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Science News for April 28, 2020


Catch rate is a poor indicator of lake fishery health

A recent study found that whole-lake experiments can reveal the causes of hyperstability in recreational fisheries. Habitat aggregation and effort sorting are identified as drivers of hyperstability collapse. Limiting angler effort through policy changes is proposed to protect vulnerable fish stocks.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·DateApr 28, 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.

A great new way to paint 3D-printed objects

Rutgers engineers have created a highly effective way to paint complex 3D-printed objects using an efficient painting method that reaches all nooks and crannies. The technique, known as electrospray deposition, has been used mainly for analytical chemistry but has also been applied in lab-scale demonstrations of coatings.

SourceRutgers University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 28, 2020

Scientists studied the growth rate effect of gut bacteria on degradation of dietary fibers

Researchers investigated how gut bacteria grow at different rates and their effect on dietary fibers, finding that faster growth rates alter the composition and metabolism of fecal microbiota. The study suggests that a person's diet can influence their gut microbiota by adjusting fiber intake to support healthy digestion.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateApr 28, 2020

Invasive lionfish likely to become permanent residents in the Mediterranean

A new study suggests that lionfish, an invasive species first identified in the Mediterranean in 2012, are thriving and well-established in the region. The species' generalist diet and rapid spread may disrupt the already stressed marine environment, leading to further ecological damage.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of Fish Biology·DateApr 28, 2020

Shrinking instead of growing: how shrews survive the winter

Common shrews have a high metabolic rate and quickly deplete their fat reserves in winter. However, they do not need to increase their metabolism in response to colder temperatures, thanks to their unique adaptation of shrinking in autumn and growing in spring.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateApr 28, 2020
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.

Scientists explore the power of radio waves to help control fusion reactions

Researchers have discovered a new effect called 'RF current condensation' that can stabilize magnetic islands in plasma, allowing for improved control of fusion reactors. By heating the islands with radio waves, scientists can drive electric currents that cause them to shrink and disappear, enhancing stability.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateApr 28, 2020

Higher economic status does not always translate to better heart health

New research suggests that upward income mobility is associated with a trade-off between well-being and cardiometabolic health. Despite improved mental health, individuals who experience upward mobility may fare worse in terms of heart health compared to those with consistent disadvantage or advantage.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateApr 28, 2020

BU researchers: Race and income shape COVID-19 risk

A new study by Boston University School of Public Health found that Black, Native American, and lower-income people are more likely to have underlying conditions increasing the risk of severe illness or death from COVID-19. The researchers analyzed data from over 330,000 people and estimated that 43% of American adults have at least on...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 28, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

AGS COVID-19 brief offers roadmap to government action for assisted living facilities

The American Geriatrics Society has published a policy brief outlining recommendations for federal, state, and local governments to address COVID-19 concerns in assisted living facilities. The guidelines prioritize resource needs, patient transfers, and public health priorities, aiming to empower healthcare workers on the frontlines of...

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateApr 28, 2020

Scientists recreate DNA damage caused by toxins from smoking

Researchers recreated DNA damage caused by tobacco smoke in laboratory-grown human bladder tissues. The study found that while direct DNA damage from smoke toxins is unlikely to cause bladder cancer, they may accelerate other DNA-damaging events.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalEuropean Urology·DateApr 28, 2020

Gold standard force fields help identify promising peptides to disrupt COVID-19

Researchers at the University of Utah and Texas Advanced Computing Center used powerful supercomputers to rapidly generate molecular models of compounds relevant for COVID-19. They applied their approach, developed previously for Ebola virus research, to identify promising peptides that can disrupt the coronavirus.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateApr 28, 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.

