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Science News for February 14, 2020


To help wildlife move, researchers map both natural and legal boundaries

To create more corridors for wildlife movement, researchers apply a new mapping system to areas next to streams in Okanogan County. The system uses weighted scales to rate naturalness and legal authority, helping organizations prioritize conservation projects and reveal potential areas of coordination.

SourceWashington State University·JournalConservation Biology·DateFeb 14, 2020

MCG physicians working to improve emergency care in rural Georgia

Emergency medicine physicians at MCG are equipping rural hospitals with mobile carts for remote consultation and basic diagnostic tests, guided by MCG physicians. This partnership aims to enable rural hospitals to provide higher-level emergency care, reducing transfers to larger hospitals.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateFeb 14, 2020

Vitamin E effective, safe for fatty liver in HIV patients

A recent study published in the journal AIDS found that vitamin E improves liver function and reduces fat in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and HIV. The treatment was well-tolerated and showed more significant improvements than reported in the general population.

SourceMcGill University·JournalAIDS·DateFeb 14, 2020

Unraveling mechanisms of ventricular enlargement linked to schizophrenia

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have identified two critical microRNAs driving ventricular enlargement in models of schizophrenia. Reduced expression of these microRNAs leads to increased motile cilia movement and brain ventricle enlargement, highlighting a potential target for future treatments.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 14, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tiny, erratic protein motor movements revealed

A Japanese research team has uncovered more about how proteins move using high-speed imaging to track dynein's movement along a microtubule. They found dynein moves erratically with frequent backward steps and side steps, challenging the conventional understanding of molecular motor tasks.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 14, 2020

A good blood supply is good for memory

A study by DZNE researchers found that a good blood supply to the hippocampus is crucial for healthy memory performance. Participants with doubly supplied hippocampi showed improved cognitive scores compared to those with single-supplied hippocampi or microbleeding, suggesting better oxygen delivery may be key.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalBrain·DateFeb 14, 2020

How did dinosaur parents know when their kids had a fever?

Research team led by Professor Hagit Affek analyzed chemical bonds in calcium carbonate minerals from fossilized eggs to calculate body temperatures of dinosaurs. Their study found that dinosaur body temperatures ranged from 35-40 degrees Celsius, suggesting endothermic characteristics.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 14, 2020

Galactic cosmic rays affect Titan's atmosphere

Scientists using ALMA detected chemical signatures of acetonitrile and its rare isotopomer in Titan's stratosphere, indicating the presence of galactic cosmic rays. The findings suggest a universal process that could influence atmospheres on other solar system bodies.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·DateFeb 14, 2020

TPU researchers discover how to improve safety of nuclear power plants

Researchers at Tomsk Polytechnic University found a way to extend nuclear fuel lifetime by 75% using a thorium-based cycle, significantly increasing safety and reducing costs in remote areas. This breakthrough could provide a stable energy supply solution for hard-to-reach regions.

SourceTomsk Polytechnic University·JournalNuclear Engineering and Design·DateFeb 14, 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.

AI helps predict heart attacks and stroke

Researchers developed an automated AI technique to analyse CMR scan images, precisely quantifying blood flow to the heart muscle. The results showed a strong correlation between reduced blood flow and adverse health outcomes, including death, heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalCirculation·DateFeb 14, 2020

Solar wind samples suggest new physics of massive solar ejections

A new study has refined our understanding of the amount of hydrogen, helium, and other elements present in violent outbursts from the Sun. The research found that helium and neon are enriched in coronal mass ejections, providing clues to the underlying physics in the Sun.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalMeteoritics and Planetary Science·DateFeb 14, 2020

Shedd & Jafari receive funding for Burma Leadership Activity

Researchers Juliette Shedd and Sheherazade R. Jafari are developing a graduate-level conflict resolution training course for Burma Leadership Activity scholars. The five-year project aims to improve technical competencies and leadership among participants, promoting respect for ethnic and religious diversity.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 14, 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.

Green tea extract combined with exercise reduces fatty liver disease in mice

Researchers found that green tea extract and exercise reduced fatty liver deposits by 75% in mice fed a high-fat diet, suggesting a potential health strategy for people. The study also showed increased gene expression related to energy metabolism in mice treated with both green tea extract and exercise.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry·DateFeb 14, 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.

Dartmouth's Chenfeng Ke wins Cram Lehn Pedersen Prize

Chenfeng Ke, an assistant professor at Dartmouth College, has been awarded the 2020 Cram Lehn Pedersen Prize for his groundbreaking work on supramolecular chemistry. His research focuses on developing dynamic systems and macroscopic machinery materials that operate cohesively at the molecular level.

