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Science News for August 10, 2020


Self-interest and solar energy adoption

A study of 684,000 people found that self-interest campaigns led to higher solar energy adoption rates than prosocial campaigns focusing on community benefits. Exposure to prosocial campaigns increased peer recommendations and satisfaction with installations.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2020

McKee CTE staging scheme accurate in diagnosing severity, location of disease

A new study proves that the McKee CTE staging scheme accurately represents the progression of tau pathology in CTE, correlating with clinical dementia and age at death. Researchers found five brain regions with increasing p-tau pathology that conform to CTE stage, age, and years of football play.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateAug 10, 2020

Detailed molecular workings of a key system in learning and memory formation

Researchers at UMass Amherst have identified a new regulatory role for CaMKII, a protein involved in calcium signaling, in the brain's memory center. They found that the hub domain of CaMKII plays a crucial role in tuning its sensitivity to calcium, opening up new avenues for investigation and potential therapeutic targets.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalScience Signaling·DateAug 10, 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.

Individual differences in the brain

Scientists selectively bred zebrafish to exhibit distinct personality traits, finding that brain activities soon changed and new brain regions were activated. The study suggests a rapid pace of personality trait changes and potential implications for human behavior.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 10, 2020

Algal blue light switch control of electrical excitation in plants

Scientists have successfully applied optogenetics to higher plants, using blue light to trigger electrical excitation and simulate plant stress responses. This allows for the non-invasive investigation of cellular communication pathways and the analysis of membrane potential waves.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 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.

Nepal lockdown halved health facility births and increased stillbirths and newborn deaths

A new study reveals that the COVID-19 lockdown in Nepal resulted in a 49.9% decrease in health facility births, leading to increased stillbirth rates by 50% and neonatal mortality by over 3-fold. The lockdown had a disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations, highlighting the need for improved maternal and newborn healthcare duri...

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateAug 10, 2020

Berkeley Lab science snapshots

A Berkeley Lab study finds that California's winter precipitation will become 50% more variable by 2100, affecting agriculture, flood control, and water resource management. The MJO, a global rainfall pattern, is expected to transfer its precipitation-related atmospheric conditions to the West Coast via changes in strong winds.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 10, 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.

From nanocellulose to gold

Researchers at Linköping University have developed new materials by combining nanocellulose with metal nanoparticles, resulting in antibacterial properties, color-changing abilities, and the ability to generate heat. The materials can be used for various applications, including sensors and energy-based uses.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateAug 10, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers found a 30% decrease in outpatient visits during the initial 10 weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic. The shift to virtual visits was partly offset by an increase in telephone and video visits, with over 10 million fewer in-person visits compared to previous years.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 10, 2020

Retesting for COVID-19: UPMC shares its experience

A large-scale analysis by UPMC found that patients positive for COVID-19 stay positive for an average of three weeks. Repeating tests in patients who were initially negative rarely leads to a positive result.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateAug 10, 2020

AI-enhanced precision medicine identifies novel autism subtype

A novel AI-enhanced precision medicine approach identifies a novel autism subtype characterized by abnormal lipid levels, providing a potential breakthrough for early diagnosis and intervention. The research also found a strong association between parental dyslipidemia and autism spectrum disorder in children.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 10, 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.

Third breakthrough demonstrates photosynthetic hacks can boost yield, conserve water

Researchers have made two major breakthroughs to optimize photosynthesis, increasing crop growth by 27 percent in field trials. The discoveries improved the efficiency of electron transport and carbon fixation, resulting in increased productivity and water conservation.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalNature Plants·DateAug 10, 2020

Successful school instruction is digital - but not exclusively

A meta-study of 92 studies found that secondary school students outperform their peers in traditional classes when using digital tools. The tools' effectiveness increases when used with paper-based materials and accompanied by teachers. Intelligent tutor systems and professionally trained teachers are particularly effective.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalComputers & Education·DateAug 10, 2020

Patient experiences in medical imaging and radiation therapy: The importance of skilled patient care professionals

The Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences special issue shares stories about interpersonal skills beyond technical aspects to care for patients during medical imaging and radiation therapy procedures. Guest Editor Sue Robins curated this issue as a learning experience for technologists, therapists, and patients alike.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences·DateAug 10, 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.

