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Science News for May 5, 2022


Patient-derived micro-organospheres enable cutting-edge precision oncology

Researchers developed a droplet-based microfluidic technology to produce micro-organospheres from cancer patient biopsies within an hour. These miniature tumors retain the original microenvironment and can be used for testing many drug conditions, showing almost perfect correlation with actual clinical treatment outcomes.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 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.

Alcohol, tobacco, and junk food common on reality TV shows

A new study found that reality TV programs in the UK exhibit frequent displays of alcohol, tobacco, and unhealthy foods, raising concerns about youth exposure. The research estimates that these shows delivered millions of impressions to children, highlighting the need for revised regulations.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateMay 5, 2022

New study reveals how the brain says ‘oops!’

Researchers at Cedars-Sinai discovered how the brain uses a group of neurons in the frontal lobe to monitor performance, enabling humans to learn from mistakes and develop specific skills. This mechanism allows for flexibility in learning new tasks and adjusting focus based on conflict or difficulty encountered.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalScience·DateMay 5, 2022

Social media break improves mental health – new study

A new study published in Cyberpsychology, Behaviour and Social Networking found that taking a one-week break from social media can lead to significant improvements in wellbeing, depression and anxiety. Participants who took a break reported improved mood and reduced symptoms of anxiety compared to those who continued using social media.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalCyberpsychology Behavior and Social Networking·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 5, 2022

Highest degree of purity achieved for polarized X-rays

Researchers at Helmholtz Institute Jena set a new record for polarized X-ray purity with 8×10^−11, enabling experiments on quantum optics and charge distribution in solids. The discovery also holds promise for detecting vacuum birefringence and could provide clues to previously unknown elementary particles.

SourceGSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung GmbH·JournalPhysical Review Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 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.

Land-building marsh plants are champions of CO2 capture

A team of researchers found that wetlands, including salt marshes and mangrove forests, are global 'hotspots' of CO2 storage. Plants in these ecosystems build landscapes that capture and store carbon dioxide, making them a crucial tool in the fight against climate change.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalScience·DateMay 5, 2022

UK study in a million adults suggests under 45s and women more likely to gain weight and jump a BMI category during lockdown

A UK study of over a million adults found that young adults (under 45) and women were more likely to gain weight and move up at least one BMI category during lockdown. The study suggests that this could lead to an increased risk of obesity-related health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateMay 5, 2022

Experiment in mice helps dissect effects of calorie restriction, fasting and time of feeding on lifespan extension

A study in mice found that caloric restriction with timed feeding, particularly at night, promotes longevity. Calorie restriction extended lifespan as expected, but its benefits were maximized when the fasting interval exceeded 12 hours and food was consumed during the organism's natural active phase.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 5, 2022

Study shows COVID-19 increased anxiety and symptoms for asthma sufferers

A new study published by the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology shows that COVID-19 has increased anxiety and asthma symptoms among adults with asthma, while reducing food allergy-specific anxiety for parents of children with food allergies.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·TypeSurvey·DateMay 5, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Bringing health care’s vision of tomorrow into focus

A new $5 million center, MIXR, aims to develop, test and certify XR technologies in medicine and healthcare. The collaboration between academia, industry and government will improve medical training, patient management and health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·DateMay 5, 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.

This kind of flirting works best

A study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that humour is an effective flirtation tactic for both sexes, especially for men seeking long-term relationships. Women who want a short-lived fling should signal their intentions clearly. The research also highlights the importance of smiling, eye contact, and showing pot...

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEvolutionary Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 5, 2022

Quantum mechanics could explain why DNA can spontaneously mutate

A team of physicists and chemists at the University of Surrey used computer modeling to show that quantum mechanics can cause errors in DNA replication, leading to mutations. The researchers found that protons can tunnel through energy barriers, causing mistakes in the pairing of DNA bases.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 5, 2022

How our brain influences language change

The study analyzed over 40,000 words from English texts and found that monosyllabic Middle English words predominantly had long vowels, which were more easily processed by the brain. This suggests that our brains are wired to learn and prefer frequent sound patterns, leading to gradual language changes.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalCognitive Linguistics·DateMay 5, 2022

New shape memory alloy discovered through artificial intelligence framework

Researchers at Texas A&M University used an Artificial Intelligence Materials Selection framework to discover a new shape memory alloy with the highest efficiency ever recorded. The alloy's narrow transformation temperature window and high cyclic stability make it ideal for thermal energy harvesting and storage.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalActa Materialia·TypeNews article·DateMay 5, 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.

