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Science News for May 17, 2022


Loops for micro-organisms

A UFZ research team has developed a new method called 'mass transfer with a loop' to stabilize microbial communities in bioreactors. This approach prevents the loss of crucial microorganisms, which are essential for various biotechnological processes, by synchronizing their composition and functions.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Organic polymeric scintillators excite X-ray community

Researchers developed efficient metal-free polymeric scintillators for high-resolution X-ray imaging, outperforming conventional anthracene-based scintillators. The polymers exhibit multicolor radioluminescence and high photostability, enabling applications in radiation detection, medical diagnosis, and security inspection.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateMay 17, 2022

Timing of heart surgery crucial, research shows

A new study published in Open Heart found that patients with asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis benefit from early valve replacement surgery to prevent irreversible heart muscle damage. The research showed that timing of surgery is crucial in reducing mortality and hospitalization rates.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalOpen Heart·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 17, 2022

Clinical study shows postbiotic urolithin a improves muscle strength and exercise performance in middle aged adults

A new clinical study published in Cell Reports Medicine found that daily intake of postbiotic Urolithin A improved muscle strength by 12% in middle-aged adults. The supplement supported the cells' ability to renew their powerplants, the mitochondria, during the aging process.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 17, 2022
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 social media posts could affect credit scores

Alternative credit scoring systems present challenges not covered by existing regulations, leaving many Americans unable to access the credit system. These systems can be opaque and ripe for abusive lending practices, making it difficult for consumers to contest erroneous information.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalAmerican Business Law Journal·DateMay 17, 2022

Reliable diagnostics at the tip of your finger

Researchers developed a biosensor using nanostructured and nanoporous surfaces to detect biomarkers in clinical samples, overcoming technical challenges of small sample amounts. The new technology can provide quick and accurate diagnoses for diseases like prostate cancer without needing dilution or preprocessing steps.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

New tool developed by WVU researchers makes it easier to identify pregnant patients with eating disorders

A new screening tool has been developed to identify pregnant women at risk of eating disorders, allowing for early intervention and treatment. The Prenatal Eating Behaviors Screening (PEBS) tool, created by WVU researchers, uses a 12-question screener to assess symptoms and emotions associated with eating disorders.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalArchives of Women s Mental Health·DateMay 17, 2022

Aging well in a pandemic: Older adults share what it takes

A new national poll reveals that most people over 50 feel their health is as good or better than before 2020, but a sizable minority say their health has declined. Key findings highlight the importance of social connections, hobbies, and getting outdoors in helping older adults age well.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·TypeSurvey·DateMay 17, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

On the road to cleaner, greener, and faster driving

A new study demonstrates a machine-learning approach that can learn to control a fleet of autonomous vehicles as they approach and travel through a signalized intersection. The technique reduces fuel consumption and emissions while improving average vehicle speed, with benefits seen even when only 25% of cars use the control algorithm.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMay 17, 2022

High-fat diet linked to nitric oxide levels, cancer development

Researchers at the Beckman Institute found a direct link between high-fat diets and heightened nitric oxide levels, which can lead to increased risk of inflammation and cancer development. The study used a molecular probe to visualize changes in the tumor microenvironment.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalACS Central Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

Student expenditures decrease at some colleges that receive promise scholarship funds

A recent study found that two-year colleges receiving promise scholarship funds decreased their spending on instruction by 3.3% and student services by up to 15%. However, four-year colleges received no significant change in spending on student-related expenditures, while experiencing a 14.5% increase in non-student-related public serv...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEducational Policy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

The war in Ukraine impacts patients with mental disorders

A new study from Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital – Psychiatry has found that Danish patients with mental disorders experienced a worsening of symptoms in connection with the invasion of Ukraine. The study analyzed over 500,000 clinical notes from psychiatric hospitals in Denmark and identified a sharp increase in clini...