Air pollution and honey bee health

Honey bees from highly polluted sites in India show reduced survival rates and altered physiological characteristics, indicating air pollution's negative impact on their health. The study suggests that air pollution may also affect ecosystem services, highlighting the need for further research to address this issue.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 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.

Study: Americans prize party loyalty over democratic principles

A study by Yale University found that US voters are willing to forgive undemocratic behavior to achieve their partisan ends and policy goals. Only 3.5% of voters would cast ballots against their preferred candidates as punishment for undemocratic behavior.

SourceYale University·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·DateAug 10, 2020

Exact climate data from the past

Researchers have developed a new method for reconstructing past Earth surface temperatures using clumped isotopes. By analyzing the ratio of two rare carbonate groups, scientists can now accurately determine temperature without being influenced by mineralization processes.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 10, 2020

Gene therapy targets inner retina to combat blindness

A breakthrough study using gene therapy to target the inner retina has prevented blindness in a mouse model of CLN3 Batten disease. The treatment led to significant survival of bipolar cells and preserved retinal function, according to researchers.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateAug 10, 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.

Past evidence supports complete loss of Arctic sea-ice by 2035

Researchers used a high-resolution climate model to compare Arctic sea ice conditions during the last interglacial with present-day data. The findings suggest that intense springtime sunshine led to the formation of melt ponds, which contributed to sea ice melt.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 10, 2020

Poverty alleviation efforts are shaping the success of environmental targets

A new study published in PNAS explores the impact of poverty alleviation efforts on environmental targets, finding that successful programs can increase food production and reduce poverty but may also lead to trade-offs with environmental protection. The research highlights the importance of considering social and environmental outcome...

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2020

Electronic components join forces to take up 10 times less space on computer chips

A new study demonstrates the successful integration of individual elements that make up electronic filters onto a single component, significantly reducing space taken up by devices. The researchers ditched conventional designs and created a single, self-rolling membrane that contains both independently designed elements.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateAug 10, 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.

Engineers enlist fungi to advance against disease

Rice University scientists have won a $1.9 million NIH grant to explore the use of CRISPR-Cas genome editing in natural fungi to discover new drugs that stay ahead of disease resistance. By understanding how fungi synthesize useful compounds, they aim to create novel drug development toolkits.

SourceRice University·DateAug 10, 2020

Seeing chemical reactions with music

Researchers at the Institute for Basic Science found that audible sound can control chemical reactions in solution by supplying energy sources into the air-liquid interface. The study created aesthetically pleasing patterns on the surface and bulk of the solution, exhibiting life-like behavior in synthetic molecules.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Chemistry·DateAug 10, 2020

Evolutionary assimilation of foreign DNA in a new host

Researchers at UC San Diego used CRISPR and evolutionary engineering to test foreign DNA in E. coli and observed that most mutations occurred in regulatory regions, not within the foreign gene itself. The study reveals the importance of systems biology in understanding biological function and its implications for genetic engineering.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateAug 10, 2020

Deforestation and indigenous property rights

The study found that granting collective property rights to indigenous territories led to a significant decrease in deforestation, particularly at the border of these areas. Territories waiting for full property rights saw little impact on deforestation levels.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

KIST finds clue to improve artificial vision for patients with retinitis pigmentosa

Researchers at KIST found that retinal neural signals from electric stimulation are altered depending on disease progression in mice affected by outer retinal degeneration. This study suggests guidelines for patient selection of retinal prostheses, improving performance and perception of artificial vision.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·DateAug 10, 2020

Biology blurs line between sexes, behaviors

A new study identifies a genetic switch in brain cells that can toggle between sex-specific states when necessary, challenging the idea of sex as a fixed property. This finding has implications for human biology, particularly in understanding sex-typical behaviors and their flexibility.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 10, 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.

