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Science News for July 8, 2020


First Alaskan juvenile predator fossil adds insight to dino migration

A new Alaskan fossil discovery of a juvenile dromaeosaurid jaw bone has significant implications for the understanding of Cretaceous period dinosaurs. The study, published in PLOS ONE, supports the theory that some Arctic dinosaurs did not migrate with the seasons but were year-round residents.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 8, 2020

Enforcing gender quotas increases boardroom diversity and quality

A study by City University London's Business School found that countries with mandatory gender quotas have significantly higher female representation on their boards of directors compared to those with voluntary guidelines. The research also showed no deterioration in board quality, and even improvement, under mandatory regulation.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalEconomics Letters·DateJul 8, 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.

Stress testing 'coral in a box'

Researchers have developed a rapid stress test to assess coral thermotolerance, allowing for the identification of resilient corals that can survive ocean warming. The 'Coral Bleaching Automated Stress System' (CBASS) enables on-site testing within 18 hours, compared to months in a laboratory.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJul 8, 2020

Tackling coral reefs' thorny problem

Researchers from OIST Graduate University discovered the crown-of-thorns starfish's evolution, shedding light on its population changes and potential threats to coral reefs. The findings suggest complex ocean currents in the Ryukyu Archipelago may aid the survival of the larvae.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·DateJul 8, 2020

Late coronary stent thrombosis in patient with COVID-19

A patient with COVID-19 developed late drug-eluting stent thrombosis, a serious cardiovascular complication. The case report highlights the need for careful monitoring and management of patients with COVID-19 to prevent such adverse events.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateJul 8, 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.

Researchers work to better measure delirium severity in older patients

A study aimed to develop and validate tools for assessing delirium severity in older patients, which could lead to improved prevention and treatment. Researchers identified a set of items capturing the severity of delirium and developed a new instrument for quick and easy administration.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·DateJul 8, 2020

Rock 'n' control

Researchers at University of Göttingen use femtochemistry to film and control chemical reactions on solid surfaces. They successfully transfer principle from molecules to a solid, controlling its crystal structure with high efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature·DateJul 8, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Large-scale fall prevention study finds smaller than expected benefit

A randomized trial of a multifactorial fall injury prevention strategy found an approximately 8-10% reduction in serious fall injuries, lower than expected. The study enrolled 5,451 people aged 70 and older and evaluated the effectiveness of a nurse-delivered intervention.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 8, 2020

New molecular tool precisely edits mitochondrial DNA

A team at Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard developed a new molecular editor that can precisely edit mitochondrial DNA, enabling modeling of disease-associated mutations. The editor, engineered from a bacterial toxin, enables researchers to study genetic changes associated with cancer, aging, and more.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalNature·DateJul 8, 2020

Biobased chemicals take center stage

Biobased chemicals are being developed to replace petroleum-based products in various industries, including diapers, electronics, and automotive coatings. These new materials offer improved performance and sustainability, with potential applications in areas such as electronic touchscreen displays and emission-reducing coatings.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJul 8, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Researchers find promising therapy to fight epidemic of liver disease

Researchers have discovered a new target and therapy to fight NAFLD, a major health issue affecting 25% of the world population. Using siRNA to silence MCJ protein, they found reduced liver steatosis and fibrosis in preclinical mouse models.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 8, 2020

Does early access to pension funds improve health?

A recent study from Singapore found that early access to pension wealth improves overall health status. The researchers analyzed monthly survey data from 2015 to 2019 and discovered that individuals who accessed their pension funds before age 55 had better self-reported health status afterward.

SourceWiley·JournalEconomic Inquiry·DateJul 8, 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.

Where did the Asian longhorned ticks in the US come from?

A study by Rutgers University researchers suggests that the Asian longhorned tick in the US originated from at least three self-cloning females from northeastern Asia. The tick species has been linked to serious illnesses in other countries, but its impact on human health in the US remains unclear.

SourceRutgers University·JournalZoonoses and Public Health·DateJul 8, 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.

