified interleukin-4 as a key player in promoting harmful blood-vessel growth in age-related macular degeneration. Elevated levels of the protein were found in patients with AMD and mice with an AMD-like condition, highlighting its potential role as a target for new treatments.

SourceeLife·DateMay 5, 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.

New therapeutic targets for treating memory impairment in Down syndrome

A team of researchers has discovered that neural networks relevant to memory and learning are over-activated and connectivity is poor in mice with Down syndrome. Chronic treatment with epigallocatechin gallate improves memory deficits. The study identifies biomarkers in brain rhythms that can predict memory deficits.

SourceIMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 5, 2020

How David wins against Goliath in established industry

Small and medium-sized businesses can increase their political and economic clout by forming strong shared identities and pooling resources to jointly develop market categories. Collective action among peer firms is key to achieving this, with trade associations playing a crucial role in facilitating coordination and regulation.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMay 5, 2020

Study reports high level of hazardous drinking among Pacific Islander young adults in US

A recent study published in the American Journal of Orthopsychiatry has reported a high level of hazardous drinking and potential alcohol-use disorders among Pacific Islander young adults in the US. The study found that 56% of participants screened positive for hazardous drinking, with 49% experiencing active alcohol-use disorders, rat...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalAmerican Journal of Orthopsychiatry·DateMay 5, 2020

Genetic variation in a brain-cleansing water channel affects human sleep

A recent study found that genetic variations in a brain-cleansing water channel affect the depth of non-rapid-eye-movement sleep in humans. The study, published in PLOS Biology, suggests that these variations may influence how the body copes with sleep loss and potentially link to Alzheimer's disease progression.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 5, 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.

Association of use of ACEI, ARB with testing positive for COVID-19

An observational study investigated the association between ACEI and ARB use and COVID-19 positivity. The study found a significant correlation between ACEI/ARB use and increased likelihood of testing positive for COVID-19. The authors suggest that future studies should explore potential mechanisms underlying this association.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateMay 5, 2020

Lockdown or lockup

Comparing lockdowns across nations reveals no consistent advantage of extreme versus limited social distancing measures, highlighting the need for a standardized approach. The study emphasizes the importance of balancing public health and socio-economic costs in reopening strategies.

SourceSociety for Disaster Medicine and Public Health, Inc.·JournalDisaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·DateMay 5, 2020

A hydrological model leads to advances in the creation of a world water map

A hydrological model has led to significant advancements in creating a world water map, utilizing public data and citizen science contributions. The model provides accurate predictions for river flow, with areas like the Eastern US, Europe, Japan, and Russia showing high potential for seasonal forecasts.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalHydrology and Earth System Sciences·DateMay 5, 2020

Scientists observe bacteria tumble their way out of surface traps

Researchers discovered that bacteria use a strategy called surface tumbling to slow down and reorient themselves on surfaces. This allows them to escape from surface traps and explore the surface for optimal conditions, leading to colonization and biofilm formation.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMay 5, 2020

Amphibian study shows stress increases vulnerability to virus

A new study by Washington State University researchers found that stressed wood frogs are more susceptible to lethal ranavirus infections in salinity-rich environments. The findings suggest a link between environmental stress and increased disease vulnerability, with implications for wildlife conservation and mass die-offs.

SourceWashington State University·DateMay 5, 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.

Worms freeload on bacterial defense systems

A team of scientists discovered a sensory circuit in worms that allows them to choose between spending energy on self-defence and relying on nearby bacterial protection. The discovery suggests that the presence of E. coli bacteria is crucial for peroxide resistance, which could lead to improved health and longevity in humans.

SourceeLife·DateMay 5, 2020

Safely relaxing social distancing comes down to numbers

A Queensland University of Technology study proposes a simple 'odds-and-evens' approach to safely relaxing COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. By allowing people to leave their homes based on odd or even house numbers, governments can balance competing priorities and create valuable experimental data.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 5, 2020

Colorado emergency departments take new steps to prevent youth suicide

A study in seven Front Range emergency departments found that counseling parents on safe storage of guns and medications helped improve safety practices. The results showed a significant increase in parents reporting safer storage practices, with behavioral health counselors expressing enthusiasm for the training.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateMay 5, 2020

PPE, plus training, lowers risk of COVID-19 for health care workers

A new evidence review by Oregon Health & Science University researchers shows that using personal protective equipment combined with proper training can lower the rate of coronavirus infections among healthcare workers. The study also found that infection control training and education are crucial in reducing transmission risk.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 5, 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.