SourceAarhus University·JournalActa Psychiatrica Scandinavica·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 17, 2022

Different subtypes defined in small cell lung cancer

Researchers at MedUni Vienna identified five distinct subtypes of small cell lung cancer, each responding differently to therapies. High ASCL1 expression is linked to poor survival, while high POU2F3 expression correlates with better outcomes and sensitivity to standard chemotherapeutics.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalThe Journal of Pathology·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

A highly sensitive detection strategy for biomarkers with controllable dynamic range

A highly sensitive biosensor system was developed using a strategy that precisely controlled bio-droplets' motion behaviors, enabling ultrasensitive detection of biomarkers such as ATP, miRNA, Thrombin, and Kanamycin. The system's adjustable dynamic range allows for versatile applications in cluster analysis and multi-target detection.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateMay 17, 2022

New ALS ‘drug’ is more effective than existing ones

Research on experimental drug NU-9 invents by Northwestern University scientists reveals it is more effective than existing FDA-approved drugs for ALS treatment. NU-9 also repairs the axons of diseased upper motor neurons in ALS mouse model, offering a potential new approach to treating the devastating disease.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

Scientists use machine learning models to help identify long COVID patients

Researchers developed XGBoost machine learning models using de-identified EHR data from the National COVID Cohort Collaborative to identify potential long-COVID patients. The models achieved high accuracy, identifying key features such as post-COVID respiratory symptoms and pre-existing risk factors for acute COVID severity.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

Where were Herod the Great's royal alabaster bathtubs quarried?

A new study published in Scientific Reports provides definitive evidence for the origin of Herod the Great's luxurious alabaster bathtubs. Analytical methods distinguish calcite-alabaster from Egypt and confirm quarries in Israel, challenging long-held assumptions.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 17, 2022

3D-printed acoustic holograms against Alzheimer's or Parkinson's

Researchers at Universitat Politècnica de València have developed 3D-printed acoustic holograms that can open the blood-brain barrier, allowing for precise administration of therapeutic drugs to treat Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. The technology enables controlled focusing of ultrasonic beams on specific brain structures.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

Photoluminescence, a simple and ubiquitous technique, is far more capable than one might have thought

Researchers develop an all-optical approach using photoluminescence to analyze radiative and nonradiative recombination processes in semiconductors. By combining Raman spectroscopy with PL data, they can extract quantitative information on carrier recombination dynamics, including defect density and capture cross-sections.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateMay 17, 2022

Time-restricted eating may lower CVD risk for older breast cancer survivors

A new study found that time-restricted eating can reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in older breast cancer survivors with cardiometabolic risk factors. After eight weeks of restricting food intake to 8 hours a day, participants showed a 15% decrease in CVD risk.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJACC CardioOncology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

Dwarf planet Ceres was formed in coldest zone of Solar System and thrust into Asteroid Belt

Researchers propose that Ceres was formed outside the Frost Line, where ammonia ice is abundant, and then pulled into the Asteroid Belt by gravitational instability. Computer simulations support this hypothesis, showing that giant planet formation led to a turbulent environment that scattered objects into stable orbits.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalIcarus·DateMay 17, 2022

Chimpanzees combine calls to form numerous vocal sequences

A new study reveals that wild chimpanzees produce hundreds of diverse vocal sequences, combining up to ten call types, and exhibit structured communication patterns. This discovery challenges the long-held assumption that non-human primates lack complex vocal communication systems.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalCommunications Biology·DateMay 17, 2022

Caribbean coral reefs need our help

Global warming is expected to destabilize Caribbean coral populations, leading to bleaching and extinction. Coral reefs support the seafood industry, coastal communities, and tourism, with a net economic value estimated in tens of billions of dollars.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalCoral Reefs·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 17, 2022

Texas A&M AgriLife describes new protein structures to aid rational drug design

A Texas A&M AgriLife team has described several protein structures of the C1 domain of protein kinase C, providing a reliable guide for designing drug candidates. The research sheds light on how C1 domains bind ligands and could lead to new treatments for diseases such as Alzheimer's, AIDS, and cancer.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

