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Science News for July 21, 2020


Comprehensive description of the human tissue virome in healthy individuals

Researchers have comprehensively described the human tissue virome atlas using next-generation sequencing technology. They detected 39 viral species in somatic tissues from 547 individuals and found associations between virus infection and human gene expression and disease onset.

SourceThe Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalBMC Biology·DateJul 21, 2020

Study calls for review of rice and sugar in food subsidy programme

A new study found that subsidized rice and sugar may not improve long-term nutritional outcomes for children in India. The Public Distribution System aims to provide essential nutrients, but the research suggests that limited value foods like rice and sugar may perpetuate unhealthy dietary patterns.

SourceLancaster University·JournalJournal of Social Policy·DateJul 21, 2020

Anti-Asian hate crime during the COVID-19 pandemic

A study examines the link between COVID-19 and anti-Asian hate crimes in the US, revealing vast underreporting and a spike in racist incidents. The researchers found that less than half of Asian hate crime victimizations are reported to police, highlighting the need for increased awareness and action.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Denver·JournalAmerican Journal of Criminal Justice·DateJul 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.

COVID-19 shutdown led to increased solar power output

A study by MIT researchers found that COVID-19 shutdowns resulted in an 8.3% increase in solar power output in Delhi, attributed to a 50% reduction in air pollution. This demonstrates the impact of reduced emissions on solar panel efficiency and provides valuable data for future models.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJoule·DateJul 21, 2020

Concordian co-leads effort to see future of AI from an Indigenous perspective

A multidisciplinary group of Indigenous scholars, including professors and graduate students from Canada and the US, met in Hawai'i to brainstorm how Indigeneity intersects with AI. Their completed position paper offers diverse perspectives on what AI means and offers to Indigenous peoples, challenging long-held assumptions about Weste...

SourceConcordia University·DateJul 21, 2020

New insights into anxiety

Researchers at the University of Trento mapped anxiety types differently in human brain, finding stable traits associated with negative thoughts and transient brain activity linked to state anxiety. The study aims to develop new diagnostic tools and treatments targeting chronic anxiety.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 21, 2020

New study takes closer look at how environment affects daily life of sloths

Scientists have found that brown-throated three-toed sloths adapt to a primarily diurnal schedule in highly disturbed environments where predators are extinct and food is more accessible. The study suggests that the animals developed a more synchronous pattern of activity to thrive in the challenging environment.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalMammalian Biology·DateJul 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.

Working on the frontier of nanoparticle research

The University of Pittsburgh's CANELa lab is advancing nanoparticle research by modeling metal nanoclusters with exact structures, allowing for accurate theory and investigation of their properties. This breakthrough enables the creation of active sites for catalysis, a key focus of the lab.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalDalton Transactions·DateJul 21, 2020

Studies suggest a fasting diet could boost breast cancer therapy

A USC-led team found a fasting-mimicking diet combined with hormone therapy may increase the power of cancer hormone drugs and delay resistance in small clinical trials and mouse studies. Researchers observed reduced insulin, IGF1, and leptin levels, leading to potential anti-cancer activity.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature·DateJul 21, 2020

A survey on optical memory and optical RAM technologies

A team of Greek researchers evaluate the progress in optical memory domain over past 25 years, shedding light on physical mechanisms behind demonstrated devices and classifying performance metrics. They highlight benefits of different optical technologies and report recent achievements towards advancing memory functionalities.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJul 21, 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.

Crown-of-thorns enhance their growth by switching diets early

Juvenile crown-of-thorns starfish that switch to coral diets early exhibit enhanced growth rates and larger size, leading to increased reproductive capacity. This variation in early development can have significant consequences for crown-of-thorns population dynamics and coral reef ecosystem health.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·DateJul 21, 2020

Front-line physicians stressed and anxious at work and home

A new analysis of 426 emergency physicians found moderate to severe levels of anxiety at both work and home, with women reporting higher stress. The study identified key factors contributing to stress, including lack of PPE and inadequate rapid diagnostic testing.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateJul 21, 2020

Skin cancer treatments could be used to treat other forms of the disease

Researchers have developed a new method for treating skin cancer that uses silica nanoparticles to deliver light-sensitive medication, potentially expanding its use to other types of cancer. This innovative approach could increase the effectiveness of photodynamic therapies by penetrating deeper into tissue.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalChemical Science·DateJul 21, 2020

US military improved mortality since World War II, but there have been alarming exceptions

Despite overall improvements in combat casualty outcomes since World War II, research reveals significant spikes in mortality during specific conflicts, including Vietnam and Iraq. Understanding these patterns is crucial for identifying areas for improvement and enhancing military readiness.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery·DateJul 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.