Positive health beliefs may reduce blood pressure post-stroke, especially among women

A new study found that positive health beliefs can reduce blood pressure among stroke survivors, with female patients showing a significant decrease. The study, led by NYU School of Global Public Health, suggests targeted strategies to improve health beliefs may be crucial for managing blood pressure after stroke.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateMay 5, 2020

AMP recommends minimum set of pharmacogenetic alleles to help standardize clinical genotyping testing for warfarin response

The Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) has released consensus recommendations to aid in the design, validation and interpretation of clinical genotyping tests for predicting warfarin response. The guidelines define a minimum set of pharmacogenetic alleles for inclusion in clinical warfarin sensitivity genotyping tests.

SourceAssociation for Molecular Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateMay 5, 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.

Firms perceived to fake social responsibility become targets for hackers, study shows

A recent study found that firms perceived to fake social responsibility are no more likely to experience data breaches than those with strong CSR records. In fact, firms with seemingly disingenuous CSR efforts are at increased risk of breach. This 'greenwashing' phenomenon makes them attractive targets for security exploitation.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateMay 5, 2020

Genetic scoring can identify more men at risk for aortic aneurysm

A new genetic risk score identified more men at increased risk for abdominal aortic aneurysm and could benefit from screening to detect it prior to rupture. The study suggests that current screening recommendations should be extended to include testing for those with high polygenic risk scores.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMay 5, 2020

Scientists revealed usefulness of culinary herbs

Researchers discovered significant antioxidant activity and enzyme inhibition in various culinary herbs, including rosemary, oregano, and lemon myrtle. These findings suggest that these herbs may have preventive effects on cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes, as well as cognitive decline.

SourceSechenov University·JournalApplied Sciences·DateMay 5, 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.

Researchers release COVID-19 symptom tracker app

A new COVID Symptom Tracker app has generated over 2.5 million daily reports from individuals in the US and UK, providing insights into COVID-19 hot spots and new symptoms. The app may inform guidelines on self-isolation and hospital capacity planning.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience·DateMay 5, 2020

Timing of maturity, feelings about ethnicity and race can positively affect black males' self-concept, well-being

A new study explored the relationships between pubertal changes, ethnic-racial identity, and mental health in young African American and Caribbean Black males. The study found that positive levels of ethnic-racial identity buffered the effects of early puberty, leading to higher self-esteem and lower symptoms of depression. The finding...

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateMay 5, 2020

Broadband enhancement relies on precise tilt

Researchers developed a quantum photonics prototype using hyperbolic metamaterials to achieve high-efficiency single-photon sources with broad spectral bandwidth. The tilted geometry suppresses light reflections, enabling faster photon extraction and paving the way for on-chip quantum networks.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateMay 5, 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.

Race-specific lupus nephritis biomarkers

A study published in Nature Communications reveals distinct urinary biomarker proteins for lupus nephritis in African American patients. The findings suggest that the ALCAM protein may be a promising therapeutic target. Researchers plan to conduct a longitudinal study to predict disease flares and improve treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 5, 2020

Heating could be the best way to disinfect N95 masks for reuse

Researchers found that heating N95 masks preserves their filtration efficiency for 50 cycles of disinfection. Heating at 185 F for 20 minutes was the most effective method, while ultraviolet radiation allowed up to 20 cycles of disinfection but could be problematic.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateMay 5, 2020

An artificial 'tongue' of gold to taste maple syrup

Researchers at Université de Montréal have created a colorimetric test that detects changes in colour to show how maple syrup tastes, validated by analyzing 1,818 samples. The artificial tongue can distinguish between 60 categories of taste and is useful for producers.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalAnalytical Methods·DateMay 5, 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.