Changes in COVID-19 mortality rates by age, race, ethnicity

A recent study found that COVID-19 mortality rates in the United States were significantly higher among younger adults and minority groups compared to older adults and white populations. The research also revealed disparities in mortality rates by sex, with women experiencing lower mortality rates than men.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 17, 2022

Motivation for sports and school go hand in hand for adolescent athletes

A new study from Finland found that adolescent athletes' motivation for school and sports are strongly related, with female students generally showing higher motivation for both. Male students tend to be less interested in school, but not in sports, suggesting a need for targeted support to develop their academic motivation.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalCurrent Psychology·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

Early warning system forecasts who needs critical care for COVID-19

A new algorithm forecasts which hospitalized patients are at the highest risk of death from COVID-19, regardless of immune protection status or virus variant. The tool, called COVID-19 Disease Outcome Predictor (CODOP), uses blood measurements to predict prognosis and can help direct critical care resources.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateMay 17, 2022

Alternative to open heart surgery just as effective for patients with common heart condition

A new study has shown that Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) is just as effective as conventional open-heart surgery in treating severe symptomatic aortic stenosis. The procedure offers a safer and faster recovery for patients, with improved symptoms, functional capacity, and quality of life at 6 weeks.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 17, 2022

New silicon nanowires can really take the heat

Scientists have developed a new material that conducts heat 150% more efficiently than conventional materials, enabling smaller, faster microelectronics. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient electronic devices powered by microchips that consume less energy and reduce carbon emissions.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 17, 2022

Magnetic resonance makes the invisible visible

Researchers have developed a new NMR method to monitor fast biomolecular events like protein folding, enabled by hyperpolarized water. This technique enhances signal intensities by up to 10,000-fold, allowing for real-time monitoring and tracking of individual amino acids.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Protocols·DateMay 17, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

How is it possible to remember selfless experiences?

Scientists from Ruhr-University Bochum argue that selfless memories are possible and should be taken seriously. They propose the Bochum model of memory, which suggests that people construct a vivid memory by enriching a stored memory trace with background knowledge and adding self-facets.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateMay 17, 2022

Study identifies first cellular “chaperone” for zinc

The study reveals that ZNG1 is a protein that puts zinc into other 'client' proteins, playing a crucial role in regulating cellular zinc homeostasis. ZNG1's identification opens up a new area of biology for exploration and may be one of the most important regulatory strategies by which humans cope with severe zinc starvation.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

Steps should be taken now to protect future supplies of infant and pediatric formula

A new perspective published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition recommends strategies to prevent future shortages and regain public trust. Strategies include a thorough, public process to instill confidence in safe production, assessment of supply system factors, and evaluation of business practices.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 17, 2022

Friendly fungi announce themselves to their hosts

Scientists discovered that commensal fungi like Candida albicans need to be alive and actively producing proteins to elicit a beneficial immune response. The fungus oscillates between high and low expression of the UME6 gene, signaling its benefits to the body.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

Aging-US: new insights on skin aging gleaned from naked mole-rats

Researchers studied naked mole-rats' skin using single-cell RNA-seq to understand its remarkable stability against aging. They found no changes in epidermal gene expression with age and a unique keratinocyte differentiation trajectory that remained intact.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

Some of the keys to improving learning through feedback

A UOC study finds that effective feedback requires a two-way dialogue between teachers and students, helping them bridge gaps in knowledge and skills. Students' emotional responses to feedback also play a crucial role, with positive emotions fostering engagement and improvement.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalEducation and Information Technologies·TypeSurvey·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

Protein linked to intellectual disability has complex role

The study found that the fragile X protein regulates the opening and closing of the GABA-A receptor in neurons from the brain's memory center, influencing how such neurons process information. This nuanced understanding may hold the key to developing effective therapies for fragile X syndrome.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

