Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for August 11, 2020


Building the batteries of cells

Two mitochondrial apolipoproteins, APOO/MIC26 and APOOL/MIC27, regulate mitochondrial protein complex stability and are associated with diabetic cardiomyopathy. The study reveals the importance of cardiolipin and crista junctions in maintaining cellular respiration.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalLife Science Alliance·DateAug 11, 2020

UCF researchers utilize Human-on-a-Chip® approach to model ALS pathology

A new study demonstrates the effectiveness of a Human-on-a-Chip technology in modeling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) pathology. The system reproduces assays used in clinics to assess ALS deficits, showing promise for accelerated drug development and treatment screening.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalAdvanced Therapeutics·DateAug 11, 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.

Combining genetic information with EMRs to pinpoint childhood epilepsies

A team of researchers linked genetic information with electronic medical records to identify the impact of genetic epilepsies on affected children's lives. They found associations between specific genes and clinical features, such as seizures and intellectual disability.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateAug 11, 2020

Multifocal contact lenses slow myopia progression in children

A clinical trial funded by the National Eye Institute found that multifocal contact lenses reduce worsening nearsightedness and slow eye growth in children. The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, shows promising results for a new option in myopia control.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalJAMA·DateAug 11, 2020

Study: Machine learning can predict market behavior

A new study by Cornell researchers uses machine learning to assess the effectiveness of mathematical tools in predicting financial markets. The model can also predict future market movements, a task considered extraordinarily difficult due to markets' massive amounts of information and high volatility.

SourceCornell University·JournalReview of Financial Studies·DateAug 11, 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.

Collaboration is key to rebuilding coral reefs

A global research study has identified successful coral reef restoration projects that combined local community engagement, tourism support, and trained local fishermen or divers. These collaborative efforts resulted in high coral survival rates, increased coral cover, and socioeconomic benefits for surrounding communities.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 11, 2020

Investigating a thermal challenge for MOFs

Researchers found that MOFs become more insulated when filled with gases, contrary to expectations. This discovery poses challenges for the use of MOFs outside research labs and highlights the need for further investigation into their properties.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 11, 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.

Recipe for success -- interaction proteomics become a household item

A novel MAC-tag technology protocol has been introduced for detailed understanding of protein-protein interactions and regulation of cellular networks. The protocol combines state-of-the-art methods AP-MS and BioID to identify protein-protein interactions, providing insights into disease mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Protocols·DateAug 11, 2020

Brain-NET, a deep learning methodology, accurately predicts surgeon certification scores based on neuroimaging data

A new deep learning methodology called Brain-NET has been developed to accurately predict a person's level of expertise in surgical motor skills based solely on neuroimaging data. This technology has the potential to streamline the surgeon certification process, enabling real-time score feedback and remediation or training.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateAug 11, 2020

SDSU professor finds after-hours cannabis use has no impact on workplace performance

A recent study by Dr. Jeremy Bernerth and H. Jack Walker found that using cannabis after work hours does not compromise job performance as assessed by supervisors. In fact, the researchers suggest that after-hours cannabis use may offer some work-related benefits, such as helping employees relax and restore energy after a long day.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalGroup & Organization Management·DateAug 11, 2020

Dartmouth's Yan Li wins ASME Early Career Award

Yan Li received the ASME ORR Early Career Award for her groundbreaking work on predicting fracture toughness in ceramic composites and polycrystalline metals. Her research aims to advance design of fracture-resistant materials and microstructures.

SourceThayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth·DateAug 11, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Does high blood sugar worsen COVID-19 outcomes?

Researchers developed an algorithm to monitor high blood sugar in COVID-19 patients, reducing secondary infections and kidney issues. The tool identifies risk categories based on hyperglycemia severity, insulin resistance and inflammatory markers.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalDiabetes·DateAug 11, 2020

NASA finds Jangmi now an Extra-Tropical Storm

Tropical Storm Jangmi transitioned into an extra-tropical storm on Aug. 11, located near latitude 26.9 degrees north and longitude 130.4 degrees east, about 139 miles northeast of Chinhae, South Korea. The storm had maximum sustained winds of 35 knots (40 mph) and was speeding to the north-northeast.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 11, 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.

