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Science News for May 30, 2022


COVID-19's toll on global cardiac services - International Version

A major study found COVID-19's toll on global cardiac services, revealing a 'substantial global decline' in hospital admissions of cardiovascular patients. The pandemic led to increased delays in treatment, resulting in more deaths and complications, with low-income countries facing the worst impact.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 30, 2022

Controlling cells with a laser beam

Researchers at TU Wien develop a method to guide individual cells with laser precision, enabling reproducible production of artificial tissue and testing new drugs without animal testing. The technique involves adding special molecules to hydrogel surrounding cells, which become softer and more permeable when activated by a laser beam.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 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.

When AI is the inventor – who gets the patent?

Academics argue AI systems like DABUS need new IP laws as existing ones are inadequate to deal with cases where machines are named sole inventors. The authors recommend introducing a new 'AI-IP' form of law that would be specifically tailored to AI-generated inventiveness, addressing ownership and novelty issues.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 30, 2022

Residents of Ontario retirement home residences have higher rates of hospital care than residents of long-term care homes

Residents of Ontario retirement homes have high rates of hospital-based care compared to long-term care facilities and community-dwelling individuals. They have double the rate of emergency department visits and hospital admissions as LTC residents, but lower rates of primary care visits.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeObservational study·DateMay 30, 2022

Global warming increases risks of East China flooding

A recent study found that global warming is likely to increase the frequency of strong Western Pacific Subtropical High events, leading to enhanced flood risk in East China. This is due to increased sensitivity of rainfall and atmospheric convection to sea surface temperature variability under warmer climates.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 30, 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.

Scientists synthesize material for fuel cells

Researchers at Ural Federal University have synthesized a proton conductor with high electrical conductivity, which could become the basis for solid oxide fuel cells. The new material is potentially cost-effective and exhibits higher electrical conductivity than other solid-state conductors.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateMay 30, 2022

New global study identifies opportunities for increasing carbon storage on land to mitigate climate change

A new study provides a globally consistent dataset identifying opportunities for increased carbon storage on land to address the climate crisis. The research offers an actionable framework for facilitating climate-smart restoration land management strategies, with forests and soils showing significant potential for expanding land-based...

SourceWoodwell Climate Research Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 30, 2022

Bringing magma up to our feet—Just add CO2

A University of Utah and New Zealand study reveals that CO2 deep underground allows magma to avoid being trapped, reaching the surface and pooling into persistent lava lakes. This finding expands our understanding of magma sources and transport to the surface, particularly in rift volcanoes.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateMay 30, 2022

Ostriches can adapt to heat or cold – but not both

Research at Lund University found that ostriches are sensitive to fluctuating temperatures and lay up to 40% fewer eggs if the temperatures rise or fall by 5 degrees. The study also revealed a genetic trade-off between heat and cold tolerance, meaning that increased heat tolerance comes at the cost of decreased cold tolerance.

SourceLund University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 30, 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.

When blue-green algae get a virus

A recent study found that viral infections can significantly impact cyanobacterial populations, which produce half the world's oxygen. Researchers discovered a 2017 outbreak in the North Pacific Ocean, where Prochlorococcus populations declined by 17°C due to increased viral infection.

SourceTechnion-Israel Institute of Technology·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 2022

Writing with light on titania

Researchers have developed a coating material that can be written on using UV light and erased again using oxygen, enabling reusable/rewritable surfaces in various applications. The material exhibits high contrast and stability, with up to 50 write-erase cycles possible without notable loss of contrast.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 2022

Olfactory neurons adapt to the surrounding environment

Researchers at UNIGE found that olfactory neurons change their identity based on expressed receptors and past experiences. The study reveals a wide range of identities among these neurons, which adapt rapidly to different levels of stimulation.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·TypeNews article·DateMay 30, 2022

Nanoparticles that mimic plant pigment to deliver better solar panels

A team of engineers and biologists at the University of Surrey created nanoparticles that mimic chlorophyll's light-absorbing properties with high efficiency. The new approach shows promise for future high-efficiency solar panels, potentially ditching toxic materials used to maintain intensity.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateMay 30, 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.

