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Science News for May 25, 2021


Racemases: The hunt for drugs to neutralise these critical enzymes

Scientists from the University of Bath explore racemases, critical enzymes linked to cancers and other life-threatening diseases, and propose strategies for finding drugs that neutralize them. Lab experiments show promising outcomes in targeting these enzymes, with potential applications in treating various diseases.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalChemical Society Reviews·DateMay 25, 2021

Grass replaces plastic in take-away food packaging

A new project aims to develop a sustainable alternative to disposable plastics in take-away food packaging using upcycled grass fibres. Replacing plastic with bio-based packaging can reduce carbon emissions from production by approximately 210,000 tonnes CO2 annually.

SourceAarhus University·DateMay 25, 2021

Maximizing cancer survival, minimizing treatment side effects with AI

Researchers developed an AI system to guide oncologists in treating head and neck cancer patients, considering treatment efficacy and potential future decisions. The system analyzes real patient data to provide personalized recommendations and maximize survival outcomes while minimizing chemotherapy and radiation side effects.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

Scientists to present new findings on atoms, molecules, and optics

Researchers will discuss fundamental questions and applied technologies in physics, including dark matter, quantum information science, and ultrafast physics. New findings on creating unusual non-local interactions and detecting COVID-19 biomarkers with ultrasensitivity will also be presented.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateMay 25, 2021

How army ants' iconic mass raids evolved

Researchers found that army ant mass raids originated from group raiding behavior in smaller colonies, with a massive increase in colony size correlating to the evolution of mass raids. The study uses custom computer vision software to track individual ants and analyze their behavior.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2021

Silver attacks bacteria, gets 'consumed'

Researchers found silver nanoparticles' shape transformed from triangles to circles after interacting with E. coli cells, affecting their optical properties. The study suggests silver is 'consumed' by the bacteria without impacting its antibacterial properties.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalChemical Physics Reviews·DateMay 25, 2021

LHAASO detect dozen sources of ultra-high energy gamma-rays

The LHAASO observatory detected 12 Ultra-high Energy gamma-ray sources, prompting the presence of active or recent PeVatrons. The team identified possible candidates, including pulsar wind nebulae and supernova remnants.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

Newly discovered enzymes are not heavy metal fans

Researchers from the University of Tsukuba have identified two metal-independent carbonic anhydrase enzymes that improve our knowledge of the global carbon cycle. These enzymes may play a crucial role in CO2 metabolism, particularly in metal-poor environments.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBMC Biology·DateMay 25, 2021

AI spots neurons better than human experts

A new AI-powered algorithm, WeakGCSeg, accurately detects and tracks ganglion cells in the retina, surpassing human expertise. This technology enables early diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases like glaucoma, improving treatment options.

SourceDuke University·JournalOptica·DateMay 25, 2021

Food scraps get a bold new life

Researchers at The University of Tokyo have developed a new method to recycle discarded fruit and vegetable scraps into strong construction materials. The process uses vacuum-dried, pulverized food scraps, such as seaweed and cabbage leaves, and produces materials that are at least as strong as concrete.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·DateMay 25, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Is deference to supernatural beings present in infancy?

Researchers at the University of Oxford discovered that infants aged 12-16 months exhibit a tendency to attribute social dominance to individuals with supernatural powers. In experiments, infants expected characters using counterintuitive methods to win rewards, suggesting they perceive these abilities as superior.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 25, 2021

Press (re)play to remember - How the brain strengthens memories during sleep

Scientists have discovered that slow oscillations and sleep spindles play a crucial role in memory formation and consolidation, with the precise combination of these patterns creating windows for reactivation of previously learned information. This process helps solidify memories in long-term stores and improves recall.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 25, 2021

Geology helps map kidney stone formation from tiny to troublesome

Researchers map kidney stone formation from tiny to troublesome, revealing microspherules merge to form larger crystals, and stones undergo multiple cycles of partial dissolution and growth. The new classification scheme and GeoBioCell device aim to accelerate research, diagnostic testing, and individualized treatment targets.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Reviews Urology·DateMay 25, 2021

Made in the shade or fun in the sun

Phytochromes help plants detect light direction, intensity, and duration, as well as temperature, allowing them to adapt to various environments. The study fully characterized the phytochrome family in Arabidopsis thaliana and found surprising differences between isoforms.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

Road verges provide opportunity for wildflowers, bees and trees

Researchers estimate that UK road verges, covering 1.2% of land in Great Britain, can be managed for nature by reducing frequent mowing and planting trees. This approach could create better habitats for pollinators, capture carbon, and contribute to the UK government's tree-planting ambitions.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalLandscape and Urban Planning·DateMay 25, 2021