TGen-led study identifies unique cells that may drive lung fibrosis

A groundbreaking study published in Science Advances has identified five unique cell types associated with lung fibrosis, including a pro-fibrotic epithelial cell that drives the disease. The research also reveals high plasticity in lung cells, allowing them to transform into different types under certain conditions.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 8, 2020

The story behind a uniquely dark, wetland soil

A team of scientists investigated an unusual wetland soil in California, discovering its peculiar properties that misled initial classification. By analyzing color, water content, vegetation, and chemical composition, they applied a new method to accurately classify the soil as hydric, crucial for conservation.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateJul 8, 2020

Technique fishes valuable nutrients out of shrimp processing water

Researchers have developed a sustainable method to recover valuable nutrients from shrimp processing water, including protein and lipids, for use in food or feed. The technique combines food-grade flocculants with dissolved air flotation, capturing up to 98% of the protein present in the water.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateJul 8, 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.

Outdoor light linked with teens' sleep and mental health

A large-scale US study reveals associations between high levels of outdoor and artificial light at night with less sleep and increased risk of mood disorders among teens. Teens living in areas with high levels of outdoor artificial light tend to report later bedtimes and shorter sleep duration.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJul 8, 2020

The effects of smartphone use on parenting

A new analysis found little evidence of negative impacts on parenting from smartphone use. At low levels of displacing family time, more smartphone use was associated with better parenting.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateJul 8, 2020

Hyperactive immune cells accelerate heart valve disease: Study

Researchers found that hyperactive immune cells aggravate heart valve disease by activating harmful inflammation due to shear stress. The study identified a potential drug target, Piezo-1, and showed that replacing the aortic valve has an anti-inflammatory effect.

SourceRMIT University·JournalCirculation·DateJul 8, 2020

The best (and worst) materials for masks

Researchers assessed non-traditional mask materials, finding vacuum cleaner filters reduced infection risk by 83% for a 30-second exposure and 58% for a 20-minute exposure. N99 masks were found to be the most effective option, reducing average risk by 94-99%.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Hospital Infection·DateJul 8, 2020

Evolutionary biologists find several fish adapt in the same way to toxic water

Scientists found at least 10 different lineages of fish that have adapted to live in highly toxic environments by tweaking the enzyme to prevent binding, and ramping up an existing detoxification mechanism. This challenges the idea that evolution would lead to different outcomes every time if it were rewound.

SourceKansas State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 8, 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.

How good gut bacteria help reduce the risk for heart disease

Researchers discovered a beneficial protein in good gut bacteria that reduces production of a chemical linked to clogged arteries. This interaction eliminates the compound's harmful effects, suggesting new therapeutic possibilities for this microbe.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 8, 2020

Community and law enforcement partnerships best help kids who witness home violence

A Rutgers-led study found that community and law enforcement partnerships can significantly improve PTSD screening and treatment for children who witness home violence. The Child Trauma Response Team model, which provides immediate outreach and victim safety assessments, showed a three-fold increase in child PTSD screens among families...

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateJul 8, 2020

UBCO kindness researcher challenges the notion of mean teens

A UBC Okanagan researcher conducted a survey of 191 Grade 9 students to determine the extent they see themselves as kind in online and face-to-face interactions. The results showed that adolescents accomplish an average of 943 acts of kindness, with 94% completing three or more assigned acts.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalCanadian Journal of School Psychology·DateJul 8, 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.

Star-shaped brain cells shed light on the link between cannabis use and sociability

Research reveals that cannabis exposure leads to dysfunction of glucose metabolism in astrocytes, compromising neuronal functioning and resulting in reduced social interactions. The study sheds light on the link between cannabis use and sociability, highlighting potential therapeutic solutions.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNature·DateJul 8, 2020

Menthol cigarette ban in the US may lower number of smokers

A study published in BMC Public Health suggests that extending US menthol cigarette flavor bans could encourage smokers to quit and lower smoking rates. The authors estimate that up to 45% of current US menthol smokers may quit in response to a ban, while some retailers continue to sell banned products.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJul 8, 2020

New clues to lung-scarring disease may aid treatment

Scientists have discovered previously unreported genetic and cellular changes in the lungs of people with pulmonary fibrosis, a devastating lung-scarring disease. The findings provide remarkable insights into the fundamental mechanisms driving disease pathology in PF and may aid the search for new ways to treat or prevent the condition.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 8, 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.

