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Science News for July 16, 2020


Improving lung cancer CT screening performance in real-world settings

The study found that focusing on subjects less likely to remain in the program, such as smokers and those with negative low-dose CT exams, improves cost-effectiveness and maximizes societal benefits. Adherence increased progressively with higher Lung-RADS categories, and having smoked previously was a significant predictor of adherence.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateJul 16, 2020

Self-eating decisions

A new study reveals that nutrient-starved cells do not preferentially recycle ribosomes through autophagy, but instead degrade a small number of other organelles. Cells have mechanisms to control what they recycle, allowing them to maintain essential building blocks under limited nutrients.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateJul 16, 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.

Air pollution from wildfires linked to higher death rates in patients with kidney failure

Exposure to high levels of fine particulate air pollution from wildfires is associated with a 4% higher death rate among patients with kidney failure. Patients with kidney failure are particularly susceptible to the effects of wildfire smoke, highlighting the need for research into managing exposure during wildfire episodes.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 16, 2020

When many act as one, data-driven models can reveal key behaviors

Researchers from Rice University and the University of Georgia have developed a method to assess individual contributions to collective behavior using data science. By analyzing experimental data about individual cell movements, they uncovered unexpected patterns and signals associated with emergence in cooperative bacteria.

SourceRice University·JournalmSystems·DateJul 16, 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.

When power is toxic: Dominance reduces influence in groups

A new study shows that dominant individuals can actually reduce influence in groups, especially when individuals have a choice about who to follow. In contrast, passive individuals wield the greatest influence in bringing a group to consensus.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 16, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Machining the heart: New predictor for helping to beat chronic heart failure

Researchers from Kanazawa University developed a new predictor using machine learning to identify patients at risk of sudden arrhythmic cardiac death and heart failure death. The model uses iodine-123 labelled MIBG and standard clinical tests to discriminate between high-risk and low-risk patients.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalJournal of Nuclear Cardiology·DateJul 16, 2020

UIC awarded $22 million for translational research from NIH

The University of Illinois Chicago's Center for Clinical and Translational Science received $22 million in funding to support multidisciplinary research bridging science labs and patient care. The center has helped train hundreds of researchers and staff, with a strong focus on addressing health disparities and community needs.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateJul 16, 2020

Membrane technology could cut emissions and energy use in oil refining

Researchers develop polymer membrane technology to replace heat-based distillation processes, reducing carbon emissions and energy intensity. The new method could enable a hybrid refining system that significantly reduces energy consumption compared to traditional refining processes.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateJul 16, 2020

New webinar series will highlight benefits of animal-free antibodies for COVID-19

The PETA International Science Consortium Ltd. has co-launched a six-part webinar series focusing on the applications and benefits of animal-free recombinant antibodies for COVID-19 treatment and research. Experts from industry, government, and academia will share their work on human-relevant, non-animal testing strategies.

SourcePeople for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)·DateJul 16, 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.

Timing key in understanding plant microbiomes

Researchers at Oregon State University have found that the order of microorganisms colonizing plants has a significant impact on microbiome composition and disease susceptibility. This discovery could provide farmers with important tools to combat plant diseases and maintain crop diversity.

SourceOregon State University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 16, 2020

Immediate dialysis no better than wait-until-necessary approach, researchers find

A large international study found that starting dialysis early in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury did not reduce mortality after three months. The accelerated renal-replacement therapy strategy did not show significant difference in survival between the two treatment approaches.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 16, 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.

CBD may help avert lung destruction in COVID-19

Researchers found that CBD can help reduce cytokine storm and excessive lung inflammation caused by COVID-19. The study suggests that CBD may enable lungs to recover from damage, potentially reducing the need for mechanical ventilation.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalCannabis and Cannabinoid Research·DateJul 16, 2020

A simple laboratory test can aid in early recognition of COVID-19 in patients

A simple laboratory test, the eosinophil count from a routine complete blood cell count (CBC), can aid in early diagnosis and provide prognostic information for COVID-19 patients. Persistent low counts correlated with poor prognosis and high disease severity.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateJul 16, 2020

Combating drug resistance in age-related macular degeneration

A team of researchers has developed a potential approach to overcome anti-VEGF resistance in patients with age-related macular degeneration. By combining apolipoprotein A-I binding protein (AIBP) with anti-VEGF, the strategy effectively suppresses choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and reduces drug resistance.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJul 16, 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.