UBCO researchers link advertising to uptick in youth vaping

UBCO researchers found that e-cigarette companies leverage various reasons for youth vaping, including stress, curiosity, and social benefits, to recruit teens into using their products. The study suggests that health risks associated with vaping are often overridden by these reasons, making it essential to develop comprehensive strate...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateAug 11, 2020

Stanford study reveals immune-system paralysis in severe COVID-19 cases

A Stanford study reveals that severely ill COVID-19 patients experience immune system paralysis, leading to enhanced inflammation and lung damage. The research identified three molecular suspects associated with lung inflammation and bacterial debris in the blood, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for combating COVID-19.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalScience·DateAug 11, 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.

K-12 virtual schooling, COIVD-19 and student success

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a shift in K-12 virtual schooling, raising concerns about its impact on student success. The study found that virtual schooling can be effective for some students but may not meet the needs of others.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 11, 2020

Long-term risks of joint implants

A study published in Advanced Science has revealed that joint implants can release metals into the surrounding bone tissue, leading to osteolysis and premature loosening. The researchers used a unique synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence imaging setup to determine the concentration and distribution of metallic degradation products.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalAdvanced Science·DateAug 11, 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.

How airplanes counteract St. Elmo's Fire during thunderstorms

Aerodynamic experiments reveal that wind reduces the strength of corona discharges around airplane wings, unlike grounded structures where winds strengthen the glow. The study provides new insights into the complex interactions between air, electricity, and wing shapes during thunderstorms.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateAug 11, 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.

Untapped potential for TikTok to convey COVID-19 guidance

A new study found that few TikTok videos address COVID-19 transmission and prevention, instead focusing on anxiety and quarantine. The researchers believe this missed opportunity to engage young people with vital health information related to the pandemic.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalInternational Journal of Adolescent Medicine and Health·DateAug 11, 2020

Clot permeability linked to first-attempt success of aspiration thrombectomy

A posthoc analysis of COMPASS trial data found that highly pervious clots result in better treatment success after first attempt clot removal using aspiration thrombectomy. In contrast, clots with low perviousness are more resistant to either thrombectomy approach.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalJournal of NeuroInterventional Surgery·DateAug 11, 2020

Experimental COVID-19 vaccine prevents severe disease in mice

A new experimental COVID-19 vaccine has been shown to prevent pneumonia and elicit high levels of protective antibodies in mice infected with the virus. The vaccine uses a mild virus genetically modified to carry a key gene from the COVID-19 virus, generating a strong immune response.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateAug 11, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

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

Researchers show mathematically how to best reopen your business after lockdown

The study shows that reopening a business is feasible only if stringent safety measures are taken, including frequent hand washing, routine sanitation, social distancing, and monitoring body temperature. The model estimates that these measures can increase net profit under certain assumptions.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Applied Mathematics and Statistics·DateAug 11, 2020

Immunotherapy-resistant cancers eliminated in mouse study

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine discovered a new tool to enhance tumor immunotherapy by blocking the TREM2 protein, resulting in complete elimination of tumors. A clinical trial could follow with existing anti-TREM2 antibodies already in trials for another disease.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·DateAug 11, 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.

