Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for February 21, 2020


How earthquakes deform gravity

A new algorithm can detect changes in gravity caused by earthquakes, potentially leading to earlier warnings and more accurate predictions. The signal is generated by the sudden shift in the earth's internal mass during an earthquake, and its detection could help identify strong earthquakes that may trigger tsunamis.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateFeb 21, 2020

Antidepressant harms baby neurons in lab-grown 'mini-brains'

Researchers use lab-grown 'mini-brains' to detect harmful side effects of paroxetine on developing brain cells, revealing reduced synapse growth and support-cell populations. The study suggests mini-brains as a promising alternative to animal testing for detecting neurodevelopmental effects of drugs.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalFrontiers in Cellular Neuroscience·DateFeb 21, 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.

Study detects abnormally low levels of a key protein in brains of young men with autism

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital used cutting-edge imaging technology to detect abnormally low levels of a key protein in the brains of young men with autism. The study suggests that these low levels may be linked to inflammation and metabolism, and could have important implications for understanding the origins of autism.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateFeb 21, 2020

New probe developed to detect a common target of anti-inflammatory drugs

Researchers at Beckman Institute have developed a new probe named CoxFluor that selectively detects Cyclooxygenase-2, an enzyme driving cancer progression. The probe's ability to distinguish between COX-2 and COX-1 could lead to innovative anti-inflammatory and cancer therapy strategies.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateFeb 21, 2020

Brain cells protect muscles from wasting away

Researchers found that a mere four glial cells in the worm's brain control the stress response in cells throughout its body, increasing lifespan by 75%. This discovery suggests that brain cells may play a crucial role in protecting muscles from wasting away, and potentially lead to new treatments for muscle atrophy and obesity.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateFeb 21, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Greener spring, warmer air

A recent study by the Institute of Atmospheric Physics found that advanced leaf-out timing enhances annual surface warming in the Northern Hemisphere. The study revealed that early sprouting and opening leaves intensify water vapor release, leading to snow and cloud cover anomalies in northern high latitudes.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 21, 2020

New torula yeast product as digestible as fish meal in weanling pig diets

A new University of Illinois study shows that amino acids from a torula yeast product are more digestible by young pigs than those from fish meal. The yeast-based protein ingredient was found to provide the same amount of digestible amino acids and metabolizable energy as fish meal, but with lower phosphorus content.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateFeb 21, 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.

Deciphering the mechanism that determines organ size and shape

Researchers at IRB Barcelona discovered that Dpp and Wg morphogens stimulate growth through independent pathways, regulating organ proportions. The findings have significant implications for understanding malformations and congenital diseases in humans.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 21, 2020

Guidelines for thyroid surgery published in Annals of Surgery

The American Association of Endocrine Surgeons has published comprehensive clinical guidelines for surgical treatment of thyroid disease in adults. The guidelines emphasize personalized, evidence-based care and focus on optimizing patient outcomes.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateFeb 21, 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.

TMI: More information doesn't necessarily help people make better decisions

A study found that people become less confident in their choices when faced with new information related to familiar topics like finances and health, suggesting a critical gap in understanding how new information interacts with prior knowledge. This highlights the need for tailored information based on individual mental models.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·DateFeb 21, 2020

Drug cocktail holds promise for spinal injuries

Researchers have found a combination of two existing medications that can trigger the release of stem cells from bone marrow, which can aid healing in spinal fractures. The study suggests using these drug combinations could speed up the repair process and potentially lead to new treatments for various bone fractures.

SourceImperial College London·Journalnpj Regenerative Medicine·DateFeb 21, 2020

A plan to save Earth's oceans

A University of Queensland-led international study found that at least 26% of the world's oceans need urgent conservation attention to preserve Earth's marine biodiversity. The study identified a total ocean area required for conservation varying from 26-41%, depending on species range conservation proportions.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalOne Earth·DateFeb 21, 2020

Samara Polytech scientists created 'smart' farming

The AI-based smart farming system helps farmers select crops, develop rotation plans, monitor fields, and adapt resources in real-time. The system aims to provide accuracy of 2.5 sm for precise machines to keep plants secure in wheat production.

SourceSamara Polytech (Samara State Technical University)·JournalCybernetics and Physics·DateFeb 21, 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.