Miscarriage risk increases each week alcohol is used in early pregnancy

Research published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that women who consume alcohol during early pregnancy face a higher risk of miscarriage. The study analyzed data from over 5,500 women and found an incremental 8% increase in miscarriage risk each week of alcohol use.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·DateAug 10, 2020

Oxytocin can help prevent osteoporosis

Researchers found that oxytocin administration reversed precursors of osteoporosis in female rats, including reduced bone density and decreased bone strength. The study suggests that oxytocin may be a strong ally in preventing osteoporosis during perimenopause.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 10, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that a substantial number of overdose deaths were misclassified as sudden cardiac deaths, leading to grossly underestimated national estimates of the opioid overdose burden. Meanwhile, another study provides real-world recommendations for overcoming telemedicine challenges with...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 10, 2020

Researchers find new potential treatment for prion diseases

Researchers have discovered a promising new treatment strategy for patients with prion disease by reducing levels of prion protein. This approach has been shown to significantly extend the survival of lab animals and even reverse disease markers after toxic clumps have formed in the brain.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateAug 10, 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.

Media alert: ESMO Virtual Congress 2020, September 19-21

The ESMO Virtual Congress 2020 will feature a virtual meeting between 19-21 September, including access to scientific programme, e-poster area, and industry satellite symposia. Accredited journalists can also access congress webcasts for re-watching presentations.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateAug 10, 2020

Emergency visits for thunderstorm-related respiratory illnesses

Researchers analyzed atmospheric and lightning data to study the relationship between thunderstorms and increased emergency department visits for respiratory illnesses among older adults. The study found that vulnerable groups may be susceptible to atmospheric changes caused by thunderstorms, leading to higher emergency visit rates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 10, 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.

Inside the ice giants of space

Scientists developed a theoretical method to model the interior of ice giants Uranus and Neptune, allowing analysis of thermal and electrical processes. The study provides insights into the planets' geometry and evolution, including the existence of frozen cores and magnetic field generation.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 10, 2020

Genomic sequencing as a standalone newborn screening tool falls short

A comprehensive assessment of genomic sequencing as a standalone newborn screening tool found it comes up short, missing about 160 cases and incorrectly identifying 8,000. However, sequencing can still be useful in suspicious cases not clearly identified by MS/MS.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 10, 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.

Violence and political partisanship

A recent study found that individuals with Republican leanings tend to support the use of nuclear and conventional weapons against enemy civilians and combatants. This partisan divide in views on violence is linked to underlying attitudes towards immigrants, gun rights, and abortion, according to researchers.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 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.

Pasteurization inactivates COVID-19 virus in human milk: new research

New research confirms pasteurisation inactivates SARS-CoV-2 virus in human milk, ensuring safe supply to preterm babies. Cold storage also doesn't impact the virus's stability, allowing mothers with COVID-19 to express and store milk safely.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalJournal of Paediatrics and Child Health·DateAug 10, 2020

Analysis of Ugandan cervical carcinomas, an aid for understudied sub-Saharan women

A comprehensive genomic study of cervical cancers in sub-Saharan Africa has identified unique features associated with HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients. The study found distinct gene expression patterns for HPV types and epigenetic changes linked to aggressive tumors, providing potential treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 10, 2020

Aquatic robots can remove contaminant particles from water

Researchers developed a 1cm by 1cm soft robot that can remove contaminants from water using a magnetic field and light. The artificial aquatic polyp can guide suspended targets towards it, and then activate its tentacles to grasp and release particles.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 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.

Photo of eyes provides forecast of longevity in heart failure patients

Research published in ESC Heart Failure suggests that pupil area can predict prognosis in patients with heart failure. Patients with a small pupil area were found to have a significantly poorer survival rate and higher risk of readmission for heart failure compared to those with a large pupil area.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalESC Heart Failure·DateAug 10, 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.