EULAR: Timely detection of axial spondyloarthritis

A large European cross-sectional study found that patients with axial spondyloarthritis experience a significant delay in diagnosis due to misdirected referrals and involvement of multiple medical professionals. The study recommends initiating measures to prevent such delays and facilitate timely referral to a rheumatologist.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateAug 11, 2020

Stanford experts recommend strict, costly approaches for reopening schools

The American Academy of Pediatrics and Stanford experts recommend a three-pronged testing approach, including symptomatic testing, pooled testing, and frequent testing in high-risk households. Schools should also implement strict COVID-19 prevention measures, such as enhanced disinfection, hand sanitizers, and protective equipment.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 11, 2020

Analysis pinpoints most important forests for biodiversity and conservation in Central Africa

A study by WCS and partners pinpointed the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Republic of Congo, Cameroon, and Equatorial Guinea as crucial countries for safeguarding biodiversity and intact forests. The analysis combines datasets to highlight regions with high conservation value, guiding national development plans towards sustainabl...

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateAug 11, 2020

Rates of dog bites in children up during COVID-19 pandemic

According to a recently published commentary article, increased rates of dog bites in children have been observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors attribute these increases to heightened stress for dogs and decreased adult supervision around dogs and children.

SourceChildren's Hospital Colorado·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateAug 11, 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.

Eating out was a very social matter for early humans

A 480,000-year-old archaeological site in Sussex, England, has provided unprecedented insights into the life of a poorly understood human species. The site reveals that early humans engaged in cooperative activities and shared tools, suggesting highly social spaces for interaction and learning.

SourceUniversity College London·DateAug 11, 2020

X-rays indicate that water can behave like a liquid crystal

Researchers at Stockholm University have found that water can align its molecules like a liquid crystal when exposed to laser light. The alignment lasts only for a fraction of a second and is confirmed by both experimental studies and molecular simulations.

SourceStockholm University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 11, 2020

Scientists found genes that help cancer cells to penetrate the brain

Researchers have discovered genes that facilitate the penetration of cancer cells into the brain, a process that complicates cancer treatment. The study highlights potential targets for therapy, including enzymes and microRNAs involved in disrupting blood-brain barrier integrity.

SourceSechenov University·JournalTrends in Cancer·DateAug 11, 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.

RCSI research finds air pollution in Ireland associated with strokes

A study published in Cerebrovascular Diseases found a statistically significant link between short-term air pollution and stroke hospitalisations in Dublin. Higher levels of coarse particles, fine particles, sulphur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide were associated with increased risks of stroke.

SourceRCSI·JournalCerebrovascular Diseases·DateAug 11, 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.

Gluten in wheat: What has changed during 120 years of breeding?

A study by the Leibniz-Institute for Food Systems Biology found that modern wheat varieties contain slightly less protein than older varieties, while maintaining a consistent gluten content. The researchers also discovered that environmental conditions, such as precipitation, played a significant role in shaping protein composition.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateAug 11, 2020

Researchers create mask filtration effectiveness hierarchy

A study conducted at an EPA facility shows that expired and sterilized used N95 masks retain their effectiveness in protecting healthcare workers from COVID-19 infection. The researchers created a hierarchy of mask supplies, ranking N95 masks as the safest option, followed by CDC-FDA-NIOSH approved products.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 11, 2020

Storing energy in red bricks

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a method to convert red bricks into energy storage units that can store electricity, which could be charged and used to power devices. The 'smart bricks' can store a substantial amount of energy and can be recharged hundreds of thousands of times within an hour.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 11, 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.

Molecules in urine allow doctors to monitor skin cancer

Scientists have discovered a rapid, inexpensive, and non-invasive method to track malignant melanoma using fluorescent molecules in urine samples. The technique allows doctors to diagnose and monitor the disease without requiring invasive biopsies.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalOpen Chemistry Journal·DateAug 11, 2020

SARS-CoV-2 infection among health care workers in hospital

A study conducted at a large community hospital found that COVID-19 was prevalent among healthcare workers, with significant exposure rates reported. The findings underscore the importance of implementing robust infection control protocols to protect healthcare personnel and prevent further transmission.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 11, 2020

Mass General study shows physical distancing slowed growth of COVID-19 in US

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that government-implemented physical distancing measures significantly slowed the spread of COVID-19 in the US. The study analyzed data from the first five months of the epidemic and found that average daily case growth rates declined after implementation, and that the number of cases double...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 11, 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.

