Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for April 3, 2020


The Lancet Public Health: US modelling study estimates impact of school closures for COVID-19 on US health-care workforce and associated mortality

A new modelling study published in The Lancet Public Health finds that school closures to reduce COVID-19 transmission may lead to increased childcare needs among healthcare workers, potentially compromising the system's response. Researchers estimate that up to 15% of health-care workers may need additional childcare, with certain occ...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateApr 3, 2020

Researchers map mechanism to explain role of gene mutations in kidney disease

A study has uncovered a mechanism explaining how genetic mutations lead to nephrotic syndrome, a rare genetic kidney disorder. The researchers found that disruptions in the recycling of cell membranes cause abnormal kidney cell structure and function.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 3, 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.

First SARS-CoV-2 genomes in Austria openly available

The availability of Austrian SARS-CoV-2 genomes has shed light on the virus' evolutionary trajectory in the human population. Initial analysis revealed an average of 6 mutations differing from the Wuhan reference genome, suggesting positive selection pressure and evolution within the human population.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·DateApr 3, 2020

A twist connecting magnetism and electronic-band topology

A comprehensive study reveals that spin canting, a slight nudge on magnetic moments, provokes substantial changes in the electronic band structure of CaMnBi2. The research establishes a direct link between magnetism and electronic-band topology, opening doors to exploring new properties and possibilities.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 3, 2020

Deep-sea worms and bacteria team up to harvest methane

Scientists have discovered a unique symbiosis between deep-sea worms and methanotrophic bacteria that harnesses methane as a carbon source. The worms absorb the energy from methane by slowly digesting the bacteria, effectively becoming methanotrophs themselves.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 3, 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.

Suffering from skin damage from face masks?

Researchers at the University of Huddersfield urge caution on wearing face masks, warning of potential skin damage through sweating and friction. Experts recommend keeping skin clean, well-hydrated, and moisturized to prevent pressure ulcers and infections.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalJournal of Wound Care·DateApr 3, 2020

Unsustainable food systems: Can we reverse current trends?

A new study found that only international trade has a net positive effect on global food systems sustainability, while population growth, urbanization, and lifestyle change have negative impacts. The study suggests that policymakers need better tools to measure and monitor food system dynamics to make them more sustainable.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 3, 2020

Possible coronavirus drug identified by Australian scientists

Monash University researchers have identified an anti-parasitic drug, Ivermectin, as a potential treatment for COVID-19. The study found that a single dose of the drug can stop the SARS-CoV-2 virus from growing in cell culture within 48 hours.

SourceMonash University·JournalAntiviral Research·DateApr 3, 2020

Tissue dynamics provide clues to human disease

EMBL scientists examined the molecular causes of a rare hereditary disease of the spine and ribs, revealing that errors in the segmentation clock can cause disorders. The researchers created a lab system to study this process, demonstrating that specific gene mutations, such as DLL3, are responsible for the condition.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature·DateApr 3, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Anterior insula activation restores prosocial behavior in animal model of opioid addiction

Researchers at Arizona State University found that activating the anterior insula restored prosocial behaviors in animals with opioid addiction, a potential breakthrough in treating social behavioral deficits. The study used chemogenetic methods to selectively activate the brain region involved in both prosocial and addictive behaviors.

SourceArizona State University·JournalSocial Neuroscience·DateApr 3, 2020

Study of rare genetic disorder that effects the eyes

A retrospective observational study of ophthalmologists' experiences with familial amyloid polyneuropathies (FAP) reveals the challenges of treating this rare disease, particularly in maintaining eyesight despite liver transplants. The study aims to share knowledge and best practices with other researchers and doctors worldwide.

SourceShinshu University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 3, 2020

Study identifies new temperature sensing mechanism in plants

Researchers have identified a novel temperature sensing mechanism in plants using the phytochrome B protein, which triggers plant growth and controls flowering time. The study reveals that specific photobodies disappear selectively at different temperatures, suggesting individual sensors for specific temperature ranges.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 2020

A combined optical transmitter and receiver

Researchers at Linköping University have developed a tiny unit that can both transmit and receive optical signals using perovskite diodes. This innovation has the potential to simplify and shrink optoelectronic systems, particularly in applications requiring low weight, flexibility, or large surfaces.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Electronics·DateApr 3, 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.

Using sponges to wipe out cancer

Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina have discovered a natural product, manzamine A, that exhibits anti-cancer properties in cervical cancer cells. The compound stops cell growth and causes some cells to die, with potential applications for treatment and development.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Natural Products·DateApr 3, 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.

NASA sees tropical cyclone Irondro developing an eye

Tropical Cyclone Irondro is intensifying in the Southern Indian Ocean, with NASA's Terra satellite capturing its organized storm structure and developing cloud-filled eye. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center forecasts maximum sustained winds near 75 knots by April 4.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 3, 2020

Larger thighs associated with lower risk of heart disease in obesity

A larger thigh circumference may be associated with lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart disease in people with obesity. Thigh circumference could potentially be used as an indicator for earlier detection and prevention of high blood pressure and related complications.

SourceSociety for Endocrinology·JournalEndocrine Connections·DateApr 3, 2020

What pediatric health care clinicians need to know

The article provides valuable information for pediatric healthcare clinicians on managing children with COVID-19 and its complications. Key findings highlight the importance of vaccination, infection control measures, and monitoring for long-term effects.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 3, 2020

Dilemma of COVID-19, aging and cardiovascular disease

A recent study explores the dilemma of COVID-19, aging, and cardiovascular disease, examining the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers in patients with coronavirus disease 2019. The findings highlight the need for careful consideration of treatment options in this vulnerable population.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateApr 3, 2020

How do superconductors break time-reversal symmetry?

