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Science News for April 2, 2020


Study synthesizes what climate change means for Northwest wildfires

A University of Washington study synthesizes climate change impacts on Northwest wildfires, predicting larger and more frequent fires in the region. The greatest increased risk is found for low-elevation ponderosa pine forests, with other ecosystems experiencing more frequent but less severe fires.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalFire Ecology·DateApr 2, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Coalition to accelerate research for COVID-19 in low- and middle-income countries

A new international coalition aims to accelerate COVID-19 research in resource-poor settings, addressing the urgent need for effective treatments and vaccines. The Coalition will facilitate a coordinated approach to collect data from all regions, enabling rapid evidence-based decisions on policies and practice.

SourceDrugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 2, 2020

Representation of driving behavior as a statistical model

Researchers developed a statistical model to represent driving behaviors and their changes among drivers, accounting for external factors like road structure. The method was applied to Intelligent Speed Adaptation (ISA) technology, showing it can be effective in certain cases but not others.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalAnalytic Methods in Accident Research·DateApr 2, 2020

Story tips: Molding matter atom by atom and seeing inside uranium particles

Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory use focused electron beams to create artificial molecules in graphene, allowing for controlled manipulation of atomic structures. Meanwhile, researchers develop a non-destructive neutron imaging technique to visualize the interior of uranium particles without damaging them.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalCarbon·DateApr 2, 2020
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.

Stress thwarts our ability to plan ahead by disrupting how we use memory

Research from Stanford University finds that stress hinders development of informed plans by preventing the use of memory to project oneself forward. Stress can rob individuals of the ability to draw on cognitive systems underlying memory and goal-directed behavior, leading to reduced planning efficiency.

SourceStanford University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 2, 2020

Does relativity lie at the source of quantum exoticism?

Dr. Andrzej Dragan and Prof. Artur Ekert propose that the features of quantum mechanics can be explained within the framework of special theory of relativity. They show that superluminal solutions naturally lead to non-deterministic events, multiple trajectories, and probability amplitudes, phenomena associated with quantum mechanics.

SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateApr 2, 2020

Natural sunscreen gene influences how we make vitamin D

Researchers discovered genetic variants linked to vitamin D concentration and found that certain genes influence the body's ability to make vitamin D in response to sunlight. These findings provide new insights into how our bodies handle vitamin D and may help explain why low levels are associated with poor health.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 2, 2020

Oysters and clams can be farmed together

A Rutgers University study found that Eastern oysters and three species of clams can thrive in the same area, benefiting shellfish aquaculture. The research suggests crop diversification gives farmers protection from individual crop failure, increasing profitability.

SourceRutgers University·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateApr 2, 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.

UIC clinical trials investigate COVID-19 treatments

Researchers at UIC are studying the effectiveness of sarilumab and remdesivir as potential COVID-19 treatments in hospitalized patients. The trials aim to determine whether these drugs can provide evidence-based therapeutic options for this highly contagious virus.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateApr 2, 2020

3D reconstructions of individual nanoparticles

Researchers have developed a new methodology to resolve the 3D structure of individual nanoparticles with atomic-level resolution, six times smaller than the smallest atom. This breakthrough enables scientists to control nanoparticle properties and behavior in various environments.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 2020

Extracellular forces help epithelial cells stick together

Research at the University of Helsinki reveals that extracellular forces play a significant role in maintaining epithelial cell connections. The study found that mechanical tension activates an intracellular signalling pathway, driving the formation of actomyosin structures.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 2, 2020

Climate-related disasters increase risks of conflict in vulnerable countries

A new study published in Global Environmental Change journal found that climate-related disasters enhance armed conflict risks in vulnerable countries. Researchers discovered that almost one-third of all conflicts onsets in these countries are preceded by a climate-related disaster within seven days.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateApr 2, 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.