Racial, socioeconomic disparities fuel increased infant mortality rates in California

A new study found that infant mortality rates in California have increased among certain groups, including obese mothers, smokers, and African American women. The study analyzed data from over 4 million single births and found that children of African American women had nearly twice the risk of infant mortality compared to those of whi...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 11, 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.

NASA's planet Hunter completes its primary mission

TESS has found 66 new exoplanets, including an Earth-size world in the habitable zone of a star. The satellite has also observed comets, exploding stars, and black holes, contributing to our understanding of astrobiology.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 11, 2020

Operational considerations on academy guidance for K-12 school reentry

The American Academy of Pediatrics provides guidelines for safe K-12 school reentry, focusing on infection control measures, social distancing, and mental health support. Effective operational planning is crucial to minimize risks and ensure a smooth transition back to in-person learning.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 11, 2020

Cricket umpires fumble on T20 calls

Research by Queensland University of Technology reveals that elite-level cricket umpires make more errors when making leg-before-wicket (LBW) decisions in T20 cricket, with a hit rate of 86.15% and false alarm rate of 2.04%. The study found that the format of the game affects decision-making behavior.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalPsychology of Sport and Exercise·DateAug 11, 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.

Enzyme discovered in the gut could lead to new disease biomarker

Researchers identified an enzyme that breaks down mucus in the gut, providing a potential biomarker for intestinal diseases. The discovery could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as ulcerative colitis and colorectal cancer.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 11, 2020

Excess weight among pregnant women may interfere with child's developing brain

Research published in Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry suggests that obesity in pregnant women can affect the developing brain, particularly in areas responsible for decision-making and behavior. The study used fetal brain activity measurements to identify potential links between maternal BMI and changes in brain connectivity.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateAug 11, 2020

Primate voice boxes are evolving at rapid pace

The study found that primate larynges are on average 38% larger than those of carnivorans for a given body length, indicating greater flexibility in evolution. The rate of larynx evolution is also faster in primates, with more variation in larynx size relative to body size.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 11, 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.

COMBAT study preliminary results show response of 32% in treatment of pancreatic tumors

The COMBAT trial, a phase IIa clinical trial, has shown promising results with pembrolizumab and BL-8040 combination therapy, achieving a 32% meaningful tumor shrinkage in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer. This response rate is double that of traditional chemotherapy, offering hope for improved treatment outcomes.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 11, 2020

'Insect apocalypse' may not be happening in US

A recent US long-term ecological site study suggests that the so-called 'insect apocalypse' may be exaggerated, with many areas showing little to no overall change in insect abundance and biodiversity. However, certain species remain in decline, particularly for key ecosystem services like pollination and natural pest control.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateAug 11, 2020

Project Raphael brings improved health to disadvantaged populations

The Raphael Project, a social incubator at Bar-Ilan University, has successfully addressed the most pressing health needs in Israel's Galilee region. Through academic-community partnerships, it has implemented various health-promoting activities, resulting in tangible improvements in health for disadvantaged populations.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalBMC Public Health·DateAug 11, 2020

Nanocrystals from recycled wood waste make carbon-fiber composites tougher

A new study by Texas A&M University researchers demonstrates the use of cellulose nanocrystals to uniformly coat carbon nanotubes on carbon-fiber composites, resulting in increased strength and resistance. This innovative method enables the design of stronger, more efficient composite materials from the nanoscale.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateAug 11, 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.

Jealous feelings can act as a tool to strengthen friendships

A recent Arizona State University study found that feelings of jealousy can act as a tool to maintain friendships. The research suggests that jealousy motivates people to be better friends, invest in neglected relationships, and even overcome threats from third-party individuals.