For weight-loss surgery patients who quit smoking, relapse is common

A new study published in Annals of Surgery found that nearly all weight-loss surgery patients quit smoking at least a month before their operation, but the prevalence of smoking steadily climbs back to pre-surgery levels within seven years. The researchers suggest that ongoing support is needed to reduce and quickly respond to relapses.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateFeb 21, 2020

Osteosarcoma profiling reveals why immunotherapy remains ineffective

A new study has identified multiple factors contributing to osteosarcoma's poor responses to immunotherapy, including low immune cell infiltration and suppressed immune-stimulating neoantigens. The research provides insights into strategies for improving outcomes with immunotherapy in rare cancer types.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 21, 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.

Shaping the rings of molecules

Researchers at Université de Montrêl have successfully used biocatalysis to control the shapes of large ring molecules, called macrocycles. This breakthrough enables the creation of planar chiral macrocycles, which can be tailored for various applications including pharmaceuticals and electronics.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalScience·DateFeb 21, 2020

A better diagnosis of rare diabetes to adapt treatment

Scientists from UNIGE and HUG identify monogenic diabetes in 42% of pediatric patients, enabling tailored treatments. The study highlights the need for precision medicine to address chronic hyperglycemia, suggesting a systematic diagnosis approach to minimize long-term complications.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalDiabetes·DateFeb 21, 2020

New research challenges theory explaining the effects of diet on lifespan

Researchers found that switching to a rich diet after eating a restricted diet can decrease life expectancy and have negative effects on health. The study challenged the existing evolutionary theory, suggesting that dietary restriction triggers a survival strategy in humans and animals.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 21, 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.

Social isolation during adolescence drives long-term disruptions in social behavior

Research in animal models shows that social isolation during adolescence can lead to disruptions in social behavior and activity patterns of inhibitory neurons involved in social approach. Increasing activity of these neurons in adult animals restores normal social behavior. The study highlights the importance of social experience duri...

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 21, 2020

The practice of meditation leaves marks in the brain

Researchers at IMT School for Advanced Studies Lucca found that transcendental meditation reduces anxiety and stress levels. The study used fMRI to measure brain activity and connectivity in healthy young volunteers who practiced TM for three months.

SourceIMT School for Advanced Studies Lucca·JournalBrain and Cognition·DateFeb 21, 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.

Alcohol-induced deaths in US

According to a study published in JAMA Network Open, US alcohol-induced deaths rates declined from 2000 to 2016, but significant disparities remained among demographic groups. The study found that women, racial and ethnic minorities, and those living in rural areas were disproportionately affected by alcohol-related deaths.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 21, 2020

Where is the greatest risk to our mineral resource supplies?

The USGS report evaluates the global supply of and US demand for 52 mineral commodities between 2007 and 2016, identifying those posing the greatest supply risk. The top-risk minerals include rare earth elements, cobalt, niobium, and tungsten, which are crucial for mobile devices, renewable energy, aerospace, and defense applications.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 21, 2020

Major discovery in the genetics of Down syndrome

Researchers have made a major breakthrough in understanding the genetics of Down syndrome by identifying a new mechanism involved in its expression. The study found that RCAN1, a gene overexpressed in Down syndrome brains, regulates synaptic plasticity, which affects learning and memory.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 21, 2020

Frozen bird turns out to be 46,000-year-old horned lark

A 46,000-year-old horned lark found in Siberian permafrost has provided valuable insights into the evolution of sub species and the transformation of ecosystems during the last Ice Age. The analysis suggests that the bird belonged to a population that was a joint ancestor of two sub species of horned larks living today.

SourceStockholm University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateFeb 21, 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.

Bariatric surgery effective against early-onset obesity too

A new study from the University of Gothenburg shows that bariatric surgery is as effective for individuals who developed obesity early in life as it is for those who developed it later. The study found no difference in weight loss or obesity-related complications between the two groups.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalDiabetes Care·DateFeb 21, 2020

The integrated catalysts can simplify pharmaceutical manufacturing

Researchers from Pohang University of Science & Technology developed catalytic nanoreactors that can simplify the manufacturing process of fine chemicals like drugs and medicines. The new catalysts allow for multistep cascade reactions with high yields and optical activity.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 21, 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.

Opportunity blows for offshore wind in China

A recent study suggests that China's coastal provinces can be powered by offshore wind farms, potentially increasing the country's wind power capacity to meet its Paris Agreement goals. The research estimates that offshore wind could provide up to 6,000 terawatt-hours of electricity, equivalent to 200% of total energy demand.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 21, 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.