Tropical Storm Douglas organizing in NASA infrared imagery

Tropical Storm Douglas is strengthening due to low wind shear and warm sea surface temperatures, with the potential to become a hurricane in the next few days. The storm's cloud tops reached as cold as minus 70 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating strong storms capable of generating heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 21, 2020

Autopsies reveal surprising cardiac changes in COVID-19 patients

A study of 22 COVID-19 patient autopsies found a unique pattern of cell death in scattered heart muscle cells, challenging traditional myocarditis theories. The researchers propose several theories to explain the cardiac injury and suggest further investigation for potential treatment interventions.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalCirculation·DateJul 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.

New drug discoveries are closely linked to the quality of lab procedures

New research from the University of Bath reveals that high-quality lab procedures are crucial for identifying effective new molecules. The study found a strong correlation between assay quality, as measured by the Z'-factor, and hit frequency in high-throughput screenings.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateJul 21, 2020

Nitric oxide may slow progression of COVID-19

A recent review suggests that nitric oxide has promise as a therapeutic to control the replication and rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2. The molecule has shown potential in inhibiting viral replication and regulating inflammatory cascades in pulmonary diseases.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalNitric Oxide·DateJul 21, 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.

How does ridesourcing substitute for public transit network?

A recent study by Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) found that one-third of ridesourcing trips potentially substitute for public transit. The substitution effect varies by location, with higher rates in city centers and suburban areas, but the study suggests that ridesharing amplifies existing digital divides.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalJournal of Transport Geography·DateJul 21, 2020

How to get good at disagreeing

Disagreeing in groups can be difficult, but it's crucial for improvement. Research suggests that a culture where individuals feel empowered to speak up when they disagree is key. Practicing constructive confrontation through regular exercises can help build this skill.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalTeam Performance Management·DateJul 21, 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.

Genes and cardiovascular health both affect dementia risk: BU study

A new Boston University School of Public Health and School of Medicine study finds that genetic risk factors for dementia can be lowered by improving cardiovascular health. Participants with a high genetic risk score were 2.6 times more likely to develop dementia, but those with good cardiovascular health were half as likely.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalNeurology·DateJul 21, 2020

Brain network mechanism causing spatial memory impairment revealed

A study published in Neuron reveals how normal brain network function of hippocampus cells, which works to discriminate a distinct spatial environment, is disrupted in Alzheimer's disease. The disruption is likely caused by the activity impairment of the entorhinal cortex.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNeuron·DateJul 21, 2020

Using lung X-rays to diagnose COVID-19

Researchers from the University of Seville have developed a system that uses deep learning to identify COVID-19 patients using lung X-ray images. The system achieves around 100% accuracy in identifying COVID-19 and can help reduce health professionals' workload by filtering out negative cases.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalApplied Sciences·DateJul 21, 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.

Topological photonics in fractal lattices

Researchers created a photonic Floquet topological insulator in a periodically driven fractal lattice, exhibiting topological edge states with real-space Chern number 1. The simulations show wavepackets can propagate along the outer and inner edges without penetration or backscattering.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJul 21, 2020

Weather-based decisions may reduce fungicide sprays on table beets

Using a weather-based decision support system can significantly improve Cercospora leaf spot control in table beet by reducing unnecessary fungicide applications. The approach also helps minimize the risk of resistance development due to single-site modes of action.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·DateJul 21, 2020

World's smallest imaging device has heart disease in focus

Researchers have developed a tiny, flexible scope that can provide high-quality 3D images inside blood vessels, enabling better understanding of heart attack causes and progression. The device's miniaturization could lead to improved treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateJul 21, 2020

Shortening of average serial interval over time indicates isolation effectively limits COVID-19 transmission

A new analysis of SARS-CoV-2 transmission data in China shows that faster identification and isolation of infected individuals contributed to the shortening of the average serial interval over time. This indicates that isolation effectively limits COVID-19 transmission by reducing opportunities for viral transmission.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2020

Study strengthens calls to clear cancer diagnosis backlog

A new study found that delays in cancer diagnosis due to the pandemic could result in more than 1,000 excess deaths in England. The researchers suggest prioritizing certain tumor types and ramping up diagnostic capacity to mitigate the impact of these delays.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateJul 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.