SourceDartmouth College·DateFeb 14, 2020

Integrating renewable energy sources into the electricity grid

A Swansea-led team will assess the impact of integrating renewable energy sources on the UK power grid, focusing on harmonic generation and transfer. The research aims to develop accurate models for devices and power systems, combining detailed converter models with simplified representations.

SourceSwansea University·DateFeb 14, 2020

Low-cost 'smart' diaper can notify caregiver when it's wet

Researchers at MIT have developed a low-cost, disposable smart diaper that uses RFID technology to alert caregivers when a baby is wet. The sensor detects moisture and sends a signal to a nearby receiver, which can send a notification to a smartphone or computer.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Sensors Journal·DateFeb 14, 2020

New guidelines for hepatic failure in the intensive care unit

The new guidelines offer 29 evidence-based recommendations for managing adult acute and acute-on-chronic liver failure in the ICU, covering cardiovascular, hematologic, pulmonary, renal, and endocrine considerations. The guidelines also highlight areas needing further research to inform clinical practice.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2020

Vitamin C may shorten ventilation in critically ill patients

A meta-analysis of five controlled trials including 471 patients found that vitamin C administration shortened ventilation time by 25% on average, with the effect dependent on the severity of illness. Vitamin C has been shown to have various biochemical effects, including influencing cardiovascular and energy metabolism.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of Intensive Care·DateFeb 14, 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.

Bile duct cancer treatment potential boost from tailored medication -- study

Researchers discovered that hyper-activation of Notch and Wnt signalling is connected to dysregulation of PRH protein, which controls genes and signaling pathways. By tailoring medication according to individual PRH expression levels, clinical efficacy may be improved for patients with bile duct cancer.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalCancer Research·DateFeb 14, 2020

NSF CAREER award to measure air pollution with bicycle sensors

A Virginia Tech assistant professor has received an NSF CAREER award to develop a system measuring air pollution using bicycles and smartphones, aiming to educate citizens about pollution and promote cleaner habits. The project will also explore alternative urban design approaches to reduce exposure.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateFeb 14, 2020

Leaking away essential resources isn't wasteful, actually helps cells grow

Researchers used mathematical models to discover that leaking metabolites can provide both selfish and selfless benefits for cells. Leaking allows cells to enhance their growth by making internal chemical reactions more efficient, but it also enables a mutually beneficial exchange of nutrients with other cell types.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 14, 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.

Wayne State University team developing new treatments for Barth syndrome

A Wayne State University team, led by Miriam Greenberg, is working on potential new targets for treating Barth syndrome, a life-threatening X-linked genetic disorder affecting mainly males. The four-year grant aims to identify specific metabolites as candidates for new treatments.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateFeb 14, 2020

Double success for University drug resistance research

Researchers at Swansea University have published two international studies on antifungal drug resistance, which highlights the growing threat of this disease. The studies investigated different aspects of resistance and examined drug resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus, a fungus that causes life-threatening infections.

SourceSwansea University·JournalmBio·DateFeb 14, 2020

Algorithms 'consistently' more accurate than people in predicting recidivism, study says

A study by Stanford and UC Berkeley researchers found that algorithms are significantly more accurate than humans in predicting recidivism, approaching 90% accuracy. In contrast, human prediction rates were around 60%. The findings have important implications for criminal justice reform and the use of risk-assessment tools.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 14, 2020

CDI laboratory explores pathway to open up blood cancer treatments

Researchers at Hackensack Meridian Health's CDI laboratory have made a breakthrough in treating blood cancers, specifically leukemia. They identified a novel protein called Stem Cell Growth Factor Alpha (SCGFa), which has shown promise in preserving vascular function and promoting hematopoietic recovery following chemotherapy.

SourceHackensack Meridian Health·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 14, 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.

$1.7m in funding enhances UArizona's national aerodynamics reputation

The University of Arizona's wind tunnels will expand experiments on vehicles traveling at the speed of sound and faster, thanks to a $1.7 million funding boost. Researchers will now be able to study unsteady and separated flows in the transonic range, critical for developing future Army and Department of Defense systems.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateFeb 14, 2020

Air pollution's tiny particles may trigger nonfatal heart attacks, Yale study finds

A new study found that exposure to ultrafine particles in air pollution may trigger a nonfatal heart attack within hours. The research, published in Environmental Health Perspectives, analyzed data from over 5,900 patients in Germany and found stronger effects on health with particle length and surface area concentrations.