Gardening helps to grow positive body image

Research published in Ecopsychology found that urban gardeners showed significant improvements in body appreciation and pride compared to non-gardeners. The study also discovered that longer gardening sessions led to greater positive body image changes.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalEcopsychology·DateApr 2, 2020

Want to stop consumer hoarding in times of crisis?

A new study measures consumer planning horizon based on buying behavior and inventory, estimating a typical planning horizon of 8 weeks. The research suggests that anticipating shortages and high prices can lead to panic buying as a form of rational stockpiling behavior.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateApr 2, 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.

Genetic self-activation maintains plant stem cells

Scientists have discovered a key mechanism by which plant stem cells maintain their developmental potential, enabling branching and optimizing crop architecture. The study shows that the SHOOT MERISTEMLESS (STM) gene activates its own expression to keep its lineage active.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 2, 2020

A new way to fine-tune exotic materials: Thin, stretch and clamp

Scientists have developed a novel way to manipulate complex oxide materials by creating super-thin, flexible membranes and applying gentle heat to melt glue. This technique allowed them to stretch the material up to 8% and flip its electronic states from insulator to conductor and back again.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 2020
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.

Researchers solve structure of 'inverted' rhodopsin

Scientists from the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology have determined the high-resolution structure of a protein from the recently discovered heliorhodopsin family. The study reveals a unique 'inverted' structure, with key differences from other known rhodopsins, and suggests possible functions for heliorhodopsins.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 2, 2020

Most people consider becoming vegetarian for their health

A study found that nonvegetarians are most motivated by health concerns, while those committed to vegetarianism cite environmental or animal rights motives. This disparity poses a challenge for advocacy efforts, as targeting specific groups based on their motivations could lead to increased adoption rates.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 2, 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.

Checklist for emergency department team's COVID-19 surge

The article provides a COVID-19 surge preparedness checklist for emergency departments, created using a translational science approach. The checklist aims to reconfigure Emergency Departments to meet the surge of patients and improve resilience of healthcare systems.

SourceSociety for Disaster Medicine and Public Health, Inc.·JournalDisaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·DateApr 2, 2020

Starving pancreatic cancer of cysteine may kill tumor cells

A new study found that starving pancreatic cancer cells of cysteine leads to their death by ferroptosis, a form of programmed cell death. The compound was shown to be effective in mice with pancreatic cancer and may lead to new treatments for this deadly disease.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 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.

Study suggests marijuana may impair female fertility

A recent study found that THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, impairs female fertility by decreasing embryo development and quality. The research suggests that females exposed to THC have lower rates of viable pregnancies and are more likely to experience infertility.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the Endocrine Society·DateApr 2, 2020

For stroke survivors, light physical activity linked to better daily function

Researchers found that stroke survivors who engaged in light physical activity reported fewer physical limitations than their more sedentary peers. Light physical activity was associated with improved performance on routine physical tasks and daily activities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation·DateApr 2, 2020

Climate disasters increase risks of armed conflicts: New evidence

A recent study reveals that climate disasters increase the risk of armed conflicts in vulnerable countries, where large populations, political exclusion, and low development create instability. The research combines statistical analysis with regional case studies to demonstrate the link between disaster occurrence and conflict onsets.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateApr 2, 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.

Coastal pollution reduces genetic diversity of corals, reef resilience

A new study found that human-induced environmental stressors reduce coral reef populations' genetic diversity, compromising reef resilience. The research identified an adaptive response by corals to watershed discharges containing sediment and pollutants, leading to closer genetic relationships between nearshore corals.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalPeerJ·DateApr 2, 2020

Tailoring an anti-cancer drug for optimal tumor cell killing

Researchers at Université de Montreal tailored a PARP inhibitor to increase its capacity to kill cancer cells, resolving a long-standing puzzle over differences between effective treatments. The new design principles could also be applied to other diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 2020

When three species of human ancestor walked the Earth

Researchers unveil 2 million-year-old Homo erectus skull, shedding light on three co-existing human ancestors in Africa. The discovery confirms African origin of Homo erectus and provides insights into childhood growth and development.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 2020
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.

