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Science News for August 4, 2020


Implantable transmitter provides wireless option for biomedical devices

The Purdue team created a fully implantable radio-frequency transmitter chip that consumes the lowest amount of energy per digital bit published to date. It enables real-time biophysiological data monitoring for conditions like glaucoma and heart disease, eliminating the need for batteries or frequent recharging.

SourcePurdue University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Circuits & Systems II Express Briefs·DateAug 4, 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.

Four-compartment modeling can help determine best COVID-19 control strategy

Researchers identified four key population categories to guide COVID-19 public health policies, showing that face masks and social distancing alone are insufficient to reverse disease trends. The study found that implementing mass quarantine and case isolation earlier greatly improves disease suppression effectiveness.

SourceNational Center for Trauma Medicine·JournalPrecision Clinical Medicine·DateAug 4, 2020

Small trees offer hope for rainforests

A new study suggests small trees can adapt better to droughts and grow into a new generation to help the rainforest survive. Researchers found that small trees increase their capacity for photosynthesis and growth despite lack of water, potentially leading to greater overall resilience in the forest.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateAug 4, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Nanostructures modeled on moth eyes effective for anti-icing

Researchers have developed nanostructures modeled on moth eyes that exhibit anti-icing properties, with the addition of a paraffin layer improving their performance. The nanostructure showed great improvement in freezing time and water repellency, making it suitable for applications such as aircraft wings and energy transmission systems.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateAug 4, 2020

Sulfur-containing polymer generates high refractive index and transparency?

Researchers developed a novel technology to create a sulfur-containing polymer (SCP) film with excellent environmental stability and chemical resistance, exhibiting a high refractive index of 1.9 while being fully transparent in the entire visible range.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 4, 2020

University of Arizona awarded $26M to architect the quantum internet

The University of Arizona will lead a new National Science Foundation Engineering Research Center to architect the quantum internet, revolutionizing computing, communication, and sensing. The center aims to create a fabric connecting quantum computers, data centers, and gadgets using qubits.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateAug 4, 2020

New study: The quiet Sun is much more active than we thought

Researchers at Aalto University found that the quiet Sun is more active than previously thought, with radio brightenings and solar storms detected during the solar minimum period. These findings suggest that solar activity cycles may not always follow traditional 11-year patterns.

SourceAalto University·JournalSolar Physics·DateAug 4, 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.

Researchers create artificial organelles to control cellular behavior

Biomedical engineers at Duke University have created artificial membrane-less organelles within human cells by controlling the phase separation of emerging class of proteins. This advance enables precise tuning of a single property to modulate existing cell functions or create new behaviors.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateAug 4, 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.

Photodynamic therapy can combat secondary infections in COVID-19 patients

Researchers advocate photodynamic therapy as an additional treatment for COVID-19 patients to combat secondary infections. The technique uses light and a photosensitizing chemical substance to kill microorganisms in the respiratory tract, potentially improving prognosis and reducing transmission.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPhotodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy·DateAug 4, 2020

Dear Dr... how our email style reveals much about our personalities

Researchers found that autistic individuals tend to be more direct and precise in their emails, while non-autistic people are more likely to include social niceties. This study highlights the importance of adapting our email styles to be more respectful of others' differences.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalMolecular Autism·DateAug 4, 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.

VLBA finds planet orbiting small, cool star

Astronomers have discovered a Saturn-sized planet orbiting a small, cool star 35 light-years from Earth using the astrometric technique. The planet has a mass comparable to Saturn and orbits its star every 221 days. This discovery is significant as it reveals that smaller planets can exist around cooler stars.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateAug 4, 2020

New study shows how infrared lasers destroy harmful protein aggregates in Alzheimer's

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science used infrared laser irradiation to destroy amyloid fibrils, which are typical of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The study combines experimental and simulation results, showing that the process begins at the core of the fibril, where resonance breaks intermolecular hydrogen bonds.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateAug 4, 2020

Blood test could diagnose baby brain damage just hours after birth

Researchers developed a blood test that can identify babies at risk of serious neurodisabilities like cerebral palsy and epilepsy just hours after birth. The test looks for specific genes being switched on or off, which may provide new targets for treating brain damage before it becomes permanent.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 4, 2020

Experts issue back-to-school guidelines for pediatric solid organ transplant recipients

Pediatric infectious disease experts provide recommendations on return to school for SOT children, considering factors like clinical risk, community transmission, and infection prevention measures. The majority of SOT recipients are expected to outweigh the risks and benefit from attending school.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJournal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society·DateAug 4, 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.

