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Science News for August 12, 2020


Programmed bacteria have something extra

Researchers successfully engineered bacteria to produce a synthetic building block, a 21st amino acid, which prompts the bacteria to produce a protein that fluoresces under metabolic stress. This breakthrough enables the design of novel proteins and organisms with useful functions.

SourceRice University·JournalChem·DateAug 12, 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.

Some dinosaurs could fly before they were birds

Researchers found that powered flight potential evolved at least three times in theropods: once in birds and twice in dromaeosaurids. This challenges the traditional view of bird origins, presenting a more complex picture of experimentation with wing-assisted locomotion.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 12, 2020

Stay-at-home orders significantly associated with reduced spread of COVID-19, study finds

A recent study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases found that stay-at-home orders significantly slowed the spread of COVID-19 in the United States. The study analyzed data from 45 states with stay-at-home orders and found an average doubling time increase of 12.27 days, indicating significant slowing of disease spread.

SourceBrown University·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateAug 12, 2020

Yoga shown to improve anxiety, study shows

A new study found that yoga significantly improved symptoms for those with generalized anxiety disorder, but not as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy. Yoga was more effective than stress management, with 54% of participants experiencing improved symptoms compared to 33% in the control group.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateAug 12, 2020

Glass blowing inspires new class of quantum sensors

A team of scientists, led by RMIT University, has developed a new class of quantum sensors using high-performance diamond particles embedded in conventional glass fibers. This breakthrough enables the creation of cheap quantum sensor networks for applications such as underwater monitoring and mining.

SourceRMIT University·JournalAPL Materials·DateAug 12, 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.

New generation of drugs show early efficacy against drug-resistant TB

A new international study has shown that a newly developed treatment regimen for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is highly effective, with an 85% success rate among patients with serious comorbidities. The regimens, bedaquiline and delamanid, offer a promising alternative to the historical standard of care, which has approxim...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 12, 2020

New advance in superconductors with 'twist' in rhombohedral graphite

Researchers at the University of Manchester have discovered a nanomaterial that mimics the 'magic angle' effect in twisted bilayer graphene, offering an alternative medium to study superconductivity. The new findings show strong electron-electron interactions in rhombohedral graphite, which could lead to game-changing effects in materi...

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature·DateAug 12, 2020

Japanese biologists discover new species of sea worm in the southern ocean

A team of Japanese researchers has discovered a new species of sea worm in the Southern Ocean, expanding our understanding of the region's biodiversity. The newly identified species, Flabelligena hakuhoae, is one of six described species within the genus Flabelligena.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalBiodiversity Data Journal·DateAug 12, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

'Reelin' in a new treatment for multiple sclerosis

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered that depleting the key protein Reelin can protect against multiple sclerosis symptoms and promote recovery. By reducing monocyte adhesion on blood vessel walls, Reelin levels may be a novel way to treat MS.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 12, 2020

OECD countries' politicians follow each other

The study found that democratic countries tend to copy each other's decisions, while the timing of implementation is crucial in containing the spread. The researchers conclude that political decisions during the pandemic were influenced by internal pressure and a desire for decisiveness.

SourceLinköping University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 12, 2020

Robot technology for everyone or only for the average person?

A recent study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology researchers Roger Andre Søraa and Eduard Fosch-Villaronga calls for exoskeleton designers to consider inclusivity in their designs. The goal is to make the technology accessible to a broader range of users, including those with different heights, weights, and genders.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·DateAug 12, 2020

The (neuro)science of getting and staying motivated

A study published in Neuropsychopharmacology found that the balance between glutamine and glutamate levels in the nucleus accumbens is crucial for sustained effort-based motivated performance. The research suggests a potential link to therapeutic strategies, including nutritional interventions, to address motivational deficits.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateAug 12, 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.

Why walking to work may be better for you than a casual stroll

A new study published in the Journal of Transport and Health found that walking to work can significantly improve a person's self-rated health compared to casual strolls. People who walked primarily for utilitarian purposes, such as commuting to work, reported better health than those who walked mostly for leisure.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Transport & Health·DateAug 12, 2020

How anxiety--and hope--can drive new product adoption

Researchers found that strong anxiety about outcomes from new products can enhance consequential adoption intentions and actual adoption, especially when combined with strong hope. This effect is due to action planning, which boosts perceived control over outcomes and leads to increased product satisfaction.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateAug 12, 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.