Researchers seek deeper understanding on how cells in the body operate

A team of researchers at Texas A&M University used experimental cellular evolution to study how cells respond to controlled mechanical properties. They found that cellular mechanosensing is not optimal but a tradeoff, and that cells can evolve under selection pressure from biomaterials of controlled stiffness.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

New study shows how to boost muscle regeneration and rebuild tissue

A new study published in Nature Communications reveals clues about molecular changes underlying muscle loss tied to aging. The researchers found that using molecular compounds increased the regeneration of muscle cells in mice by activating precursors of muscle cells, called myogenic progenitors.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

Decreased testing could lead to surge in sexually transmitted infections

A study by Penn State and Quest Diagnostics researchers found a 63% decrease in STI testing for men and 59% for women during the early months of the pandemic. This may lead to an increase in future STI cases, potentially resulting in adverse health outcomes such as pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 25, 2021

Russian scientists synthesize effective compounds for anticancer drugs

Researchers from South Ural State University and the Russian Academy of Sciences have synthesized six new acetylthioglycoside derivatives with potential anti-cancer effects. The compounds are based on a dithiolothionic cycle, which releases hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, and nitric oxide.

SourceSouth Ural State University·JournalRussian Chemical Bulletin·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

"Bite" defects in bottom-up graphene nanoribbons

Scientists investigate 'bite' defects in armchair and zigzag graphene nanoribbons, finding they can disrupt electronic transport but also yield spin-polarized currents. The study aims to minimize the detrimental effects of these defects on charge transport for next-generation nanotechnologies.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateMay 25, 2021

Asthma medication use and exacerbations

A new study suggests that exempting asthma medications from the deductible in high-deductible health plans may reduce medication use and exacerbations in children, but not adults. The research found small decreases in annual fills for some controller medications among children switching to HDHPs.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMay 25, 2021

Two new attacks break PDF certification

Researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum discovered two new attacks that break PDF certification signatures, enabling attackers to implant malicious code and insert fake content. The team tested 26 PDF applications, with 24 of them vulnerable to at least one attack.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateMay 25, 2021

Impact of coal burning on Yangtze River is comparable to natural processes

A new study reveals that coal fly ash makes up a significant portion of particulate organic carbon carried by the Yangtze River in China. The study found that human activities, such as coal burning, have an outsized impact on river sediment, comparable to natural processes.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

Dimensions of invasion success

A recent study assesses the invasiveness of European and native plant species using three dimensions: local abundance, geographic extent, and habitat breadth. High values in these variables characterize successful invaders, with early introduction to Europe and rapid growth contributing to their success.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2021

SARS-CoV-2 RNA discovery unlocks new potential treatments

Researchers at the University of Oxford and their international team have discovered how SARS-CoV-2 RNA interacts with host cells, paving the way for new therapeutic strategies. The study found that SARS-CoV-2 hijacks more than 100 cellular proteins to replicate, providing a potential target for antiviral treatments.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMay 25, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Building a better LED bulb

A University of Houston research team creates a unique class of luminescent materials called phosphors that absorb violet LED's single-color emission and convert the light to cover the majority of the visible spectrum. The new LED bulb emits less blue light, reducing health concerns associated with overexposure.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 25, 2021

Slender robotic finger senses buried items

MIT researchers have designed a sharp-tipped robot finger with tactile sensing to identify buried objects in granular material. The Digger Finger successfully sensed the shapes of submerged items and can penetrate sand and rice, with potential applications for finding buried cables or disarming bombs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMay 25, 2021

Incentivized product reviews: Positive to a fault?

Researchers found that direct compensation for posting written reviews increases positive emotion, but may lead to overly glowing reviews that don't accurately reflect the experience. In experiments, incentives increased review positivity by 55%, but had unforeseen negative consequences for consumers.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateMay 25, 2021

Engineering matter at the atomic level

Scientists have developed a way to engineer materials at the atomic level using a dry transfer technique. The method uses anthracene as a sacrificial material to precisely position carbon nanotubes, resulting in bright photoluminescence up to 5,000 times brighter than the original molecule.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

Odd angles make for strong spin-spin coupling

Researchers found strong antiresonance in orthoferrite materials when placed at an odd angle under high magnetic fields. This unique state allows for ultrastrong interactions between magnons, which could lead to suppressed fluctuation noise and increased sensitivity in quantum sensing applications.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 25, 2021

New AI technology protects privacy

A new AI algorithm developed by TUM and Imperial College London can detect pneumonia in pediatric x-ray images while maintaining patient privacy. The algorithm uses federated learning, secure aggregation, and differential privacy to keep data onsite and prevent individual identification.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateMay 25, 2021

NSF renews funding for Two-Dimensional Crystal Consortium

The National Science Foundation has renewed funding for the Materials Innovation Platform at Penn State's Materials Research Institute, enabling the development of new ultra-thin materials with unique quantum properties. The facility will advance 2D materials research across the US, supporting over 100 scientists nationwide.