COVID-19's toll on global cardiac services - UK Version

A major international study reveals the significant impact of COVID-19 on cardiovascular services worldwide, with a substantial decline in hospital admissions and increased mortality rates. The study warns that problems with heart health will continue to accrue unless mitigation strategies are implemented quickly.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 30, 2022

New immunotherapeutic strategy against cancer by blocking adenosine A2B receptors

Researchers from CiQUS and Karolinska Institutet develop a new immunotherapeutic approach against cancer by blocking adenosine A2B receptors. The study demonstrates that this blockade reactivates the immune system, restoring its effectiveness against tumors.

SourceCenter for Research in Biological Chemistry and Molecular Materials (CiQUS)·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·DateMay 30, 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.

First database of multidrug-resistant bacterial genomes created in Brazil

A new platform and genomic database has been developed to monitor and control multidrug-resistant bacteria, with over 500 human pathogens already available. The database aims to provide strategic information on microorganisms classified as a “critical priority” by the World Health Organization.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·DateMay 30, 2022

Physicists develop new type of camera to image quantum vortices for the first time

Researchers at Lancaster University have created a camera-like device that captures images of mini whirlpools in quantum liquids for the first time. The camera uses particle-like disturbances to take pictures of collections of vortices, which are unpredictable and form in specific patterns above a vibrating wire.

SourceLancaster University·JournalPhysical Review B·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 2022

Ultrasound-guided microbubbles boost immunotherapy efficacy

Researchers developed an ultrasound-guided cancer immunotherapy platform that generates systemic antitumor immunity and improves immune checkpoint blockade efficacy. The Microbubble-assisted UltraSound-guided Immunotherapy of Cancer (MUSIC) approach demonstrated complete tumor eradication rates of up to 60% in breast cancer models.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 30, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Very high doses of CBD, a cannabis component, don’t affect driving

A study published in Journal of Psychopharmacology found that consuming up to 1500mg of CBD daily has no impact on driving abilities. The research involved 17 participants who completed simulated driving tasks after taking different doses of CBD, with no dose inducing feelings of intoxication or impairing cognitive performance.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateMay 30, 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.

A new ultra-thin electrode material: A step closer to next-generation semiconductors

A new ultra-thin electrode material has been developed to control the electrical properties of two-dimensional semiconductors. This breakthrough enables the creation of high-performance logic circuits with improved power efficiency, paving the way for next-generation system technologies like artificial intelligence.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 30, 2022

What happened to marine reptiles before the mass extinction at the end of the Cretaceous?

A study by researchers at the University Liège has unravelled the evolution of mosasaurs in the late Cretaceous, revealing a decline in morphological diversity and ecological innovations in certain regions. The research uses high-resolution 3D scans of mosasaur skulls to draw precise conclusions about their hunting and movement abilities.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateMay 30, 2022

Multi-functional bandage helps wounds to heal - Biomolecular film adheres to sensitive tissue and releases active ingredients

Researchers developed a biopolymer film that combines anti-bacterial properties, inflammation dampening, and release of active pharmaceutical ingredients in a targeted manner. The film adheres to sensitive surfaces without damaging tissue, speeding up healing process and completely dissolving by itself.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 2022

Sweetened and unsweetened coffee consumption associated with lower death risk

A cohort study found that moderate coffee consumption, especially unsweetened coffee, is associated with a lower risk of death. The results suggest that adults who drink 1.5 to 3.5 cups of coffee per day may be less likely to die during a 7-year follow-up period compared to non-coffee drinkers.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 30, 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.