Deep learning on cell signaling networks establishes AI for single-cell biology

A new method, knowledge-primed neural networks (KPNNs), combines deep learning with biological interpretability to understand complex biological systems. KPNNs have been applied to large single-cell datasets, revealing unexpected diversity in cell-type-defining regulatory networks.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalGenome Biology·DateAug 4, 2020

Surprisingly dense exoplanet challenges planet formation theories

Astronomers have discovered an exoplanet, K2-25b, that is surprisingly dense for its size and age, defying current planet formation theories. The exoplanet, orbiting a young star in the Hyades cluster, has a mass of 25 Earth-masses and a size slightly smaller than Neptune.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·DateAug 4, 2020

Finding toxic carcinogenic metals faster in foods and water

A new, efficient method to detect toxic heavy metals like arsenic, cadmium, and chromium in vegetables and drinking water has been developed by researchers at the University of Johannesburg. The technique combines established methods with automation and can test for multiple metals simultaneously.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalFood Chemistry·DateAug 4, 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.

International quantum research to take a leap forward

A new laboratory will facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration in photon-based quantum applications, advancing secure communications, quantum computing, and fast information processing. The project aims to establish Paderborn University as a global leader in optoelectronics and photonics research.

SourceUniversität Paderborn·DateAug 4, 2020

UCI researchers publish new guide for viral tracers in neural circuit mapping

Researchers from UCI School of Medicine evaluate anterograde and retrograde viral tracers for neural circuit analysis, providing guidance on experimental uses. The primer aims to advance the study of neural circuits using animal models to define mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNeuron·DateAug 4, 2020

Story tips: Pandemic impact, root studies, neutrons confirm, lab on a crystal & modeling fusion

Researchers developed a machine learning model to predict pandemic impact on fuel demand, analyzing mobility patterns and historical weekly motor travel trends. In another study, scientists found extraordinary fine-root growth with increasing temperatures in northern peatlands, indicating a previously hidden belowground mechanism that ...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateAug 4, 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.

Grooming behavior between dairy cows reveals complex social network

A study on dairy cows' social grooming behavior found that cows form strong bonds through mutual cooperation and prefer individuals of similar age. Older cows groom more individuals, suggesting a 'peacemaker' role in the herd. These findings could inform innovative farm management strategies prioritizing cattle emotional and social needs.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·DateAug 4, 2020

Surface clean-up technology won't solve ocean plastic problem

A new study by the University of Exeter and others found that surface clean-up devices will not solve the ocean plastic problem, but could be more effective when used with river barriers. The research estimates that floating plastic will peak at over 860,000 metric tonnes by 2052.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateAug 4, 2020

Blood-thinner with no bleeding side-effects is here

Researchers at EPFL have developed a synthetic inhibitor of coagulation factor XII that efficiently blocks blood clotting without causing bleeding side-effects. The inhibitor has high potency and selectivity, but its short retention time requires constant infusion to achieve sustained thrompobrotection.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 4, 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.

Assembly within the tumor center

Scientists discovered that identifying tumor-associated macrophage patterns in lung tumor tissue enables the prediction of disease progression. The study found that a higher number of tumor-promoting macrophages near the invasive margin is associated with lower patient survival rates.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 4, 2020

Cell diversity in the embryo

Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics discovered that epigenetic regulators control the development of different tissues and organs in early mouse embryos. By analyzing thousands of individual cells, they found that specific regulators have unique functions in every cell, making them difficult to study.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateAug 4, 2020

Improved modelling of nuclear structure in francium aids searches for new physics

Scientists at the University of Queensland have improved the modeling of nuclear structure in francium atoms, allowing for more precise calculations of their magnetic moments. The new method enables uncertainties four times smaller than previous best values, which is crucial for testing fundamental physics theories.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 4, 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.