SourceYale School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateFeb 14, 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.

Subtle decline in cognition predicts progression to Alzheimer's pathology

Researchers found that subtle differences in cognitive performance can predict the progression of Alzheimer's disease, even before abnormal levels of beta-amyloid plaques accumulate. Low-cost, non-invasive cognitive testing can identify at-risk individuals, making them ideal candidates for therapeutic intervention and clinical trials.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateFeb 14, 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.

Underestimated chemical diversity

A new list of chemicals available worldwide contains 350,000 entries, three times greater than 20 years ago, highlighting a need for international collaboration to track global chemical diversity. The list reveals inadequate descriptions and confidential business information on 70,000 and 50,000 entries, respectively.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 14, 2020

5,200-year-old grains in the eastern Altai Mountains redate trans-Eurasian crop exchange

New discoveries push back dates for early farming in the region by at least a millennium, providing evidence of adaptable ancient crop plants to new ecological constraints. The study also illustrates how humans cultivated crops at northern latitudes, challenging previous views on cultivation and labor practices in ancient Eurasia.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature Plants·DateFeb 14, 2020

Looking for aliens who might be looking for us

Astronomers led by Penn State graduate student Sofia Sheikh conducted a massive survey of radio emissions from 20 nearby stars, looking for technological signatures of extraterrestrial civilizations. Despite finding no technosignatures, the analysis sets rigorous limits on the presence of advanced civilizations in our galaxy.

SourcePenn State·DateFeb 14, 2020

New findings from the Neotropics suggest contraction of the ITCZ

Research by the University of New Mexico team reveals contraction of the ITCZ leading to drying of the Neotropics, affecting billions worldwide. This study combines new data with existing records to resolve conflicting models on ITCZ variability, highlighting implications for rainfall-dependent agriculture and food security.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 14, 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.

For evolutionary study finds rare bats in decline, CCNY research

A study by CCNY researchers found that flying foxes are dwindling in population due to overhunting, with potential consequences for human health and ecosystem conservation. The findings highlight the critical role of islands in species evolution and diversity.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalJournal of Biogeography·DateFeb 14, 2020

Statewide prevalence of gun ownership tied to police use of lethal force

A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researcher Daniel S. Nagin found a strong positive correlation between statewide gun ownership and police use of lethal force, suggesting that more guns lead to more police shootings. The analysis also showed that access to trauma centers can lower rates of deaths in police encounters.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalThe Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science·DateFeb 14, 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.

New Dartmouth research: Fast food intake leads to weight gain in preschoolers

A new study published by Dartmouth's Geisel School of Medicine found a strong link between fast food consumption and weight gain in pre-school age children. The research followed over 500 children for one year and showed that eating fast food independently contributes to excess weight gain at this young age.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalPediatric Obesity·DateFeb 14, 2020

Brief bursts, big insights

Researchers developed a new method to analyze short beta wave bursts in real-time, associated with rats' movements and behavior. The study shows that increasing the recurrence of these bursts can improve motion control and neuroprosthetics.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalCommunications Biology·DateFeb 14, 2020

Our memory prefers essence over form

A study by UNIGE and CY Cergy Paris University reveals that our memory organises experiences based on structural features, rather than superficial similarities. This finding has significant implications for education, highlighting the need to focus on conceptual aspects of situations to help pupils make use of relevant features.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalActa Physiologica·DateFeb 14, 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.

New pathogenic mechanism for influenza NS1 protein found

Researchers found that the influenza NS1 protein can bind to the cell's RIG-I protein, quelling the alarm that activates the cellular innate immunity defense against infection. This newly described mechanism increases viral survival and highlights the need for better vaccines and antivirals.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 14, 2020

Iodide salts stabilize biocatalysts for fuel cells

Researchers have discovered that adding iodide salts to electrolytes can prevent hydrogen peroxide formation, leading to the stabilization of biocatalysts for fuel cells. This extends the life of catalysts, making them suitable for energy conversion processes such as solar fuel generation and electrosynthesis.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 14, 2020

Catalyst deposition on fragile chips

Researchers have developed a new method of depositing catalyst particles to tiny electrodes, providing a clean and easy-to-use approach for testing various catalyst materials. This innovative technique allows for the stable and reproducible application of different catalysts on liquid cell TEM chips.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 14, 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 technologies, strategies expanding search for extraterrestrial life

Emerging technologies are opening a new era in SETI research, with innovative approaches expanding beyond traditional radio signal searches. New systems will detect technosignatures, such as laser emissions or atmospheric chemicals, indicating the presence of extraterrestrial technologies.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateFeb 14, 2020

Tennessee infants exposed to hepatitis C at birth often not tested for virus

A recent study published in Pediatrics found that fewer than 1 in 4 Tennessee infants exposed to hepatitis C at birth were tested, highlighting inadequate testing rates. The study also revealed disparities in testing rates based on the mother's racial background, with African American mothers being tested less frequently.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 14, 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.

