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Science News Archive May 2020 - Page 4


Page 4 of 42

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
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.

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
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.

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

New 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
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.

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
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.

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
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.

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
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.

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
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

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

Extraction of skin interstitial fluid using microneedle patches

Researchers at Terasaki Institute develop a microneedle patch to extract skin interstitial fluid, providing an alternative source for biomarker testing and overcoming issues with blood sampling. The patch, made of gelatin methacryloyl, is highly absorbent and biocompatible, eliminating the need for hollow needles.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalSmall·DateMay 27, 2020

'Knowing how' is in your brain

A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers has found the brain programs that code the sequence of steps in performing a complex procedure. The main findings were that each knot had a distinctive neural signature, so the researchers could tell which knot was being tied from the sequence of brain images collected.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalPsychological Science·DateMay 27, 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.

New clues to deep earthquake mystery

Deep earthquakes can provide vital clues to understanding plate tectonics and the Earth's interior. A new model simulates subduction zones, showing that deformation is a major factor in deep earthquakes.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 27, 2020

Four of ten adults worldwide have functional gastrointestinal disorders

A study of over 73,000 people in 33 countries found that four out of ten adults worldwide have functional gastrointestinal disorders. The disorders, which include symptoms like heartburn and irritable bowel syndrome, were more prevalent in women and associated with lower quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateMay 27, 2020

What's the secret behind the world's stickiest brands?

Researchers discover how top leisure brands create 'sticky' customer experiences, using rapid entry, endless variation, and sparking new journeys. These chaotic experiences keep customers hooked, making them more eager for monthly subscriptions.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMay 27, 2020

Molecular pair offers potential for Parkinson's treatment, finds NTU Singapore-Harvard study

A study by NTU Singapore-Harvard University has identified a promising molecular pair, Prostaglandin E1 and Prostaglandin A1, that can boost dopamine levels and slow Parkinson's disease. The researchers found that these hormone-like substances can activate Nurr1, leading to increased dopamine production and neuroprotection.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMay 27, 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.

ADHD: genomic analysis in samples of Neanderthals and modern humans

A new genomic analysis reveals a decrease in genetic variants associated with ADHD across the human evolutionary lineage. The study suggests that favourable selection may have occurred in ancestral environments, leading to the high prevalence of ADHD in modern populations.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 27, 2020

As businesses reopen, it's crucial we wear masks, safely distance

Asymptomatic individuals can spread SARS-CoV-2 via aerosols, highlighting the importance of mask-wearing and physical distancing. Research estimates that a single minute of loud speaking can generate up to 100,000 virion-containing aerosols, which can remain airborne for hours.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateMay 27, 2020

New cancer immunotherapy targeting myeloid cells slows tumor growth

Researchers have discovered a new class of immunotherapy that targets myeloid immune cells and slows tumor growth by inhibiting the c-Rel molecule. The treatment showed promising results in both human cells and mouse models, shrinking tumors by up to 80% and reducing immune suppressor cells.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Cancer·DateMay 27, 2020

Study shows domestic violence reports on the rise as COVID-19 keeps people at home

A UCLA-led study found a significant increase in domestic violence calls to police in Los Angeles and Indianapolis during the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers predict that the incidence of domestic violence will decrease as people return to normal routines, but may increase again if there is a second wave of COVID-19 infections.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Criminal Justice·DateMay 27, 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.

Volcanic eruptions reduce global rainfall

A recent study reveals that volcanic eruptions in the tropics lead to a decrease in global precipitation, primarily through the amplification of El Niño. The research found that the strength of El Niño is directly related to the magnitude of precipitation reduction.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 27, 2020

An exploratory study of metformin and rapamycin as maintenance therapy

An exploratory study found that metformin combined with rapamycin was well-tolerated in patients with stable or responding metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (mPDA) after 6 months of chemotherapy. The combination was associated with exceptionally long survival rates and improved disease stability.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateMay 27, 2020

Study: Ultra-thin fibres designed to protect nerves after brain surgery

Researchers have developed biodegradable polymer fibres infused with nimodipine to prevent nerve cell death after brain surgery. The treatment reduces side effects and minimizes blood pressure risks, offering a promising alternative to intravenous administration.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalEuropean Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics·DateMay 27, 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.

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers in Ontario, Canada, found that physical distancing measures can prevent COVID-19 resurgence. A systematic review on hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine for treating COVID-19 showed conflicting evidence on their effectiveness.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 27, 2020