Site-directed mutagenesis in wheat via haploid induction by maize

A new study has successfully demonstrated a method for site-directed mutagenesis in wheat using haploid induction by maize. The technique resulted in the identification of 15 independent target gene-specific mutants in six different wheat backgrounds, with mutations found in all three genomic target motifs.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateJul 21, 2020

Lab-made virus mimics COVID-19 virus

Researchers created a hybrid virus that targets cells like SARS-CoV-2 but lacks severe disease genes. The hybrid virus can be handled under ordinary laboratory safety conditions, making it ideal for high-throughput analyses.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJul 21, 2020

Postdoc pushes backward physics to fore

Wenliang Li, a postdoctoral researcher at William & Mary, is studying proton structure from a new angle using Jefferson Lab's 12 GeV electron beam. He's examining particles that fly backward in the interaction to learn more about proton structure.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateJul 21, 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.

Making comprehensive water resources modeling more accessible

The Community Water Model is a large-scale hydrological and water resources model that simulates global and regional water availability. It considers various sectors' demands and environmental needs, providing insights into the impact of climate change on water supply.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalGeoscientific Model Development·DateJul 21, 2020

New $25-million center to advance quantum science and engineering

The new Q-SEnSE center will explore grand challenges in quantum sensing, measurement science, and advancing real-world technologies. Researchers will partner with engineers to turn advancements into practical applications, educating the next generation of quantum workforce.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateJul 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.

Chinese, American scientists leading efforts on COVID-19

The study finds that US and Chinese scientists are intensifying their collaborations, producing over 1,600 articles in the first four months of 2020. China has become the world leader in funding coronavirus research since COVID-19 was discovered.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 21, 2020

New study shows advantages of Ellipsys System in creating reliable dialysis access

A new study published in the Journal of Vascular Surgery found that the Ellipsys System created durable vascular access for ESRD patients who require hemodialysis, with a patency rate of 96% after one year. This minimally invasive procedure reduces reliance on riskier vascular access options and improves patient safety.

SourceDowling & Dennis PR·JournalJournal of Vascular Surgery·DateJul 21, 2020

Valley-Hall nanoscale lasers

Researchers created nanophotonic cavities in a nanopatterned InGaAsP membrane, exhibiting photonic analogue of valley-Hall effect. The structure supports quantized spectrum of modes confined to the domain wall, enabling topologically controlled ultrathin light sources.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJul 21, 2020

Genetic testing could improve screening for osteoporosis

A novel genetic measure called gSOS has been developed to assess fracture risk in osteoporosis, which could reduce the need for bone mineral density tests by 37-41%. This cost-effective approach may improve healthcare efficiency and identify individuals at higher risk of diseases like cancer and cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 21, 2020

New material can generate hydrogen from salt and polluted water

Scientists developed a new 2D material to produce hydrogen from fresh, salt, and polluted water by exposing it to sunlight. The material efficiently generates 0.5 liters of hydrogen in an hour from 100 square centimeters, making it one of the highest rates recorded for 2D materials.

SourceTomsk Polytechnic University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 21, 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.

'Lost' world's rediscovery is step towards finding habitable planets

Astronomers have discovered a lost planet, NGTS-11b, which orbits a star 620 light years away and is located five times closer to its sun than Earth. The discovery brings astronomers closer to finding cooler planets in the habitable 'Goldilocks zone' that can support liquid water.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 21, 2020

Starve the cancer

A team of researchers has identified a cellular mechanism that inhibits the signal to proliferate and starves malignant cells, leading to their death. The study uses a sea sponge-derived molecule XeB to block calcium ion transport, impacting cancer cell metabolism and leading to high cell death rates.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience Signaling·DateJul 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.

Identification of distinct loci for de novo DNA methylation by DNMT3A and DNMT3B during mammalian development

Scientists have identified unique de novo DNA methylation targets for DNMT3 enzymes during mammalian development. Dnmt3a exclusively regulates differentiation-related genes, while dnmT3b regulates X-chromosome genes. The study's findings may lead to a novel therapeutic approach for patients with DNMT3 mutations.

SourceThe Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 21, 2020

Cells communicate by doing the 'wave'

Researchers at Kyoto University discovered a novel method of communication among cells using 'mechano-chemical' signals. The findings show that the movement of one cell can trigger a cascading reaction resulting in collective cell migration.

SourceKyoto University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJul 21, 2020

ESC Congress 2020 - Highlights from the scientific program

ESC Congress 2020 presented over 400 topics covering the entire spectrum of cardiology, including late-breaking science studies, clinical trials, and ESC Guidelines. The event featured four new Clinical Practice Guidelines launched live during the congress.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateJul 21, 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.