Breast density, microcalcifications, and masses may be heritable traits

A Swedish cohort study found that breast density, microcalcifications, and masses have a significant genetic component, with heritability estimates of 58%, 23%, and 13% respectively. The study also identified positive associations between these traits and genetic predisposition to breast cancer.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateApr 2, 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.

Robo-turtles in fish farms reduce fish stress

Researchers found that robotic turtles with small size and slow movements disturb fish minimally, promoting better fish welfare and efficiency. This technology can provide online updates and monitoring without human intervention, leading to quicker responses and lower mortality rates.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateApr 2, 2020
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.

Fourth new pterosaur discovery in matter of weeks

A new pterosaur species has been discovered in Morocco, belonging to the tapejarid group and characterized by its large crest and broad wingspan. The discovery is significant as it marks the first time a pterosaur has been found on African soil.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalCretaceous Research·DateApr 2, 2020

Gut communicates with the entire brain through cross-talking neurons

A recent study published in Autonomic Neuroscience: Basic and Clinical reveals the extent of connections between the small intestine and the entire brain. Half of the neurons transmitting signals from the gut to the brain also send motor signals, enabling cross-talk within the same neuron.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateApr 2, 2020
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.

An all-organic proton battery energized for sustainable energy storage

Researchers have created an all-organic proton battery with the ability to charge in seconds and retain capacity down to -24°C. The battery uses quinones as active material and an acidic aqueous solution as electrolyte, providing a safe and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional batteries

SourceUppsala University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateApr 2, 2020

Calcified Tissue International announces high-impact papers

The journal has announced its most frequently cited papers from 2018-19, which will be freely accessible. These papers focus on various aspects of musculoskeletal research, including bone metabolism, osteoimmunology, and gut-muscle axis.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalCalcified Tissue International·DateApr 2, 2020

COVID-19 vaccine candidate shows promise in first peer-reviewed research

A new vaccine candidate, PittCoVacc, has generated a surge of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 within two weeks of injection. The vaccine follows a more established approach, using lab-made viral protein pieces to build immunity, and is delivered through a novel microneedle array that can be manufactured at scale.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalEBioMedicine·DateApr 2, 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.

BU researchers find opioid prescriptions linked to obesity

Two studies from Boston University School of Public Health found that patients with higher BMIs were up to 158% more likely to use prescription opioids long-term. Osteoarthritis, other joint disorders, and back pain accounted for most opioid prescriptions linked to obesity.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 2, 2020

Single mutation leads to big effects in autism-related gene

Researchers at NIH found that a single amino acid change in the NLGN4 gene can drive the difference in male and female cases of autism. The study suggests that this mutation may result in autism-related symptoms, including intellectual deficits, due to the inability of the Y-chromosome version of the protein to compensate.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNeuron·DateApr 2, 2020

Capturing 3D microstructures in real time

Researchers have developed a machine-learning based algorithm for quantitatively characterizing materials with features as small as nanometers. The tool can detect faults and cracks, predict lifetimes under different stresses and strains, and track the evolution of microstructures in real time.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateApr 2, 2020

Giant umbrellas shift from convenient canopy to sturdy storm shield

Researchers have created a preliminary design for giant kinetic umbrellas to provide shade during fair weather and form a flood barrier in advance of storms. The proposed structures, made of reinforced concrete, would be able to withstand acute storm surges with stability at 75% of their deployed height.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalJournal of Structural Engineering·DateApr 2, 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.

New treatment for childhood anxiety works by changing parent behavior

A new treatment, SPACE, has been found to be as efficacious as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating childhood and adolescent anxiety disorders. The study enrolled 124 children with existing clinical anxiety disorders and randomly assigned them to receive either SPACE or CBT.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateApr 2, 2020

Subtle flavors

A team of scientists at UC Santa Barbara has discovered that multiple opsin proteins function as taste receptors, enabling the detection of subtle chemical signals. This finding raises questions about the original role of opsin proteins in ancient organisms and may extend to mammals, including humans.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 2, 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.