Flipping a metabolic switch to slow tumor growth

A team of scientists from UC San Diego identified a metabolic switch that decreases tumor growth in mice by restricting dietary amino acids. They found that restricting serine and glycine led to the production of toxic lipids that slow cancer progression.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateAug 12, 2020

Adaptation in single neurons provides memory for language processing

Researchers found that single neurons' down-regulation of excitability can provide working memory for language processing. The model establishes context-dependent and serial order-sensitive memory, ideal for language comprehension.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 12, 2020

Nutrition labelling is improving nation's diet - new study

A new study finds that Front-of-Pack labelling on food products leads to a reduction in the quantity of labelled store-branded food purchased and an overall improvement in nutritional composition of consumers' shopping baskets. The study, published in the Journal of Health Economics, shows significant improvements in poorer households.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Health Economics·DateAug 12, 2020

NASA finds hurricane Elida's eye covered

Hurricane Elida's eye has become fully covered by high clouds, a sign of the storm weakening due to cooler waters. The storm is expected to weaken quickly and degenerate into a remnant low-pressure area on Thursday.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 12, 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.

Cremation in the Middle-East dates as far back as 7,000 B.C.

A team of archaeologists uncovered evidence of the oldest direct cremation in the Middle-East, found in a pyre pit in Beisamoun, Israel, dating back around 9,000 years. The remains indicate a shift away from traditional burial practices towards shorter rituals.

SourceCNRS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 12, 2020

A quick, cost-effective method to track the spread of COVID-19

A team of scientists from Hokkaido University has successfully developed an adsorption-extraction technique to efficiently detect SARS-CoV-2 in untreated wastewater. This breakthrough method, using a surrogate virus like murine hepatitis virus, offers a fast and economical way to track the spread of COVID-19 at a larger scale.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateAug 12, 2020

Scientists propose method for eliminating damaging heat bursts in fusion device

Researchers at DOE's Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have developed a model that accurately reproduces the conditions for ELM suppression in the DIII-D National Fusion Facility. The model predicts wider operational flexibility for tokamaks, enabling enhanced fusion reactor operation and expanding the capabilities of fusion devices.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·DateAug 12, 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.

Assessment of lupus anticoagulant positivity in patients with COVID-19

This observational study found a significant prevalence of lupus anticoagulant (LA) positivity among patients with COVID-19, indicating a potential link between LA and severe disease outcomes. The study's findings suggest that monitoring for LA positivity may be crucial in managing COVID-19 patients.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 12, 2020

Seafood study finds plastic in all samples

A new study found that five different types of seafood - oysters, prawns, squid, crabs, and sardines - contain plastic, with varying levels of pollution. The research used a newly developed method to identify and measure five different plastic types, revealing surprising differences in the amount of plastic present among species.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 12, 2020

Spider silk inspires new class of functional synthetic polymers

Researchers at the University of Groningen have developed a new class of proton-conducting polymers based on protein-like materials, which may be useful in future bio-electronic devices and sensors. The novel material has shown higher measured proton conductivity than any previously known biomaterials.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 12, 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.

The oldest known cremation in the near east dates to 7000 BC

A study published in PLOS ONE has uncovered the oldest known cremation site in the Near East, dating back to 7013-6700 BC. The remains of a young adult found in Beisamoun, Israel, show evidence of intentional cremation, suggesting a cultural shift in funeral practices during this period.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 12, 2020

Sea-level rise could make rivers more likely to jump course

Rising sea levels may cause more frequent and devastating river avulsions, altering the course of rivers to the sea. This shift in river dynamics could lead to costly infrastructure failures and increased flood risks for coastal communities.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 12, 2020

Nanotubes in the eye that help us see

Scientists at the CRCHUM found that pericytes use tunneling nanotubes to communicate with each other, regulating blood supply and maintaining vision. The study's findings suggest that damaged tunnelling nanotubes may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like stroke, glaucoma, and Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalNature·DateAug 12, 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.