Genome guardians stop and reel in DNA to correct replication errors

Research from NC State University reveals how MutL and MutS proteins create an immobile structure to prevent replication errors, reducing errors by a thousand-fold. The complex also prevents mismatched regions from being packed back into the cell during division.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 16, 2020

Assess the effects of alcohol control policies in the Baltics

A new international research project aims to evaluate the impact of alcohol control policies on morbidity and mortality in Lithuania and other Baltic states. The study, led by CAMH and the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, will investigate the effectiveness of policy interventions implemented between 2016 and 2018.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·DateJul 16, 2020

Revealing Brazil's rotten agribusinesses

A peer-reviewed study published in Science finds that 18-22% of Brazil's annual soy exports to the European Union are potentially contaminated with illegal deforestation. The study identifies specific producers responsible for 'poisoning the barrel' and estimates greenhouse gas emissions from deforestation-linked soy and beef exports.

SourceBurness·JournalScience·DateJul 16, 2020

Composing creativity: Children benefit from new painting materials

New research reveals that children's paintings contain valuable insights into their cognitive development, spatial relationships, and artistic abilities. Digital image analysis technology helps identify areas of improvement in art education, such as focusing on object size, composition, and creative methods.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalHealthcare·DateJul 16, 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.

Will telehealth services become the norm following COVID-19 pandemic?

The rapid adoption of telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns about care quality and safety. Experts warn that integrating essential components of traditional doctor visits into virtual care poses challenges, including physical exams, lab work, and imaging. However, telehealth also holds promise for improvi...

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateJul 16, 2020

ATS publishes new guidance on safely restoring elective pulmonary and sleep services

The American Thoracic Society has published a guidance document to help clinicians restore elective in-person pulmonary and sleep services. The guidance provides recommendations for resuming services, prioritizing patients, and implementing infection control measures to mitigate the risk of viral transmission.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateJul 16, 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.

Ethical recommendations for triage of COVID-19 patients

Medical ethicists warn against premature COVID-19 triage, citing concerns over fairness and strain on patients and medical personnel. The experts advocate for increased regional, national, and international collaboration in intensive care to avoid shortages.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalThe American Journal of Bioethics·DateJul 16, 2020

Breeding new rice varieties will help farmers in Asia

Researchers have identified key agronomic traits for high yield in short-duration rice, which can enhance source capacity during grain filling. The new breeding lines yielded 11-38% higher than the most popular short-duration variety, indicating enormous potential for developing improved varieties.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateJul 16, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A new randomized trial published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that hydroxychloroquine showed no benefit in reducing symptom severity or duration in outpatients with early, mild COVID-19. The study suggests that the treatment may not be effective in populations at higher risk for severe COVID-19.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 16, 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.

Pre-brain surgery test protects language in some tumors

A pre-brain surgery test using navigated repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (nrTMS) accurately maps language centers in patients with brain tumors not involved in these areas. The method's accuracy varies depending on tumor involvement, but it shows promise for improving surgical planning and patient outcomes.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 16, 2020

Megaphages harbor mini-Cas proteins ideal for gene editing

Researchers have discovered a compact Cas protein, CasΦ, in megaphages, which could make gene editing easier and more efficient. This protein targets specific regions of DNA with high accuracy and can cut both single-stranded and double-stranded DNA, making it a promising tool for crop improvement and disease treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateJul 16, 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.

When you're 84...What should life look like as we age?

Dr. Lewis A. Lipsitz outlines his vision for a healthy longevity at 84, emphasizing the need for social connections, sense of purpose, and accessible healthcare. He envisions multigenerational communities with technology-enabled support, affordable housing, and community-based health services.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJul 16, 2020

New test offers clarity for couples struggling to conceive

A new male fertility test, Cap-Score, has been developed to predict which men need treatment and which couples might have success with different forms of assisted reproduction. The test quantifies sperm capacitation ability, enabling doctors and couples to make informed decisions about their fertility.