SourceArizona State University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateAug 11, 2020

COVID-19 clinical trials lack diversity

Majority of patients in remdesivir trials were Caucasians, raising concerns about medication efficacy in people of color. The study emphasizes the need for diverse clinical trial participants to accurately represent the US population and inform treatments.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 11, 2020

Harvard research identifies business travel as driver of economic growth

New Harvard research reveals a direct link between incoming business travel and economic growth, ranking countries by knowhow flow. The study raises concerns about the consequences of international travel restrictions on global GDP, suggesting a potential double-digit loss if business travel were to halt completely.

SourceHarvard Kennedy School·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateAug 11, 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.

Study points to health disparities among former NFL players

A new study from Harvard Medical School found that Black former NFL players experience significant health disparities, including more pain, physical impairment, mood disorders, and cognitive problems compared to white peers. Other nonwhite athletes also face similar challenges.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalAnnals of Epidemiology·DateAug 11, 2020

Ultraviolet communication to transform Army networks

Researchers create analysis framework to evaluate tradeoffs and design choices in ultraviolet communication systems, offering insights into their natural low-probability-of-detection property. This understanding is crucial for optimizing system performance and predicting detection capabilities.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalOptics Express·DateAug 11, 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.

Upcycling plastic waste toward sustainable energy storage

UC Riverside engineers develop a process to transform PET plastic into a nanomaterial useful for energy storage. The breakthrough reduces plastic pollution and could lower battery costs, enabling the widespread adoption of electric cars by 2040.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEnergy Storage·DateAug 11, 2020

Citizens prefer teachers and administrators to take the hit during economic crisis

New research from Binghamton University found that citizens prioritize teacher and administrative staff over other spending cuts during economic crises. The study discovered that gender, age, income, party identification, and political ideology significantly influence public attitudes towards different forms of school budget cuts.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalEducational Studies·DateAug 11, 2020

Study shows inbreeding reduces cooperation in banded mongooses

A recent study by researchers at Swansea University found that inbreeding can reduce cooperation in banded mongooses. Inbred pups that receive extensive care from adults have similar survival rates to outbred pups, but eventually become bad carers when they are older.

SourceSwansea University·JournalEcology Letters·DateAug 11, 2020

Lab-created molecule achieves positive results in the treatment of arthritis

A new molecule called TPPU has been shown to suppress the inflammatory process, reducing inflammation and joint tissue wear and tear in mice with genetically induced arthritis. Arthritic mice treated with TPPU displayed less pain and swelling and had lower clinical scores.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateAug 11, 2020

Teens' social media use does not raise risk for depression: study

A new study by Columbia University researchers found that daily social media use is not a strong or consistent risk factor for depressive symptoms among adolescents. The study analyzed survey data from over 74,000 students and found no association between social media use and increased depressive symptoms.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateAug 11, 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.

Researchers explore pollen fertilization mechanisms

A study published in Nature Communications reveals how pollen tubes grow up to a thousand-fold to reach the ovule, creating electrical activity at the cell membrane and promoting faster growth. The findings have implications for understanding seed production, fungal growth, and neuronal development, and may lead to improved food crop v...

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 11, 2020

Researchers find clues to SARS-CoV-2 infection, why it impacts patients differently

A team of researchers at McMaster University has discovered that the ACE2 receptor is present in very low levels in human lung tissue, suggesting alternative infection pathways. This finding challenges existing knowledge about SARS-CoV-2 entry into cells and may lead to better diagnostic devices and treatment strategies.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateAug 11, 2020

Research exposes new vulnerability for SARS-CoV-2

Researchers at Northwestern University have uncovered a new vulnerability in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein's binding site, which enables the virus to infect host cells. A negatively charged molecule can block this site, inhibiting viral transmission.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 11, 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.

Rare glassy metal discovered during quest to improve battery performance

Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory and University of California San Diego discovered a rare glassy metal during studies on lithium recharging. The discovery could lead to improved battery life and new applications for glassy metals, which are difficult to produce but offer powerful material properties.