Scientists identify hundreds of drug candidates to treat COVID-19

Researchers at UC Riverside developed a drug discovery pipeline to identify effective drugs for treating COVID-19. The team used a powerful machine-learning approach to screen millions of chemicals and identified hundreds of promising candidates, including some that are already FDA-approved.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalHeliyon·DateAug 12, 2020

Security gap allows eavesdropping on mobile phone calls

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum discovered a security gap in the LTE mobile network, enabling eavesdropping on calls. The vulnerability affected 80% of radio cells across Germany, but has been fixed by manufacturers and mobile phone providers.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateAug 12, 2020

New Analysis Reveals Worsening Shortage of Emergency Physicians in Rural Areas

A new analysis reveals that rural America is experiencing a worsening shortage of emergency physicians, with 92% practicing in urban areas. The rural workforce is also aging, with nearly all recent graduates opting for urban practices, leaving many rural communities without adequate emergency care.

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateAug 12, 2020

Dignity and respect go a long way in county jail, new research shows

A University of Wisconsin Oshkosh study found that treating people like people makes life easier for both ends of the power dynamic in jail. Interpersonal communication skills are key to diffusing explosive situations and avoiding physical force, according to research by assistant criminal justice professor Matt Richie.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin Oshkosh·JournalJournal of Crime and Justice·DateAug 12, 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.

Stress and anger may exacerbate heart failure

A new study published in the Journal of Cardiac Failure found that mental stress and anger can exacerbate heart failure by worsening diastolic function. Patients who experienced anger during the study exhibited worse baseline resting blood pressure, while most participants showed stress-provoked changes in diastolic function.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Cardiac Failure·DateAug 12, 2020

Pressure-induced 2D-3D conversion in hybrid lead iodide layered perovskite

Researchers successfully converted a 2D hybrid Dion-Jacobson lead iodide perovskite to a 3D perovskite phase at ambient conditions after pressure treatment. This process enables the use of high-pressure techniques for preparing materials with improved properties, suitable for real-world applications in optoelectronics and luminescence.

SourceCenter for High Pressure Science & Technology Advanced Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 12, 2020

Unlocking how cellular proteins control cancer spread

A McGill-led study unlocks the behavior of an enzyme involved in cancer cell spread, revealing a delicate interaction between PRL3 and magnesium transport proteins crucial to colorectal cancer growth. This finding calls into question long-standing hypotheses about PRL3's role in cancer spread.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 12, 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.

Having COVID-19

The article describes an author's COVID-19 experience, providing a unique perspective on the disease. Key findings include physical symptoms and health outcomes associated with having COVID-19.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateAug 12, 2020

Oxygen therapy harms lung microbiome in mice

A new study finds that oxygen therapy can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the lungs, contributing to lung injury. The researchers used mice and found that high concentrations of oxygen led to an increase in oxygen-tolerant bacteria, which are more likely to cause infections.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 12, 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.

Mutations may have saved brown howlers from yellow fever virus

A University of Utah study found that genetic variations in brown howlers may have helped them survive the devastating yellow fever virus outbreak in Argentina's El Piñalito park. The researchers discovered three mutations in the immune genes of surviving brown howlers, which could affect their response to the disease.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateAug 12, 2020

Why black rhinos may get sick in captivity

A study published in PLOS ONE found that captive black rhinoceroses have higher iron levels, inflammation, and oxidative stress compared to white rhinoceroses. This suggests a link between iron accumulation and the development of diseases like organ failure.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 12, 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.

Yale quantum researchers create an error-correcting cat

Yale physicists have developed an error-correcting cat, a quantum device that encodes information in a single physical system to suppress phase flips. The device uses a clever way to encode information, allowing it to prevent errors and correct them on command.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateAug 12, 2020

First in Human Study with Novel Antisense Oligonucleotide

A first-in-human study found that MRG-110 significantly reduced miR-92a levels in healthy humans after a single intravenous dose. This inhibition has shown beneficial effects in animal models, including improved vascularization after myocardial infarction and accelerated wound healing.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNucleic Acid Therapeutics·DateAug 12, 2020

Survival on heart transplant waiting list

This observational study found that advanced treatment protocols significantly improved survival rates for heart transplant waiting list patients. Researchers examined data from over 11,000 patients and discovered a strong correlation between timely interventions and better outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateAug 12, 2020

Porous liquids allow for efficient gas separation

Researchers developed a new material called porous liquids that can separate gas molecules of different sizes from each other. The material has the potential to replace traditional distillation methods and save up to 80% of energy used in the plastics industry.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature·DateAug 12, 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.