Pancharatnam–Berry phase reversal via opposite-chirality-coexisted superstructures

Researchers develop innovative scheme to manipulate light with orthogonal circular polarization and conjugated PB phase in a single layer. They successfully generate reflective optical vortex and vector beams with enhanced efficiency and compact configuration.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateMay 17, 2022

Dynamics of adaptive immunity in tuberculosis uncovered

Researchers discovered that adaptive immune response against TB matures over time, with key players in immunity becoming activated by three months after infection. The emergence of these activated T cells is inversely correlated with the number of granuloma-contained live bacteria, suggesting they play critical roles in bacterial control.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 17, 2022

The numbers don’t lie: Australia is failing at maths and we need to find a new formula to arrest the decline

Australian secondary students' math rankings have dropped to 29th place globally, with a new study suggesting hand gestures are crucial for understanding mathematical concepts. Online learning has exacerbated the issue, making it harder for students to grasp math concepts without human motor and sensory skills.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalIntegrative Psychological and Behavioral Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 17, 2022

“Gold veins mined in the city” A technology to realize ‘urban mining’

A Korean research team has developed a gold recovery process with the world's highest recovery efficiency of 99.9%. The technology uses a capsule-type material that traps gold ions and prevents clogging, allowing for repeated recycling. This innovation can lead to significant cost savings and environmental benefits.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateMay 17, 2022

If you take several medications, ‘polypharmacy’ is a word to know

A recent study found that 70% of adults with stage 3 or 4 cancer were at risk of drug-drug interactions, highlighting the importance of deprescribing medications to avoid harm. The study's results emphasize the need for education and problem-solving to address polypharmacy in older adults with cancer.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalThe Oncologist·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

Meteorological mechanisms behind severe drought in southwestern China during spring 2021 differ from similar historical events

A study found that climatic conditions during the extreme 2021 spring drought in SWC were distinct from similar historical events. Researchers identified atmospheric internal variability and a warming trend as key drivers of the drought, with high temperatures contributing significantly to its severity.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateMay 17, 2022

Scientists nail down 'destination' for protein that delivers zinc

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have identified a zinc chaperone protein called ZNG1, which delivers zinc to the enzyme MAP1. This discovery reveals a key mechanism used by all living things to transport zinc, essential for survival and enzyme function.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

Improved wind forecasts save consumers millions in energy costs

Researchers found that improved wind forecasts resulted in at least $384 million in energy savings for US consumers over the last decade. The study used NOAA's HRRR model to compare forecast accuracy and quantify cost savings.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateMay 17, 2022

A CNIC team creates a dynamic 3D atlas of the formation of the embryonic heart

A CNIC team has created a dynamic 3D atlas of the formation of the heart during embryonic and fetal development, allowing for the identification of the first appearance of left–right asymmetry in the heart. This study provides important information on the development of congenital heart malformations.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

Rice chemists skew the odds to prevent cancer

Researchers at Rice University have developed a theoretical framework to explain how cancers caused by multiple genetic mutations can be identified and potentially stopped. By analyzing energy landscapes of cellular transformation pathways, they found that the most dominant pathways are favored by chance.

SourceRice University·JournalBiophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 17, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Change of temperature causes whole body reprogramming

Researchers at UNIGE discovered that temperature changes trigger organ-specific effects in all tissues, leading to distinct gene expression profiles. The study's web-based application provides access to thousands of gene expression profiles, enabling further research and potential therapeutic applications.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournaleLife·TypeNews article·DateMay 17, 2022

Vine removal technique foils devastating grape disease

A new vine removal technique called spatial roguing can significantly reduce the incidence of leafroll disease in commercial vineyards. Removing two vines on either side of a diseased grapevine creates a barrier that eliminates the mealybugs' means of transporting the virus, leading to a rapid decline in disease incidence.

