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Science News for August 13, 2020


Pancake bonding as a new tool to construct novel metal based magnetic materials

Researchers at University of Jyväskylä and University of Ottawa developed a novel magnetic compound with pancake bond, improving magnetic properties at elevated temperatures. The design strategy paves the way for new single-molecule magnets with potential applications in spintronics and quantum computers.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·DateAug 13, 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.

'Madsen' wheat as source of disease resistance

The 'Madsen' wheat cultivar exhibits excellent resistance to various diseases and stresses, contributing to its widespread success in the Pacific Northwest. Its impact has been felt globally, with researchers using it as a parent in breeding programs to protect wheat crops from numerous threats.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Plant Registrations·DateAug 13, 2020

Reconstructing global climate through Earth's history

Researchers have developed a framework to reconcile discrepancies in ancient sea surface temperature estimates and climate model results. By accounting for location-biased paleoclimate data, scientists can better reconstruct global climate conditions in the past and improve predictions of future climate scenarios.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 13, 2020

The larynx has evolved more rapidly in primates

Researchers found that primates have evolved larger, more variable larynges with faster adaptation rates compared to carnivores. This difference is linked to vocal communication systems, suggesting a key role for the larynx in primate behavior.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 13, 2020

Strianassa lerayi anker, new shrimp species from Panama's Coiba national park

Scientists from the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute have discovered a new species of mud-shrimp, Strianassa lerayi anker, and a highly mobile clam, in Panama's Coiba National Park. The discovery is part of a larger project to better understand the role of microbes in shaping tropical ecosystems.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalZootaxa·DateAug 13, 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.

A watershed moment for US water quality

A new federal rule leaves millions of miles of unconnected US streams and acres of wetlands unprotected, potentially undermining decades of taxpayer investment in improving water quality. The move risks higher floods, loss of biodiversity, and threats to drinking water and recreational fishing.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience·DateAug 13, 2020

Unread second-opinion radiology reports waste health care resources

A study found that 11.4% of second-opinion radiology reports were ignored by clinicians, with sonography and pediatrics having the highest rates. The cost of these ignored reports could be substantial, estimated at €53,700 or approximately $63,427.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateAug 13, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers found that household contacts had a 1 in 10 chance of infection, while asymptomatic patients were less likely to infect close contacts. Patients with severe disease were more likely to spread COVID-19 to their close contacts.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 13, 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.

Rochester leads effort to understand matter at atom-crushing pressures

The University of Rochester is leading a new initiative to understand matter under extreme pressures, with potential implications for understanding planets and stars. Researchers will explore four main areas, including the behavior of hydrogen and helium, element reactions, energy transport, and direct astrophysical implications.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·DateAug 13, 2020

Engineered capsids for efficient gene delivery to the eye

Researchers developed novel variants of adeno-associated viral (AAV) capsids with improved transduction properties in the mouse retina and cornea. The efficient gene delivery of these variants was confirmed in non-human primate tissue, adding to their potential use in treating human ocular diseases.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateAug 13, 2020

Studying how skin cancer starts

Scientists at Case Western Reserve University have discovered how quickly certain pre-cancerous lesions can form on the DNA of our skin when exposed to sunlight, a finding that could lead to more effective prevention methods. The research reveals that these mutations can form in as little as three picoseconds after exposure to UV light.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 13, 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.

Academia from home

A recent study suggests that remote work can be beneficial for postdoctoral researchers, enabling them to overcome financial and family constraints. By leveraging digital tools and establishing transparent communication channels, remote research can facilitate collaboration, reduce stress, and promote productivity. This shift in perspe...

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateAug 13, 2020

Who's your daddy? Male seahorses transport nutrients to embryos

Researchers have found that male seahorses transport nutrients to their developing babies during pregnancy, a complex process similar to human pregnancy. This breakthrough provides new insights into the biology of seahorse pregnancy and its potential parallels with human reproduction.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJournal of Comparative Physiology B·DateAug 13, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How do we prioritize what we see?

A new study reveals that the occipital cortex is essential for guiding involuntary attention to prioritize visual information. Researchers used transcranial magnetic stimulation to disrupt cortical excitability in this region, finding that it eliminates behavioral benefits and costs at attended and unattended locations.