CHOP study finds neighborhood poverty and crowding associated with higher rates of COVID-19 in pregnancy

A new study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that neighborhood poverty and crowding are associated with higher rates of COVID-19 in pregnancy. Researchers analyzed data from over 5,991 pregnant patients and found disparities in SARS-CoV-2 positivity among different racial and ethnic groups.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateMay 5, 2022

Identifying global poverty from space

Researchers have identified over 2.4 million households in 49 countries as being below a certain economic threshold, based on the percentage of unlit settlements detected using nighttime light satellite images. The study found a clear association between increasing percentages of unlit communities and decreasing economic wellbeing levels.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 5, 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.

Self-propelled, endlessly programmable artificial cilia

Researchers from Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have developed a single-material, single-stimuli microstructure that can outmaneuver even living cilia. These programmable structures could be used for soft robotics, biocompatible medical devices, and dynamic information encryption.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature·DateMay 5, 2022

Mechanism ‘splits’ electron spins in magnetic material

Researchers have discovered a unique mechanism called 'momentum-dependent spin splitting' that allows for strong spin currents and efficient magnetic switching. This discovery could lead to advances in magnetic random-access memory technologies.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Electronics·DateMay 5, 2022

Racial, ethnic differences in uterine cancer mortality rates

Annual increases in uterine cancer mortality rates from 2010 to 2017 were found to be significantly higher among Hispanic (6.7%) and Black (3.5%) women compared to White (1.5%) and Asian (3.4%) women. These disparities highlight the need for targeted interventions to address racial and ethnic inequalities in uterine cancer care.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateMay 5, 2022

Recurrent UTIs linked to gut microbiome, chronic inflammation

A new study reveals that recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) may be caused by an imbalance in the gut microbiome, which can lead to chronic inflammation and increased risk of future UTIs. Antibiotics given to treat UTIs can disrupt the microbiome, making it easier for disease-causing bacteria to spread.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 5, 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.

Study: Support high for laws named for victims who are female and of color

A new study found that naming legislation after a victim increases support for the law and its associated punishment, with notable benefits for laws named after African American women. The study used distracted driving as an example and surveyed a national sample of 1,000 U.S. adults.

SourceCrime and Justice Research Alliance·JournalJustice Quarterly·DateMay 5, 2022

Collaborators from Harvard University and QuEra Computing observe quantum speed-up in optimization problems

Researchers from Harvard University and QuEra Computing have demonstrated a breakthrough application of neutral-atom quantum processors to solve practical optimization problems. The team achieved unprecedented quantum hardware power, showcasing a super-linear quantum speed-up compared to classical algorithms.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2022

Hubble reveals surviving companion star in aftermath of supernova

The Hubble Space Telescope has discovered a surviving companion star to SN 2013ge, providing crucial insight into the binary nature of massive stars. The finding sheds light on the puzzle of hydrogen loss pre-supernova and supports the theory that most massive stars are paired.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeObservational study·DateMay 5, 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.

Study suggests severe obesity blunts antibody response to COVID-19 vaccines

Researchers found antibody levels in people with severe obesity are significantly lower than normal weight controls after receiving two doses of either the Pfizer/BioNTech or CoronaVac vaccine. The study suggests that individuals with severe obesity may generate a weaker immune response to COVID-19 vaccination.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateMay 5, 2022

Researchers find way to make traffic models more efficient

A new method reduces computational complexity of traffic models, making them operate more efficiently. The modified algorithm breaks down complex forecasting questions into smaller problems that can be solved in parallel, significantly reducing run time. This approach also allows for a good enough solution within an error bar, rather t...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 5, 2022

Researchers create flat magic window with liquid crystals

Scientists have developed a transparent device that produces a hidden image when light shines on it, using liquid crystals to recreate an ancient light trick. The technology has the potential to enable reconfigurable displays and stable 3D images.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateMay 5, 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.