New study documents increasing frequency, cost, and severity of gunshot wounds

A new study finds that gun violence has increased in the US, resulting in higher costs and severity of gunshot wounds. The study, which analyzed hospital data from 2005 to 2016, shows a significant increase in the cost of operations and length of hospital stays for patients with gunshot wounds.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateAug 10, 2020

HPV strains may impact cervical cancer prognosis

A recent study published in Nature Genetics analyzed genomic differences between HPV strains causing cervical cancers, revealing distinct characteristics and implications for prognosis. The researchers identified specific patterns associated with aggressive cancers, highlighting the need for further studies on African populations.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 10, 2020

Rare 'boomerang' earthquake observed along Atlantic Ocean fault line

A team of researchers has tracked a rare 'boomerang' earthquake in the ocean for the first time, revealing how it can cause devastating effects on land. The study used underwater seismometers to monitor the Romanche fracture zone and recorded a magnitude 7.1 earthquake with a unique reversing rupture mechanism.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Geoscience·DateAug 10, 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.

Restaurant customers frown on automatic gratuities, particularly after good service

Customers with excellent dining experiences express the most dissatisfaction with automatic gratuities. Research found that high-quality service does not compensate for negative customer responses to non-voluntary tipping systems. Restaurants can explore ways to give customers a sense of control, such as providing feedback or adding se...

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Services Marketing·DateAug 10, 2020

Study pinpoints five most likely causes of post-traumatic stress in police officers

A new study has pinpointed the five most likely causes of post-traumatic stress in police officers, highlighting the importance of genetic and emotional differences. The research identified specific causal factors, including a tendency to startle easily, anxiety, depression, and genetic mutations, which can contribute to the developmen...

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateAug 10, 2020

New research may help identify sex trafficking networks

Researchers studied Backpage.com accounts and discovered linked activities among them, which may help identify illegal trafficking activity. The study found common behaviors in ads placed by these accounts, including evasive tactics used by sex trafficking organizations.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalApplied Network Science·DateAug 10, 2020

Land-use change disrupts wild plant pollination on a global scale

A global data analysis reveals that intensive land use decreases wild plant reproductive success and pollination due to lower pollinator abundance. Highly specialized plants are most affected, while those relying on domesticated honey bees may have more protection.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 10, 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.

New treatment targets found for blinding retinal disease

Scientists have identified new points to calm frenzied energy production in the retina, enabling recovery. The excessive byproducts of glycolysis initiate a vicious loop of crosstalk between endothelial cells and microglia, promoting inflammation and dysfunctional blood vessels.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 10, 2020

Personal connections key to climate adaptation

Researchers found that households more socially connected to others taking action were more likely to do the same, suggesting a 'like-attracts-like' effect. Household connections with the marine environment also played an important role in determining responses to climate impacts.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 10, 2020

How fish stocks will change in warming seas

A new study projects significant changes in fish stocks in the UK due to climate change, including increased abundance of warm-adapted species and declining populations of cold-adapted species. The findings highlight the need for flexible management approaches to adapt to these changes and ensure sustainable fishing practices.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateAug 10, 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.

How boundaries become bridges in evolution

A University of Arizona study found that mechanisms making organisms fit into current environments are distinct from those responsible for change, and occur sequentially in evolution. The research used the house finch as a model, tracking carotenoid pigments in feathers across different regions.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 10, 2020

Army advances learning capabilities of drone swarms

The U.S. Army has developed a reinforcement learning approach that enables swarms of unmanned aerial and ground vehicles to accomplish various missions while minimizing performance uncertainty. This allows for efficient execution of time-consuming or dangerous tasks, enhancing warfighters' tactical situational awareness.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·DateAug 10, 2020

New tools in the fight against lethal citrus disease

Scientists created metabolic models of the bacterium associated with Huanglongbing, identifying 94 essential enzymes and metabolites required for its survival. These findings can lead to new antibacterial treatments and insights into long-lasting disease management strategies.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·Journalnpj Systems Biology and Applications·DateAug 10, 2020

ETRI won CLIC contest on AI-based video compression technology

Korean researchers from ETRI win first and second places in the Challenge on Learned Image Compression (CLIC) with innovative AI-based video compression techniques. The team aims to optimize video compression rate and quality using multiple source technologies.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·DateAug 10, 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.