UB investigators uncover cellular mechanism involved in Krabbe disease

Researchers at the University at Buffalo have discovered that hematopoietic stem cell transplantation improves Krabbe disease outcomes through a mechanism independent of cross-correction. The study found that macrophages expressing GALC enzyme aid in myelin debris degradation, leading to better patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNeuron·DateMay 5, 2020

AI -- a new tool for cardiac diagnostics

Researchers developed an AI tool to automatically diagnose atrial fibrillation and five common ECG abnormalities, comparable to human diagnosis. The AI was trained on a large database of manually diagnosed ECGs and shows great potential for improved cardiovascular care in low-income countries.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 5, 2020

Greater availability of non-alcoholic drinks may reduce alcohol consumption

A recent study found that participants were more likely to choose non-alcoholic drinks when presented with eight options, including increasing the proportion of non-alcoholic drinks. The study suggests that interventions to encourage healthier food and drink choices may be effective by changing the relative availability of options.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateMay 5, 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.

Considering social influences across the customer journey

Researchers analyze social distance continuum, categorizing influences as distal (larger groups) or proximal (individuals with strong ties). Joint journeys involve interdependent utilities and decision-making among multiple consumers.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMay 5, 2020

Decoding the skies: The impact of water vapor on afternoon rainfall

Researchers found that on days with little atmospheric moisture, afternoon rainfall is more likely over wetter soils, while on days with high moisture, it's more likely over drier soils. Warmer morning temperatures also contribute to the likelihood of afternoon rainfall.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 5, 2020

Saving energy and lives: How a solar chimney can boost fire safety

Researchers at RMIT University designed a solar chimney that optimises energy saving and fire safety, increasing evacuation time from two minutes to over 14 minutes. The design maximises ventilation for cooling and sucks smoke out of the building in case of fire.

SourceRMIT University·JournalEnergy and Buildings·DateMay 5, 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.

Four years of calculations lead to new insights into muon anomaly

Researchers have produced a new theoretical calculation that refines one piece of the muon anomaly puzzle, sharpening the understanding of how subatomic particles interact. The study uses lattice QCD to analyze hadronic contributions and controls for errors, providing new insights into particle physics.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 5, 2020

Coronavirus structure clue to high infection rate

Researchers at Cornell University have discovered a unique feature in the virus that causes COVID-19, which could explain its high transmissibility. The study identified a structural loop in the spike protein and a specific sequence of amino acids that are different from other human coronaviruses.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·DateMay 5, 2020

Blueprint to protect the mental health of frontline medical workers

Researchers developed a set of recommendations to manage the mental health of frontline medical workers, including clear communication, training, and infection control procedures. These changes aim to reduce psychological distress among clinicians during viral outbreaks.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 5, 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.

Lymphatic vessels in mice and humans: Alike yet different

Researchers mapped lymph node lymphatic vessels in mice and humans at the individual cell level, discovering five distinct groups of cells with similar functions. The study provides valuable insights into immune system function and will aid in developing new treatments for viral diseases and cancer.

SourceUppsala University·JournalFrontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine·DateMay 5, 2020

Project will expand use of metal catalysts for drug discovery

Researchers are developing new metal catalysts for drug discovery, potentially offering lower therapeutic dosages and fewer side effects. The project aims to create synthetic forms of biological macromolecules that detoxify aldehydes, addressing biochemical imbalance and disease development.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMay 5, 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.

40 years of A Piece of My Mind essays

JAMA Network commemorates 40 years of publishing A Piece of My Mind essays, featuring personal vignettes on the human side of medicine. Over 1,300 essays have been published since 1980, covering various medical topics.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 5, 2020

Supercapacitor promises storage, high power and fast charging

Researchers at Penn State have developed a new supercapacitor based on manganese oxide that combines the benefits of batteries and other supercapacitors. The device has high energy density and power, making it suitable for electric vehicles and wearable electronics.

SourcePenn State·JournalElectrochimica Acta·DateMay 5, 2020

Bluetooth-enabled device detects fermentation process over days

A miniaturized Bluetooth device can detect glucose and fructose molecules in fermentation processes over days, enabling the study of metabolites and disease. The device has an accuracy above 98% and can transmit data wirelessly for up to 24 hours.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateMay 5, 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.