Study suggests optimal social networks of no more than 150 people

Researchers confirmed a theory that networks of no more than 150 are optimal for internally sharing information, a concept proposed by British anthropologist Robin Dunbar in the 1990s. Understanding this 'Dunbar Number' is crucial for training teams and forming cohesive groups.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 4, 2020

Changes in land evaporation shape the climate

A new calibration-free version of a physical-based method can better detect long-term trends in continental-scale land evaporation rates than recent remote sensing-based approaches. This improvement is crucial for upgrading general circulation models' existing evaporation estimation algorithms to produce better climatic predictions.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateAug 4, 2020

Droplet spread from humans doesn't always follow airflow

Researchers develop mathematical model to understand droplet dispersion, finding no linear relation between droplet size and displacement. The study suggests creating an aerosol extractor device to trap small droplets, improving safety during medical procedures.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateAug 4, 2020

Consumers don't fully trust smart home technologies

A survey by WMG, University of Warwick found that UK consumers are unconvinced about the privacy and security of smart home devices, with anxiety about potential breaches. The study suggests that businesses must address these concerns to increase consumer trust and adoption.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 4, 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.

The problem with microwaving tea

Researchers designed a silver plating to shield microwave waves and create uniform heating in liquids. This resolves the issue of water heated in a microwave not being the same as stovetop-heated liquid, promoting more consistent temperatures.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateAug 4, 2020

In a warming world, New England's trees are storing more carbon

A new study reveals that New England's trees are capturing more carbon from the atmosphere, driven by growing temperatures and increased precipitation. However, some forests are also becoming a source of CO2 due to invasive insects and climate-related stressors.

SourceHarvard University·JournalEcological Processes·DateAug 4, 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.

Study reveals impact of powerful CEOs and money laundering on bank performance

A study by University of East Anglia researchers found that banks with powerful CEOs and smaller boards are more susceptible to money laundering and take greater risks. The impact of money laundering is heightened by the presence of powerful CEOs, but large and independent executive boards can partially mitigate this effect.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalInternational Journal of Finance & Economics·DateAug 4, 2020

Superior TNOx/HRGO hybrid anode for lithium-ion batteries

A new hybrid anode material, Ti2Nb10O29-x/HRGO, has been developed to improve the performance of lithium-ion batteries. The material exhibits excellent reversible capacity and cycling stability, making it a potential candidate for electric vehicles and mobile electronics.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalNANO·DateAug 4, 2020

Malaria: Parasite resistance to artemisinin derivatives now affecting Africa

The emergence of artemisinin-resistant malaria parasites in Rwanda marks a major concern for global health. Significant proportions of parasites carrying the R561H mutation have been detected, indicating that these resistant strains can spread between locations and acquire resistance to partner drugs.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 4, 2020

NASA infrared imagery shows Hagupit nearing landfall in China

NASA's Aqua satellite detected strong storms southeast of Typhoon Hagupit's center due to wind shear, with cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit. The storm made landfall in China's Zhejiang province with maximum sustained winds near 85 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 4, 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.

Mount Sinai researchers discover treatment option for rare genetic disorder

Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital have discovered a novel genetic sequencing technology that identified the cause and treatment of a previously unknown severe auto-inflammatory syndrome. The technology, tailored to the patient's own genetic code, pinpointed an unknown mutation in the JAK1 gene causing permanent immune system activation.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalImmunity·DateAug 4, 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.

NASA's Aqua satellite shows two views of the apple fire

The Apple Fire has grown to 26,850 acres with 15% containment, spreading into sparse wilderness areas due to low moisture content and high temperatures. NASA's Aqua satellite provided two images of the fire, including a true color image and one showing corrected reflectance bands for burn scar detection.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 4, 2020

Developing new smart soft materials

Researchers at Ehime University have successfully synthesized a new type of polymer with a carboxy-functionalized dendron structure. The polymer demonstrates pH-responsive behavior due to the dense accumulation of side chains, paving the way for the development of new functional poly(substituted methylene)s.

SourceEhime University·JournalMacromolecules·DateAug 4, 2020

Iron study combats anaemia with cutting-edge computer simulation

Advanced computer simulation techniques have determined which low-and-middle income countries would benefit from using iron-containing micronutrient powders to tackle childhood anaemia, with 54 out of 78 countries showing a net benefit. Policymakers can use individual reports for each country to balance benefits and risks.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateAug 4, 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.