SourceCornell University·JournalReproductive BioMedicine Online·DateJul 16, 2020

Exotic neutrinos will be difficult to ferret out

An international team of physicists has analyzed comprehensive data from over a dozen subatomic experiments to investigate right-handed neutrinos. The analysis reveals significant challenges in detecting these particles, but also suggests a possible connection to dark matter.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalThe European Physical Journal C·DateJul 16, 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.

Quantum simulation: Particle behavior near the event horizon of block hole

Researchers used femtosecond laser direct write technology to simulate curved space-time near a black hole. They observed accelerated single-photon wave packets and fermion pairs escaping the black hole, mimicking Hawking radiation. This experiment demonstrates the potential for quantum simulation in studying general relativity.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJul 16, 2020

Over $10 million awarded to Penn State for energy center

The US Department of Energy has awarded Penn State over $10 million to develop new ferroelectric memory materials that can be stacked in the third dimension above processor chips. This breakthrough technology aims to mitigate the von Neumann bottleneck, allowing for seamless communication between memory and computation.

SourcePenn State·DateJul 16, 2020

Chest x-rays show more severe COVID-19 in non-white patients

A study found that non-white patients with COVID-19 have more severe disease on chest X-rays, increasing the likelihood of adverse outcomes. Limited English proficiency and socioeconomic factors contribute to these disparities.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJul 16, 2020

Beautyberry leaf extract restores drug's power to fight 'superbug'

Scientists have discovered a compound in the American beautyberry leaves that works in combination with oxacillin to knock down resistance to the drug methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA. The study suggests a new potential therapy for treating antibiotic-resistant infections.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalACS Infectious Diseases·DateJul 16, 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.

Research helping to improve detection of disease in newborn babies

Researchers at the University of Alberta and Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas developed a new method to analyze urinary metabolome in healthy newborns. The study provides reference data for 86 previously unmeasured chemicals in newborn urine, enabling more accurate diagnoses.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalMetabolites·DateJul 16, 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.

Streamlining quantum information transmission

Researchers have developed a method to reduce noise and resources required for quantum information transmission, paving the way for a quantum internet. Quantum multiplexing allows for the combination of multiple pieces of information into one photon, reducing the need for separate stamps and enabling significant resource reduction.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 16, 2020

New evidence for a dynamic metallocofactor during nitrogen gas reduction

Researchers at the University of California, Irvine have discovered a key mechanism in breaking down nitrogen gas, a crucial step towards developing more efficient and sustainable methods. The breakthrough could lead to cheaper and more energy-efficient ways to produce fertilizers and alternative fuels.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalScience·DateJul 16, 2020

Some decontamination processes damage N95 face masks

Certain decontamination methods for reusable N95 face masks can significantly impair their effectiveness. Research found that treatments using high concentrations of gas plasma hydrogen peroxide or longer processing times degrade filtration performance. In contrast, vaporized hydrogen peroxide sterilizers and shorter decontamination cy...

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateJul 16, 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.

Finding hints at novel target for Ewing sarcoma therapy

Scientists have discovered a potential new target for treating Ewing sarcoma, a childhood cancer that affects the bone and soft tissue. The researchers found that an imbalance in genetic code-reading machines causes nucleoli to break up into smaller entities in Ewing sarcoma.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNature·DateJul 16, 2020

Divining monsoon rainfall months in advance with satellites and simulations

The research team created better climate model simulations that predict variation in monsoon rainfall the following season, with improved forecasts for the Indian subcontinent. The new model uses complementary satellite data to quantify the connection between snow pack characteristics and monsoon strength over the Asian monsoon region.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 16, 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.

'Blinking" crystals may convert CO2 into fuels

Researchers at Rutgers University have created ultra-small nanoparticles that exhibit unusual blinking behavior, which could help produce methane and other fuels. The crystals, composed of titanium dioxide, stay charged for tens of seconds, enabling potential applications in environmental cleanups, sensors, and electronic devices.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateJul 16, 2020

Wonders of animal migration: How sea turtles find small, isolated islands

Researchers tracked green sea turtles migrating long distances in the Indian Ocean to small oceanic islands, revealing that they can redirect in the open ocean at a crude level. The study provides evidence of a map sense with open ocean reorientation, allowing turtles to fine-tune their navigation.