Harnessing psyllid peptides to fight citrus greening disease

A team of researchers has identified 122 peptides from the Asian citrus psyllid that may help combat citrus greening disease. The peptides are derived from the insect's own neuropeptides and have shown promise as potential insecticides for use in citrus groves.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateApr 28, 2020

How animals 'dial up' the pain they experience from certain stimuli

Researchers at the University of Leeds have found a way to turbo charge molecular sensors in nerve cells, amplifying electrical signals to the brain and intensifying pain experience. This discovery could lead to targeted therapies for chronic pain conditions such as neuropathies and migraines.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScience Signaling·DateApr 28, 2020

New drug formulation could treat Candida infections

Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a new drug formulation that significantly improves the activity of fluconazole against Candida biofilms. The study uses bacterial signals to improve fluconazole's effectiveness, offering a potential alternative to current antifungal treatments.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalInternational Journal of Pharmaceutics·DateApr 28, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

TAMA300 blazes trail for improved gravitational wave astronomy

Researchers at NAOJ have demonstrated a new technique to reduce quantum noise in gravitational wave detectors, increasing sensitivity and allowing for the detection of fainter waves. This technique, known as frequency dependent vacuum squeezing, will enable improved sensitivity at both high and low frequencies simultaneously.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 28, 2020

AGA and joint task force on allergy-immunology practice parameters release EoE guidelines

The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has released new guidelines for the management of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), a chronic inflammatory disease of the esophagus triggered by allergens. Topical steroids are recommended as a first-line treatment, while proton pump inhibition, diet therapy, and esophageal dilation are ...

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateApr 28, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A new study from Annals of Internal Medicine reveals COVID-19 disparities affecting U.S. healthcare workers with risk factors for poor outcomes, as well as African Americans and Latinos disproportionately affected by the pandemic. The authors discuss lessons learned from prior experiences to reduce observed disparities.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 28, 2020
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.

Initial motivation, a key factor for learning in massive open online courses

Researchers from the University of Seville found that initial motivation is related to individual differences in drop-out probability and satisfaction with the learning experience. The study suggests designing personalized learning plans based on a good initial diagnosis of students' learning intentions and motivational profiles.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalEducational Technology Research and Development·DateApr 28, 2020

Immune-regulating drug improves gum disease in mice

A study published in eLife found that rapamycin, an immune-suppressing drug, reduces bone loss, inflammation, and changes to oral bacteria in older mice with gum disease. The treatment also reversed clinical features of periodontal disease, suggesting a potential approach for age-related dental problems.

SourceeLife·DateApr 28, 2020

People with brown fat may burn 15% more calories

A study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that short-term cold exposure increased energy expenditure and improved fatty acid profiles in individuals with active brown fat. People with brown fat burned 15% more calories than those without, highlighting the organ's potential as a ta...

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 28, 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.

A child's home environment can impact the risk of developing depression

A new study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry finds that children's rearing environment has a significant impact on their risk for major depression later in life. Adopted children showed lower risk of depression, regardless of their biological parents' mental health status.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateApr 28, 2020

Researchers tackle a new opportunity to develop high-energy batteries

Army researchers have developed a new electrolyte design for lithium-ion batteries that improves anode capacity by more than five times compared to traditional methods. The new design increases the number of possible cycles with little degradation, extending the lifespan of next-generation lithium-ion batteries.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateApr 28, 2020

Glacier detachments: A new hazard in a warming world?

Researchers studied Glacier Flat Creek in Alaska and found that glacier detachments can be triggered by increased subglacial water pressure due to melting ice. This phenomenon suggests that glaciers may pose new hazards as they melt at a faster pace, potentially leading to more frequent and destructive events.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateApr 28, 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.

Ultra-precision nano-sensor could detect iron disorders

Researchers have developed a multipurpose nanoscale bio-probe that allows precise monitoring of iron disorders in cells, tissue, and body fluids. The test is more sensitive and specific than current blood testing methods, enabling early disease diagnosis and potential prevention of serious diseases.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 28, 2020

Surgeons help create new process for disinfecting and reusing N95 masks

A new disinfection process developed by surgeons allows N95 masks to be reused up to 20 cycles, increasing employee acceptance and ensuring proper fit. This approach has improved the safety of healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic by conserving personal protective equipment.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateApr 28, 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.