SourcePenn State·DateMay 25, 2021

Technique to evaluate wind turbines may boost wind power production

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a method to compare the performance of different wind turbine designs, using machine learning and social science analysis. The study found that this technique can provide a robust and accurate way to determine the merit of competing technologies.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalRenewable Energy·DateMay 25, 2021

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A small case series found that vaccination was not linked to worsening symptoms or reduced quality of life in patients with persistent COVID-19 symptoms. The study included 163 patients who received one dose of either Pfizer-BioNTech or Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 25, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Probing deeper into origins of cosmic rays

A team of researchers from the University of Notre Dame developed a simulation model to better understand cosmic ray transport characteristics and improve detection techniques.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateMay 25, 2021

China makes remarkable gains in maternal and child survival rates

Since 1949, China has made notable progress in reducing maternal mortality and improving child survival rates, with significant reductions in death ratios from 1500 to 17.8 cases per 100,000 births and infant deaths from 200 to 5.6 cases per 1,000 births.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 25, 2021

Does the Milky Way move like a spinning top?

New study questions precession in the Milky Way's warp, suggesting it could disappear or become slower over time. Researchers used Gaia Mission data to analyze stars' positions and velocities.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateMay 25, 2021

SARS-CoV-2: Estimating infectiousness

Researchers analyzed PCR samples from over 25,000 COVID-19 cases to estimate infectiousness. Viral loads were found to be lowest in young children and increased with age. The study provides new insights into the B.1.1.7 variant and highlights individual differences in infectiousness.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalScience·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

Association of circulating sex hormones with COVID-19 severity

A study examining COVID-19 severity found associations between circulating sex hormones and disease outcomes in patients, highlighting the need for further research on hormonal factors. The investigation, published in JAMA Network Open, suggests that hormonal imbalances may contribute to varying levels of disease severity.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 25, 2021

Prism adaptation treatment improves rehabilitation outcomes in people with spatial neglect

A study published in Archives of Rehabilitation Research and Clinical Translation found that prism adaptation treatment improves functional and cognitive independence scores for stroke survivors with spatial neglect. The treatment, which involves wearing goggles with optical prisms to shift motor movements, results in higher scores on ...

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalArchives of Rehabilitation Research and Clinical Translation·DateMay 25, 2021

Study examines how pandemic-related changes affect college students' motivation

A study of 182 undergraduate students found that pandemic-related changes affected motivation levels variably, with some students becoming more motivated while others remained unchanged or became less motivated. Demographic factors such as socioeconomic status and first-generation student status did not significantly impact the findings.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Microbiology and Biology Education·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

Superflimsy graphene turned ultrastiff by optical forging

Researchers at the University of Jyväskylä have demonstrated a new method to make graphene ultrastiff using optical forging, increasing its stiffness by several orders of magnitude. The technique, which involves irradiating defects in the graphene lattice, opens up new application areas for this wonder material.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·Journalnpj 2D Materials and Applications·DateMay 25, 2021

A COVID-fighter's guide to T cells

Researchers from La Jolla Institute for Immunology have found that human T cells can target more than 1,400 sites on the SARS-CoV-2 virus, revealing a broad and diverse immune response. This analysis can help monitor effective responses to COVID-19 vaccines and track variations in T cell responses.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMay 25, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Parents abused as children may pass on emotional issues

Research suggests that parents with a history of childhood trauma may struggle with emotion regulation, which can harm their children's emotional development. The study found that boys are more vulnerable to emotional regulation difficulties when their parents also struggled with emotion regulation.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Psychopathology and Behavioral Assessment·DateMay 25, 2021

Data from smartwatches can help predict clinical blood test results

Researchers at Duke University and Stanford University School of Medicine found that long-term wearable device data can quickly indicate illness, dehydration, and abnormalities in a patient's red blood cell count. Machine learning algorithms applied to the data enabled identification of previously unknown relations between smartwatch s...

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 25, 2021

'Slow slip' earthquakes' hidden mechanics revealed

Researchers used seismic CT scans and supercomputers to study slow slip earthquakes in New Zealand's Hikurangi subduction zone. The study found that tectonic forces build up before releasing through slow motion tremors, revealing key processes involved in modulating slow slip.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 25, 2021
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 technique breaks the mould for 3D printing medical implants

Researchers at RMIT University have developed a new 3D printing method that creates intricate biomedical structures, advancing tissue engineering and regrowing bones. The technique uses glue and a high school-grade 3D printer to create tiny implants with elaborate structures.