SourceSwansea University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 16, 2020

Polymers self-assembling like links of a chain for innovative materials

Researchers have successfully created supramolecular poly-catenanes through molecular self-assembly, forming hierarchical structures composed of interconnected rings. The nano-poly[n]catenanes exhibit unprecedented physical properties and potential applications in molecular machines and active materials.

SourcePolitecnico di Torino·JournalNature·DateJul 16, 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.

GW researcher awarded $3.6 million to investigate HIV antibody treatments

A GW-led research team is investigating HIV-1 resistance to antibody treatments, aiming to develop effective combination therapies for treatment, prevention, and potential cure. The project, funded through April 2025, aims to identify effective combination antibody cocktails that limit the virus's ability to escape from antibody pressure.

SourceGeorge Washington University·DateJul 16, 2020

Studying small to learn big

Dien Nguyen investigates nucleon interactions at short distances in both heavy and light nuclei during her fellowship. Her research will expand on previous findings, providing insights into neutron stars and the behavior of protons and neutrons inside atomic nuclei.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateJul 16, 2020

Does "naming and shaming" of colleges with large tuition increases make a difference?

A study published in Educational Evaluation and Policy Analysis found that institutions included in the College Affordability and Transparency Center lists did not change their pricing policies or students' enrollment decisions. The findings suggest that relying on students to seek out affordability information is unlikely to influence...

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Evaluation and Policy Analysis·DateJul 16, 2020

Oral herpes rates are falling in children

Research published in BMJ Global Health suggests that oral herpes rates are falling among European children and young people. The prevalence of the virus is declining by 1% per year, with more than two-thirds of the population testing positive for HSV-1, but risks increasing sexually in adulthood.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateJul 16, 2020
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Yale researchers discover potential treatment for rare degenerative disease

Wolfram Syndrome is a progressive degenerative disease characterized by diabetes, psychiatric symptoms, loss of vision, deafness, and incontinence. Yale researchers have discovered a potential treatment involving two existing drugs that restore calcium signaling and improve cell functions.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 16, 2020

New very short-lived isotope222Np is observed

A team of scientists at the Chinese Academy of Sciences has discovered a new, very short-lived isotope of neptunium, confirming the existence of the N = 126 shell in Np isotopes. The study used alpha-decay spectroscopy to identify the new isotope, which was produced through fusion reactions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 16, 2020

New map for radioactive soil contamination in Western Europe

A new study maps caesium and plutonium radionuclide concentrations in Swiss soils, tracing sources of nuclear fallout from 1960 to 2009. The research uses a caesium/plutonium ratio calculation method to distinguish between nuclear test fallout and the Chernobyl accident.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 16, 2020

Industry-made pits are beneficial for beavers and wolverines, study shows

A study by University of Alberta ecologists reveals that industry-created borrow pits provide homes for beavers, supporting the survival of wolverines. The research, funded by various organizations, highlights the unexpected benefits of industrial development on local wildlife habitats.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·DateJul 16, 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.

Training center to focus on human-robot interaction

The QUT Centre for Robotics will train researchers, engineers, and manufacturers with expertise to boost safety, quality, and productivity. The five-year centre will develop collaborative robotics applications to help Australian manufacturers compete globally.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateJul 16, 2020

Un-natural mRNAs modified with sulfur atoms boost efficient protein synthesis

Researchers have developed modified mRNAs with sulfur atoms that accelerate protein synthesis by at least 20 times, paving the way for efficient protein production and mRNA therapeutics. This breakthrough has significant implications for medical treatments, including vaccine therapy and protein replacement therapy.

SourceJapan Science and Technology Agency·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 16, 2020

Tuning frontal polymerization for diverse material properties

The new method enables a wider range of materials with better control over their thermal and mechanical properties. Researchers used a mixture of two monomers to create materials tailored for various applications, including tires.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalACS Macro Letters·DateJul 16, 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.

Ultra-black skin allows some fish to lurk unseen

Researchers have discovered that at least 16 species of deep-sea fish have evolved ultra-black skin that absorbs most of the light, allowing them to blend in and avoid detection. The unique shape and arrangement of melanosomes in these fish's skin cells enables this remarkable camouflage.