SourceNew York University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 13, 2020

Big dogs face more joint problems if neutered early

A new study from UC Davis found that mixed-breed dogs weighing over 44 pounds are at higher risk for joint disorders if neutered before 1 year of age. The study suggests that dog owners should consider their options carefully when deciding whether to spay or neuter their pet.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·DateAug 13, 2020

Researchers develop cell injection technique that could help reverse vision loss

A team at University of Toronto Engineering has developed a method to inject healthy cells into damaged eyes, showing promise for treating forms of vision loss. Co-injection of retinal pigmented epithelium and photoreceptor cells improved vision acuity in mouse model, with restored activity in dark chambers.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalBiomaterials·DateAug 13, 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.

Exercise Enhancement

Researchers at Harvard Medical School discovered that inhibiting the PHD3 enzyme improves mouse exercise capacity, running distance, and VO2 max. This finding sheds light on a key mechanism for fat metabolism and offers clues toward understanding muscle function and fitness.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 13, 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.

Monolayer transition metal dichalcogenide lens for high resolution imaging

Researchers develop innovative method to fabricate high performance lenses in monolayer two dimensional transitional metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) material using femtosecond laser. The lens provides subwavelength resolution and high efficiency, enabling diffraction-limited imaging.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateAug 13, 2020

A new neurofeedback strategy to treat pain

A new neurofeedback approach, Decoded Neurofeedback (DecNef), has been explored in a preclinical study to treat chronic pain. The study found that DecNef enhances the brain's natural ability to control pain by boosting the 'endogenous pain control system', which is often dysfunctional in chronic pain patients.

SourceATR Brain Information Communication Research Laboratory Group·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 13, 2020

A new, 20-minute assay for COVID-19 diagnosis

Researchers developed a rapid molecular test called N1-STOP-LAMP that can diagnose SARS-CoV-2 with 100% accuracy in just 20 minutes. The test uses a portable machine and is highly efficient, making it suitable for settings with limited testing capabilities.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalJournal of Medical Microbiology·DateAug 13, 2020

Scientists sound the alarm: Lockdowns may escalate the obesity epidemic

A trio of Danish researchers warn that lockdowns could lead to an explosion in obesity rates due to increased consumption of high-energy foods and decreased physical activity. The study highlights the need for counter strategies to promote healthy eating habits and physical activity while combatting COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Reviews Endocrinology·DateAug 13, 2020

Sufficiently distant parks and public services facilitate older adults' physical activity

A study conducted at the University of Jyväskylä found that older adults who reported attractive destinations more than 500 meters away were more physically active. This suggests that having diverse and quality neighborhood destinations may support older adults' physical activity, contrary to common assumptions.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateAug 13, 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.

Delaying prostate cancer radiation therapy offers room for flexibility in pandemic peak

A new study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that delaying radiation therapy for men with unfavorable intermediate-risk or high-risk localized prostate cancer, who are receiving radiation and hormone therapy, is unlikely to impact survival. This flexibility in radiation timing could help patients minimize exposure to COVID-19 by s...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateAug 13, 2020

Study finds cancer mapping may solve puzzle of regional disease links

Researchers used nationwide cancer mapping statistics to develop a mathematical model that reveals patterns of cancer incidence by remoteness. The study found cancers having higher incidence in remote areas include head and neck, liver, lung, oesophageal, cervical, and uterine cancers.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 13, 2020

Sex, flies and videotape

A team of researchers at Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown found that the ovipositor, a temporary tube-like structure protruding from the female's abdomen, stimulates the male to attempt mating. The study reveals a sequence of steps in male-female communication that resolves contradictory reports on courtship and copulation.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 13, 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.

Research gets to the heart of organ shape in nature

A new study by John Innes Centre researchers sheds light on the evolution and function of diverse shapes in nature, using Capsella seed pods as a model. The discovery reveals a post-translational effect beyond gene expression, controlling organ-shape formation through protein modification.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 13, 2020

Busting Up the Infection Cycle of Hepatitis B

Researchers at the University of Delaware used supercomputing resources to gain insights into the hepatitis B virus's genetic blueprint and how its protein shell assembles itself. They found that a mutation impairs this assembly process, revealing communication between different regions of the protein.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateAug 13, 2020

Task force examines role of mobile health technology in COVID-19 pandemic

A task force review of mobile health technologies found that wearable sensors and electronic patient-reported data can monitor COVID-19 patients at home and predict those who need medical intervention. The technologies also show promise for monitoring and predicting coronavirus exposure in people presumed to be free of infection.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalIEEE Open Journal of Engineering in Medicine and Biology·DateAug 13, 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.

The behavior of therapeutic antibodies in immunotherapy

Scientists have observed interaction between therapeutic antibodies and target protein for first time, describing molecular mechanisms. This discovery opens way to development of new synthetic antibodies controlling patient's immune response.