SourceRMIT University·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateMay 25, 2021

Mental illness among US coal miners

Rates of depression and anxiety were found to be higher among US coal miners compared to the general population. The study also identified a significant risk of posttraumatic stress disorder among current and former coal miners in the United States.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 25, 2021

Physician-patient gender concordance may not matter in interventional practice

A study by Michigan Medicine found that female interventional cardiologists have comparable outcomes to their male counterparts in coronary angioplasties. Despite being significantly under-represented, they demonstrate excellent practitioner skills. The findings suggest benefits for female trainees considering the field.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

Synchrotron X-ray experiment reveals a small nudge with big consequences

Researchers used synchrotron X-ray techniques to study how gypsum dehydrates under pressure, revealing a small nudge that can have big consequences for geological processes. The findings suggest that increased tectonic stress can speed up dehydration and promote earthquakes.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalCommunications Materials·DateMay 25, 2021

Algorithm to compare cells across species

Researchers developed an algorithm to compare cell types in different species, revealing conserved genes and cell type families across evolutionary distances. The mapping method accounts for changes over millions of years, enabling biologists to trace the trajectory of cell types in organisms along the tree of life.

SourceStanford University·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

Narcissism linked to aggression in review of 437 studies

A comprehensive analysis of 437 studies found narcissism is a significant risk factor for aggressive behavior worldwide. Higher levels of narcissism were linked to more aggression, including physical, verbal, and online cyberbullying.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateMay 25, 2021

HPV vaccine shows success in gay, bisexual men

A study by Monash University found a significant reduction in all four HPV genotypes in gay/bisexual men after implementing the school-based HPV vaccination program. The results suggest that male vaccination may lead to a potential reduction in anal cancer among gay and bisexual men in Australia.

SourceMonash University·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateMay 25, 2021

OIST and Beyond Next Ventures tie in a new innovation hub

The OIST-BNV Innovation Hub will provide financial investment and tailored business services to deep-tech startups, aiming to create high-tech industry and generate 10-20 new companies in the next few years. Startups can apply via an online portal from June 2021.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·DateMay 25, 2021

Conserving and monitoring genetic diversity will benefit nature and society

The loss of genetic diversity is a pressing crisis that can have devastating consequences for ecosystems and human societies. Monitoring genetic diversity using DNA analysis can help detect vulnerabilities, but technology must be made available globally and data must be accessible to inform conservation efforts.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalBioScience·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

Harnessing next generation sequencing to detect SARS-CoV-2

Researchers developed a method called SARSeq that enables large groups to be tested for SARS-CoV-2 with the same sensitivity as regular PCR tests. The method processes up to 36,000 samples in less than 48 hours and is highly specific and scalable.

SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 25, 2021

For men, low testosterone means high risk of severe COVID-19

A new study from Washington University School of Medicine found that low testosterone levels in men are linked to more severe disease. Men with low testosterone had a higher risk of requiring intensive care or dying from COVID-19, while those with higher testosterone levels were less likely to experience severe symptoms.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 25, 2021

Holograms increase solar energy yield

Researchers developed a holographic light collector that captures unused solar energy and increases the amount of solar energy converted by solar panels over the course of a year. The collector directs specific colors of sunlight to solar cells within the panel, resulting in an estimated five percent increase in annual yield.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateMay 25, 2021

Mothers' depression impacts mother-infant relationships

A study published in BJPsych Open found that women with depression during pregnancy or a history of depression had reduced quality of mother-infant interactions. Despite this, all mothers and their babies improved over time, indicating potential for future attunement.

SourceKing's College London·JournalBJPsych Open·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

ED visits for appendicitis, miscarriage fell sharply in first wave of COVID-19 pandemic

Emergency department visits for common conditions like appendicitis and miscarriage dropped significantly during the first wave of COVID-19, but there was no increase in adverse patient outcomes. Researchers found that management strategies remained unchanged, suggesting that patients who required emergency care continued to seek help ...