SourceDuke University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 16, 2020

Pioneering method reveals dynamic structure in HIV

Physicists at University of Utah pioneered a method to image virus-like particles in real time, revealing the lattice's dynamic nature. The discovery opens up potential new therapies by understanding how Gag and GagPol proteins rearrange, leading to viral maturation.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateJul 16, 2020

Fish reef domes a boon for environment, recreational fishing

Research by UNSW Sydney and NSW DPI Fisheries found that artificial reefs in estuaries with limited natural reef can increase fish abundance significantly. The study revealed a 20-fold increase in fish populations in the reef areas compared to bare sand habitats, benefiting recreational fishing and environmental conservation.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJul 16, 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.

Can high-quality coral genomes be used to predict bleaching events?

Researchers used high-quality coral genomes to study variable responses to climate change and identify genetic variants associated with bleaching. They found a polygenic risk score could predict bleaching potential in the wild, while also revealing genetic diversity in heat stress response genes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 16, 2020

Dangerous blood clots form in leg arteries of COVID-19 patients

Researchers found COVID-19 patients with symptoms of inadequate blood supply to the lower extremities had larger clots and higher rates of amputation and death. In contrast, those with only leg symptoms were more likely to avoid amputation or death.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJul 16, 2020

Weaving Indigenous knowledge with scientific research: a balanced approach

A review in European Geosciences Union's journal offers a roadmap for weaving Indigenous knowledge with modern research, focusing on the geosciences. This approach can provide insights into events erased from the geological record and support native communities in making informed decisions about potential hazards on their ancestral lands.

SourceEuropean Geosciences Union·JournalEarth Surface Dynamics·DateJul 16, 2020

Blood vessels communicate with sensory neurons to decide their fate

Researchers at Universitat Pompeu Fabra discovered that blood vessels communicate with sensory neurons through dynamic protrusions, allowing them to regulate cell growth and maintenance of stem cells. This communication is crucial for the development and regeneration of the peripheral nervous system.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 16, 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.

Blood iron levels could be key to slowing ageing, gene study shows

Scientists identify ten regions of the genome linked to long lifespan, healthspan, and longevity, finding a potential link between iron metabolism and healthy aging. The study's findings suggest that maintaining healthy levels of iron in the blood could be key to slowing aging and living longer.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 16, 2020

Genetics could help protect coral reefs from global warming

A new study from Columbia University provides a blueprint for using genomics to help combat climate change by identifying corals that can adapt to warmer seas. Researchers analyzed genetic data from 237 samples collected at 12 locations along the Great Barrier Reef, finding multiple genetic variants associated with bleaching tolerance.

SourceColumbia University·JournalScience·DateJul 16, 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.

A "feeling" for dementia?

A study of 449 older adults found that individuals with subjective felt memory problems also exhibited measurable cognitive deficits associated with Alzheimer's disease. The findings suggest that early diagnosis and therapy development could benefit from these results.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalNeurology·DateJul 16, 2020

More porn, worse erectile function

A study of 3267 men found that watching porn is associated with greater erectile dysfunction and lower satisfaction with sex. The research suggests that the type of porn watched may contribute to impaired erectile function, with 23% of men under-35 experiencing some level of erectile dysfunction.

SourceEuropean Association of Urology·DateJul 16, 2020

Healthy offspring from testicular tissue plantation in mice: Retinoic acid key

Testicular tissue transplantation combined with retinoic acid administration successfully produces healthy offspring in mice, offering a potential method for preserving/recovering male fertility. The researchers' findings suggest that this approach may be effective in humans without adverse effects on pregnant mothers.

SourceShinshu University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 16, 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.

Heat stress: The climate is putting European forests under sustained pressure

A comprehensive analysis of the consequences of the 2018 drought and heat event in European forests reveals that even drought-resistant tree species suffered long-term damage. The study suggests that future scenarios require redesigning forests to combat heat and drought, and new analytical approaches are needed to track tree mortality...