Radboudumc research leads to simplified dosage of HIV medicine for children

A study by Radboud University Medical Center found that a single pill of dolutegravir per day is equally effective as a combination therapy in children, reducing dosage complexity and increasing treatment accessibility. This simplified dosing regimen has been integrated into World Health Organization guidelines and FDA approval.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet HIV·DateAug 4, 2020

BU study: A quarter of arthritis cases linked to excess weight

A recent study by Boston University School of Public Health found that losing weight between young adulthood and midlife can lower the risk of developing arthritis. The researchers estimated that nearly a quarter of arthritis cases in the US are attributable to excess weight, corresponding to approximately 2.7 million people.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateAug 4, 2020

AI may offer a better way to ID drug-resistant superbugs

A machine learning algorithm using high-temporal-resolution growth curves distinguishes bacterial pathogen strains with 92-98% accuracy, predicting antibiotic resistance as well as genetic-based methods. The method has the potential to be faster, simpler, and less expensive than current techniques.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 4, 2020

Tool could improve success in translating drugs from animal studies to humans

A new computational model called TransComp-R has been developed to improve the translation of drugs from animal studies to human clinical trials. The model identified an overlooked biological mechanism possibly responsible for a patient's resistance to infliximab, a drug for inflammatory bowel diseases.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScience Signaling·DateAug 4, 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.

Between shark and ray: The evolutionary advantage of the sea angels

Researchers studied angel shark body shapes using modern methods and found that early species had distinct external features, while modern species show reduced variation in shape. The integration of skull parts may limit adaptability, increasing extinction risk.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 4, 2020

Health care worker burnout during COVID-19 pandemic

A recent study evaluated burnout among healthcare workers in Japan during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing a significant prevalence of emotional exhaustion. The researchers identified several factors associated with burnout, including prolonged exposure to high-stress work environments and lack of social support.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 4, 2020

Ghasempour receives 2020 Marconi Society Young Scholar Award

Ghasempour's research enables real-time, high-speed connections that can be used in various applications, such as emergency response systems and smartwatch technology. Her innovations have the potential to create a next-generation Internet of Things by connecting thousands of devices with faster streams of data.

SourceRice University·DateAug 4, 2020

How to predict a typhoon

A new model developed by researchers can predict tropical cyclones with improved accuracy, up to 10-30 days in advance. The model analyzes nearly a quarter of the Earth's surface and atmosphere, accounting for key factors such as warm sea surface temperatures and wind shears.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateAug 4, 2020

NIH funds Dartmouth and Tufts AI tool to help doctors cure cancer

The NIH has funded a project to develop an AI-based system, PHK, that analyzes patients' clinical and genomic data to find new connections between biochemical pathways. This system could help doctors treat cancer and complex diseases more effectively by providing personalized treatment recommendations.

SourceThayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth·DateAug 4, 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.

Scientists propose a novel method for controlling fusion reactions

Researchers at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have developed a new model for stabilizing magnetic bubbles in plasma, which can expand and disrupt fusion reactions. By modifying the standard technique of radio frequency wave deposition, they predict that pulsing the waves can overcome leakage problems and improve performance.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateAug 4, 2020

Maldives records highest level of micro plastic pollution on the planet

The Maldives has the highest level of microplastic pollution in the world, with high concentrations found in waters around Naifaru. The study highlights the impact on marine ecosystems and local communities, emphasizing the need for improved waste management practices.

SourceFlinders University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateAug 4, 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.

Scientists suggest device to make breast MRI more effective

A group of Russian scientists, including ITMO University researchers, has proposed a system to update existing MRI scanners. The device uses electromagnetic coupling with an additional dielectric resonator to localize the magnetic field in the breast.

SourceITMO University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 4, 2020

Researchers develop new mouse model for SARS-CoV-2

Researchers created a new mouse model to study SARS-CoV-2 infection and disease, accelerating the development of treatments and vaccines. The model suggests that type I interferon signaling may play a pathological role in COVID-19 respiratory inflammation.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateAug 4, 2020

European Heart Journal: Cell infusions benefit heart patients

A new analysis of data from the ALLSTAR study published in the European Heart Journal shows that cell infusions, also known as cardiosphere-derived cells (CDCs), can benefit patients with heart disease by reducing the volume of blood the heart holds and a blood protein that measures heart failure severity. The findings contradict previ...