Indigenous property rights protect the Amazon rainforest

A study published in PNAS found that granting full property rights to indigenous communities in the Amazon reduces deforestation rates by 66%. This policy focus can help preserve forested areas and attain climate goals, with significant implications for indigenous people's capacity to curb deforestation.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2020

Countering anti-vaccination influences from social media - with conversation

A new study using big data and survey results from the 2018-19 flu season found strong associations between regional social media messages and vaccination attitudes and behavior. However, when people discussed vaccination with others, negative effects of social media on vaccine behavior disappeared.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalVaccine·DateAug 10, 2020

NIST's SAMURAI measures 5G communications channels precisely

The SAMURAI system measures signals across a wide frequency range, providing a detailed portrait of 5G device and channel performance. The system helps resolve unanswered questions surrounding 5G's use of active antennas, improving theory, hardware, and analysis techniques for accurate channel models and efficient networks.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateAug 10, 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.

Blood biomarkers reveal aging differences among dolphins

A study analyzing dolphin blood biomarkers reveals age-related declines in hemoglobin, alkaline phosphatase, platelets, and lymphocytes. This variation in aging rates suggests potential strategies for slowing disease progression and preventing chronic conditions in humans.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2020

Air pollution impacts the health of wild pollinators

A recent study found that air pollution in Bangalore City leads to lower flower visitation rates and altered physiological responses in Giant Asian honey bees. The research suggests widespread negative impacts on these critical pollinators, threatening India's food security and ecosystems.

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2020

Space invaders as MOFs act as liquids

Researchers have developed a way to solubilize metal organic frameworks (MOFs) to create liquid-like materials. These MOF dispersions can separate gas mixtures with high efficiency and selectivity, making them suitable for industrial applications.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 10, 2020

Coronavirus transmission risk increases along wildlife supply chains

A study published in PLOS ONE detected coronaviruses in bats and rodents, with increased detection rates found along the wildlife supply chain. The study highlights the importance of improving coronavirus surveillance and implementing targeted wildlife trade reform to minimize public health risks.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 10, 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.

TB vaccine research could benefit the elderly and diabetics

A new vaccine candidate BCG::RD1 has shown highly protective effects against tuberculosis in older mice with type 2 diabetes. The vaccine acts on multiple immune cell subsets to mount a robust response against TB-causing bacteria.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2020

New approach to treating osteoarthritis advances

A new study from NYU Langone Health suggests that injecting adenosine into joints can stimulate cartilage growth and prevent disease progression. The treatment has shown promising results in animal models of osteoarthritis, with regrowth rates of up to 50%.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 10, 2020

NSF renews Rice biological physics center

The Center for Theoretical Biological Physics at Rice University has received a five-year extension from the National Science Foundation to pursue research on the intersection of biology and physics. Researchers will continue to use computational analysis and experimental efforts to understand cell behavior and interactions.

SourceRice University·DateAug 10, 2020

Using air to amplify light

Researchers at EPFL have created a technology to amplify light inside hollow-core optical fibers filled with air, increasing the light intensity significantly. This breakthrough enables longer-distance transmission and potential applications in thermometers and temporary optical memory.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 10, 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.

A new way to fabricate MXene films that block electromagnetic interference

A research team at NYU Tandon School of Engineering has developed a novel approach to fabricating MXene films that can effectively block electromagnetic interference. The drop-casting method on pre-patterned hydrophobic substrates resulted in a 38% enhancement of EMI shielding efficiency over conventional methods, making it scalable an...

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalMatter·DateAug 10, 2020

Cannabis use in pregnancy linked to a greater risk of autism

A large study has found a link between cannabis use during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism in children. The study, published in Nature Medicine, looked at data from over 500,000 women in Ontario and found that children exposed to cannabis in utero were at greater risk of developing autism.