Turning high-rise buildings into batteries

Researchers propose a novel gravitational-based storage solution using lifts in tall buildings to store energy. The system, called Lift Energy Storage Technology (LEST), stores energy by lifting wet sand containers or other high-density materials.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalEnergy·DateMay 30, 2022

Unselfish behavior has evolutionary reasons

Researchers find that cooperative breeding in animal societies increases survival chances of carers, leading to higher reproductive success. The study also reveals the relative importance of kin selection and individual selection varies depending on environmental conditions.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 30, 2022

1 million youth became daily tobacco users, most used juul e-cigarettes

Between 2017 and 2019, more than 1 million US youth aged 14 to 17 years became new daily tobacco users, with three-quarters of them vaping e-cigarettes daily. The majority of these young users were introduced to JUUL products, which had high nicotine concentrations and youth-appealing flavors.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeObservational study·DateMay 30, 2022

How COVID-19 created dramatic changes in a ‘winter virus’

A study found that COVID-19 disrupted RSV's seasonal pattern, leading to a 'collapse' of existing strains and emergence of new ones. The pandemic also accelerated the spread and evolution of other viruses like influenza.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 30, 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.

An analysis of excess deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic across Canada

Excess deaths in Canadian provinces from March 2020 to October 2021 showed wide variability, with Quebec having the highest COVID-19 mortality rate and Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia having the lowest. The article calls for better data management to prepare for future health crises.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 30, 2022

Fjords emit as much methane as all the deep oceans globally

Researchers from the University of Gothenburg estimated that fjord emissions are comparable to global deep ocean methane emissions. Fjords produce high amounts of methane due to anoxic environments and mixing events during stormy weather.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalLimnology and Oceanography Letters·TypeObservational study·DateMay 30, 2022

Metals found in people’s urine could detect acute kidney injury in very early stages, says new study

Scientists have discovered that certain metals found in people's urine could be potentially useful clinical biomarkers for the early detection of acute kidney injury (AKI). The study, which was led by experts from the University of Nottingham, found that concentrations of these metals rose in urine within an hour after cardiac surgery ...

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalKidney International Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 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.

Cross-coupling ketones: Adding flexibility to the synthetic chemistry toolbox

Researchers from Prof. Martin's group at ICIQ develop a new strategy to create organic molecules of pharmacological interest using ketones as alkyl cross-coupling synthons. The method provides flexibility and mild reaction conditions, making it suitable for the synthesis of various organic molecules.

SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 30, 2022

How pain is generated in the brain explored in cutting-edge study

Researchers developed a new method to study alpha oscillations under stress and pain, identifying specific parts of the head where waves slow down during painful conditions. The study aims to pave the way for further research on pain generation within the brain.

SourceUniversity of Essex·JournalNeuroImage·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 2022

Herbal supplement shows promise against lung cancer

A recent study published in Pharmaceutics suggests that berberine can suppress the proliferation of lung cancer cells, reduce airway inflammation, and modulate genes involved in inflammation. The researchers used liquid crystalline nanoparticles to enhance safety and effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalPharmaceutics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 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.

MIT engineers boost signals from fluorescent sensors

The MIT team developed wavelength-induced frequency filtering (WIFF), a novel photonic technique that dramatically improves fluorescent sensor signals. This allows for the implantation of sensors as deep as 5.5 cm in tissue, enabling applications such as tracking specific molecules inside the brain or monitoring drug effects.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 30, 2022

Acute stress may be detrimental to fighting off COVID-19 and influenza

This study shows how specific brain regions control the immune response during acute stress, highlighting the detrimental effect on fighting off infection. Researchers found that acute stress prompts a major migration of immune cells, diminishing an immune response to viruses like COVID-19 and influenza.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 2022

The paired perils of breast cancer and diabetes

Research describes how breast cancer cells impair pancreatic islet function to suppress insulin production, leading to diabetes and increased tumor growth. The study identifies microRNA-122 as a key player in this process.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMay 30, 2022

Too impatient to get vaccinated?

A survey of hospital staff in two Swiss hospitals found that those who were hesitant or refused vaccination displayed higher impatience and lower expectations for public vaccination rates. This has implications for future health campaigns, as medical staff serve as role models for the general public.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateMay 30, 2022