Study shows amputation, hospitalization rates fell among minorities following Medicaid expansion

A new study reveals that Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act has led to a significant decrease in diabetic foot amputations among racial and ethnic minority adults. The study found that this expansion has resulted in better healthcare outcomes for these underserved populations, reducing rates of diabetes-related major ampu...

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 5, 2022

New research confirms racism in healthcare settings increases vaccine hesitancy among ethnic minority groups

A new study reveals that racial discrimination in medical settings can lead to low confidence in the health system and increased vaccine refusal among ethnic minority groups. The research found that nearly one in ten participants who refused a COVID-19 vaccine reported experiencing poorer service due to their race or ethnicity.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 5, 2022

Global bird populations steadily declining

A recent study reveals that approximately 48% of existing bird species worldwide are undergoing population declines, with only 6% showing increasing trends. The study identifies key threats including natural habitat loss, direct overexploitation and climate change.

SourceCornell University·JournalAnnual Review of Environment and Resources·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 5, 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.

Scientists closer to outsmarting malaria parasites

Researchers from Australian National University have discovered how malaria parasites evade treatment by transporting drugs to 'safe zones', which can lead to new and longer-lasting treatments. The discovery could also inform cancer treatment development.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 5, 2022

Copper is effective against Sars-Cov-2 on surfaces – silver is not

Researchers found that copper-coated surfaces significantly reduced viral load after one hour, while silver-coated surfaces had no effect on infectivity. The team investigated the antiviral properties of various metal-based sacrificial anodes and discovered a clear antiviral effect of copper against Sars-Cov-2.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2022

Groundwater discovered in sediments buried deep under Antarctic ice

Researchers have made the first detection of groundwater beneath an Antarctic ice stream, providing new insights into the region's hydrology. The study confirms what scientists had previously suspected but couldn't verify until now, improving our understanding of how the Antarctic ice sheet might affect sea levels.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateMay 5, 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.

Dynamic metasurfaces and metadevices empowered by graphene

Researchers have developed graphene-empowered dynamic metasurfaces and metadevices that can actively tune their electromagnetic wave manipulation capabilities. The devices exploit the unique properties of graphene to manipulate visible, terahertz, and microwave frequencies.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalOpto-Electronic Advances·DateMay 5, 2022

Double agents: How stomach stem cells change allegiance upon injury

A molecular switch, p57, enables stomach stem cells to change allegiance from normal digestion to injury response, potentially leading to new treatments for gastric pathologies. The study's findings suggest that p57 is a key regulator of reserve stem cell state in gastric chief cells.

SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2022

New tool integrates microbiome and host genetic sequencing analysis

Researchers developed a new software tool, called 'meta-transcriptome detector,' that integrates genetic sequencing analysis of hosts and their microbiomes. The tool enables analysis of gene expression activity in both microbes and hosts simultaneously, allowing researchers to spot relationships between them.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·JournalBriefings in Bioinformatics·DateMay 5, 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.

Age at initiation of endoscopy, colorectal cancer risk among women

Initiation of lower gastrointestinal endoscopy before age 50 among women is associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer. Guidelines now recommend that women initiate colorectal cancer screening before age 50 to reduce the risk, including cases diagnosed before age 55.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateMay 5, 2022

Active brown adipose tissue protects against “pre-prediabetes”

A study found that higher levels of active brown adipose tissue are associated with early metabolic dysfunction and pre-cooling glucose, insulin, thyroid stimulating hormone, and triglyceride levels. Activated brown fat was recruited to counteract 'pre-prediabetic' states, potentially serving as a first-line protective mechanism.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMay 5, 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.