The study aims to develop a unique instrument to investigate microscopic properties of superconductors and understand the emergence of spontaneous magnetic fields. The researchers hope to fill the knowledge gap that hinders the development of new devices, including quantum computers.

SourceEstonian Research Council·DateApr 3, 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.

Extreme rainfall days in metropolitan São Paulo have risen four-fold in seven decades

The study found that extreme rainfall days have increased significantly in metropolitan São Paulo, with a four-fold rise over the past seven decades. The researchers also observed an increase in consecutive dry days, suggesting that heavy rainfall events are becoming more concentrated in shorter periods.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·DateApr 3, 2020

Turning colon cancer cells around

Researchers at UCI found that depriving colon cancer cells of glutamine causes them to adapt and become more invasive, but a modified version of the metabolite alpha-ketoglutarate inhibits key signaling pathways and curbs tumor growth

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Cancer·DateApr 3, 2020

Do urban fish exhibit impaired sleep?

Researchers found that even low levels of urban sky glow can suppress melatonin production in European perch, leading to impaired sleep. This highlights the impact of artificial lighting on aquatic life's natural rhythms.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateApr 3, 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.

Rice University emergency ventilator plans now online

The Rice University team has developed an automated bag valve mask ventilator unit that can be built for less than $300 in parts. In lab tests, the device delivered nonstop air for 24 hours, showing its potential to help critically ill COVID-19 patients.

SourceRice University·DateApr 3, 2020

Passport to improved health for military veterans

A universal health passport scheme has been shown to improve the mental health of military veterans by providing a sense of control and continuity of care. The VUP pilot project reduced anxiety and gave participants a single document to access various services, promoting feelings of pride and identity.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalBMJ Military Health·DateApr 3, 2020

New study identifies characteristics of patients with fatal COVID-19

Researchers identified common characteristics of COVID-19 patients who died in Wuhan, China, including high mortality rates among males over 50 with chronic diseases. The study found that respiratory failure, shock, and cardiac arrhythmia were leading causes of death, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 3, 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.

Wearing surgical masks in public could help slow COVID-19 pandemic's advance

A University of Maryland and Hong Kong University study suggests that wearing surgical masks in public may reduce the spread of diseases including influenza, rhinoviruses, and coronaviruses. The study found that masks significantly reduced airborne viruses from infected patients in laboratory experiments.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 3, 2020

COVID-19 pandemic may exacerbate childhood obesity

School closures during the COVID-19 pandemic are expected to exacerbate childhood obesity by reducing out-of-school time and increasing sedentary activities. Interventions such as grab-and-go meals, farmers markets, and prioritizing physical education can help mitigate these effects.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalObesity·DateApr 3, 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.

New UTA study finds people tune out facts and trust their guts in medical emergencies

A new study by University of Texas at Arlington researchers found that people tend to rely on personal anecdotes rather than facts during medical emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This bias can lead to irrational decision-making and a lack of fact-based decision-making when individuals feel vulnerable.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateApr 3, 2020

Making plant protein look and feel more like whole meat

A UMass Amherst team, led by Professor David Julian McClements, has been awarded $200,000 to develop plant-based protein with a meat-like texture and feel. The goal is to create fiber-like structures from plant proteins that improve the texture of plant-based meat.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateApr 3, 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.

New measurements reveal evidence of elusive particles in a newly-discovered superconductor

Researchers at the University of Illinois have used high-resolution microscopy tools to study an unusual type of superconductor, uranium ditelluride (UTe2). The measurements reveal strong evidence for the presence of exotic Majorana particles on its surface, which could provide insights into fundamental physics and quantum computing.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature·DateApr 3, 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.

Indigenous American ancestry may be associated with HER2-positive breast cancer

A new study published in Cancer Research found that Indigenous American ancestry is associated with a greater incidence of HER2-positive breast cancer in Latinas. The study analyzed data from over 1,300 patients and found that women with higher proportions of IA ancestry were more likely to develop HER2-positive tumors.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateApr 3, 2020

How important is speech in transmitting coronavirus?

Research suggests that asymptomatic individuals infected with coronavirus can produce aerosolized particles during normal speech, potentially transmitting the infection. The study highlights the importance of collaboration among aerosol scientists, virologists, and engineers to understand respiratory diseases like COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAerosol Science and Technology·DateApr 3, 2020

New laser technique will allow more powerful -- and smaller -- particle accelerators

Researchers at the University of Rochester's Laboratory for Laser Energetics developed a novel method to shape intense laser light, accelerating electrons to record energies in very short distances. This technology could allow scientists to perform tabletop experiments to probe the Higgs boson and explore extra dimensions.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 3, 2020

Plant root hairs key to reducing soil erosion

Researchers found that plant root hairs significantly reduce soil erosion by binding soil particles and increasing soil cohesion. The study suggests that root hairs may release materials that reinforce soil or enhance its properties, providing new insights into soil conservation.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCommunications Biology·DateApr 3, 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.

Changes to drylands with future climate change

Future climate change will cause drylands to expand at an accelerated rate, but their average productivity is expected to decline. The study found that while total global productivity may increase by 12%, individual dryland areas will experience decreased productivity due to changes in precipitation and temperatures.

SourceWashington State University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 2020