UChicago study shows 'Bystander Effect' not exclusive to humans

A new study from UChicago found that rats are less likely to help a trapped companion if they are with other rats that aren't helping. However, the presence of confederate rats made of an antianxiety drug can actually increase helping behavior in duos and trios.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 8, 2020

Animals who try to sound 'bigger' are good at learning sounds

A study found that animals who try to sound 'bigger' are often skilled sound learners. Researchers analyzed the sounds and body size of 164 mammals and discovered that those who fake their size are frequently good at learning new sounds. This discovery may provide insight into human speech evolution.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics·JournalBiology Letters·DateJul 8, 2020

When is someone old?

Researchers propose using an equivalency criterion to determine the old age threshold based on a fixed remaining life expectancy, which is consistent with the equivalency criterion. This approach highlights the need to reevaluate traditional measures of aging and provides a more nuanced understanding of population aging.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 8, 2020

Numerous jobs linked to increased risk of knee osteoarthritis

A major global systematic review has identified several jobs that may increase the risk of knee osteoarthritis, including agriculture, construction, and service work. The study found that workers in these industries are more likely to develop knee OA due to increased physical stress and repetitive activities.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJul 8, 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.

HKUST researchers discover a novel mechanism regulating planar cell polarity

Researchers at HKUST have discovered a new mechanism that regulates planar cell polarity, a process crucial for development and organ function. The study reveals a critical protein interaction that enables efficient delivery of PCP proteins to the cell surface, offering a potential therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 8, 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.

Life and death, hope and despair in era of COVID-19

A new study examines the emotional toll of COVID-19 on physicians, revealing a mix of hope and despair. The research finds that doctors often struggle with feelings of burnout and hopelessness despite their efforts to care for patients.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateJul 8, 2020

Biosynthetic sustainable hierarchical solar steam generator

A new solar-powered water purification technology uses a biomimetic hierarchical steam generator to produce clean drinking water from non-drinkable sources. The device achieves high evaporation rates and efficiency, making it a promising solution for water-scarce areas.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 8, 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.

UBC research shows hearing persists at end of life

Researchers found that a dying brain can respond to sound even in an unconscious state, up to the last hours of life. The study used EEG to analyze brain activity from hospice patients and healthy controls, revealing similar responses to common and rare sounds.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 8, 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.

Researchers uncover a critical early step of the visual process

Researchers identified a critical early step in the visual process, discovering that rods and cones communicate primarily through connexin36 gap junctions. This understanding will aid in developing photoreceptor or retinal implants to restore vision.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 8, 2020

Links between parents' and children's asthma and allergies

A new study found that mothers' traits, such as those present in the uterus during pregnancy, may increase the risk of allergies and asthma in children. By age 6, both parents presented the same risk, suggesting non-genetic factors play a role.

SourceWiley·JournalClinical & Experimental Allergy·DateJul 8, 2020

How are misfolded membrane proteins cleared from cells by "reubiquitinase"?

Chinese researchers identify RNF126 as a key enzyme in the reubiquitination process, targeting misfolded membrane proteins for degradation. The study highlights the importance of this mechanism in maintaining normal cell physiology and potentially serving as a therapeutic target for cancer treatment.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 8, 2020

Making a material impact

The University of Delaware's new Center for Hybrid, Active, and Responsive Materials (UD CHARM) aims to transform the way materials are made. Researchers will focus on developing new materials with potential applications in biomedicine, security, sensing, and more.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateJul 8, 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.