SourceCornell University·JournalAmerican Journal of Enology and Viticulture·DateMay 17, 2022

NIST study gives animal testing alternatives a confidence boost

Researchers at NIST developed a new, faster, and more accessible method for screening skin allergens without animal testing. The electrophilic allergen screening assay (EASA) achieved similar results to existing methods with 77% agreement rate, paving the way for potential standardization and increased international trade.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalToxics·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

China's Tianwen-1 Solar Wind Observation: The beginning of a multi-spacecraft exploration in Martian space by China, the U.S., and Europe

The Tianwen-1 mission has successfully observed solar wind plasma upstream of Mars, revealing several large-scale solar wind disturbances and consistent tendencies with other Mars missions. The joint observation will bring new opportunities for studying the evolution of the Martian atmosphere and paleoclimate.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateMay 17, 2022

‘Untapped’ potential: Mineral water derived from deep-sea water may have health benefits

Scientists discovered that mineral water derived from deep-sea water can improve cognitive and coordinative functions in obese mice. The researchers found that treatment with DSW extract-added water significantly increased hippocampal NGF secretion and decreased serum parameters, indicating a positive impact on renal function.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalNutrients·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

Density, benign disease raise risk of breast cancer

A large study published in Radiology found that women with dense breast tissue and benign breast disease are at increased risk of developing breast cancer. The study, which included over 3.9 million Korean women, suggests that these women may benefit from supplemental screening with MRI or ultrasound.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMay 17, 2022

Aerodynamics of perching birds could inform aircraft design

Researchers studied aerodynamics of bird perching maneuvers to understand the mechanisms that enhance lift and improve landing stability. They found that swept-wing motion stabilizes leading-edge vortex, leading to better landings in birds and potentially in aircraft.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

Rocket engine exhaust pollution extends high into Earth's atmosphere

Researchers found rocket exhaust gases can remain high in altitude, producing thermal nitrogen oxides and carbon dioxide that can affect the Earth's climate. The team modeled fluid dynamics of rocket exhaust gases to understand the impact on atmospheric pollution.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateMay 17, 2022

Astronauts may one day drink water from ancient moon volcanoes

Researchers from CU Boulder suggest that ancient moon volcanoes may have spewed out huge amounts of water vapor, forming stores of ice on the lunar surface. This discovery adds to evidence that the moon may be awash in more water than previously believed, with potential implications for future lunar missions.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·DateMay 17, 2022

Model for distinguishing materials like a human being does

A research team developed a model that mimics human judgment to distinguish between reflective and transparent materials. The model outperformed humans in accuracy but struggled to identify image clues.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalJournal of Vision·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

Magnetic nanoparticles in biological vehicles individually characterized for the first time

A multidisciplinary research group uses magnetotactic bacteria to create nanomagnetic structures, which can be steered through the human body via external magnetic fields. They have developed a new method to measure the magnetic properties of individual nanomagnets in biological entities, enabling precise control over these structures.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

CABBI team develops automated platform for plasmid production

Researchers at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have developed PlasmidMaker, an automated platform for designing and constructing plasmids. The platform uses Pyrococcus furiosus Argonaute-based artificial restriction enzymes to assemble DNA fragments with greater flexibility and precision.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 17, 2022

New light on organic solar cells

Researchers at Linköping University have identified the key to minimizing energy losses in organic solar cells. By studying the energy level alignment at donor/acceptor interfaces, they discovered a systematic mapping that points to new ways forward for developing more efficient and sustainable solar cell materials.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

First animals developed complex ecosystems before the Cambrian explosion

The study reveals that early animal communities exhibited complex ecological structures more than 550 million years ago, setting the stage for the Cambrian explosion. The analysis of metacommunity structure suggests competitive exclusion as the cause of the diversity drop in the late Ediacaran period.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 17, 2022

Estrogen treatment associated with reduced COVID deaths

A new study found that hormone replacement therapy within six months of COVID-19 diagnosis was associated with a 78% reduction in all-cause mortality in women. This suggests estrogen may offer protective effects against COVID-19 severity, explaining the lower hospitalization and death rates among women compared to men.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalFamily Practice·TypeObservational study·DateMay 17, 2022

New health professional training blueprint to transform chronic pain care

Researchers have developed a new national blueprint to support Australians living with chronic pain, costing the economy $139 billion annually. The 'Listen to me, learn from me' framework prioritizes person-centered care and has nine key focus areas, including pain validation and effective communication.