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateAug 4, 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.

Stars rich in phosphorus: Seeds of life in the universe

A study published in Nature Communications has discovered phosphorus-rich stars with unusual abundances, defying current theories of stellar evolution and nucleosynthesis. The findings suggest a new type of object that could provide insights into the origin of life's essential element.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 4, 2020

Fitness watches generate useful information, but increase patient anxiety

A new study found that fitness watches can be beneficial for patients with chronic illnesses, increasing exercise motivation, but also causing unnecessary anxiety due to misinterpreted data. Researchers recommend a collaborative care approach to help patients and clinicians jointly interpret wearable device data.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateAug 4, 2020

A targeted treatment for emphysema?

Researchers developed a small engineered peptide called PR1P, which protects VEGF from degradation and reduces apoptosis in both cell cultures and live mice. The study found significant increases in VEGF levels and reductions in lung damage in mouse models of emphysema.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology·DateAug 4, 2020

Increased global mortality linked to arsenic exposure in rice-based diets

A new study published in Science of the Total Environment confirms that high rice consumption is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality due to arsenic exposure. The research suggests that people may reduce their risk by consuming lower-arsenic rice varieties and eating a balanced diet.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateAug 4, 2020

Green energy and better crops: Tinted solar panels could boost farm incomes

Researchers developed a system using orange-tinted solar panels to generate electricity while growing crops like spinach and basil, increasing yields and nutritional content. The system offered financial protection from market fluctuations and climate risks, with significant benefits for farmers.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateAug 4, 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.

Penis microbiota predicts if a man's female partner will develop bacterial vaginosis

A study published in Frontiers found that men's penile microbiota can predict with high accuracy whether their female partner will develop bacterial vaginosis. The researchers analyzed the microbiota of 168 Kenyan couples and found a direct correlation between the composition of a man's microbiome and the occurrence of BV in his female...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateAug 4, 2020

Reducing the adverse impact of water loss in cells

A University of Houston researcher has discovered a mechanism for a protein called Nuclear Factor of Activated T cells 5 (NFAT 5) that regulates tonicity and protects cells against cell death. NFAT 5 produces protective osmolytes, which help maintain cellular integrity.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 4, 2020

More carbon in the ocean can lead to smaller fish

Researchers found that high CO2 concentrations in water make fish grow smaller, with a growth deficit of between five and ten percent. Fish living at less ideal temperatures and more CO2 experienced greater reductions in growth.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 4, 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.

Decoy receptor neutralizes coronavirus in cell cultures

A team of scientists has engineered a decoy receptor protein that binds to the SARS-CoV-2 virus and blocks infection in human cells. The research found that this decoy receptor is attractive to the virus due to subtle mutations, making it an ideal candidate for neutralizing the virus.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience·DateAug 4, 2020

Key brain region was 'recycled' as humans developed the ability to read

A study from MIT neuroscientists suggests that parts of the brain originally evolved for object recognition have been repurposed for reading. In nonhuman primates, the inferotemporal cortex is capable of distinguishing words from nonsense words and picking out specific letters.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 4, 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.

Researchers say where you live could add years to your life

A study by Syracuse University found that Americans who live in blue states tend to live longer than those in red states, primarily due to state policies. Liberal state policies could raise US life expectancy by over 2 years, while conservative policies could reduce it by 2 years.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalMilbank Quarterly·DateAug 4, 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.

Break it down: A new way to address common computing problem

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis developed a new algorithm called Parallel Residual Projection (PRP) to solve linear inverse problems by breaking them down into smaller tasks that can be solved in parallel on standard computers.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 4, 2020

New molecule reverses Alzheimer's-like memory decline

A new study published in Redox Biology shows that the drug CMS121 successfully reversed memory loss in a mouse model of inherited Alzheimer's disease. The drug works by normalizing lipid peroxidation and lowering levels of fatty acid synthetase, suggesting FASN as a potential target for treating Alzheimer's disease.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalRedox Biology·DateAug 4, 2020

Research news tip sheet: Story ideas from Johns Hopkins Medicine

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that a next-generation cholesterol-lowering drug can lower blood cholesterol to safer levels faster when added to traditional therapies. The study showed significant reductions in LDL cholesterol during hospitalization and within a month following a heart attack, suggesting the drug is safe a...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCirculation·DateAug 4, 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.