Purifying water with the help of wood, bacteria and the sun

Researchers developed a wood-based steam generator that harnesses solar energy to separate pure water from contaminants. The device uses light-absorbing, water-evaporating top layers and insulating glass bubbles for efficient purification.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 8, 2020

Self-isolation may increase susceptibility to COVID-19

Research by Sheldon Cohen suggests that interpersonal stressors during self-isolation can increase vulnerability to upper respiratory viruses and potentially COVID-19. Social integration and support offer a protective shield against respiratory infection and illness.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateJul 8, 2020

New method estimates risks of hormone-disrupting substances in drinking water

Researchers developed a new method to estimate the health risks of PFAS in drinking water. The study found that women are particularly at risk of decreased thyroid hormone T3 levels due to exposure. Around 4% of local women in Ronneby, Sweden, may experience a 10% drop in T3 levels.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJul 8, 2020

NASA analyzes Tropical Cyclone Cristina's water vapor concentration

NASA's Aqua satellite gathered water vapor data on Tropical Storm Cristina, revealing highest concentrations of water vapor and coldest cloud top temperatures around the center of circulation. The analysis indicates that storms with such conditions have the potential to produce heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 8, 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.

Healthier school food and physical activity environments matter for childhood obesity

A Rutgers study found that schools with healthier food options and more physical activity facilities had students with lower body mass indexes. The research, published in Preventive Medicine Reports, used professional measures of students' height and weight to examine the effects of school environments on childhood obesity.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPreventive Medicine Reports·DateJul 8, 2020

CRISPR enables one-step hybrid seed production in crops

Researchers developed a one-step system combining CRISPR-mediated genome editing with other approaches to produce better seeds and shorten the production timeline. This new method can be applied to various crops, including maize, rice, millet, wheat, and sorghum.

SourceCell Press·JournalMolecular Plant·DateJul 8, 2020

New model of breast cancer's causes developed by UCSF-led team

A new model of breast cancer's causes, called Paradigm II, illustrates the dynamic and sometimes unexpected interactions between biological, behavioral, social, and physical domains. The model, created by a multidisciplinary team, includes 96 potential interactions and is available online for further research and discussion.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateJul 8, 2020

Abnormal cells in early-stage embryos might not preclude IVF success

Researchers found that 80% of embryos studied contained at least one aneuploid cell across all cell types and developmental stages. This suggests that embryos with abnormal cells may still develop into healthy pregnancies, challenging the current debate around IVF embryo selection.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalGenome Research·DateJul 8, 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.

Regulating the properties of MAPbBr3 single crystal via voltage and application

Researchers developed a technique to modify defect populations in perovskite crystals without chemical additives, enabling the material to act as a memristor device with multiple resistance states. The voltage regulation engineering helps improve optical and electrical properties by passivating deep-level donor-like defects.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJul 8, 2020

Neutralizing antibodies in the battle against COVID-19

Researchers have isolated highly potent SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies that could provide protection against COVID-19 for several weeks. These near-germline antibodies show promise for use in prevention and treatment, including post-exposure prophylaxis to stop local outbreaks.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalCell·DateJul 8, 2020

Bumblebee habitats and diets change over their lifecycle

A study tracked queen bumblebees' movements as they established nests, revealing changes in habitat selection and diet preferences. The findings suggest that diversified landscapes support bumblebee colonies by meeting their changing needs during different phases of their lifecycle.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 8, 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.

Columbia professor confronts healthcare inequality in time of COVID-19

A Columbia professor is using data science to design interventions and recommend policies that help the most vulnerable populations overcome inequalities in access and outcomes. His project, Nudging New York, aims to eliminate inequality and increase healthcare access in underserved communities.

SourceData Science Institute at Columbia·JournalBMC Health Services Research·DateJul 8, 2020

UC Santa Cruz leads research center on botanical dietary supplements

The UCSC-led research center aims to understand the basic biological mechanisms of botanical natural products and address challenges in studying their variability and clinical trial design. The center will use innovative screening platforms to measure the effects of complex botanical natural products on cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·DateJul 8, 2020

Researchers find safeguards for quantum communications

Army researchers have developed a new way to protect and safeguard quantum information, allowing for more efficient and secure communication. By understanding and removing certain types of noise in quantum channels, the team can convert bad noise into good noise with the addition of a cheap extra component.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateJul 8, 2020

How colliding neutron stars could shed light on universal mysteries

Researchers have discovered an unusual pulsar in a binary system with two neutron stars of different masses, which could provide vital clues about unsolved mysteries in astrophysics. The discovery, published in Nature, sheds light on the expansion rate of the Universe and the nature of exotic matter that makes up neutron star interiors.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature·DateJul 8, 2020

How to precisely edit mitochondrial DNA

A new precision gene editor for mitochondrial DNA has been developed, allowing scientists to make targeted changes without the need for CRISPR technology. This breakthrough could enable researchers to study rare diseases and basic mitochondrial biology in animals.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateJul 8, 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.

