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Science News for April 17, 2020


COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers from the National Institute for Infectious Diseases in Italy have reported an early detection of infectious SARS-CoV-2 in ocular fluids from a patient with COVID-19. The study found prolonged viral RNA detection, highlighting the need for continued vigilance in monitoring the pandemic.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 17, 2020

COVID-19 possibly striking more children than expected

A new study estimates that for every child requiring intensive care for COVID-19, there are 2,381 children infected with the virus. The US CDC and state health departments should begin reporting confirmed cases by age group to understand the true extent of the outbreak.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Public Health Management and Practice·DateApr 17, 2020
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.

Stem cells in human embryos commit to specialization surprisingly early

A team of researchers at the Francis Crick Institute identified early-commitment genes that trigger irreversible cell specialization in human embryos. These genes, which include GATA3, activate a positive feedback loop, ensuring cells remain differentiated and do not reverse back to a stem cell state.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 17, 2020

Valorizing wastewater can improve commercial viability of biomass oil production

Researchers at University of Illinois develop six approaches to treat hydrothermal liquefaction aqueous phase, including separation of chemicals and bioelectrochemical systems. These methods aim to valorize the wastewater byproduct, highlighting potential for sustainable oil production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalProgress in Energy and Combustion Science·DateApr 17, 2020

To warn or to hide from predators?: New computer simulation provides answers

A new computer model, ApoSim, simulates the evolution of various prey behaviors, including permanent and switchable warning signals. The model explores how predators' learning speeds impact evolutionary outcomes, providing insights into the diversity of prey defenses.

SourceLaboratory of Behavioral Ecology and Evolution at Seoul National University·JournalPeerJ·DateApr 17, 2020
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.

Mismanagment, not tampering, at root of supply problems for Ugandan farmers

A recent study by UConn researchers found that mismanagement and inadequate infrastructure are the root causes of supply problems for Ugandan farmers. The study revealed discrepancies in the quality of agricultural supplies like seeds and fertilizers due to improper handling, not adulteration.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalWorld Development·DateApr 17, 2020

Can sub-Saharan Africa achieve sustainable access to energy for all by 2030?

A IIASA study reveals sub-Saharan Africa needs to triple its electrification pace to achieve universal access to affordable, reliable energy services by 2030. The region faces a daunting challenge with nearly 570 million people without electricity and limited grid infrastructure in rural areas.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalOne Earth·DateApr 17, 2020

Exercise during pregnancy reduces obesity among offspring

A study published in Science Advances found that exercise during pregnancy stimulates the production of brown adipose tissue in fetuses, leading to improved metabolic health and reduced obesity. The findings suggest that physically fit women exercising during pregnancy may be setting their children up for better fitness too.

SourceWashington State University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 17, 2020

Modeling social distancing strategies for curbing the COVID-19 pandemic

A new modeling study projects that COVID-19 will persist in the human population after its initial pandemic stage, depending on human immunity. The study finds that social distancing measures may need to be maintained intermittently into 2022 to control the spread of the virus.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 17, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Papua New Guinea highland research redates Neolithic period

Researchers in Papua New Guinea have found evidence of early agriculture and trade routes dating back to 5050-4200 years ago. This discovery challenges previous assumptions of the Neolithic period and sheds light on the development of cultural diversity in the region.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 17, 2020

A key brain region for controlling binge drinking has been found

A study by Medical University of South Carolina researchers identified a specific brain region and system that can be manipulated to decrease binge drinking. The kappa opioid-receptor system plays a crucial role in driving binge and compulsive alcohol use, as well as contributing to stress and unease during withdrawal.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalNeuropharmacology·DateApr 17, 2020

Two novel viruses identified in Brazilian patients with suspected dengue

Researchers have identified two novel viruses in Brazilian patients with suspected dengue, one from the Ambidensovirus genus and the other from Chapparvovirus. The study used metagenomics to analyze blood samples and found an unexpected presence of these viruses in human hosts.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 17, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Researchers identify a model of COVID-19 infection in nonhuman primates

Cynomolgus macaques infected with SARS-CoV-2 exhibit mild symptoms and high viral RNA levels, shedding the virus from respiratory tract early during infection. The results suggest these animals are suitable for testing COVID-19 control measures and therapeutics.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 17, 2020

Africa in the path of COVID-19

Global experts call for international assistance as African nations battle COVID-19 and HIV. The authors argue that success in one country is limited if epidemics continue elsewhere.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 17, 2020
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.