SourceCNRS·JournalScience·DateAug 13, 2020

To understand the machinery of life, this scientist breaks it on purpose

Researchers used ancestral sequencing to study the translational machinery in bacteria, finding that evolution prioritizes fixing problems over completing them. The team discovered that natural selection favors mutations with the largest fitness advantage, leading to a myopic approach that neglects other cellular modules.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 13, 2020

Sustainable nylon production made possible by bacteria discovery

Scientists from the University of Edinburgh developed a sustainable method to produce adipic acid, a key component of nylon, using genetically modified bacteria grown in liquid solutions containing guaiacol. This approach produces adipic acid without emitting nitrous oxide greenhouse gases.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateAug 13, 2020

Syphilis may have spread through Europe before Columbus

Researchers found treponematoses in ancient human remains from Finland, Estonia, and the Netherlands, dating back to the 15th-18th century. This suggests that syphilis may have originated or developed in Europe before Columbus' voyages to America.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 13, 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.

How a protein stops cells from attacking their own DNA

Researchers at EPFL uncover key role of Barrier-to-Autointegration Factor (BAF) in preventing cGAS-STING pathway activation, which stops cells from attacking their own DNA. This discovery sheds new light on complex processes involved in the body's inflammatory response.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience·DateAug 13, 2020

Effective new tool created for discerning fake news

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin created a new tool to help Facebook users discern real from fake news. The study found that combining two simple interventions, including a stop sign icon and a strong statement, had a significant effect on helping people think critically. The researchers suggest that Facebook can improv...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateAug 13, 2020

Hepatitis B: Natural controllers shed light on immunity mechanisms

Scientists discovered human monoclonal antibodies specific to HBV surface antigens in natural controllers, which showed neutralizing ability and capabilities of blocking viral infection. The findings highlight a promising therapeutic tool for treating chronic HBV infection and may provide an alternative to existing treatments.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateAug 13, 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.

Spread of monsoon circulation changes explains uncertainty in global land monsoon precipitation projection

Research finds global land monsoon summer precipitation increased by 2.54% and 5.75% in lowest and highest emission scenarios respectively, driven by thermodynamic responses to increased moisture. Model spread in projection was larger for higher emission scenarios, emphasizing importance of circulation change prediction.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 13, 2020

Waistline matters in kidney disease

Obesity, as measured by body mass index and abdominal fat content, is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and progression of kidney disease in patients with chronic kidney disease. Lower physical fitness levels are also linked to a higher cardiovascular risk.

SourceNational Kidney Foundation·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateAug 13, 2020

Breast cancer 'ecosystem' reveals possible new targets for treatment

A team of researchers has identified four subtypes of cells in triple negative breast cancer that contain promising new therapeutic targets. The study found that one subtype produces molecules that suppress immune cells, which may help cancer cells evade the immune system.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateAug 13, 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.

Native trees thrive in teak plantations and may protect the Panama Canal

Interplanting native tree species like rosewood and amarillo with teak in Central America's nutrient-poor soils improves soil health, increases water management, and boosts biodiversity. These findings suggest a more sustainable approach to reforestation and may protect the Panama Canal from flooding and drought.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalNew Forests·DateAug 13, 2020

Hubble finds that Betelgeuse's mysterious dimming is due to a traumatic outburst

Researchers discovered that the unexpected dimming of supergiant star Betelgeuse was most likely caused by an immense amount of hot material ejected into space, forming a dust cloud that blocked light from about a quarter of the star's surface. The resulting dust cloud led to the star returning to normal brightness in April 2020.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 13, 2020

Employers reject transgender people

A Linköping University study found that employers in Sweden reject transgender people for jobs more often, with 18% more likelihood of cis person getting positive response. Discrimination varies by occupation type, with greater differences in male-dominated fields.

SourceLinköping University·JournalLabour Economics·DateAug 13, 2020

Researchers design efficient low-cost system for producing power at night

Researchers have designed an off-grid, low-cost modular energy source that can efficiently produce power at night. The rooftop radiative cooling system uses commercially available technology and can generate up to 2.2 Watts per square meter, enough to power sensors in security or environmental applications.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateAug 13, 2020

COVID-19 symptom tracker ensures privacy during isolation

A Georgetown University Medical Center-developed online COVID-19 symptom tracking tool enables individuals to monitor their symptoms while maintaining confidentiality. The system assigns a unique identifier and provides actionable reports on symptoms requiring medical attention.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·DateAug 13, 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.