HKU study reveals the hidden fight within corals

Researchers used a new method to understand how corals' symbiotic algae respond to warmer temperatures. They found thermally tolerant algae adopt a 'shelter-in-place' strategy, storing fats and carbohydrates to persist through stress.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateJul 8, 2020

Milking algae mechanically: Progress to succeed petroleum derived chemicals

A Shinshu University research team has successfully cultivated microalgae using a novel mechanical milking system, overcoming three major cultivation challenges. This non-destructive method enables the efficient production of valuable compounds like polysaccharides and phycobiliproteins without solvent extraction.

SourceShinshu University·JournalAlgal Research·DateJul 8, 2020

CHOP-pioneered spatial mapping method pinpoints potential new therapeutic targets in lupus

A team of researchers from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia used a new method to pinpoint potential disease-causing changes in the genome and identified two new potential therapeutic targets for lupus. The study focused on follicular helper T cells and created three-dimensional maps that match variants with genes they likely regulate.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 8, 2020

Does a child's height affect their future risk of obesity?

A recent study published in Obesity found that children who are relatively tall for their age have a significantly higher risk of developing obesity. The study examined the health records of over 2.8 million children and found that taller individuals were more likely to have a higher body mass index than shorter children.

SourceWiley·JournalObesity·DateJul 8, 2020

Study reveals how bacteria build essential carbon-fixing machinery

Cyanobacteria construct organelles to convert CO2 into sugar through a complex process involving Rubisco enzymes and chaperone proteins. A recent study reveals the crucial role of Raf1 protein in assembling Rubisco complexes, improving carboxysome function.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 8, 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.

Record efficiency for printed solar cells

Swansea University researchers have reported a record efficiency of 12.2% for four layers of roll-to-roll printed perovskite solar cells (PSCs), marking a significant step towards commercialization. This achievement utilizes the advantages of slot-die coating, which provides controlled wet film thickness and efficient material usage.

SourceSwansea University·JournalSustainable Energy & Fuels·DateJul 8, 2020

Mirror image tumor treatment

Researchers developed a stable 'mirror-image' peptide that effectively blocks the interaction between TIGIT and its ligand PVR, inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis. This approach offers an alternative point of attack for cancer immunotherapy, potentially outperforming existing anti-PD-1 therapy.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 8, 2020

Porous graphene ribbons doped with nitrogen for electronics and quantum computing

Researchers have successfully produced porous, nitrogen-containing graphene ribbons exhibiting semiconducting properties, which is essential for their potential applications in electronics. These new materials could display extraordinary magnetic properties, making them suitable for quantum computing applications.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 8, 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.

Response to stimulation in IVF may predict longer term health risks

A large-scale study found that young women with few eggs collected during IVF treatment have a higher risk of age-related diseases, including cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. This increased risk is associated with early ovarian ageing and may be linked to an accelerated ageing process.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJul 8, 2020

Study: 'Anti-vaxxers' gain traction against HPV vaccine on Facebook

A recent study analyzing 10 years of HPV-vaccine related Facebook posts reveals that anti-vaxxers have gained a stronger voice against the use of the human papillomavirus vaccine. Negative posts displayed a 45% increase in public engagement, with some showing negative views on vaccine safety and effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalVaccine·DateJul 8, 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.

Study to evaluate app that automates calorie counting

A new study evaluates the PortionSize app, which analyzes pictures of users' meals to provide accurate calorie consumption. The app aims to overcome challenges in self-reporting methods and 'portion distortion', offering an affordable solution for weight management.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·DateJul 8, 2020

Early clinical trial tests treatment strategy for pancreatic cancer

A new clinical trial has tested a cocktail of chemotherapy drugs for patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer, showing a median survival time of 14.5 months and a 1-year survival rate of 60.9%. The treatment strategy involves injections of paclitaxel into the abdomen and gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel into the blood.