Fusion protein holds promise for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension

Researchers have identified key biological insights that may help solve the mystery of what drives PAH and why a new therapy in clinical trials may work. The fusion protein is more effective than vasodilators at treating PAH and preventing blood vessel remodeling, restoring a normal balance between cell proliferation and death.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 21, 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.

Racial discrimination may adversely impact cognition in African Americans

Experiences of racism among African Americans are associated with lower subjective cognitive function and increased risks of depression, poor sleep, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension. Research from the Black Women's Health Study found that women reporting higher levels of daily and institutional racism had a greater risk of poor SCF.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateJul 21, 2020

81 million Americans lacking space or bathrooms to follow COVID quarantine recommendations

A study by Physicians for a National Health Program found that nearly 25% of US dwellings are unsuitable for isolation or quarantine due to lack of space and plumbing facilities. This is particularly concerning among minority and low-income households, which have faced high rates of COVID-19 illness and death.

SourcePhysicians for a National Health Program·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 21, 2020

The Venus 'ring of fire'

Computer simulations revealed that Venus' coronae topography depends on crust thickness and magma activity, classifying over 100 large coronae into active and inactive groups. The 'Ring of Fire' in Venus' southern hemisphere is a zone expelling high levels of rising plume material.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 21, 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.

How viruses and bacteria balance each other in the gut microbiome

Research reveals a complex interaction between bacteria and their viruses in the gut, where some bacteria can resist infection while others remain susceptible. The study suggests that beneficially altering the gut microbiome through bacterial viruses could offer a new treatment for disease.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJul 21, 2020

Influenza virus-induced oxidized DNA activates inflammasomes

Research at The University of Tokyo found that influenza virus-infected macrophages release oxidized DNA, which activates the NLRP3 inflammasome and increases IL-1β secretion. Inhibition of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species decreased this secretion, providing a link between viral proteins and inflammasome activation.

SourceThe Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo·JournaliScience·DateJul 21, 2020

Life in the shallows becomes a trap for baby sharks

Researchers found that baby blacktip reef sharks can tolerate the extreme conditions of their nurseries, but these environments face an uncertain future due to climate change. The habitats' dramatic temperature and oxygen fluctuations can be a strain on the young sharks.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJul 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.

"Winter is coming": The influence of seasonality on pathogen emergence

Scientists from CNRS and University of Nantes have developed a mathematical model to predict the risk of epidemic emergence based on seasonal factors. The 'winter is coming' effect suggests that pathogens introduced before unfavorable winter periods are less likely to cause large epidemics.

SourceCNRS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJul 21, 2020

Spinal stimulators repurposed to restore touch in lost limb

A new study from the University of Pittsburgh's Rehab Neural Engineering Labs has repurposed spinal cord stimulators to provide sensory feedback to amputees, generating sensations such as touch and pressure. The devices were found to be stable and effective in restoring feelings of touch in users.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateJul 21, 2020

Temporal aiming with temporal metamaterials

Scientists propose a concept of temporal metamaterials that change permittivity tensor in time, demonstrating forward and backward waves with preserved wave vector and frequency changes. This enables real-time beam steering of electromagnetic energy, opening new possibilities for integrated photonic systems.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJul 21, 2020

What factors influence the likelihood of fracking-related seismicity in Oklahoma?

Researchers found a significant link between well depth and seismic probability, suggesting that deeper wells are more likely to trigger earthquakes. The study also revealed that the type of fluid used in hydraulic fracturing, including gel vs. slickwater operations, may affect seismic activity.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateJul 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.

WashU-developed holograms help physicians during cardiac procedure

Physicians using a holographic display developed by WashU were more accurate in performing cardiac ablation procedures, resulting in fewer lesions outside the target area. The technology allows physicians to control the procedure with hand-free and sterile gestures.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalIEEE Journal of Translational Engineering in Health and Medicine·DateJul 21, 2020

Spider monkey groups as collective computers

The study found that spider monkeys use a collective computation approach to determine team sizes for foraging, taking into account the opinions of their group mates. The collective effects produce a range of team sizes that work well given the availability of fruiting trees in their forest.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalFrontiers in Robotics and AI·DateJul 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.