WWI helmets protect against shock waves just as well as modern designs

Biomedical engineers at Duke University found that historical helmets can provide similar protection from blast-induced brain trauma as modern ones. The French Adrian helmet demonstrated superior performance in protecting the brain from overhead blasts, with its crest feature potentially playing a key role.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 14, 2020

Advancing an oral drug for pulmonary arterial hypertension

Scientists have created a protein drug composed of angiotensin converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) and its product angiotensin (1-7) that can be taken orally to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension. The drug has shown promise in animal models, reducing pulmonary artery pressure and improving cardiac function.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalBiomaterials·DateFeb 14, 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.

Demonstration of world record transmission capacity over a 38-core 3-mode optical fiber

Researchers have successfully demonstrated a world record transmission capacity of 10.66 peta-bit per second over a 38-core 3-mode optical fiber, achieving a spectral efficiency of 1158.7 bits per second per Hz. This breakthrough enables a drastic increase in data-rate per fiber for intra- and inter data-center communication.

SourceNational Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT)·DateFeb 14, 2020

The catalyst that removes CO2 and produces hydrocarbons

Researchers develop a catalyst that accelerates CO2 conversion into simple chemicals, transforming greenhouse gas into useful products for industry. The technology uses water electrolysers with a polymer coating to facilitate CO2 transport, increasing productivity and efficiency.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalScience·DateFeb 14, 2020

University of Montana researchers study how birds retweet news

Researchers at the University of Montana studied how black-capped chickadees and red-breasted nuthatches encode information in their calls, revealing that they can distinguish between direct and indirect threats. The study suggests that birds are capable of sophisticated decision-making and avoiding spreading false information.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalNature·DateFeb 14, 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.

Electrons in rapid motion

Scientists successfully track oscillations with a period of about 150 attoseconds, revealing the temporal decay of quantum interference. This experiment paves the way for new applications in studying atomic and molecular processes triggered by high-energy radiation.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 14, 2020

Computer-generated genomes

The Christen Lab has successfully produced a fully artificial genome, the Caulobacter ethensis-2.0, with over 580 functional genes. This breakthrough demonstrates the promise of synthetic biology in producing designer genomes for industrial and health applications.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 14, 2020

Deconstructing Schrödinger's cat

Laloë's theory combines adding a random term to the Schrödinger equation with another concept from de Broglie and Bohm, relating quantum collapse to the universal gravitational field. This approach can be applied to both macroscopic objects like cats and atoms.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateFeb 14, 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.

Sikdar, Chitnis & Diao studying upper limb prosthetics

The researchers aim to develop a compact sonomyographic prosthetic system that can provide robust control signals proportional to muscle activity. They plan to evaluate the system's performance compared to existing methods, including clinical outcome measures and user satisfaction questionnaires.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 14, 2020

Jones & Van Aken monitoring water quality for city of Fairfax

Researchers R. Christian Jones and Benoit Van Aken are conducting stream monitoring for the City of Fairfax, analyzing parameters such as dissolved oxygen, pH, and E. coli levels. The study will provide data to support the city's VA Pollution Discharge Elimination System permit requirements.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 14, 2020

How social media makes breakups that much worse

A new study from the University of Colorado Boulder found that social media makes breakups harder to get distance from due to constant reminders and encounters with exes. Even when users take measures to remove their exes from their online lives, social media returns them multiple times a day.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction·DateFeb 14, 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.

Early treatment for PTSD after a disaster has lasting effects

A long-term UCLA-led study of Armenian earthquake survivors found that early psychotherapy significantly improved depression and PTSD symptoms in adolescents, with benefits continuing into adulthood. Factors such as social support and chronic medical illnesses also played a role in the development of PTSD and depression.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2020

Mapping the landscape of citizen science

A new report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine explores the role of citizen science in supporting science learning and education. The study found that citizen science can facilitate large-scale research, provide opportunities for diverse perspectives, and enhance science education when designed with inc...