Study from Chinese city of Shenzhen, outside Hong Kong in southern China, provides key insights on how coronavirus spreads

A study in Shenzhen, China analyzed data from 391 COVID-19 cases and their contacts to understand the virus's transmission dynamics. The analysis revealed that contact tracing and extensive testing reduced the incubation period to about three days, and household contacts were at high risk of infection.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateApr 28, 2020

Study reveals important flowering plants for city-dwelling honey bees

Researchers identified top food sources for urban honey bees, including trees like maples and oaks in spring, and woody vines like Virginia creeper in summer and fall. The study highlights actionable findings for urban land management, beekeepers, and homeowners to sustain honey bees and other pollinator species.

SourcePenn State·JournalEcosphere·DateApr 28, 2020

Hey, Alexa, who else is listening right now?

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are exploring potential security weaknesses in voice-activated speakers like Alexa and Google Home. They found that hackers can exploit devices using a passive attack called 'voice command fingerprinting', which involves eavesdropping on data transferred between the smart speaker and the clou...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateApr 28, 2020

Surveying the lipid landscape

A groundbreaking tool, LipidCreator, has been developed to efficiently analyze specific lipid groups and signal molecules, accelerating the discovery of biomarkers for diseases. This software enables scientists to quantify 60 lipid classes and their signaling molecules in larger studies than previously possible.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 28, 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.

Variation in how side effects are reported clouds drug safety

A University of Colorado Cancer Center study reveals significant variation in how drug side effects are reported, potentially leading to misinformation about a drug's safety. The study suggests standardizing reporting methods could improve the accuracy of risk assessments and drug licensing.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateApr 28, 2020

A leap in using silicon for battery anodes

Scientists developed a unique nanostructure that limits silicon's expansion while fortifying it with carbon, enabling it to hold twice the charge of traditional graphite anodes. The porous silicon structure exhibits remarkable mechanical strength, making it suitable for high-performance lithium-ion batteries.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 28, 2020

Key progress on the MRI compatible DBS electrodes and simultaneous DBS-fMRI

Researchers have developed a novel MRI compatible graphene fiber DBS electrode, enabling full activation pattern mapping by simultaneous deep brain stimulation and fMRI. This breakthrough showed a close relationship between fMRI activation and DBS therapeutic improvement in Parkinsonian rat models.

SourcePeking University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 28, 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.

Alcoholics Anonymous method can mesh well with other treatments for alcohol misuse

A Baylor University researcher suggests that clinicians should be aware of their misconceptions about Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and educate themselves about the program to integrate it into their work with clients. Both AA and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) aim to help individuals accept personal responsibility for their actions.

SourceBaylor University·JournalTraining and Education in Professional Psychology·DateApr 28, 2020

Plastic pollution reaching the Antarctic

Researchers have found an increase in marine debris collected on beaches of Bird Island and Signy Island, with most items being plastic. Scientists also discovered that fishing vessels contribute significantly to plastic pollution, threatening seabirds and other wildlife in the region.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalEnvironment International·DateApr 28, 2020

Drug prevents severe cardiac events in children undergoing chemotherapy for AML

Dexrazoxane has been shown to preserve cardiac function and reduce risk of severe cardiac events in pediatric patients undergoing chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The study suggests dexrazoxane should be considered for cardioprotection in all pediatric patients undergoing standard chemotherapy for AML.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateApr 28, 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.

Agricultural pickers in US to see unsafely hot workdays double by 2050

A new study predicts that US agricultural workers will experience double the number of unsafe days due to extreme heat by 2050, with health risks tripling. The research suggests that adapting working conditions, such as using lighter protective clothing and taking breaks, can mitigate these risks.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateApr 28, 2020
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.