SourceThe Ottawa Hospital·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 10, 2020

Understanding matter at atom-crushing densities

The Center for Matter at Atomic Pressures (CMAP) will investigate the properties of matter under high pressures, shedding light on the formation and evolution of planets. The research aims to uncover novel properties of materials and their potential applications.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateAug 10, 2020

ETSU, Virginia Tech awarded $2.6 million for project

The Studies To Advance Recovery Support (STARS) Network will focus on Central Appalachia's urgent need for recovery support services. Researchers aim to advance understanding of treatment services, particularly those using medication-assisted treatment and counseling.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateAug 10, 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.

Mouthwashes could reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission

Researchers found that eight commercially available mouthwashes can inactivate Sars-Cov-2 viruses in cell culture experiments. The use of these mouthwashes could potentially reduce the viral load and risk of transmission, particularly in high-risk areas like the oral cavity and throat.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateAug 10, 2020

Peatland carbon and nitrogen stocks and permafrost thaw

Northern peatlands store large amounts of carbon and nitrogen, but are vulnerable to permafrost thaw under climate change. If thawed, these peatlands could become a source of atmospheric carbon, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2020

Adaptive mutations repeat themselves in tiny crustaceans of Lake Baikal

A team of Skoltech and IITP RAS researchers discovered adaptive parallel mutations in protein-coding sequences of 46 amphipod species from Lake Baikal, affecting several thousand genes. The findings suggest that these mutations are driven by the species' need to adapt to their environment.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateAug 10, 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.

NASA finds strong storms in developing Tropical Storm Mekkhala

NASA's Terra satellite detected powerful thunderstorms around Tropical Storm Mekkhala's center, with temperatures as cold as -80 degrees Fahrenheit. The storm is expected to move north before making landfall in southern China, bringing potential heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 10, 2020

Discovery transforms understanding of hydrogen depletion at the seafloor

Scientists have discovered that hydrogen depletion at hydrothermal vent fluids is not caused by microorganisms, but rather by non-biological processes. This finding has significant implications for understanding the global hydrogen budget and constraining the extent of a deep biosphere.

SourceLehigh University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2020

NASA infrared data confirms depression became Tropical Storm Elida

Tropical Depression 09E strengthened into Tropical Storm Elida, with maximum sustained winds near 65 mph and a central pressure of 995 millibars. Infrared imagery from NASA's Aqua satellite confirmed the storm's transition, revealing powerful thunderstorms with cold cloud top temperatures indicating heavy rainfall potential.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 10, 2020

Wheat and couch grass can extract toxic metals from contaminated soils

Researchers have discovered that wheat and couch grass can accumulate high concentrations of toxic metals from contaminated soils, removing them and making the soil safer. The plants' ability to phytoextract toxic metals makes them promising candidates for effective cleaning of soils using phytoremediation.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalEnvironmental Geochemistry and Health·DateAug 10, 2020

Fireflies shed light on the function of mitochondria

Scientists have developed a protocol to measure mitochondrial activity in living animals using a bioluminescent molecule found in fireflies. This method reveals impaired mitochondrial functions in diseases such as diabetes and cancer.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateAug 10, 2020

How building features impact veterans with PTSD

Veterans with PTSD prefer buildings with large windows, easy entrance and exit locations, open floor plans, and green spaces to feel comfortable. Interior design features like brighter colors and fewer furniture pieces also contribute to their comfort.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalHERD Health Environments Research & Design Journal·DateAug 10, 2020

Breaking molecular traffic jams with finned nanoporous materials

Researchers developed finned nanoporous materials that facilitate faster molecular transport, reducing transportation limitations in zeolite catalysts. The new design triples the efficiency of conventional catalytic materials and enables longer catalyst lifetimes.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 10, 2020

Dietary control of the healing of injury-induced inflammation

Research reveals the resolution of injury-induced inflammation is under dietary control, requiring a balance of hormonal and genetic factors. The diet can enhance or inhibit each step of the process, affecting healing outcomes.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalAnti-Inflammatory & Anti-Allergy Agents in Medicinal Chemistry·DateAug 10, 2020

Agtech to the rescue in a pandemic: adapting plant labs for human testing

Researchers propose repurposing agtech labs for diagnostic testing in human pandemics. Sophisticated equipment used for crop and animal breeding can be easily adapted for tracing and detection. The approach aims to relieve pressure on limited health sector testing tools and speed up response measures.