SourceWiley·JournalBJS·DateJul 8, 2020

Nurses and midwives take the lead in providing HIV services in Eastern and Southern Africa

A new study identifies key steps toward establishing nurse- and midwife-led HIV services in eastern and southern Africa, including improved training, supportive supervision, and formal mentorship programs. The region has shown remarkable progress toward eliminating HIV, but challenges remain in providing effective antiretroviral therapy.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care·DateJul 8, 2020

Certain factors during infancy may affect bone health in adulthood

A recent study found that breast feeding during infancy reduces lower limb fracture risk, while maternal smoking increases upper limb fracture risk in young adulthood. Exposures during fetal development and early life have lasting effects on bone health.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateJul 8, 2020

Knitting together a novel method for simulating yarn-cloth patterns

A team of computer scientists developed a novel method for simulating yarn-cloth patterns, accurately capturing the physics of fabrics including stretching and bending response. The technique enables faster and more accurate simulations of knitted and woven materials while preserving material properties.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateJul 8, 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.

Does genomics perpetuate inequality?

A new Hastings Center special report critiques the role of genomics in perpetuating racism and inequality. The report argues that genomic knowledge can thwart medicine's advancement of justice and create new forms of social classification and surveillance.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateJul 8, 2020

NIH launches clinical trials network to test COVID-19 vaccines and other prevention tools

The National Institutes of Health has established a new clinical trials network to enroll thousands of volunteers in large-scale clinical trials testing various COVID-19 vaccines and monoclonal antibodies. The COVPN will leverage existing infrastructure and engage communities to secure participants for late-stage clinical trials.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 8, 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.

Soil studies can be helpful for border control

Researchers analyzed medieval and modern case studies to identify restrictive soil and geologic conditions for tunneling. They found arid areas with low permanent water tables are most susceptible to successful tunneling, recommending monitoring for sound and vibrations to disrupt smugglers.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalOpen Journal of Soil Science·DateJul 8, 2020

COVID-19: Yin and yang and herd immunity

A recent article by the Society for Disaster Medicine and Public Health emphasizes the importance of understanding herd immunity in the context of COVID-19. The authors argue that traditional definitions of a 'case' are inadequate and propose using daily COVID hospital admissions as a more valid measure of the pandemic's medical impact.

SourceSociety for Disaster Medicine and Public Health, Inc.·JournalDisaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·DateJul 8, 2020

New study reveals people more likely to donate when reminded of own mortality

A new study from the University of British Columbia found that people are 30% more likely to donate assets when faced with their own mortality, driven by a desire for symbolic immortality and transcendence. The study suggests that charitable organizations can use this insight to connect donors with lasting legacies.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJul 8, 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.

Brigham investigators develop sterilizable, alternative N95 mask

A team of bioengineers and clinical experts from Brigham and Women's Hospital and MIT have developed a new, sustainable solution for health care workers to provide protection during the pandemic. The iMASC system is made from sterilizable materials and can fit faces of different sizes and shapes.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·DateJul 8, 2020

Enhancing chemotherapy by RNA interference - BIO Integration

Small interfering RNA (siRNA) shows potential for treating human diseases by selectively silencing pathological pathways. The review examines siRNA therapeutics in preclinical and clinical trials, challenges faced in siRNA therapy, and the feasibility of combining siRNA with anticancer drugs.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalBIO Integration·DateJul 8, 2020

New biomaterial could shield against harmful radiation

Researchers at Northwestern University have synthesized a new form of melanin enriched with selenium, called selenomelanin, which shows promise as a shield for human tissue against harmful radiation. The new biomaterial offers better protection than traditional forms of melanin and has potential applications in space travel

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 8, 2020

Reducing radioactive waste in processes to dismantle nuclear facilities

A new methodological guide developed by the University of the Basque Country aims to optimize radioactive waste management during nuclear facility dismantling. The project focuses on in situ measurements and characterizing strategies for constrained environments, aiming to improve dismantling processes and public perception.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalProgress in Nuclear Energy·DateJul 8, 2020

Preliminary study suggests tuberculosis vaccine may be limiting COVID-19 deaths

A preliminary study suggests that the Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, commonly administered to children in high-tuberculosis countries, may reduce mortality rates from COVID-19. The study found a correlation between higher BCG vaccination rates and lower peak mortality rates from COVID-19 in various countries.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 8, 2020