Offspring may inherit legacy of their father's Toxoplasma infection

Australian researchers discovered that Toxoplasma-infected male mice passed altered epigenetic signatures to their offspring, affecting brain development and behavior. The study raises concerns about potential long-term impacts of infections in human fathers on their children's health.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 28, 2020

BIM & Lean Construction well-established in major firms but lacking within industry's SMEs

Research at the University of Huddersfield warns that smaller construction firms are missing out on cutting-edge techniques like BIM and Lean Construction, which can improve efficiency and productivity. The study found that SMEs are not adopting these practices, despite their potential to transform the industry.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalCanadian Journal of Civil Engineering·DateApr 28, 2020

Study reveals pharmacy-level barriers to treatment for opioid use disorder in Appalachian Kentucky

A new study found that pharmacies in Appalachian Kentucky are limiting buprenorphine dispensing due to concerns about DEA caps, distrust of pharmaceutical companies, and stigma against people who use drugs. This limits access to effective treatment for opioid use disorder, which affects fewer than two in ten individuals.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·DateApr 28, 2020

Finding the genes to build a better cancer treatment

Scientists at Washington State University have discovered candidate genes that could be used to manufacture Taxol more quickly and efficiently. The genes, characterized by lead researcher Mark Lange, will enable engineers to develop organisms that can produce the cancer-fighting drug.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 28, 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.

Simulating borehole ballooning helps ensure safe drilling of deep-water oil, gas

A device that simulates borehole ballooning has been developed to help prevent serious drilling accidents and irreversible damage. The device can accurately simulate conditions like fracture opening pressures, rock types, and mud circulation pressures, and its experimental results have validated theoretical research on the topic.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateApr 28, 2020

Dental care and oral health under the clouds of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic highlights the need for better dental care and oral health strategies. Research suggests that SARS-CoV-2 is primarily transmitted through direct contact and respiratory droplets, with oral mucosa being an initial site of entry.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJDR Clinical & Translational Research·DateApr 28, 2020

Polymer membranes could benefit from taking a dip

A team of researchers from Argonne National Laboratory has developed a simple pretreatment step that enables membranes to be enhanced using atomic layer deposition (ALD). The method involves dipping membranes in tannic acid, which provides nucleation sites for ALD coatings. This technique now opens up new possibilities for improving me...

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateApr 28, 2020

Arctic wildlife uses extreme method to save energy

Researchers at Lund University discovered a unique energy-saving strategy used by Arctic birds during the polar night, involving weakening their immune system. This adaptation allows them to conserve energy on keeping warm and finding food, but may pose risks when climate change alters migratory patterns and disease transmission.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateApr 28, 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.

Heart disease more likely for adults with dysfunctional childhoods

A new Northwestern University study links childhood trauma and family dysfunction to increased risk of heart attacks and strokes in adulthood. Adults who experienced high levels of adversity in childhood are more than 50% more likely to develop cardiovascular disease.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateApr 28, 2020

Understanding how fluids heat or cool surfaces

Researchers found that fluid flow across flat surfaces has three distinct zones, including a lengthy transitional zone, which significantly affects heat transfer calculations. This discovery could improve the accuracy of heat exchanger designs and engineering practices in various industries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Heat Transfer·DateApr 28, 2020

Foot feathering in domesticated breeds of pigeons and chickens use same gene regulatory networks

Researchers found that regulatory mutations in TBX5 and PITX1 genes cause foot feathering in both domesticated breeds of chickens and pigeons. This study demonstrates a remarkable convergence in the evolution of this trait across species, suggesting that favored mutations have been spread through strong phenotypic selection.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateApr 28, 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.

Spinal cord gives bio-bots walking rhythm

Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign developed spinobots that can walk using a rat muscle and spinal cord tissue. The integration of the spinal cord gives them a natural walking rhythm, which could have implications for neurocomputing and restorative medicine.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAPL Bioengineering·DateApr 28, 2020

Rat spinal cords control neural function in biobots

Researchers successfully combined rat spinal cords with tissue-engineered muscles, creating a biohybrid system that produces electrical activity causing contraction. This innovation could lead to breakthroughs in understanding diseases like Lou Gehrig's and developing new surgical training tools.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Bioengineering·DateApr 28, 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.