Comparing yoga, other treatments for anxiety

A randomized clinical trial found Kundalini yoga and cognitive behavioral therapy to be more effective than stress education in treating generalized anxiety disorder. Yoga was shown to be noninferior to CBT for the treatment of the disorder, suggesting a potential alternative or complement to traditional therapies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateAug 12, 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.

SMART researchers find new way to make bacteria more sensitive to antibiotics

A team at SMART has found that exposing bacteria to hydrogen sulfide can increase antimicrobial sensitivity in bacteria that do not produce H2S, potentially providing a breakthrough in treating drug-resistant infections. The study suggests that the results may be applicable to all bacteria that do not naturally produce H2S.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateAug 12, 2020

Perovskite and organic solar cells rocketed into space

Researchers sent perovskite and organic solar cells on a rocket into space, withstanding extreme conditions to produce power from direct sunlight and reflective light. The technology offers a promising solution for future space missions, as it is incredibly light and flexible, producing up to 14 milliwatts per square centimeter.

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·DateAug 12, 2020

Engaging undergrads remotely with an escape room game

A new study introduces a virtual escape room game that mimics cooperative learning, allowing undergraduate students to solve chemistry problems and 'escape' a chocolate factory theme. The game promotes effective collaboration and provides an engaging alternative to traditional lab activities.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Chemical Education·DateAug 12, 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.

Analysis: Health sector, big pharma spent big on lobbying for COVID-19 funding

A new study finds a significant surge in health sector lobbying activity, especially within the pharmaceutical industry, following the allocation of massive COVID-19 relief funds. The research reveals that health sector lobbying spending increased by over 10% and new lobbyist registrations jumped by 140%.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateAug 12, 2020

Warming threat to tropical forests risks release of carbon from soil

Researchers found that tropical forest soils are highly sensitive to climate change, with a potential increase of 55% in soil carbon emissions if temperatures rise by four degrees Celsius. This could trigger further global warming and lead to the release of billions of tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature·DateAug 12, 2020

How stars form in the smallest galaxies

Researchers have found that dormant small galaxies can slowly accumulate gas over billions of years, allowing for the formation of new stars. The study's findings shed light on the mysterious process of star formation in dwarf galaxies, providing insights into astrophysical processes.

SourceLund University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateAug 12, 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.

Lipoic acid supplements help some obese but otherwise healthy people lose weight

A clinical trial by Oregon State University found that lipoic acid supplements caused significant weight loss and fat reduction in overweight but otherwise healthy participants. The study also showed improvements in inflammation markers and oxidative stress, with notable benefits for women and heaviest participants.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateAug 12, 2020

Quieting the storm

Researchers at Harvard Medical School used acupuncture to regulate inflammatory responses and improve survival in mice with cytokine storm. The study found that site, intensity, and timing of treatment influenced the response.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNeuron·DateAug 12, 2020

Exercise induces secretion of biomarkers into sweat

A new study finds that endurance exercise induces changes in sweat biomolecule levels, potentially creating a non-invasive exercise monitoring system. Sweat extracellular vesicles contain microRNA molecules, which regulate biological processes and are essential mediators in exercise adaptations.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateAug 12, 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.

Improving treatment of spinal cord injuries

A team of researchers has developed an osmotic therapy device that removes fluid from the spinal cord to reduce swelling and prevent further damage. The device showed promising results in rats, reducing swelling and improving neurological outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateAug 12, 2020

A novel strategy for quickly identifying twitter trolls

A novel strategy for quickly identifying Twitter trolls uses linguistic features, including repeated words and word pairs, to distinguish between genuine and deceptive messages. The algorithm requires as few as 50 tweets for accurate identification, offering a potential tool for combating hybrid warfare while preserving freedom of speech.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 12, 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.

Molecular additives enhance mechanical properties of organic solar cell material

Computational experiments on semiconducting polymers show that adding small molecules enhances performance and stability; predicting improved solar cell materials for extreme operational stress-strain conditions. Researchers at Lehigh University used Frontera, the world's fastest academic supercomputer, to demonstrate this finding.