Pollution linked to antibiotic resistance

A University of Georgia study found a strong correlation between antibiotic resistance and heavy metal contamination in the environment. Soils contaminated with heavy metals had higher levels of specific bacterial hosts carrying antibiotic-resistant genes.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalMicrobial Biotechnology·DateAug 13, 2020

NASA satellite's lone view of Betelgeuse reveals more strange behavior

NASA's Solar and Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO) has observed unusual dimming in Betelgeuse, a star experiencing an early minimum brightness cycle. The observations, made between late June and early August, show that the star is dimming unexpectedly again, adding to ongoing questions about its behavior.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 13, 2020

Restoration helps forests recover faster

A long-term study in Southeast Asian rainforests found that active restoration accelerates forest recovery, with areas recovering up to 50% faster than those left to regenerate naturally. However, the high cost of restoration currently limits its impact on mitigating climate change.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateAug 13, 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.

Disparities in cancer outcomes due to COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic worsens existing health disparities in cancer patients, with marginalized communities facing poorer treatment outcomes. Healthcare providers must acknowledge these disparities to deliver equitable care.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateAug 13, 2020

Adding a meter between meals boosts vegetarian appeal -- study

A recent study at University of Cambridge found that placing vegetarian options in a prominent location increases sales of plant-based dishes. The researchers experimented with different arrangements and gaps between meat and veggie options, finding that a significant gap was necessary to boost green eating.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Food·DateAug 13, 2020

UMD researchers identify structure of blue whirls

Researchers at the University of Maryland have identified the structure of blue whirls, which produce almost no soot when burning. The team discovered that vortex breakdown enables the blue-whirl structure to emerge, comprising three flames meeting in a triple flame ring.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 13, 2020

Diabetes, weight change and pancreatic cancer risk

Researchers found an association between recent weight loss and increased pancreatic cancer risk among individuals with diabetes, especially those with a longer duration of diabetes. The study suggests that maintaining weight loss may be crucial in reducing the risk of pancreatic cancer in people with diabetes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateAug 13, 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.

Bird and reptile tears aren't so different from human tears

Researchers compared tear composition in birds, reptiles, and humans, discovering similar electrolyte levels but distinct crystal structures. The study's findings may lead to new insights into the evolution of tears across species and improved treatments for eye health.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·DateAug 13, 2020

Researchers demonstrate fundamentally new approach to ultrasound imaging

North Carolina State University researchers have developed a novel ultrasonic imaging device that can optically display an acoustic signal on the surface of a piezoelectric transducer. This approach eliminates electrical signal processing altogether, resulting in reduced costs and increased efficiency. The technology has the potential ...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateAug 13, 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.

Hubble helps uncover the mystery of the dimming of Betelgeuse

New observations by Hubble reveal a massive dust cloud formed when superhot plasma was unleashed from an upwelling of a large convection cell on the star's surface, blocking light from about a quarter of Betelgeuse's surface.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateAug 13, 2020

Flavonoids' presence in sorghum roots may lead to frost-resistant crop

Researchers found that plant genetic variation influences root flavonoids and soil microbial community composition, which can be impacted by frost. The study suggests that flavonoid production and interactions with microorganisms may provide tolerance to cold and frost stress in sorghum.

SourcePenn State·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·DateAug 13, 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.

Review: Consequences of systemic racism in urban environments

Research integrates ecology, evolution and social sciences to highlight relationships between systemic racism and ecological heterogeneity. Neighborhood wealth and racial composition are found to be stronger predictors of urban socio-ecological patterns than wealth.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 13, 2020

Becoming a nerve cell: Timing is of the essence

Researchers discovered that mitochondria regulate the key event of neural stem cells becoming nerve cells during brain development. The study found that mitochondrial dynamics are important to cell fate choice and that this influence is limited to a specific time window, twice as long in humans compared to mice.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalScience·DateAug 13, 2020

New type of taste cell discovered in taste buds

Researchers identified a previously unknown subset of Type III cells that are broadly responsive to different tastes, revolutionizing our knowledge of taste detection. This discovery provides new insights into how taste information is sent to the brain and suggests that taste buds are more complex than initially thought.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 13, 2020

'Critical' questions over disease risks from ocean plastics

A new study by the University of Exeter and Cefas highlights the potential risks of microplastics carrying pathogens, which could threaten food production and safety. The research found high levels of bacteria on microplastic particles, including those that can cause disease in humans and animals.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalTrends in Microbiology·DateAug 13, 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.