Electrical activity in living organisms mirrors electrical fields in atmosphere

A Tel Aviv University study reveals a direct connection between electrical fields in the atmosphere and those found in living organisms, including humans. This finding may lead to revolutionary medical treatments for illnesses such as epilepsy and Parkinson's disease.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalInternational Journal of Biometeorology·DateMay 5, 2020

Continuity of buprenorphine treatment linked to significantly lower prescription opioid use and over

Long-term buprenorphine treatment is associated with improved health care outcomes, including lower prescription opioid use and opioid-related events. Patients with continuous treatment had significantly lower rates of overdose events, inpatient and emergency department services, and prescription opioids use compared to those who disco...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMay 5, 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.

Recent Australian wildfires made worse by logging

New research suggests that logging of native forests significantly increases fire risk and severity, exacerbating Australia's recent catastrophic bushfires. The study highlights the importance of preventing logging in moist forests and reducing forest fragmentation to mitigate future wildfires.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 5, 2020

Study reveals how spaceflight affects risk of blood clots in female astronauts

A study published by King's College London found that spaceflight and combined oral contraceptive pill use do not increase the risk of venous thromboembolism in female astronauts. The research looked at 38 flights between 2000 and 2014 and proposed more frequent blood tests during astronaut selection and training.

SourceKing's College London·JournalAerospace Medicine and Human Performance·DateMay 5, 2020

People think robots are pretty incompetent and not funny, new study says

A new study by Georgia Institute of Technology found that humans hold strong biases against robot competence in various jobs, despite the lack of gender bias. Participants trusted robots only to perform simple tasks, while assigning lower competency ratings to professions like surgery and comedy.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateMay 5, 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.

Inhibiting thrombin protects against dangerous infant digestive disease

Researchers at USF Health and Johns Hopkins Medicine developed a new treatment for necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) by inhibiting the blood-clotting molecule thrombin with nanoparticles. The therapy, which was tested on newborn mice, showed promise in preventing NEC-like injury.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 5, 2020

UCLA researchers develop chemistry needed to create marijuana breathalyzer

UCLA chemists have reported the key chemical discovery necessary for creating a small, electronic marijuana breathalyzer. The research uses electricity to change the chemical structure of THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, making it easier to detect whether a person is impaired.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalOrganic Letters·DateMay 5, 2020

Discovery of an essential protein controlling brain blood vessel development and functions

Researchers at National University of Singapore discovered a critical protein, MFSD7c, in blood vessel cells that controls brain growth and development. The study found that loss of this protein causes microcephaly and neuronal cell death, highlighting the need for better understanding of essential nutrients required for brain health.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 5, 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.

Veterans battle homelessness long after discharge from the military

A new study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine reveals that veterans often become homeless years after leaving the military, with a significant 'sleeper effect' delayed onset. Chronic medical and psychiatric conditions take time to develop, increasing the risk of homelessness over subsequent years.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 5, 2020

Potential new treatment for severe dry eye disease, RCSI Research

Scientists at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences have discovered a potential new treatment for Sjögren's Syndrome, a disease that causes severe dry eyes and mouth. By reducing the levels of microRNA-744, they were able to reduce inflammation and damage to the eye.

SourceRCSI·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 5, 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.

Cognition and gait speed often decline together, study shows

A study found that cognition and gait speed often parallel each other in determining a person's health trajectory. Mexican Americans were more likely to experience cognitive and physical vulnerability, which was associated with diabetes and a higher risk of mortality.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalInternational Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateMay 5, 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.

Protective shield: How pathogens withstand acidic environments in the body

Researchers at the University of Basel have elucidated a mechanism in which certain bacteria, including MRSA, withstand acidic conditions. This is achieved through the synthesis and transportation of lipoteichoic acids, which provide stability to the bacterial cell wall.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateMay 5, 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.