New study finds persistent gaps in leadership attainment, promotion and salary among women academic emergency physicians

A new study from Boston University School of Medicine highlights disparities in leadership roles and academic rank among women and underrepresented groups. Women are less likely to be promoted to professor or in leadership positions, with educational roles being undervalued.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThe American Journal of Emergency Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateMay 5, 2022

The fungal effector Rip 1 suppresses maize host defense responses

The Ustilago maydis effector Rip1 targets and binds Zmlox3, a maize gene from the lipoxygenase family, to suppress PTI and reduce susceptibility to fungal infection. This action leads to reduced ROS-burst formation in infected plant cells, highlighting the complex co-evolutionary forces between host and pathogen.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMay 5, 2022

‘Smart’ diaper for bedside urine testing

A flexible sensor embedded in a diaper measures multiple components in urine, sharing results over Bluetooth for fast bedside analyses. The technology has potential to provide quick and painless urinalysis for incontinent, elderly or infant patients.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateMay 5, 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.

Broad participation needed to transform mining for a sustainable future

Current mining practices can be improved through effective policies and stakeholder involvement. A more sustainable extractive industry can supply key raw materials for renewable energy technologies and support the UN Sustainable Development Goals. To achieve this, diverse stakeholders must participate in governance at different levels.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalEarth Science Systems and Society·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 5, 2022

Lunar soil has the potential to generate oxygen and fuel

Researchers have discovered that lunar soil can convert carbon dioxide into oxygen and fuels, paving the way for sustainable space exploration. The team proposes an 'extraterrestrial photosynthesis' strategy using lunar soil to electrolyze water and produce desired products.

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 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.

Invasive species and climate change impact coastal estuaries

A recent study published in Ecology found that climate change and biological invasions are altering the predator-prey landscape in California's coastal estuaries. This interaction increases stress on native species, making them more vulnerable to invasive predators.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalEcology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2022

Craft products are experiencing soaring growth -- Here's how firms are cashing in

The study proposes four types of firms: craft specialists, craft generalists, commercial specialists, and commercial generalists. Craft specialists focus on aesthetic perfection, while commercial firms prioritize profit maximization. The article highlights the intersection of these goals in various industries, including coffee.

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

Rapid antigen COVID-19 tests may not be keeping pace with variants of concern, researchers find

Four rapid antigen tests were found to be less sensitive to the Delta variant than the Omicron strain. The study suggests that continuous assessment and updating are needed for these tests to remain effective in detecting COVID-19 infections. Continuous improvement is necessary to ensure they meet public health testing goals.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·DateMay 5, 2022

Wearable, inexpensive robotic sleeve for lymphedema treatment

Researchers developed a soft robotic sleeve controlled with a microfluidic chip that reduces treatment cost, weight, and power consumption for lymphedema treatment. The device promotes fluid flow in the lymphatic system by sequentially inflating balloons and pushing fluid upwards.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiomicrofluidics·DateMay 5, 2022

Patient symptom and quality of life assessments must be inclusive and equitable

Researchers at the University of Birmingham call for more diverse patient groups in clinical trials and practice to ensure representative data collection. The team identifies barriers such as access to technology, disability, language, and cultural requirements that hinder participation.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 5, 2022

UCI researchers reveal possible molecular blood signature for suicide in major depression

Researchers developed a novel gene expression approach to identify potential blood biomarkers associated with suicide in major depressive disorder. The study analyzed data from non-preserved blood samples and found significant differences in gene expression changes linked to stress response, immune dysregulation, and telomere maintenance.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateMay 5, 2022

Massive carbon emission caused marine anoxia and biodiversity loss 304 million years ago

A recent study reveals that massive carbon emission during the Late Paleozoic Ice Age led to anoxic areal extent equivalent to 20% of the seafloor and significant biodiversity loss. The research team used geochemical signals, sedimentology, and climate modeling to simulate the effects of a 300,000-year warming event.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 5, 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.

Unpacking black-box models

MIT researchers develop ExSum, a framework to formalize explanations of machine-learning models into quantifiable rules. This allows for testing assumptions about model behavior and reveals unexpected insights, such as negative words having sharper contributions to model decisions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMay 5, 2022

Chemical Insights Research Institute receives prestigious award from the National Institutes of Health

The Chemical Insights Research Institute has received a prestigious award from the National Institutes of Health to study the link between electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) usage and periodontal disease. The researchers will analyze consumer vaping behavior data and biosamples to identify biomarkers of exposure and injury, aim...