USC scientists identify the order of COVID-19's symptoms

Researchers found that COVID-19 symptoms progress from fever, cough, and muscle pain to nausea and vomiting before potentially leading to diarrhea. This knowledge can help doctors diagnose patients earlier and reduce hospitalization time.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateAug 13, 2020

Single-cell analysis provides new insights into mitochondrial diseases

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital used single-cell analysis to uncover new details about mitochondrial diseases, including lower levels of disease-causing mutations in certain immune cells. This discovery could lead to improved diagnosis and monitoring of the diseases, as well as potential new therapeutic strategies.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 13, 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.

UChicago scientists discover way to make quantum states last 10,000 times longer

A team of UChicago scientists developed a technique that allows quantum systems to stay operational for up to 22 milliseconds, four orders of magnitude higher than before. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize quantum communication, computing, and sensing by enabling new research opportunities in quantum engineering.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalScience·DateAug 13, 2020

Study focuses on a different kind of liquid biopsy to detect cancer

A new liquid biopsy test has been developed to detect cancer by analyzing protein biomarkers from tumors in the blood. The study found that this approach showed a high sensitivity and specificity for detecting different types of cancer, including breast, colon, and lung cancers.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalCell·DateAug 13, 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.

Contaminants from Mount Polley tailings spill continue to affect Quesnel lake

A new study finds that the Mount Polley tailings spill in 2014 is still affecting Quesnel Lake, with turbidity increasing each spring and fall due to resuspended contaminants. The phenomenon raises concerns about long-term impacts on the lake's ecology, including effects on fish populations and algal communities.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalWater Resources Research·DateAug 13, 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.

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.

Restoring degraded tropical forests generates big carbon gains

Research reveals that forest restoration can replenish carbon storage and preserve biodiversity, with actively restored forests recovering 50% faster than naturally regenerating ones. The study found that degraded forests can recover up to 2.9 tons of aboveground carbon per hectare annually if protected from agricultural conversion.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience·DateAug 13, 2020

New tools catch and release molecules at the flip of a light switch

Researchers at Princeton University developed OptoBinders, light-switchable molecular tools that control cellular processes. These antibody-like proteins can bind or release targets in response to blue light, offering new capabilities for protein purification, biofuel production, and targeted cancer therapies.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 13, 2020

When you're smiling, the whole world really does smile with you

Groundbreaking research from the University of South Australia confirms that smiling can alter perception of facial expressions and body language, generating more positive emotions. The study found that facial muscular activity stimulates the amygdala, releasing neurotransmitters to encourage an emotionally positive state.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·DateAug 13, 2020

COVID-19 outcomes in french nursing homes with staff confinement

Researchers studied COVID-19 outcomes in French nursing homes that implemented voluntary staff confinement, finding improved mortality rates among residents. The study suggests that staff confinement can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in long-term care settings.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 13, 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 study shows increase in domestic violence injuries during COVID-19

A new study found a significant increase in domestic violence injuries during the COVID-19 pandemic, with more severe injuries reported despite fewer patients seeking help. The study suggests that fear of contracting infection and limited access to ambulatory sites may be preventing victims from reporting abuse.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateAug 13, 2020

Positive contact between muslims and christians in soccer league built cohesion, with limitations

A recent study found that Muslim teammates improved Christian players' behavior towards their peers in an Iraqi soccer league, but this effect did not generalize to other social contexts. The research highlights the value of intergroup interventions for achieving post-war peace, but also reveals limitations in building lasting social c...

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 13, 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.

Study suggests new potential approach against fatal childhood brain cancer

Researchers discovered that simultaneously targeting two energy-production pathways within cancer cells can help overcome the effects of a cancer-causing mutation in DIPG. In mouse models, inhibiting both pathways at once significantly improved survival rates compared to targeting each pathway individually.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCancer Cell·DateAug 13, 2020

Child disability can reduce educational outcomes for older siblings

A recent study published in The Economic Journal found that child disability can have a significant impact on the educational outcomes of their older siblings. The researchers analyzed data from Florida and Denmark and found that the second-born child was more adversely affected cognitively than the first-born child when the third-born...

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalThe Economic Journal·DateAug 13, 2020

Systemic racism has consequences for all life in cities

A review paper examines the influence of systemic inequalities on ecology and evolution, finding that racism reduces biodiversity, increases urban heat island effects, and augments climate crises. The authors advocate for environmental justice and anti-racism practices to transform biological research and conservation.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateAug 13, 2020

Research recommends integrated approaches to managing reniform nematodes in cotton

Researchers at Mississippi State University recommend using an integrated approach that combines seed-applied nematicides with in-furrow nematicides to manage reniform nematodes in cotton. This approach can improve cotton yields while reducing production costs, making it a economically viable option for farmers.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Health Progress·DateAug 13, 2020