New device simulates feel of walls, solid objects in virtual reality

A new device developed at Carnegie Mellon University uses multiple strings attached to the hand and fingers to simulate the feel of obstacles and heavy objects in virtual reality. The device provides more realistic haptic feedback than other techniques, enabling users to feel the contours of virtual objects and sense resistance.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateApr 28, 2020

Mobile telehealth system in China facilitates clinical communication during COVID-19

A mobile telehealth system in China has been successfully implemented to facilitate clinical communication among healthcare providers and patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. The system allows for secure sharing of patient information, overcoming a significant challenge faced by hospitals treating isolated patients.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTelemedicine and e-Health·DateApr 28, 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.

How blood cells deform, recover when traveling through tiny channels

Red blood cells deform and recover when passing through tiny channels, revealing a possible new method to diagnose diseases such as malaria. The researchers found that the shape recovery behavior depends on flow speed, viscosity, and elastic properties of the cell's outer membrane.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiomicrofluidics·DateApr 28, 2020

New DNA test will improve tracking of Salmonella food-poisoning outbreaks

Researchers have developed a sensitive and specific assay to detect different serotypes of Salmonella, enabling rapid tracing of infection origins. The new DNA test can distinguish between subtypes of Salmonella in just eight minutes and has the potential to simplify and accelerate food-borne illness investigations.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateApr 28, 2020

Foot feathering birds flock genetically together

Researchers found that genetic variants at Tbx5 and Pitx1 contribute to foot feathering in both chickens and pigeons. A 17,000 base-pair long deletion near Pitx1 removes the same exact region in both species, indicating similar mutations and molecular pathways.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateApr 28, 2020
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.

HKUST researchers unlock genomic secrets of scaly-foot snail

A team of HKUST researchers has analyzed the genome sequence of the scaly-foot snail, a deep-sea creature with armor-like scales. The study reveals that the snail's unique morphology is largely determined by genes already present in other mollusks, such as squid and pearl oysters.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 28, 2020

How the heart affects our perception

Researchers found that brain activity changes with heartbeat, suppressing certain components associated with consciousness during systole, leading to reduced detection of weak stimuli. Additionally, a large heartbeat-evoked potential indicates focus on internal bodily signals over external environmental cues.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2020

How animals 'dial up' the pain they experience from certain stimuli

Researchers at the University of Leeds have discovered a molecular mechanism that amplifies pain signals in the nervous system. This finding has significant implications for understanding and treating chronic pain conditions such as neuropathies, arthritic pains, and migraines.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScience Signaling·DateApr 28, 2020

Work-related stress linked to increased risk for peripheral artery disease

Research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that people with work-related stress were 1.4 times as likely to have a record of peripheral artery disease in hospitalization registers. Work-related stress, or job strain, refers to psychological and social stress at work.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateApr 28, 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.

Can an existing HIV medication slow the spread of COVID-19?

A clinical trial is set to examine whether post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) using the existing HIV medication Kaletra can halt or slow the spread of COVID-19. Researchers will track participants exposed to confirmed cases, administering the medication for 14 days, the estimated incubation period for COVID-19.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·DateApr 28, 2020

Fused-ring electron acceptor with 3D exciton and charge transport

Researchers at Peking University developed a new fluorinated fused-ring electron acceptor with 3D stacking and exciton and charge transport, leading to improved efficiency in organic solar cells. The OSCs based on FINIC showed an efficiency of 14.0%, significantly higher than nonfluorinated INIC-based cells.

SourcePeking University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 28, 2020

How mistakes help us recognize things

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt found that mistakes in short-term memory, such as misperceiving the motion direction of dots, contribute to our ability to recognize and integrate visual information over time. This 'blurring' of perception helps us perceive a stable environment despite constant changes.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 28, 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.