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalBasic and Applied Ecology·DateJul 16, 2020

Recognising fake images using frequency analysis

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum developed a new method for efficiently identifying deep-fake images by analyzing objects in the frequency domain. The study found that images generated by GANs exhibit artefacts in the high-frequency range, which can be used to distinguish them from real photos.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateJul 16, 2020

Cancer cells in inhospitable brain fluids hijack iron to survive

Researchers discovered that cancer cells with high-affinity iron collection systems collect iron more efficiently than healthy macrophages, allowing them to survive in nutrient-deprived CSF environments. This mechanism enables LM cells to evade immune attack by limiting the supply of vital iron to patrolling macrophages.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 16, 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.

Scientists discover how deep-sea, ultra-black fish disappear

Researchers found a unique arrangement of pigment-packed granules in the skin of certain deep-sea fish, enabling them to absorb nearly all light. This discovery may lead to the development of more efficient ultra-black materials for optical technology and camouflage.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 16, 2020

Opium linked with more deaths after bypass surgery

A large study found that continuing opium use after bypass surgery increases the risk of death, heart attack, and other adverse events. Stopping opium use is safe and may even be beneficial, according to researchers.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateJul 16, 2020

Phantom-limb pain reduced through brain power

A study published in Neurology found that training with a brain-computer-interface can significantly reduce phantom-limb pain in amputees. After just three days of training, patients experienced a 30% reduction in pain intensity, and the effect lasted up to five days after training was complete.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNeurology·DateJul 16, 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.

Avoiding food contamination with a durable coating for hard surfaces

Researchers have created a durable coating using titanium dioxide that can eliminate foodborne germs such as salmonella and E. coli on stainless steel surfaces. The coating, which is also food-safe, provides an additional layer of protection against cross-contamination in meat processing plants.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalMaterials Chemistry and Physics·DateJul 16, 2020

Rare mutation of TP53 gene leaves people at higher risk for multiple cancers

Researchers have identified a rare mutation of the TP53 gene that leaves individuals at a higher risk of developing multiple types of cancer over their lifetime. This mutation is most commonly found in the Ashkenazi Jewish population and may confer a lower lifetime risk compared to classic Li-Fraumeni syndrome.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCancer Research·DateJul 16, 2020

A population of asteroids of interstellar origin inhabits the Solar System

Scientists at São Paulo State University identify 19 Centaurs of interstellar origin with highly inclined orbits, suggesting they formed around other stars and were later captured by the Solar System. This discovery sheds light on the formation of the Solar System and the chemical enrichment of the Sun.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 16, 2020

Widely used blood test could advance heart failure treatment

Researchers developed a new use for a common blood test to adjust T3 dosage, suggesting improved cardiac function and reversal of heart failure genes. The study suggests that brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels can be used to titrate T3 required, providing a potentially life-saving treatment for heart failure.

SourceNew York Institute of Technology·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateJul 16, 2020

Patients with substance use disorder discriminated against by post-acute care facilities

A study by Boston Medical Center found that 29% of private post-acute care facilities in Massachusetts explicitly discriminated against hospitalized individuals with opioid use disorder, rejecting their referral for admission. The rejections were often due to a substance use disorder diagnosis or treatment with buprenorphine or methadone.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalJournal of Addiction Medicine·DateJul 16, 2020

Analysis finds multiple social disadvantages magnify stroke risk

A new study published in Stroke Journal found that having multiple social disadvantages can increase stroke risk by 50% or more. Researchers analyzed data from over 27,000 adults and found that those with three or more social determinants of health were nearly two and a half times more likely to experience an incident stroke.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJul 16, 2020

eDNA technology more effective in monitoring salmon runs: SFU research

Researchers at Simon Fraser University are using eDNA technology to monitor salmon populations, which is expected to be more efficient and cost-effective than traditional methods. The study aims to compare eDNA samples with human fish counts to determine the most effective method for monitoring upriver migration of Pacific wild salmon.

SourceSimon Fraser University·DateJul 16, 2020

Study: Dangerous parasite controls host cell to spread around body

Researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine have discovered how the Toxoplasma gondii parasite hijacks host cells to spread throughout the body. The parasite triggers an alarm system that leads to the activation of a protein called IRE1, connecting it to the cytoskeleton and causing hypermigration.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalmBio·DateJul 16, 2020