Relying on 'local food' is a distant dream for most of the world

A recent study found that only 27% of the world's population can get temperate cereal grains within a 100 km radius, highlighting the difficulty of relying solely on local resources. The study modeled global distances between crop production and consumption, revealing complex dependencies in current diets.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Food·DateApr 17, 2020

Histones and their modifications are crucial for adaptation to cell stress

A study by IRB Barcelona's Cell Signaling laboratory found that histone modifications regulate response to cellular stress, including heat and salt stress. The researchers identified over 200 amino acid regions in histones that undergo modifications under stress, allowing for personalized adaptation.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateApr 17, 2020

Lactic acid bacteria present in kimchi cabbage and garlic carry out the fermentation

Researchers identified the origin source of lactic acid bacteria responsible for kimchi fermentation, revealing that ingredients such as ginger and red pepper do not contribute to fermentation. The study found three unique fermentative microbes specific to each ingredient, resulting in distinct flavor profiles.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalFood Chemistry·DateApr 17, 2020
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Study detects presence of disease-causing E. coli in recreational waters, including in bathing waters rated excellent under EU criteria

A recent study found disease-causing E. coli in recreational waters across Ireland, including those rated excellent under EU criteria. The research highlights the limitations of current water quality assessments, which only consider total E. coli counts without accounting for pathogenic variants.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 17, 2020

From watching reruns to relationships, there are many ways of feeling connected

New research from the University at Buffalo suggests that non-traditional social strategies, such as 'guilty pleasures,' can fulfill critical social needs just like traditional ones. Studies show that feeling connected through various means, including music, TV shows, or pets, predicts positive outcomes and is essential for well-being.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalSelf and Identity·DateApr 17, 2020

A new treatment for liver cancer

Researchers at Skoltech and MIT have developed a new combinatorial therapy for liver cancer using a siRNA approach coupled with lipid nanoparticle technology. This treatment caused a significant decrease in tumor load in a mouse model of hepatocellular carcinoma.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateApr 17, 2020

Shin & Borup receive funding for webinar series about online teaching

Researchers Joan Kang Shin and Jered Borup developed a three-webinar series and wrote three blogs to support English teachers worldwide in remote learning. The webinars, recorded and posted on National Geographic Learning's website, focused on engaging students and building a supportive classroom environment.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateApr 17, 2020
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.

Cell biology: Your number's up!

The study found that an mRNA molecule's lifetime is correlated with the rate of protein synthesis, and a key protein complex plays a crucial role in this process. The researchers used cryo-electron microscopy to identify the molecular basis for the link between mRNA degradation and ribosomal efficiency.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScience·DateApr 17, 2020

The Lancet Public Health: Study examines how Hong Kong managed first wave of COVID-19 without resorting to complete lockdown

A study published in The Lancet Public Health found that Hong Kong successfully controlled the first wave of COVID-19 without resorting to a complete lockdown. By implementing measures such as border entry restrictions, quarantine, isolation, and social distancing, the city was able to contain the outbreak and reduce transmission rates.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateApr 17, 2020
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

New route of assembly and ionic channel traffic in cardiac cells

Researchers describe an alternative mechanism for the placement of potassium ion channels in cardiac cell membranes, which is crucial for heart function and may contribute to cardiovascular diseases. This discovery could lead to a better understanding of cardiac physiology and the development of new treatments for related disorders.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 17, 2020

Nanoparticles: Acidic alert

Researchers at LMU synthesized nanoparticles that rapidly release ionized iron within cells, triggering pyroptosis and potentially eliminating malignant tumors. The nanoparticles' structure and coating enable controlled release of iron ions in acidic environments, making them a promising therapeutic agent for cancer treatment.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 17, 2020

New economic model may prevent stops of capital flow

Researchers at the University of Malaga have developed a new global prediction model for sudden stops of capital flows using decision trees. The model identifies key economic factors that predict this event in both emerging and developed countries, allowing for early detection and prevention.

SourceUniversity of Malaga·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 17, 2020

Dance with your grandma (not during COVID-19 of course)

A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that Dance Movement Therapy (DMT) improved mood and physical activity in grandmothers, while also allowing their female dance/movement therapists to process their grandparents' eventual death. The therapy promoted a strong intergenerational bond between the two groups.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateApr 17, 2020

Individual genetic variation in immune system may affect severity of COVID-19

Research suggests that individual genetic variation in the immune system may affect susceptibility to and severity of COVID-19. The study found that certain immune system genes, such as human leukocyte antigen genes, vary from person to person and can influence how well the immune system recognizes SARS-CoV-2.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalJournal of Virology·DateApr 17, 2020
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.

Cancer drug resistance study raises immune red flags

A new study found that inhibiting the cancer drug resistance gene MDR1 can have unintended side effects on specialized immune system cells called CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes. This could dull anti-cancer immune responses and increase vulnerability to infection. The research raises questions about the safety and utility of using systemi...

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 17, 2020

Chamber measurement standards established for fine particles

The University of Helsinki has established a new standard procedure for analyzing fine particles in experimental chambers, enabling researchers to better understand the mechanisms associated with fine particle formation and its impact on global warming. This standard will help simulate past and future atmospheric conditions, providing ...