Hubble watches comet ATLAS disintegrate into more than 2 dozen pieces

The Hubble Space Telescope has imaged the breakup of comet C/2019 Y4 (ATLAS), revealing approximately 30 fragments on April 20 and 25 pieces on April 23. The comet's fragmented appearance changes substantially between the two days, sparking debate among researchers about the cause of fragmentation.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 28, 2020

Gene defects linked to eczema, wheeze and nasal disease among babies

A new study has discovered a link between gene defects and eczema, wheeze, and nasal blockage among babies as young as six months. The research suggests that treatment targeted towards children carrying these genetic defects started soon after birth could improve their lives.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateApr 28, 2020

C-Path receives letter of support from EMA on type 1 diabetes biomarker initiative

The Critical Path Institute (C-Path) has received a letter of support from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) to facilitate the development and validation of pancreatic islet autoantibodies as enrichment biomarkers for type 1 diabetes clinical trials. This collaboration aims to accelerate drug development in T1D by identifying patient...

SourceCritical Path Institute (C-Path)·DateApr 28, 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.

Study indicates artificial intelligence could help stem tide of school violence

Researchers developed an AI system that analyzes linguistic patterns to predict a youth's risk for committing acts of school violence. The system matches the clinical judgements and accuracy of psychiatrists 94 percent of the time, demonstrating its potential to help address youth violence at schools.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalInternational Journal of Medical Informatics·DateApr 28, 2020

Next-generation batteries take major step toward commercial viability

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a method to stabilize lithium-sulfur batteries, extending their cycle life by four times. This breakthrough enables more environmentally sustainable and cost-effective battery production, with potential applications in electric vehicles and renewable energy.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJoule·DateApr 28, 2020

Visual-spatial learning disorder is more common than thought, finds study

A new study estimates that nearly 3 million US children have visual-spatial learning disorder, affecting math, executive function, and fine motor skills. The disorder is often overlooked due to its name and lack of consensus among physicians on diagnosis and treatment.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 28, 2020

Ayurveda and yoga for COVID-19 prevention

Experts in Ayurveda and yoga propose using these traditional practices to boost immune function and prevent COVID-19 infection. The authors discuss various methods, including local prophylaxis with herbal drinks and steam inhalation, as well as systemic approaches focusing on diet, sleep, and mental relaxation.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateApr 28, 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.

Study of nearly 10,000 women explores feasibility and safety of multi-cancer blood test

Researchers developed a multi-cancer blood test that detected some cancers, including ovarian cancers, and successfully screened for non-cancer causes before diagnostic tests. The test showed promise as a minimally invasive option to increase cancer detection rates in populations already following standard screening approaches.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2020

Oregon State University research wins Marcus Wallenberg Prize

Richard Waring, a renowned researcher at Oregon State University, has been awarded the prestigious Marcus Wallenberg Prize along with Joe Landsberg and Nicholas Coops. The prize recognizes their groundbreaking work on a computer model predicting forest growth in changing climates.

SourceOregon State University·DateApr 28, 2020

MA3Bi2I9 single-crystal enables X-ray detection down to nanograys per second

Researchers developed ultra-sensitive and stable X-ray detectors using 0D MA3Bi2I9 single-crystals, achieving low operating doses of 0.62 nGyair s-1 and high sensitivity comparable to 3D perovskite detectors. The discovery promises a promising X-ray detector candidate for medical applications.

SourceScience China Press·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateApr 28, 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.

COVID-19 in US prisons, jails

The US prison and jail system faces significant challenges in preventing COVID-19 transmission, according to a new study. The authors emphasize the need for effective policies and programs to minimize the spread of the virus.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 28, 2020

Study reveals rich genetic diversity of Vietnam

A new study analyzing Vietnam's population reveals a rich genetic diversity with heterogeneous ancestry profiles in each language family. The research finds evidence of extensive contact between Vietnamese groups and other populations, challenging previous studies' suggestions of an indigenous origin.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateApr 28, 2020