'Price of life' lowest in UK during COVID-19 pandemic, study finds

A study by University of Exeter found the UK's 'price of life' to be among the lowest in developed nations, with a value of around $100,000. This is significantly lower than countries that imposed lockdowns earlier, such as Germany and South Korea.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironmental and Resource Economics·DateAug 4, 2020

A normal DNA repair process can become a major source of mutations in cancer

Scientists at IRB Barcelona have discovered a new type of hypermutation called mutation fog, which generates hundreds of mutations in every cell and accumulates in critical genome regions. This process is linked to normal DNA repair and APOBEC enzyme activity, suggesting it may be a major source of cancer mutations.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 4, 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.

NASA's cloudsat takes a slice from tropical storm Isaias

CloudSat captured areas of heavy rain and high-powered clouds during Tropical Storm Isaias' intensification into a hurricane. The satellite's advanced cloud-profiling radar provided new insights into the storm's vertical structure and contributed to improved global model representations.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 4, 2020

Ultrafast lasers probe elusive chemistry at the liquid-liquid interface

Researchers used ultrafast pulsed laser techniques to investigate chemical separations, tracking dynamics of molecules designed to grab cobalt from solutions. The study reveals the essential role of hydrogen bonding in developing new extraction methodologies.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateAug 4, 2020

Brace yourself for these results

Researchers at McMaster University isolated genes that cause some people to gain muscle while others don't through a novel experiment. A set of 141 genes regulates skeletal muscle growth, and isolating these genes may help target lifestyle and drug therapies to prevent muscle loss in older individuals.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 4, 2020

Developing a quicker, safer method of cleaning peanut butter factories

A new grant will fund the research, which aims to develop an effective and efficient cleaning method for peanut butter processing facilities. The technology has the potential to reduce cleaning time by nearly a week and minimize the risk of Salmonella contamination in peanut butter production.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateAug 4, 2020

How thoughts could one day control electronic prostheses, wirelessly

A team of researchers at Stanford University has made a breakthrough in developing a wireless brain-computer interface that can accurately control electronic prostheses using thoughts. The new technology uses a tenth of the power required by current wire-enabled systems, making it safer and more natural for patients with paralysis or n...

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateAug 4, 2020

Can sleep protect us from forgetting old memories?

Researchers used computational models to examine how sleep encodes new memories while preventing damage to old ones. The study suggests that memories, even old ones, are dynamic and constantly updated during sleep, which helps prevent forgetting and increases recall performance.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateAug 4, 2020

A 40-year journey leads to a new truffle species

A new species of red truffle was recently identified in Oregon, named Tuber luomae after researcher Dan Luoma who discovered it in 1981. The discovery was confirmed using DNA analysis and microscopic structures, revealing a unique species with limited geographic distribution.

SourceOregon State University·JournalFungal Systematics and Evolution·DateAug 4, 2020

Epidemic model shows how COVID-19 could spread through firefighting camps

A study developed by Colorado State University experts demonstrates the potential risks and various scenarios COVID-19 could pose for fire management. The model highlights the effectiveness of risk-mitigation strategies such as screening and social distancing measures in reducing infections.

SourceColorado State University·JournalFire·DateAug 4, 2020

FSU geologists publish new findings on carbonate melts in Earth's mantle

Researchers found that carbonate-rich molten rock can alter the physical properties of rocks, affecting seismic waves. The study provides new insights into the elasticity, density, and compressibility of these rocks, potentially revealing a substantial carbon reservoir in the Earth's deep upper mantle.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 4, 2020

Scientists discover new penguin colonies from space

A new study reveals nearly 20% more emperor penguin colonies in Antarctica, totaling 61 colonies worldwide. The discovery uses satellite images to locate the birds, which are vulnerable to climate change and loss of sea ice breeding habitat.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalRemote Sensing in Ecology and Conservation·DateAug 4, 2020