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 25, 2021

Wearable devices show that physical activity may lower atrial fibrillation and stroke risk

A study of nearly 100,000 individuals found that wearing accelerometers showed a significant association between moderate physical activity and reduced risk of atrial fibrillation and stroke. The researchers suggest that wearable devices could be used to promote public health by tracking and encouraging physical activity.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

Hurricane Matthew storm surge data wins NHERI DesignSafe Dataset Award 2021

Researchers at the University of North Carolina developed a data assimilation method to improve multi-day forecast accuracy of coastal water levels. The method yielded substantially smaller errors in water level estimates and is now used by NOAA's Extratropical Surge and Tide Operational Forecast System.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateMay 25, 2021

From harmless skin bacteria to dreaded pathogens

A new gene cluster in Staphylococcus epidermidis enables the bacteria to produce structures that allow them to attach to human cells and form a persistent infection. This discovery could lead to better treatments or vaccinations against methicillin-resistant S. aureus.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalNature Microbiology·DateMay 25, 2021

'Rejuvenating' the Alzheimer's brain

Researchers from the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience have discovered a small molecule that can be used to rejuvenate the brain and counteract memory loss in Alzheimer's disease. The molecule, microRNA-132, regulates adult hippocampal neurogenesis and is required for the neurogenic process in the adult hippocampus.

SourceNetherlands Institute for Neuroscience - KNAW·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

The use of couple therapy to reduce pain during intercourse

A new study found that couple cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is more effective than lidocaine in reducing women's fear of pain and improving their sexual experience. The therapy helps break the vicious cycle of fear and avoidance, allowing couples to refocus on pleasurable experiences.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateMay 25, 2021

Conservation success leads to new challenges for endangered mountain gorillas

A recent study found that conservation efforts have led to an increase in mountain gorilla population densities, which may raise their risk of infectious diseases. The research also discovered striking geographic differences in parasite infections across the entire range of the mountain gorilla.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 25, 2021

Serendipitous discovery could lead to treatment for strokes, cardiac arrest

A study at Massachusetts General Hospital has identified an enzyme that protects the brain from oxygen deprivation, leading to new potential therapies for strokes and brain injuries caused by cardiac arrest. The discovery was made serendipitously while researchers investigated techniques for inducing suspended animation.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 25, 2021

Vitamin B6 deficiency enhances the noradrenergic system, leading to behavioral deficits

A study found that Vitamin B6 deficiency is associated with social deficits, cognitive impairment, and hyperactivated noradrenergic systems in mice. Supplementing the brain with Vitamin B6 improved these abnormalities, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy for schizophrenia patients with Vitamin B6 deficiency.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

UBCO researchers examine how pandemics impact the homeless

A team of UBC Okanagan researchers investigated the impact of pandemics on homeless populations, revealing a mortality rate five to 10 times higher compared to the general population. The study identified six key themes that affect the homeless, including education and outreach, screening and contact tracing, and treatment adherence.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalHealth & Social Care in the Community·DateMay 25, 2021

Study shows how fungi and bacteria can activate genes associated with head and neck cancer

Researchers discovered that metabolites from fungi and bacteria biofilms can modulate gene expression associated with tumor growth and survival. The study found that these microorganisms can endanger homeostasis in normal and neoplastic oral epithelial cells, impairing cell viability and survival.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

Soft X-ray method promises nanocarrier breakthroughs for smart medicine

Researchers have developed a new technique using chemically-sensitive soft X-rays to analyze the internal structure, chemistry and environmental behavior of organic nanocarriers. This non-disruptive method allows for detailed analysis of nanocarrier properties, including their size, water-content and response to changing environments.

SourceWashington State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 25, 2021

New international research provides tips for entrepreneurs to beat the grind

A new study suggests that engaging in recovery can help entrepreneurs reduce the negative impact of stress and improve well-being outcomes. The study proposes three recovery-intervention categories: Respite, Reappraisal, and Regimen, which recommend taking breaks, reframing thoughts on stress, and adding structure to recovery.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalEntrepreneurship Theory and Practice·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

Machine learning platform identifies activated neurons in real-time

Researchers at Duke University have developed a machine learning platform that can identify activated neurons in videos faster and more accurately than current techniques. The technology enables researchers to watch an animal's brain activity in real-time as they behave, allowing for new insights into how the brain works.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateMay 25, 2021

Tuning the intermediate reaction barriers by a CuPd catalyst for CO2 electroreduction to C2 products

Researchers designed a Cu-Pd bimetallic electrocatalyst that lowers the energy barrier of C2 product generation, resulting in a 50.3% C2 Faradaic efficiency. The catalyst exploits the benefits of both Cu (low energy barrier) and Pd (ultrafast kinetics), addressing CO2 conversion limitations.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateMay 25, 2021

Whale carcasses help answer mysteries of elusive species

Researchers analyzed stable isotope analysis of skin, muscle, and bone tissue to study Sowerby's beaked whale spatial ecology. The results show that the species exhibits both short- and long-term habitat fidelity, with at least two subpopulations in the eastern and western Atlantic.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Conservation Science·DateMay 25, 2021