SourceDOE/Idaho National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 11, 2020

New guidelines for managing mucositis now available

The new guidelines offer additional recommendations for photobiomodulation therapy and benzydamine, as well as a stronger guideline statement for cryotherapy. Researchers also found that natural honey may help prevent mucositis in head and neck cancer patients, although long-term effects are unclear.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalCancer·DateAug 11, 2020

Changes in use of high-dose biotin supplements among US adults

Daily use of high-dose biotin supplements among US adults has steadily increased since the early 2000s, with most consumers using these products for hair and nail growth. The study's findings suggest a growing interest in biotin as a supplement to support overall health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 11, 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.

Evolutionary theory of economic decisions

A new study from Stanford University proposes that the brain was constructed over evolutionary history to make high-stakes decisions with a bias towards pessimism. This perspective challenges traditional economic models, which assume humans act rationally and weigh probabilities to maximize personal gain.

SourceStanford University·JournalEvolutionary Human Sciences·DateAug 11, 2020

Aging memories may not be 'worse, 'just 'different'

An fMRI study found that older adults' brain activity while experiencing event boundaries is similar to younger adults', but with some differences. The study suggests that older adults may process events in different ways, focusing on broader contextual information rather than specific details.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 11, 2020

Physicists cast doubt on neutrino theory

Researchers from University of Cincinnati and Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory failed to detect sterile neutrinos in twin experiments, increasing doubts about their existence. The study's findings suggest that sterile neutrinos might not be responsible for previously observed anomalies.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 11, 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.

COVID-19: Herd immunity in Sweden fails to materialize

Sweden's policy of controlled spread of COVID-19 has failed to deliver herd immunity, with actual antibody prevalence lower than predicted. Clinical findings suggest that mildly ill or asymptomatic patients are less likely to acquire antibodies.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateAug 11, 2020

Giant photothermoelectric effect in silicon nanoribbon photodetectors

Researchers have observed a significant increase in the photothermoelectric effect in silicon nanoribbons, benefiting from optimization processes and multiphysics modeling. This breakthrough has potential applications for improving photoelectric conversion efficiency by harnessing hot carrier energy.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateAug 11, 2020

Malaria discovery could expedite antiviral treatment for COVID-19

A new study suggests that repurposing cancer drugs to target human enzymes could lead to effective treatments for COVID-19, while reducing the risk of drug resistance. This approach has the potential to save years of research and millions of dollars in development costs.

SourceRMIT University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 11, 2020

SUTD researchers create heart cells from stem cells using 3D printing

Researchers successfully regulated parameters to enhance cardiomyocyte production, overcoming limitations of embryoid body differentiation. The use of 3D printing enables precise control over stem cell differentiation, paving the way for bio-inspired approaches in regenerative medicine.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalBioprinting·DateAug 11, 2020

Improving ladder safety, one rung at a time

Kurt Beschorner's $1.8M NIOSH grant focuses on measuring friction as a pathway for slip and fall risk in ladder accidents. The research will establish safety guidelines to reduce severe injuries and fatalities in the workplace and at home.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateAug 11, 2020

Right under your nose: A more convenient way to diagnose Alzheimer's disease

Scientists at DGIST discovered that specific proteins in nasal discharge can indicate the onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease, providing a novel approach for early detection. The levels of two particular Aβ oligomers were consistently higher in patients with AD, allowing for non-invasive screenings to assess AD progression.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 11, 2020

Masks, PPE materials should be hydrophilic

Researchers found that making masks and PPE with hydrophilic surfaces can reduce the drying time of droplets, cutting COVID-19 infection risk in half. A superhydrophobic surface requires more extreme modification to achieve optimal results.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateAug 11, 2020

New approach for calculating radiation dosimetry allows for individualized therapy

Researchers developed a simplified process to estimate radiation dose using a single post-treatment SPECT/CT scan, potentially improving therapeutic outcomes by tailoring treatments to individual patients' physiology. The method was applied to 177Lu-PSMA-617 therapy for metastatic prostate cancer.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateAug 11, 2020