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Protocols·DateApr 17, 2020

Quantum entanglement offers unprecedented precision for GPS, imaging and beyond

Researchers at the University of Arizona are using quantum entanglement to detect radio frequencies with unprecedented sensitivity and accuracy. By combining RF photonics sensing and quantum metrology, they've created a technology that can improve GPS systems, astronomy labs, and biomedical imaging capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 17, 2020
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Increased rate of infections may indicate a future cancer diagnosis

A study found that patients experienced higher rates of infections in the years leading up to a cancer diagnosis compared to those without cancer. The researchers discovered an association between specific infections and increased risk of certain types of cancer.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Immunology Research·DateApr 17, 2020

3D models of mountain lakes with a portable sonar and airborne laser

Researchers have developed a low-cost methodology for creating high-resolution three-dimensional models of lake bottoms, combining data from an echo sounder and LiDAR detection data collected from an airplane. The technique has been successfully implemented in the Truchillas Lake in Spain, providing insights into the origin of the lake...

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalQuaternary International·DateApr 17, 2020

The lipid code

Researchers have developed light-activated tools to influence lipid concentration in living cells, shedding light on the 'lipid code'. This approach could enable medical professionals and biochemists to verify results with quantitative data from living cells.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 17, 2020

The origin of feces: CoproID reliably predicts sources of ancient poop

Researchers developed CoproID, a reliable method to distinguish between human and dog feces based on ancient host DNA and microbiome composition. This technique enables the investigation of changes in the human gut microbiome throughout time, shedding light on food intolerances and other health issues.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalPeerJ·DateApr 17, 2020

New discovery settles long-standing debate about photovoltaic materials

Researchers at Ames Laboratory have experimentally proven the presence of the Rashba effect in bulk organometallic halide perovskites using terahertz light bursts. This discovery settles the long-standing debate about the effect's existence, offering significant advancements for spintronic and photovoltaic applications.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 17, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

UM study finds diverse diet as effective as sports supplements for female athletes

A recent University of Montana study found that a diverse diet rich in carbohydrates is just as effective for muscle recovery as sports supplements for female athletes. The study showed that muscles in both men and women replenish carbohydrate stores similarly, regardless of whether they used potato products or sports supplements.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalEuropean Journal of Applied Physiology·DateApr 17, 2020

RIT researchers build micro-device to detect bacteria, viruses

Researchers designed a new microfluidic device that uses magnetic nano-beads to isolate minute bacterial particles. The device improves the detection of drug-resistant strains and difficult-to-detect micro-particles such as Ebola and coronaviruses.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 17, 2020
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Lighting the way to safer heart procedures

A new study from Johns Hopkins University proves the feasibility of using photoacoustic imaging for medical procedures, offering a potential replacement for current radiation-based methods. The technique involves using light and sound to produce images without ionizing radiation.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Medical Imaging·DateApr 17, 2020

Trade friction: Adaptiveness of swarms of complex networks

The study found that core networks are more adaptive to environmental changes in complex systems. Peripheral networks can introduce new ideas and methods to the entire system when core networks cannot adjust. Interactions between core and peripheral networks are crucial for adaptation.

SourceShinshu University·JournalFashion and Textiles·DateApr 17, 2020

Mysterious tuft cells found to play role in pancreatitis

Researchers at Salk Institute discover formation of tuft cells during pancreatitis, which secrete IL-25 to promote immune response. The finding may lead to development of new treatments for pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateApr 17, 2020

Dissecting the mechanism of protein unfolding by SDS

Scientists used molecular dynamics simulations to understand how SDS causes protein unfolding, revealing microscopic details of the process. The study provides insights into the properties of SDS-protein interactions and their applications in protein sequencing.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalNanoscale·DateApr 17, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Under pressure: New bioinspired material can 'shapeshift' to external forces

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have created a self-adapting material that can change its stiffness in response to applied force, mimicking how human bone adjusts to its environment. This advancement holds promise for developing materials that can self-reinforce damaged areas and accelerate treatment of bone-related diseases.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 17, 2020

Virginia Tech's fog harp harvests water even in the lightest fog

The fog harp design uses parallel wires to collect ambient water from fog, gathering more water than existing mesh collectors. Field tests at Virginia Tech's Kentland Farm showed that the fog harp outperformed traditional mesh harvesters in even light fog conditions.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalAdvanced Sustainable Systems·DateApr 17, 2020

Nasal smear as an allergy screening test

A new diagnostic method for allergic rhinitis has been developed using nasal smears, providing a gentle alternative to blood tests. The method detected identical allergic sensitization patterns in both blood and nasal secretions for a wide range of airborne allergens.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAllergy·DateApr 17, 2020
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.

Researchers achieve remote control of hormone release

MIT researchers have developed a method to remotely control hormone release from the adrenal gland using magnetic nanoparticles, offering a less invasive alternative to existing treatments. The technique uses heat-sensitive ion channels to stimulate hormone production, potentially treating conditions such as PTSD and chronic pain.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 17, 2020