SourceCurtin University·JournalPain·TypeCase study·DateMay 17, 2022

Concussion symptoms in children may have multiple underlying causes

A new study by McGill University researchers has shed light on the complex relationships between concussion symptoms and brain damage in children. The findings suggest that certain combinations of brain injury can lead to specific symptoms, such as attention difficulties and sleep problems.

SourceMcGill University·JournaleLife·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

A new biomarker for blood–brain barrier dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have discovered a new biomarker for blood-brain barrier dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease, associated with the presence of the APOE ε4 allele. The study found that APOE ε4 dose is linked to poor brain-waste clearance through the BBB, causing iron and β-amyloid accumulation.

SourceNagoya City University·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 17, 2022

Scent dogs detect coronavirus reliably from skin swabs

A recent study by the University of Helsinki found that scent detection dogs can accurately identify individuals with a coronavirus infection from skin swabs. The dogs' sensitivity and specificity were 92%, with only small differences in accuracy observed between individual dogs.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalBMJ Global Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

Major infrared breakthrough could lead to solar power at night

Australian researchers have developed a device that can generate electricity from thermal radiation using technology similar to night-vision goggles. The team successfully tested a 'thermo-radiative diode' capable of converting infrared heat into electrical power, with the potential to harness solar energy at night.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science·JournalACS Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

Statins may provide protection against depression

A new study found that statin users were less likely to recognize fearful faces and more likely to report them as positive, indicating reduced negative emotional bias. Statins may provide protection against depression through their effect on emotion processing, possibly due to anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

Development of an innovative hydrogen liquefaction technology

Researchers have developed a magnetic refrigeration system capable of operating at extremely low temperatures to liquefy hydrogen, achieving higher efficiency than current vapor-compression refrigerators. The technology has the potential to dramatically reduce hydrogen supply costs, making it feasible for widespread adoption.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalApplied Physics Express·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

Light field-fast computing

Researchers from FAU and University of Rochester demonstrate how laser pulses can induce electron waves in graphene, creating real and virtual charges that can be processed as binary logic. This technology has the potential to make future computers over a million times faster.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature·DateMay 17, 2022

How to build an ‘explainable AI’ framework to speed up the innovation process

A team from the University of Missouri is using artificial intelligence to accelerate the discovery process in materials science. By integrating machine learning algorithms and AI into traditional laboratory processes, they aim to reduce time and cost while increasing the rate of material development. Associate Professor Derek T. Ander...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateMay 17, 2022

For large bone injuries, it’s Sonic hedgehog to the rescue

A recent study published in NPJ Regenerative Medicine found that large bone injuries trigger a repair strategy recapitulating elements of skeletal formation in utero. The gene Sonic hedgehog (Shh) plays a necessary role in healing central regions, while small-scale fractures heal through a distinct program.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·Journalnpj Regenerative Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

Energy-efficient AI hardware technology via a brain-inspired stashing system​

Scientists at KAIST have proposed a novel 'stashing system' inspired by the human brain's neural activity, which efficiently handles mathematical operations for artificial intelligence. This technology reduces power consumption by 37% while maintaining accuracy, paving the way for next-generation semiconductor chips.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 17, 2022

Ecological functions of streams and rivers severely affected globally

International meta-analysis finds that streams and rivers' efficiency in retaining nitrates is nearly five times lower for agricultural catchments than pristine ones. Wastewater, agriculture, and urbanization are the top stressors affecting ecological functions, highlighting the need for urgent action.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

Big study answers treatment question for little known kidney condition

A large randomized controlled trial found that treatment with methylprednisolone reduces the risk of kidney function loss and failure in patients with IgA nephropathy. The study's results suggest a lower dose regimen may be effective while minimizing side effects.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalJAMA·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 17, 2022

Tooth unlocks mystery of Denisovans in Asia

The discovery of a 164,000- to 131,000-year-old Denisovan tooth in Laos provides significant insights into the species' geographic range. The ancient tooth's shape and similarity to teeth found on the Tibetan Plateau suggest that Denisovans inhabited Southeast Asia, particularly northern Laos.