SourceChemical Insights Research Institute·DateMay 5, 2022

A motif perched within the Gilgameš Epic

The article examines the avian literary motif in the Standard Babylonian Gilgameš Epic, exploring its cultural significance and literary devices. Bird calls are linked to deities and assign specific sounds to each bird, with some foreshadowing events like Enkidu's transgressions against the gods.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Near Eastern Studies·TypeObservational study·DateMay 5, 2022

Protected areas saw dramatic spikes in fires during COVID lockdowns, study finds

A study found that protected conservation areas in Madagascar experienced unprecedented spikes in fires during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly when on-site management was suspended. The team suggests that governments should consider keeping some staff in protected areas to mitigate this impact.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 5, 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.

Study finds that frequent-flyer programs increase cost of business travel

A study found that frequent-flyer program members are more likely to choose higher fares and earn points when their home airport is the airline's hub, resulting in a potential 7% cost savings for companies. This behavior changes when travelers must pay out of pocket, with an average increase of 8% in price paid.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·TypeObservational study·DateMay 5, 2022

Rethinking congenital hydrocephalus

A new study suggests that up to 1 in 4 cases of congenital hydrocephalus may be linked to genetic mutations affecting neural stem cell growth, leading to underdeveloped brains and enlarged ventricles. This paradigm shift could lead to targeted therapies such as gene editing or drugs to optimize neurodevelopment.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 5, 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.

How AI spots legendary cricket batting backlift using video only

Artificial Intelligence can now identify legendary batting techniques used by Sir Donald Bradman and modern players. Researchers developed a deep learning computer vision AI model to detect lateral backlift batters from straight ones.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalScientific Reports·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 5, 2022

COVID lockdowns increased burning in globally-important protected areas

A new study found that COVID-19 lockdowns led to a dramatic increase in fires within globally-important protected areas in Madagascar, with excess fires rising by 76-248%. The team used decades of past data to estimate the impact of the pandemic on fire patterns.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeObservational study·DateMay 5, 2022

Understanding how sunscreens damage coral

A new Stanford University study reveals that sunscreens containing oxybenzone can damage coral reefs, hastening their demise. The researchers found that oxybenzone forms damaging radicals when exposed to sunlight and can also disrupt coral defense mechanisms.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateMay 5, 2022

HIV: bestowing CD8+ T cells with properties observed in natural controllers

Researchers successfully reprogrammed non-controllers' CD8+ T cells to acquire properties of natural HIV controllers, enabling them to suppress viral load and survive without exhaustion. This breakthrough could lead to a cell therapy strategy for achieving HIV remission, with potential applications in cancer treatments.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 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.

Rice ‘metalens’ could disrupt vacuum UV market

Researchers at Rice University have created a 'metalens' that transforms long-wave UV-A into a focused output of vacuum UV radiation. The technology uses nanophotonics to impart a phase shift on incoming light, redirecting it and generating VUV without the need for specialized equipment.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2022

Using AI to analyze large amounts of biological data

Researchers at the University of Missouri are applying AI to analyze protein dynamics, identifying potential target sites for new drug therapies. The approach can simulate protein changes related to conditions like cancer, enhancing the chances of successful therapies.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 5, 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.

Tracing a cancer’s family tree to its roots reveals how tumors grow

A team of researchers used a CRISPR-based approach to study the evolution of lung cancer cells, tracking their history from the first activation of cancer-causing mutations. The study revealed significant diversity between subpopulations of cells within the same tumor, with certain groups becoming more fit and aggressive over time.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2022

Land-building marsh plants are champions of carbon capture

A new study reveals that innovative restoration practices can replicate natural landscape-building processes in wetlands, enhancing their carbon-storing potential. Successful restorations require dense plant clumps or large areas restored in one go to mimic the plants' landscape-forming properties.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 5, 2022

Promising treatment for dementia

A clinical trial found that sodium selenate stabilizes escalating behavioural issues and slows brain shrinkage in patients with behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia. The treatment has been shown to be safe and well-tolerated, with reduced rates of cognitive and behavioural symptoms.