SourceLehigh University·JournalSoft Matter·DateAug 12, 2020

New study suggests ADHD- like behavior helps spur entrepreneurial activity

A new study found a link between sleep and entrepreneurship, suggesting that temporary ADHD-like tendencies generated by lack of sleep can be a benefit in spurring ventures. Practicing entrepreneurs also showed a consistent influence of impermanent sleep problems on entrepreneurial intentions.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalEntrepreneurship Theory and Practice·DateAug 12, 2020

Lack of females in drug dose trials leads to overmedicated women

New research from UC Berkeley and University of Chicago finds a significant gender gap in drug dosages, leading to women experiencing worse side effects nearly twice as often as men. The study recommends dosage reductions for women for various medications, calling for broader awareness of biological sex and gender differences.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalBiology of Sex Differences·DateAug 12, 2020

New treatments spur sharp reduction in lung cancer mortality rate

Recent advances in treatment have led to a sharp reduction in lung cancer mortality rates in the US, with non-small cell lung cancer deaths decreasing faster than incidence. The study found significant improvements in survival for both men and women, particularly after the introduction of targeted therapies.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 12, 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.

Face mask insert could help diagnose conditions

Researchers have developed a method to use face masks to collect compounds in exhaled breath aerosols for analysis, enabling large-scale screening for disease biomarkers. The new technique uses a fiber inserted into an N95 face mask to concentrate molecules, allowing for more efficient identification through mass spectrometry.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateAug 12, 2020

PAD patients with depression had worse recovery, women twice as likely to be depressed

Research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that PAD patients with depressive symptoms have a poorer recovery rate. Women are twice as likely to be depressed than men. The study highlights the importance of integrating mental health screening and treatment into chronic disease management for optimal outcomes.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateAug 12, 2020

Children think robots can help the elderly -- but not their own grandparents

A study found that children think robots can assist with various tasks for older adults, such as Pepper and Tessa, but are more doubtful about helping their own grandparents. The Uncanny Valley phenomenon may contribute to this skepticism, where human-like robots become less intimidating when assigned a clear task.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalAI & Society·DateAug 12, 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.

Breast screening women in their forties saves lives

A new study led by Queen Mary University of London found that breast screening women aged 40-49 reduces breast cancer mortality with minimal increased overdiagnosis. The study analyzed data from 160,000 women and found a 25% reduction in breast cancer mortality in the first ten years.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateAug 12, 2020

No increased skin cancer risk with topical immunosuppressant ointments

Researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital studied nearly 94,000 people with atopic dermatitis and found no association between topical immunosuppressants and increased skin cancer risk. The study suggests that patients can safely use these medications to treat their condition without an increased risk of skin cancer.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateAug 12, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A retrospective cohort study found obesity was a significant independent risk factor for death from COVID-19. Patients with high BMI were 4 times more likely to die within 21 days of diagnosis compared to those in the normal weight group.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 12, 2020

Young children would rather explore than get rewards

In a study published in Developmental Science, researchers found that young children systematically explore options to gather information, even when rewards are available. The children's approach is driven by a desire to understand the world, rather than seeking immediate rewards.

SourceOhio State University·JournalDevelopmental Science·DateAug 12, 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.

New research reveals mysterious blue whirl flame structure

A new study reveals that the mysterious blue whirl flame consists of three different structures: diffusion, premixed rich, and lean flames. The researchers' simulations suggest that these flames can be controlled and scaled up safely to larger sizes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 12, 2020

Trustful collaboration critical for outcome of therapy

A trusting therapeutic relationship and collaborative approach between therapist and patient are crucial for successful mental illness treatment. Early alliance in therapy also plays a significant role in reducing symptoms and improving outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateAug 12, 2020

Technology can help speed soil recovery after oil spills

A new method using Vis-NIR spectroscopy reduces the cost and time required to analyze soil samples, allowing for faster restoration of ecosystems. The technology enables scientists to estimate concentration levels in impacted soil quickly and easily.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateAug 12, 2020

Group produces materials via self-organization in chemical systems

The Campinas Electrochemistry Group produces novel materials through self-organization in chemical systems. The group aims to achieve a deeper understanding of these processes to control their growth and structure. This research has the potential to lead to advancements in catalytic efficiency, selectivity, and material properties.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateAug 12, 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.