Towards climate resilient urban energy systems

The article emphasizes the importance of climate resilience in urban energy systems to address climate change and extreme events. Nik and colleagues provide an overview of current progress in adapting urban energy systems to climate change, highlighting limitations in existing approaches.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJul 8, 2020

Protein involved in corn's water stress response discovered

The discovery of the DRIK1 protein has opened up new avenues for developing more drought-resistant plants. By identifying a synthetic molecule that binds to the protein, researchers aim to breed plants with naturally reduced or inhibited activity, reducing losses related to climate change.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBMC Plant Biology·DateJul 8, 2020

Spider silk made by photosynthetic bacteria

Photosynthetic bacteria have been engineered to produce spider silk, which is ultra-lightweight and as tough as steel. The discovery could lead to the mass production of sustainable materials such as tear-resistant clothing and biomedical applications.

SourceRIKEN·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJul 8, 2020

A helping hand for cancer immunotherapy

Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys discovered that PRMT5 inhibitors can sensitize unresponsive melanoma to immune checkpoint therapy, enhancing antigen presentation and innate immunity. The study suggests that these inhibitors may also be effective in tumors of other types, providing a potential breakthrough for cancer treatment.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 8, 2020

COVID-19 brain complications found across the globe

A global review of COVID-19 cases found neurological complications such as strokes, delirium, and inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. The study analyzed data from over 900 patients and highlights the need for doctors to recognize COVID-19's potential to cause devastating brain problems.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateJul 8, 2020

Learning more about particle collisions with machine learning

The Argonne team has created a machine learning algorithm that approximates how the present detector would respond to the greatly increased data expected with the LHC upgrade. This algorithm simulates detector responses and reconstructs objects from physical processes, enabling faster and more accurate analysis of particle collisions.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Instrumentation·DateJul 8, 2020

Glowing worms provide live-action movies of the body's internal scaffolding

Duke University researchers have made time-lapse movies of the sheet-like latticework surrounding animal tissues, revealing dynamic movement within the matrix scaffolding. The study provides a new toolkit for studying basement membrane defects underlying tissue degeneration and diseases such as kidney disease and aging.

SourceDuke University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJul 8, 2020

Graphene: It is all about the toppings

Researchers observed how indium oxide grows on graphene, revealing the importance of background pressure and temperature in the process. The study's findings have significant implications for predicting and controlling the integration of graphene with other materials.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJul 8, 2020

Value-based payments disproportionately impact safety-net hospitals

A new study reveals that value-based incentive programs aimed at reducing health care-associated infections did not improve infection rates in either safety-net or non-safety-net hospitals. Safety-net hospitals continued to experience higher rates of health care-associated infections, highlighting persistent disparities in the healthca...

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 8, 2020

Helping drug-delivering particles squeeze through a syringe

Researchers at MIT have developed a computational model that analyzes factors such as particle size and shape to determine optimal design for injectability. The model achieved a sixfold increase in successful injection rates, paving the way for microparticle delivery of cancer immunotherapy drugs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 8, 2020

Programmable balloons pave the way for new shape-morphing devices

A team of researchers from Harvard SEAS developed materials that can control and mold a balloon into pre-programmed shapes using kirigami sheets. The system enables expansion in some places and constricting it in others, allowing for the creation of complex shapes.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 8, 2020

Scaling up the quantum chip

Researchers at MIT have developed a hybrid process to manufacture and integrate 'artificial atoms' with photonic circuitry, producing the largest quantum chip of its type. The process enables scalable production of millions of quantum processors needed for quantum computers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJul 8, 2020

Drug treatment could improve effectiveness of immunotherapy for cancer patients

Researchers found that blocking the tumor-promoting protein MDM2 could boost immunotherapy's effectiveness by allowing immune cells to kill tumor cells more efficiently. The study also suggests that combining MDM2 inhibitors with immunotherapy may lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients whose tumors are predicted to undergo hy...

SourceBrown University·JournalCell Death Discovery·DateJul 8, 2020