SourceMonash University·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia Translational Research & Clinical Interventions·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 5, 2022

Why hungry worms take risks

Researchers used worms to study how hunger signals in the gut communicate with the brain, leading to riskier behavior. The findings suggest that proteins in intestinal cells move dynamically to transmit signals about hunger, driving worms to cross toxic barriers.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2022

Using AI to predict bone fractures in cancer patients

A new study uses artificial intelligence to predict bone fractures in cancer patients by creating a digital twin of the vertebra. The AI-assisted framework, ReconGAN, simulates how tumors affect the spine and predicts fracture risks, offering medical experts better treatment strategies and patient decisions.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Journal for Numerical Methods in Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 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.

Why do some people get sicker than others from COVID?

Researchers found that individuals with a diverse population of macrophage cells, which include M2 and regulatory macrophages, are better protected against severe COVID-19. The study suggests that a balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses is key to preventing the worst symptoms.

SourceBoston University·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 5, 2022

Researchers now able to predict battery lifetimes with machine learning

Scientists have developed a machine learning algorithm that can accurately predict the lifetimes of different battery chemistries using as little as a single cycle of experimental data. The technique could reduce costs and accelerate the development of new battery materials, enabling researchers to quickly evaluate and test multiple ma...

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateMay 5, 2022

*Free* Inbreeding won’t doom the endangered vaquita to extinction

A new genetic study suggests that inbreeding will not doom the endangered vaquita to extinction. Despite low genome-wide diversity, vaquita individuals have remained healthy and able to breed with weakly deleterious genetic mutations accumulating over time.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 5, 2022

Cost, financial burden of thyroid cancer on patients in US

A recent study in JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery reveals that thyroid cancer patients in the US experience substantial financial burdens. The researchers propose a novel framework to help guide future research and inform cancer care providers on cost considerations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·DateMay 5, 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.

Quantum network solutions, by ground and by air

Researchers propose using quantum repeaters to regenerate signals and prevent data loss in ground-based quantum networks. Another approach involves taking quantum networks into the air via drones or satellites, enabling longer-distance transmission and greater flexibility.

SourceChicago Quantum Exchange·DateMay 5, 2022

Combining certain meds with ibuprofen can permanently injure kidneys

Researchers at the University of Waterloo found that combining diuretics and renin-angiotensin system inhibitors with ibuprofen can lead to acute kidney injury in people with certain medical profiles. The combination may be a 'triple whammy' that exacerbates dehydration, which is a major factor in acute kidney injury.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalMathematical Biosciences·DateMay 5, 2022

Vast fossil seawater reservoir found beneath the West Antarctic Ice Sheet

Researchers have found a deep sub-ice stream groundwater system in West Antarctica, containing more than ten times the volume of shallow hydrologic system above. This discovery highlights the critical role of groundwater hydology in understanding ice sheet dynamics and its potential impact on sea level rise.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 5, 2022

Breaking the shield that protects pancreatic cancer from immunotherapy

UTSW researchers have identified a subset of cancer-associated fibroblasts that can be targeted to enhance immunotherapy in pancreatic cancer patients. The study found that these cells, known as antigen-presenting cancer-associated fibroblasts (apCAFs), interact with immune cells by displaying proteins called antigens on their surface.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateMay 5, 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.

Stem cell therapy protects against the side effects of cancer drugs

Researchers from Osaka University have discovered that mesenchymal stem cells can prevent the onset of type 1 diabetes associated with immune checkpoint cancer therapy. MSCs secrete factors that protect pancreatic cells against immune attack, suggesting a new approach to preventing this debilitating side effect.

SourceOsaka University·JournalDiabetologia·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2022

Advances in femtosecond laser direct writing of fiber Bragg gratings in multicore fibers: technology, sensor and laser applications

Recent advances in femtosecond laser direct writing of fiber Bragg gratings in multicore fibers enable the development of shape sensors, fiber Raman lasers and high-power fiber lasers with improved spectral features. The technology also allows for complex optical integral elements and biosensors to be fabricated.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalOpto-Electronic Advances·DateMay 5, 2022