Advanced liver disease patients and transplant recipients need specific care during COVID-19

The Position Paper provides recommendations for clinicians treating patients with chronic liver diseases during the pandemic, including prioritizing outpatient care and reducing direct exposure to COVID-19. The paper aims to support clinicians in providing best possible care despite limited healthcare resources.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·JournalJournal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology Reports·DateApr 2, 2020

Our direct human ancestor Homo erectus is older than we thought

A new study published in Science has found that Homo erectus ancestors are older than previously thought, with fossils dating back to 2.04-1.95 million years ago in South Africa. This challenges the long-held theory of Africa's origin as the homeland of modern humans.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 2020
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.

Paleontology: Fossil trove sheds light on ancient antipodean ecology

A fossil trove from Southern Gondwana has shed light on the ecology of ancient Australia and New Zealand, preserving the oldest known animals and plants. The findings include rare 'frozen behaviour' of long-legged flies, oldest known fossil ants, and first Australian fossils of a tiny insect species.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 2, 2020

In South Africa, three hominins, including earliest Homo erectus, lived during same period

The study finds that Homo and Paranthropus fossils in the region date back to 2.04-1.95 million years, providing new insights into the transition of species in southern Africa during this period. The findings suggest a shift from endemic species like Australopithecus going extinct, while new migrants like Homo and Paranthropus moved in.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 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.

Researchers find that nicotinamide may help treat fibrotic eye diseases and mitigate vision loss

A new study found that nicotinamide inhibits aggressive cell transformations and reverses the development of fibrous membranes in the retina, potentially treating fibrotic eye diseases. The compound also promotes the transition from mesenchymal to epithelial cells, helping to preserve their original identity.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateApr 2, 2020

New 'law' to explain how glaciers flow over soft ground

Researchers unveil a new slip law to describe glaciers sliding on soft, deformable material, improving models of fast-flowing, marine-terminating glaciers in Antarctica and Greenland. This development enhances the understanding of glacier movement and parameterization for better sea-level rise estimations.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 2020

A friendlier way to deal with nitrate pollution

Scientists have developed a catalyst that converts nitrate into nitrite without high temperatures or acidity, addressing water pollution concerns. The catalyst's mechanism mimics natural enzymes, offering a promising solution for detoxifying nitrate in mild environments.

SourceRIKEN·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateApr 2, 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.

Turning cells into computers with protein logic gates

A team of researchers from the University of Washington School Medicine has created artificial proteins that function as molecular logic gates, allowing for the programming of complex biological systems. This breakthrough has implications for future medicines and synthetic biology, particularly in the development of cell-based therapies.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 2020

The facial expressions of mice

Researchers at Max Planck Institute describe different emotional facial expressions in mice, linking them to specific brain regions and emotions. The discovery enables the investigation of emotional mechanisms and their relationship with neuronal activity.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 2020

Machine learning offers glimpses into the emotional lives of mice

Researchers used machine learning to analyze mouse facial expressions and identified specific facial expressions correlated with emotional descriptors. The study may assist in moving towards a universal definition of emotions across species.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 2020

The Arctic may influence Eurasian extreme weather events in just two to three weeks

New research suggests that the Arctic may impact Eurasian extreme weather events as quickly as two to three weeks, highlighting the need for more robust analysis techniques. The study aims to improve forecast accuracy by targeting specific observations and developing simulation experiments.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateApr 2, 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.

Chilling concussed cells shows promise for full recovery

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered a potential treatment approach for concussions by cooling brain cells to an optimal temperature. The study found that cooling cells to 33 degrees Celsius provided the most protective benefit after 24 and 48 hours post-injury.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 2, 2020