SourceUniversity of Saskatchewan·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 10, 2020

Breakthrough technology purifies water using the power of sunlight

A global research team has developed a new adsorbent-based desalination process that uses sunlight to regenerate metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), producing clean drinking water in under 30 minutes. The technology filters harmful particles and achieves a TDS of <500 ppm, making it suitable for millions of people globally.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateAug 10, 2020

Arctic plants and snow cover

A study on Arctic tundra plants reveals that snow cover and summer temperature significantly impact functional trait diversity. In a warming climate, tundra plants may develop taller leaves and rapid resource-acquisition traits.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2020

Fighting like cats and dogs?

Researchers found that filling homes with calming pheromones can reduce undesirable interactions between cats and dogs, such as dog chasing cat or barking at cat. Both Feliway Friends for cats and Adaptil for dogs showed positive effects on desirable behaviors like friendly greetings and relaxation in the same room.

SourceUniversity of Lincoln·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·DateAug 10, 2020

ACM SIGCOMM underscores importance of communications technologies that keep daily life functioning

The ACM SIGCOMM conference emphasizes the importance of communications technologies in maintaining daily life. The virtual event showcases research papers on various topics, including programmable switches and video applications. Keynote speakers are recognized for their contributions to data network architectures, and the conference a...

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateAug 10, 2020

Landmarks facing climate threats could 'transform,' expert says

A new study suggests that climate change may require cultural sites to undergo transformation rather than strict preservation. Experts argue that some landmarks should remain damaged as a 'memory' of the event and serve as a warning for communities.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalClimatic Change·DateAug 10, 2020

Schooling is critical for cognitive health throughout life

A new analysis reveals that education has a positive impact on cognitive function in early and middle adulthood, but does not prevent age-related cognitive declines. Individuals with more years of schooling tend to have higher levels of cognitive function until later in life.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateAug 10, 2020

Aspirin may accelerate progression of advanced cancers in older adults

A recent clinical trial found that aspirin use increased the risk of advanced cancer progression and early death in older adults. Aspirin was associated with a higher risk of metastasized cancer and stage 4 cancer, leading to higher mortality rates among those diagnosed with advanced solid cancers.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateAug 10, 2020

Light swirls provide insights into the quantum world

Physicists have created a new method to study previously invisible quantum states of electrons using optical vortices. By combining conventional laser beams with swirls of light, researchers can detect the properties of emitted photoelectrons and gain insights into material structure and interaction with light.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 10, 2020

COVID-19 does not directly damage taste bud cells

A recent study published in ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science found that COVID-19 does not directly damage taste bud cells, contradicting previous studies. Instead, the researchers suggest that taste loss is likely caused by events induced during COVID-19 inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalACS Pharmacology & Translational Science·DateAug 10, 2020

Stronger rains in warmer climate could lessen heat damage to crops, says study

A new study published in Nature Climate Change suggests that intensified rainstorms predicted for a warmer climate may efficiently water major crops, partially offsetting projected yield declines caused by rising heat. The research found that years with heavy rains of up to 20 millimeters per hour resulted in higher yields.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 10, 2020

Previously undescribed lineage of Archaea illuminates microbial evolution

The Undinarchaeota, a previously unknown phylum of aquatic Archaea, have been found to likely depend on partner organisms for growth, while also conserving energy through fermentation. Their discovery provides new insights into the diversity and evolutionary history of Archaea.

SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 10, 2020

Assessing training in health disparities

A survey study evaluated the curriculum on health disparities and perceptions of training among internal medicine residents. The findings suggest that program directors and residents have differing perspectives on the adequacy of training, highlighting a need for improvement.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 10, 2020