SourceArizona State University·DateFeb 14, 2020

Major study shows climate change can cause abrupt impacts on dryland ecosystems

A major study reveals that climate change can cause abrupt changes in dryland ecosystems, resulting in drastic reductions in plant productivity, soil fertility, and vegetation loss. The study found three phases of accelerated ecosystem change in response to increasing aridity, with thresholds above a certain level leading to system col...

SourceSwansea University·JournalScience·DateFeb 14, 2020

Molecule offers hope for halting Parkinson's

Researchers have discovered a promising molecule, BT13, that may slow or stop Parkinson's disease. By increasing dopamine levels and protecting brain cells, BT13 has shown promise in treating the condition.

SourceParkinson's UK·JournalMovement Disorders·DateFeb 14, 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.

Novel formulation permits use of toxin from rattlesnake venom to treat chronic pain

Researchers have developed a novel formulation that reduces the toxicity of crotoxin, a toxin from rattlesnake venom, and enhances its analgesic effect. In an animal model of neuropathic pain, the formulation demonstrated promising results, with longer-lasting analgesic effects compared to traditional treatments.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalToxins·DateFeb 14, 2020

Coral reefs: Centuries of human impact

Long-standing human stressors like agricultural run-off and overfishing have contributed to coral reef die-offs. Coral communities were being transformed by human activities much earlier than previously thought, according to recent studies.

SourceArizona State University·DateFeb 14, 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.

Researchers were not right about left brains

Researchers measured brain asymmetry in humans and great apes, finding a shared pattern in brain shape and connectivity. Humans exhibited greater variability in brain asymmetry than expected, suggesting increased functional modularization.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 14, 2020

Differences in airway size develop during puberty, new study finds

A new study by the University of Waterloo found that hormonal changes around puberty cause sex differences in airway size, which can impact exercise performance and the development of respiratory diseases like COPD and asthma. Larger airways in males generally led to better breathing efficiency compared to females.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalExperimental Physiology·DateFeb 14, 2020

Scientists reveal catalytic mechanism of lovastatin hydrolase

The study reveals the structure-function relationship of the specific and efficient lovastatin hydrolase PcEST, which determines its efficient and specific lovastatin hydrolysis. A variant of PcEST improved solubility and thermostability, suggesting a promising application in industrial processes for green production of monacolin J.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 14, 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.

New CRISPR-based tool can probe and control several genetic circuits at once

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a CRISPR-Cas tool that can detect and debug faulty genetic circuits, facilitating more precise treatments for diseases like cancer. The technology allows for greater precision in identifying and eliminating diseased cells, with potential applications beyond cancer treatment.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 14, 2020

A prescription for the pain of rejection: Acetaminophen and forgiveness

Research suggests that taking acetaminophen with a tendency to forgive can reduce social pain by influencing pain signaling in the brain. Forgiveness also lessens feelings of stress and anger following experiences of social exclusion. The combination may provide an antidote to the emotional and physical pains of rejection.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Behavioral Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2020

New technology for pathogen detection driven by lasers

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a lanthanide-based assay coupled with a laser to detect toxins and pathogenic E. coli in various samples. The technology uses a high-powered laser pulse to obliterate a sample, collecting spectral signatures that are compared to a database for identification.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateFeb 14, 2020

Research reveals unique reproductive trait for seagrass

Research reveals that seagrass species have evolved a winged seed trait that harnesses underwater currents to hold it on the seafloor for rooting. This adaptation allows seeds to maintain their position until they can grow anchoring roots, providing valuable insights for seagrass restoration efforts.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 14, 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.

Cobalt-based catalysts promise to enhance heavy oil extraction

Researchers at Kazan Federal University developed cobalt-based catalysts that improve heavy oil refinement by breaking down asphaltene-resinous compounds. The study found a decrease in asphaltenes' molecular masses and sulfur content, leading to improved oil viscosity.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalJournal of Petroleum Science and Engineering·DateFeb 14, 2020

WHO underestimates the spread of the coronavirus

Researchers at Umeå University reviewed 12 studies on coronavirus transmissibility, finding it to be significantly higher than WHO estimates. The reproduction number calculated from these studies ranges from 2.79 to 3.28, indicating a high risk of rapid spread.

SourceUmea University·JournalJournal of Travel Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2020

Habitat fragmentation imperils Madagascar's large-bodied lemurs

A recent study highlights the urgent need for reforestation and conservation efforts to protect Madagascar's unique lemur species, with over 95% threatened with extinction. Habitat fragmentation has been found to negatively impact lemur populations, particularly folivores, emphasizing the importance of on-the-ground conservation action.

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·JournalAmerican Journal of Primatology·DateFeb 14, 2020