Mindfulness training helps men manage anger

A study published by Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that mindfulness training can effectively help men manage their anger and reduce violent behavior towards their partners. The treatment group showed a significant decline in physical violence, from 85% to 10%, after completing the program.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalBMC Psychiatry·DateJul 21, 2020

Rural firearm-suicides impacted by socioeconomic, environmental factors

Researchers found rural communities experiencing high rates of firearm suicides are often diverse and have collective environmental risk factors. The study's findings support a broader public health approach that targets interventions in high-risk areas to reduce gun suicides and opioid deaths.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Surgical Research·DateJul 21, 2020

Working toward freeze-drying synthetic platelets

Researchers aim to reduce bleeding time for soldiers on the battlefield by developing synthetic platelet substitutes that can be easily transported and stored. The technology, which involves freeze-drying artificial platelets into a powder, could potentially address blood shortages and improve treatment outcomes in emergency situations.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateJul 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.

Race and ethnicity did not affect outcomes for new moms with COVID-19, finds study

A recent study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that pregnancy and birth outcomes for women with SARS-CoV-2 infection were similar across different racial and ethnic groups, defying previous expectations of disparate treatment. Researchers attribute this finding to close follow-up care implemented by the medical center.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateJul 21, 2020

Silver-plated gold nanostars detect early cancer biomarkers

Researchers at Duke University have developed a new optical sensing platform that can detect genomic cancer biomarkers in tissue samples using silver-plated gold nanostars. This technique has the potential to provide fast and reliable diagnostic results for cancer and other diseases, simplifying testing processes.

SourceDuke University·DateJul 21, 2020

Leukemia drug shows the potential to treat aggressive pediatric brain câncer

Researchers have demonstrated the potential of a leukemia drug, arsenic trioxide, to treat medulloblastoma, a type of brain cancer most common in children. The drug made tumor cells more sensitive to radiation therapy and proved capable of killing tumor cells and preventing new colony formation.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 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.

Invasive lionfish may be a selective predator

Lionfish in Curacao reefs exhibit strong preference for brown chromis over other two prey fish species. The study suggests that lionfish can be picky about their daily menu as long as they are not starving, with poorer condition fish being less selective.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology·DateJul 21, 2020

Scientists present pre- and postfusion cryo-em structures of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein

The researchers report two new cryo-EM structures representing the pre- and postfusion conformations of the full-length SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The findings suggest that current vaccine strategies may be relying on limited information about the natural state of the protein, highlighting the need for further evaluation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2020

Magnetic field of a spiral galaxy

Researchers use VLA radio telescope to image galaxy NGC 4217's magnetic field, extending far beyond the galaxy's disk. The dynamo theory suggests that this massive magnetic field is generated by plasma motion within the galaxy's disk.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateJul 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.

Scientists observe learning processes online in the brain

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum used EEG to study the impact of repetitive tactile stimulation on brain activity. They found that neuronal responses adapted to the frequency of stimulation and showed changes over time, potentially illustrating a learning process.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateJul 21, 2020

Russian scientists identified energy storage mechanism of sodium-ion battery anode

Researchers from Skoltech and MSU discovered the type of electrochemical reaction associated with charge storage in the anode material for sodium-ion batteries. They also developed a method to produce hard carbon with high capacity comparable to graphite, a crucial step towards commercializing SIB.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalElectrochimica Acta·DateJul 21, 2020

Researchers ID new target in drive to improve immunotherapy for cancer

Researchers at UCLA have identified a potential new combination therapy to treat advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma by targeting BMI1 proteins. The study found that using an anti-PD1 immunotherapy drug in combination with PTC209 successfully stopped cancer growth, prevented reoccurrences, and eliminated cancer stem cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJul 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.

Physicists find ways to control gamma radiation

Researchers have created an optical switch that can direct high-frequency gamma radiation by switching the acoustic field. This effect demonstrates controlled transparency of a resonant medium for gamma radiation, which may be useful for controlling generated radiation in modern synchrotron sources and X-ray lasers.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 21, 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.

New cosmic magnetic field structures discovered in galaxy NGC 4217

Researchers analyzed the magnetic field of Milky Way-like galaxy NGC 4217 and discovered unique structures such as X-shaped fields, helices, superbubbles, and giant loops. These findings suggest a connection between star formation and supernovae explosions in shaping the galaxy's magnetic field.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateJul 21, 2020

The immune system facilitates alcohol addiction

Researchers discover that alcohol activates microglia in the brain, altering geometry and increasing dopamine diffusion, which may promote addiction. This study provides a new understanding of alcohol's effects on the brain and suggests potential treatments.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 21, 2020

Children with type 1 diabetes may have a less desirable gut bacteria composition

A new study found that children with newly-diagnosed type 1 diabetes have a distinct gut microbiome composition associated with poorer blood sugar control. The researchers used machine learning analysis and genetic analysis to identify this link, highlighting the importance of gut health in disease development.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJul 21, 2020

New detection method turns silicon cameras into mid-infrared detectors

A new method detects MIR images using Si cameras through non-degenerate two-photon absorption, enabling simple and efficient imaging. The approach avoids alignment artifacts and utilizes the nonlinear optical properties of the Si chip itself to trigger photo-induced charge carriers.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJul 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.