Surf and turf: Green new deal should be a 'teal new deal'

A group of scientists recommend integrating terrestrial and ocean approaches to create a robust portfolio of climate adaptation and mitigation measures. They propose policies on renewable energy, sustainable transportation, food security, and habitat restoration to promote economic development and address climate change.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalConservation Letters·DateMay 5, 2020

Screw cancer: Microneedle sticks it to cancer tissue

Researchers have developed a microneedle that effectively targets and remains attached to cancerous tissue in lab experiments without needing continuous application of a magnetic field. The new technology allows for more precise drug delivery, avoiding unwanted side effects.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateMay 5, 2020

Unraveling one of prion disease's deadly secrets

Researchers at UMass Amherst have identified an unexpected role for prion nucleation seeds that enhances their ability to appear and resist curing. The minimum size of the seed complex determines whether the disease can persist, and controlling this transformation could lead to a cure.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateMay 5, 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.

Innovative drunk driving program lowers risk of rearrest

A new study found that South Dakota's 24/7 Sobriety Program significantly lowers the likelihood of rearrest or probation revocation among drunk driving offenders, particularly those with a history of second or third offenses. The program's frequent alcohol testing and swift sanctions appear to be key factors in reducing recidivism rates.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJournal of Policy Analysis and Management·DateMay 5, 2020

Age of NGC 6652 globular cluster specified

Researchers at Special Astrophysical Observatory and Kazan Federal University studied the globular cluster NGC 6652 and found its age to be approximately 13.6 billion years. This discovery challenges the long-held assumption that younger galaxies are more metal-rich, revealing a complex history for this ancient object.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalResearch in Astronomy and Astrophysics·DateMay 5, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Healthcare workers face significant burdens from coronavirus infections, with increased risk associated with certain exposures. The journal Annals of Internal Medicine is publishing rapid reviews and living systematic reviews to keep up with emerging evidence during the pandemic.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 5, 2020

Clinical implications of chromatin accessibility in human cancers

Researchers analyzed ATAC-seq data from 404 cancer patients to correlate chromatin accessibility with tumor characteristics, age, sex, and survival rates. The study found that chromatin accessibility on the X chromosome is strongly dependent on patient sex, but not on age or tumor stage.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateMay 5, 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.

Otters juggle stones when hungry, research shows

A study by researchers at the University of Exeter found that captive otters tend to play with stones more when they are hungry. The behavior is thought to be linked to excitement for food, rather than practice for foraging skills.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMay 5, 2020

Four years of calculations lead to new insights into muon anomaly

Researchers have used a multi-institutional approach and the Mira supercomputer to refine one piece of the complex puzzle surrounding the muon anomaly. They found a new result for the hadronic light-by-light scattering contribution, which could indicate a real discrepancy between experimental results and theoretical predictions.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 5, 2020

Long-term developments of energy pricing and consumption in industry

Researchers found that price increases rarely impact short-term energy consumption, but have a significant effect after about five years. The study developed two scenarios for future development: E-POL and CLI, which focus on increasing electricity use and reducing greenhouse gas emissions through energy-efficient technologies.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·DateMay 5, 2020

Editing selfies is counter productive: Study

A study by Flinders University found that extended selfie editing time correlates with increased facial dissatisfaction and negative emotions among women. This suggests that excessive self-editing can lead to feelings of disingenuousness online.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBody Image·DateMay 5, 2020

Study pinpoints metrics of cost-effective screening for type 1 diabetes

Researchers screened 25,000 children in the Denver metro area and found that early detection can reduce incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis by 20%, leading to improved disease control and reduced healthcare costs. The study highlights the potential for screening to improve overall quality of life and reduce long-term health risks.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalDiabetes Care·DateMay 5, 2020

Supportive oncodermatology interventions improve patient quality of life

A recent survey found that enrollment in supportive oncodermatology programs is associated with improved quality of life scores among cancer patients. The study, published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, highlights the benefits of these interventions on patient dermatologic health and overall well-being.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalJournal of Drugs in Dermatology·DateMay 5, 2020

Fossil fuel-free jet propulsion with air plasmas

Researchers have demonstrated a prototype device that uses microwave air plasmas for jet propulsion, offering a potentially viable alternative to conventional fossil fuel jet engines. The engine can generate thrusting pressures comparable to those of commercial airplane jet engines using only air and electricity.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateMay 5, 2020