SourceFlinders University·JournalNature Communications·TypeCase study·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

Seafloor animal cued to settle, transformed by a bacterial compound

A new study published in PNAS reveals that a specific bacterial compound, lipopolysaccharide, induces larval marine tubeworms to settle on the seafloor and undergo metamorphosis. The discovery offers hope for coral reef restoration, mariculture, and biofouling prevention.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

Predictable home environment protects against development of heart disease risk factors after child abuse

A new study published in the Journal of American Heart Association found that well-organized households can help mitigate cardiovascular risk factors in children who have experienced abuse. The study's results suggest that stable home environments may play a crucial role in reducing racial disparities in cardiac disease.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateMay 17, 2022

Teaching physics to AI makes the student a master

Researchers at Duke University have developed a machine learning algorithm that incorporates known physics into neural networks, allowing for new insights into material properties and more efficient predictions. The approach helps the algorithm attain transparency and accuracy, even with limited training data.

SourceDuke University·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

Private insurers paid hospitals 224% of what Medicare would in 2020

A new study by RAND Corporation found that private insurers paid hospitals an average of 224% of what Medicare would pay for services in 2020. The study also revealed significant price variations among states, with some paying as low as 175% and others up to 310% of Medicare prices.

SourceRAND Corporation·TypeSurvey·DateMay 17, 2022

Virtual news briefings and research highlights, APS 2022 Convention

The APS 2022 Convention featured virtual news briefings covering topics like the pandemic's effect on education and ethnic minorities' well-being. Researchers shared insights on coping with stress, fake news, romance, and relationships, providing valuable information for journalists and the public.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·DateMay 17, 2022

Infrared imaging to measure glymphatic function

A team of researchers has developed a novel method using infrared imaging to assess glymphatic function, which is crucial for understanding neurological conditions. The technique allows for the measurement of temporal dynamics of glymphatic functions and provides insights into brain fluid exchange and clearance.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateMay 17, 2022

Choroid plexus volume linked to Alzheimer’s disease

A new study found a link between increased choroid plexus volume and greater cognitive impairment in Alzheimer's disease. Choroid plexus volume was associated with memory loss, executive function decline, and cognitive impairment severity.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMay 17, 2022

Deep ocean warming as climate changes

New research suggests that 62% of warming in the subtropical North Atlantic is stored in the deep ocean below 700m. The study estimates a further 0.2°C warming in the next 50 years due to climate change.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeObservational study·DateMay 17, 2022

Phage therapy: A model to predict its efficacy against pathogenic bacteria

A new mathematical model predicts the efficacy of phage therapy against pathogenic bacteria, highlighting key parameters for effective treatment. The model incorporates data on bacteriophage interactions with the immune system and suggests optimizing administration routes to improve outcomes.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 17, 2022

Scientists see signs of traumatic brain injury in headbutting muskox

Researchers found signs of concussions and head trauma in the brains of deceased headbutting muskoxen and bighorn sheep. The study provides insights into human injuries and opens the possibility that studying these animals could help researchers understand and reduce traumatic brain injuries.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalActa Neuropathologica·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 17, 2022

Algorithms empower metalens design

A new approach using artificial intelligence generates designs automatically, allowing researchers to create complex metasurfaces with billions of nanopillars. This enables the development of larger, more complex metalenses for virtual reality and augmented reality systems.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 17, 2022