Researchers develop a portable blood ammonia detector

Researchers at Stanford University have created a handheld, portable device to measure ammonia levels in blood. The device, which assesses ammonia levels from a finger or earlobe prick, can report results in less than a minute and is significantly more efficient than current methods.

SourceStanford University·JournalACS Sensors·DateJul 21, 2020

Thermal manipulation of plasmons in atomically thin films

Researchers propose an all-optical method to modulate plasmonic response in graphene and metal-based systems using intense pump beams, enabling ultrafast light modulation. The technique exploits nanoscale photothermal effects to heat electrons, inducing changes in conductivity and optical properties.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJul 21, 2020

Evidence of "hormone disruptor" chemical threats grows

A set of reviews concludes that hundreds of studies link widespread health issues including infertility, diabetes, and impaired brain development to hormone disruptors in pesticides, flame retardants, and certain plastics.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateJul 21, 2020

Artificial cells produce parts of viruses for safe studies

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science created artificial cells that produced viral parts, allowing for safe testing and development of diagnostic tools, drugs, and vaccines. The system consists of micrometer-sized compartments etched into a silicon chip, enabling controlled production of specific proteins.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 21, 2020

Living with a problem gambler?

Researchers at Flinders University warn that family members can be the first to detect early signs of a problem gambler. Chronic hypervigilance, relationship conflict, and exhaustion are common consequences for partners and families.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateJul 21, 2020

Lego builds anaesthesia skills according to new study

A new study found that training doctors in anaesthetic skills using Lego bricks can improve their performance. The study used a simple task where participants copied shapes using bricks to see in a mirror, and found that this improved their ability to perform ultrasound-guided regional anaesthesia tasks.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalBritish Journal of Anaesthesia·DateJul 21, 2020

How should hospitals ask patients for donations?

A new study explores patients' views on hospital fundraising practices, finding that certain strategies cause concerns. Hospitals can show appreciation to donors through nicer hospital rooms, expedited appointments, or providing doctors' cell phone numbers, while avoiding wealth screening and sharing patient names without permission.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA·DateJul 21, 2020

Researchers identify subject-specific component to perceptual learning ability

A new study by YANG Jia and colleagues identified both task-specific and subject-invariant components of perceptual learning ability, revealing multifaceted nature of learning and strong evidence for consistent pattern of individual differences across multiple training tasks.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 21, 2020

Smile: Atomic imaging finds root of tooth decay

A collaboration between Cornell and Northwestern universities has exposed tiny chemical flaws in human enamel using atomic imaging techniques. The findings suggest that irregularities in the enamel's structure may play a role in reinforcing it, making it more resilient to decay.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateJul 21, 2020

Women's burden increases in COVID-19 era

A recent study by Flinders University highlights the escalating gendered burdens faced by women during the pandemic, particularly in frontline healthcare roles and unpaid care work. Women experienced discrimination, eviction threats, and restricted access to essential services under COVID-19 restrictions.

SourceFlinders University·JournalSocial Sciences·DateJul 21, 2020

Skin stem cells shuffle sugars as they age

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba found that epidermal stem cells undergo a change in their complex sugar repertoire with age, which could serve as a biological marker of aging. This 'glycome shift' is characterized by an increase in sialylated complex type N-glycans and a decrease in mannose-type N-glycans.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalAging Cell·DateJul 21, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers found that over 20% of US homes lack sufficient space and plumbing facilities to isolate or quarantine COVID-19 patients. The study suggests that offering hotel stays with medical supervision at no cost could decrease transmission in minority communities.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 21, 2020

O Christmas Tree: DNA shows WA's largest parasitic plant adapts to climate

Researchers found that the WA Christmas Tree, a parasitic plant, adapts to its environment by adjusting to temperature changes rather than relying on precipitation. This discovery has implications for conservation and restoration efforts, as it could inform the collection of seed for these species.

SourceCurtin University·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateJul 21, 2020