New nitrogen products are in the air

Researchers at Yale University have developed a method to combine atmospheric nitrogen with benzene to produce aniline, a precursor to various synthetic materials. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of new products such as dyes and pharmaceuticals.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateAug 12, 2020

ALMA sees most distant Milky Way look-alike

Astronomers using ALMA have discovered the most distant Milky Way look-alike galaxy, SPT0418-47, which is surprisingly unchaotic and appears as a ring of light in the sky. The discovery challenges our understanding of how galaxies form and gives new insights into the past of the Universe.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateAug 12, 2020

Efficient valves for electron spins

Researchers at the University of Basel developed a new technique for efficient control and detection of electron spins in semiconductor devices. The spin valves can be controlled individually using nanomagnets, allowing for precise determination of electron spin orientation.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCommunications Physics·DateAug 12, 2020

New way to check the quality of nanomaterials like graphene

A new method developed by researchers at the University of Sussex provides detailed information about the size and thickness of graphene particles. This technique is a non-destructive, laser-based approach that allows for statistical mapping of nanosheet populations in materials.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateAug 12, 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.

Demographics data helps predict NY flood insurance claims

A new study reveals that census areas with more white, affluent homeowners file higher flood insurance claims than lower-income minority residents. The researchers found that social demographic variables, including politics and property values, improve predictions of flood insurance claims.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·DateAug 12, 2020

Examining Congress members' popularity on Instagram

A study found that personal content, such as family photos and selfies, receives almost 17% more likes and 31% more comments than policy-focused posts. The study also shows that well-known congress members have significantly more followers.

SourceDickinson College·JournalOnline Information Review·DateAug 12, 2020

Soldiers could teach future robots how to outperform humans

Researchers developed an algorithm that allows robots to improve navigation systems by watching a human drive, enabling them to navigate more quickly and with fewer failures. This approach uses machine learning from demonstration, leveraging the expertise of soldiers in training environments.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateAug 12, 2020

Internal differences: A new method for seeing into cells

Researchers at Weizmann Institute of Science develop new technology to see inside tens of thousands of individual cells at once, identifying a subset of innate immune cells that collaborate with cancer. This breakthrough may lead to immunotherapy treatment for cancer.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalCell·DateAug 12, 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.

PLOS special collection launch

The EAC's MRH initiative has streamlined timelines for medicinal product applications, decreasing from 24 months to 8-14 months. The initiative aims to improve access to quality medicines by harmonizing technical standards and regulatory requirements.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 12, 2020

Scientist to resurrect water fleas from U.S. nuclear fallout zone

A researcher at the University of Texas at Arlington is using Daphnia, or water fleas, to study the long-term evolutionary impacts of nuclear testing. By hatching decades-old eggs and measuring their viability and traits, Matthew Walsh aims to understand how nuclear-induced mutations affect generations of water fleas.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateAug 12, 2020

Simpler and faster microscopy system enabling broader biomedical applications

A team of scientists has developed a novel 2D MFOR-PAM system utilizing a 2D microlens array and an acoustic ergodic relay to detect PA signals in parallel. This system can shorten scanning time by at least 400 times compared to conventional OR-PAM systems, while maintaining a simple and economic setup.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateAug 12, 2020

Research Finds Women Often Overprescribed Opioids After Childbirth

A new study reveals that women often receive excessive opioid prescriptions after childbirth, leading to a higher risk of addiction and misuse within communities. The research emphasizes the need for revised prescribing practices to prioritize patient health and safety.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateAug 12, 2020

Maternal obesity and the risk of early-onset hypertensive disorders of pregnancy

Pregnant obese women are at higher risk of early and late-onset hypertensive disorders, with the risk increasing with higher body mass indexes (BMI). The study found a strong association between maternal obesity and both early- and late-onset hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateAug 12, 2020

Selective conversion of reactive lithium compounds made possible

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have developed a new phosphine-palladium catalyst that selectively converts organolithium compounds into desired products, reducing unwanted side reactions. The catalyst's high activity and selectivity enable industrial-scale production of pharmaceuticals, chemicals for agriculture, and other fine ...

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateAug 12, 2020

KIST finds a strong correlation between ultrasonic stroke rehabilitation treatment and brain waves

Researchers at KIST found a strong correlation between ultrasonic stroke rehabilitation treatment and changes in delta brain waves, which can improve motor functions. The study lays the foundation for developing a patient-specific stimulation method to estimate therapeutic effects.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·DateAug 12, 2020

After Stillbirth, New Genetic Analyses May Give Parents Answers

Researchers have identified an array of new genes that cause stillbirth, significantly increasing the understanding of the condition's genetic foundations. The findings suggest that genetic analysis could be used to counsel parents who have previously experienced stillbirth and unlock new human biology.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 12, 2020