Intervention is essential for reducing loneliness and social isolation in ASD

Children with ASD can develop social relationships with peers if given appropriate help and guidance, according to a new study. The Preschool Peer Social Intervention (PPSI) has shown promising results in improving social engagement, play, and conversation skills among preschoolers with ASD.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateFeb 21, 2020

Essential oil components can be tested as drug candidates

Recent technical developments and restrictions on chemicals have renewed interest in natural product drug discovery. Essential oil components show promise as sources of new drugs due to their unique properties and potential therapeutic applications.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 21, 2020

Global database for Karst spring discharges

The World Karst Spring hydrograph dataset (WoKaS) offers a comprehensive collection of over 400 karst spring discharge data, providing valuable insights into the world's fastest-flowing groundwater. This database supports trend analyses, impact studies, and model evaluations for sustainable water management.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalScientific Data·DateFeb 21, 2020

Surgeons successfully treat brain aneurysms using a robot

Researchers successfully treated brain aneurysms using a robotic system, enabling precise stent and coil placement. The technology has the potential to deliver rapid care through remote robotics, improving patient outcomes and expanding access to cutting-edge care.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 21, 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.

Mental health challenges four times higher in young mothers

Two out of three young mothers have at least one mental health problem, with almost 40% having multiple issues including depression and anxiety. The study's findings can be used to develop better screening processes for this vulnerable population.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateFeb 21, 2020

Traditional biomass stoves shown to cause lung inflammation

A new study published in the Annals of the American Thoracic Society has found that traditional biomass stoves significantly increase indoor levels of harmful PM2.5 and carbon monoxide, leading to lung inflammation and potentially chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in developing nations.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateFeb 21, 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.

Study finds certain genetic test not useful in predicting heart disease risk

A study published in JAMA found that polygenic risk scores are not a reliable predictor of coronary heart disease (CHD) in patients, contradicting long-held expectations. The researchers analyzed data from over 7,000 adults and concluded that these genetic tests provide limited information about who will develop CHD.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 21, 2020

Secondary analysis confirms safety of blood thinning agent

A secondary analysis of the AUGUSTUS trial confirms that apixaban is safer than warfarin in patients with prior stroke or blood clot, while also reducing the risk of bleeding, hospitalization, and death. The study found that a strategy of apixaban plus a P2Y12 inhibitor without aspirin has the most favorable outcomes.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 21, 2020

Black phosphorous tunnel field-effect transistor as an alternative ultra-low power switch?

Researchers developed a black phosphorus transistor with 10-times lower switching power consumption and 10,000-times lower standby power consumption than conventional CMOS transistors. The transistor achieves record-low subthreshold swing values and high on-state current, paving the way to extend Moore's Law.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 21, 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.

NASA sees tropical cyclone 18p form near American Samoa

Tropical cyclone 18P has organized into a tropical depression near American Samoa, with maximum sustained winds of 30 knots. It is forecast to intensify into a tropical storm by Feb. 22 and then dissipate due to vertical wind shear.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 21, 2020

A genetic map for maize

Researchers have decoded a genetic map for maize, revealing how tropical varieties can be adapted to temperate climates. The study aims to improve the crop's resistance to emerging diseases and drought, ensuring global food security.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalGenetics·DateFeb 21, 2020

How decline in memory, gait speed are associated with dementia risk

A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that declines in both memory and gait speed are associated with an increased risk of dementia in adults 60 and older. The observational meta-analysis included six studies with over 8,700 participants from the US and Europe.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 21, 2020

Cross-talk between enzymes that read and correct recipes in the cookbook of life

Researchers have identified a novel mechanism for repairing genetic mistakes, which involve cross-talk between enzymes that read and correct DNA recipes. This discovery has significant implications for our understanding of cellular processes and the development of treatments for diseases such as cancer.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 21, 2020

Antibiotics in animals: More research urgently needed

A special issue of Animal Health Research Reviews examines the science behind antibiotic use in food-producing animals to prevent illness. Despite some effective interventions, the evidence base is inconsistent, and more research is urgently needed to guide decision-making on antibiotic stewardship.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalAnimal Health Research Reviews·DateFeb 21, 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.

Social accounting, a different perspective when analysing public spending efficiency

A new study by the ECRI group of the University of the Basque Country uses social accounting to measure the social value generated by Hospital Santa Marina in Bilbao. The analysis reveals a socio-emotional value of around 60 million euros per year, covering aspects such as patient care, staff support and community benefits.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalGaceta Sanitaria·DateFeb 21, 2020