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Science News for July 9, 2020


Trust me if you can

Researchers found that shared values are insufficient for mutual trust between stakeholders; beliefs and emotions play a stronger role. Improved awareness of each other's views and emotions can benefit collaboration and find solutions to the conflict.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalEnergy Reports·DateJul 9, 2020

Distorted passage of time during the COVID-19 lockdown

A survey of 604 UK participants found that over 80% experienced changes to their perception of time during the lockdown, with slower passage associated with older age and reduced social satisfaction. The study suggests that significant changes to daily routine can distort our perception of time.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 9, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Streamlining acute malnutrition treatment brings same recovery in children at lower cost

A new simplified protocol for treating acute malnutrition in young children shows similar recovery rates as the standard approach but is more cost-effective. The streamlined protocol resulted in $123 less per child recovered and reduced ready-to-use food required, providing a potential solution to addressing the issue of nearly 50 mill...

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 9, 2020

UQ researchers solve a 50-year-old enzyme mystery

UQ researchers have solved a 50-year-old enzyme mystery, revealing the complete structure of an essential amino acid synthesizing enzyme. This discovery could lead to the development of new herbicides and antimicrobial agents, potentially restoring effective treatment options for infections such as tuberculosis and invasive Candida.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2020

Scientists urge caution, further assessment of ecological impacts above deep sea mining

A new study highlights the need for further assessment of ecological impacts from deep-sea mining, which could harm vast midwater ecosystems and affect fisheries, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity. The International Seabed Authority must consider midwater research efforts to minimize environmental harm.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 9, 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.

How vaping companies are use Instagram to market to young people

Researchers analyzed hundreds of thousands of Instagram posts about vaping and found that 40% were promoting flavored e-liquids to young audiences. The study highlights the need for stricter laws and regulations on social media advertising targeting younger users.

SourceAalto University·JournalInternational Journal of Medical Informatics·DateJul 9, 2020

Parents' smartphone use does not harm parent/child relationships

A recent study published in Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that parental smartphone use is rarely associated with poor parenting. In fact, at low levels of displacing family time, more smartphone use was linked to better parenting.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateJul 9, 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.

A complex gene program initiates brain changes in response to cocaine

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham have identified a complex gene program that regulates brain changes in response to cocaine. By using single-nucleus RNA sequencing approaches, they found that only a small fraction of neurons in the nucleus accumbens were transcriptionally responsive to cocaine administration.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 9, 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.

What happens when food first touches your tongue

A new study from Ohio State University finds that food's molecular size and movement on the tongue influence how quickly we perceive taste. The researchers modeled flavor flow over papillae to understand why some tastes register faster than others.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJul 9, 2020

Climate change: Heavy rain after drought may cause fish kills

A study found that heavy rainfall can lead to massive fish kills in lakes suffering from oxygen depletion, triggered by labile organic matter. Researchers released breeding stock to help recover lake Filsø's pike population, which has never fully recovered after the event.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJul 9, 2020

Scientists discover protective Alzheimer's gene and develop rapid drug-testing platform

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London discovered a naturally suppressive gene that prevents Alzheimer's Disease in brain cells, leading to the development of a rapid drug-screening system. The system demonstrates proof-of-principle for early preventative-drug testing and identifies a potential biomarker for risk assessment.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJul 9, 2020

Study reveals scale of habitat loss for endangered birds

A new study reveals that the last remaining agro-steppe habitats for endangered bird species in Europe may decline by up to 50% in the next century. The Natura 2000 network, a biodiversity conservation strategy, has failed to prevent habitat loss despite protecting approximately 36,000 hectares of agro-steppe area in Iberia.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJul 9, 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.

Brain benefits of exercise can be gained with a single protein

A study found that exercising mice secretes a liver protein called Gpld1 into the blood, which correlates closely with improved cognitive function. Researchers believe this protein could be used to develop drugs that mimic the brain benefits of exercise, offering new hope for individuals unable to exercise due to physical limitations.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2020

How can education researchers support education and public health and institutions during COVID-19?

The article provides recommendations for education researchers to support education and public health institutions during the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors suggest that researchers can provide research support to medical fields, synthesize and translate research for educational leaders, and develop timely professional development oppo...

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Researcher·DateJul 9, 2020

New evidence of long-term volcanic, seismic risks in northern Europe

Researchers have discovered ancient volcanic activity and subtle, unusual movements in the Earth's surface in the Eifel region of Germany, suggesting a greater risk to northwestern Europe. The study suggests that the region is an active volcanic system with significant seismic activity.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalGeophysical Journal International·DateJul 9, 2020

Vulnerability for at-risk populations identified in US influenza data

A new influenza-monitoring system reveals critical biases in US disease surveillance, particularly among lower socioeconomic neighborhoods. The study suggests that these disparities are linked to reduced access to healthcare and increase the risk of hospitalization for flu-related complications.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJul 9, 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.

Science education community should withdraw from international tests

Researchers argue that international tests like PISA have forced schools to adopt narrow curricula and pedagogies, leading to a lack of scientific literacy. The study calls for a shift towards more inclusive and engaging science education, with a focus on the environment and health.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal for Activist Science and Technology Education·DateJul 9, 2020

Improved cochlear implant device allows safe MRI in children without discomfort

A new MED-EL Synchrony cochlear implant design allows children to undergo MRI scans safely and comfortably, reducing the need for sedation or anesthesia. The innovative device eliminates the need for surgical removal of the magnet or a head wrap, increasing accessibility to critical diagnostic tools.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalThe Laryngoscope·DateJul 9, 2020

Socio-economic, environmental impacts of COVID-19 quantified

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a significant economic impact, with global consumption losses exceeding $3.8 trillion and 147 million full-time equivalent job losses. The travel sector was most directly affected, with cascading multiplier effects across the entire world economy.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 9, 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.

Water-saving alternative forage crops for Texas livestock

Researchers found that sorghum performed better under drought conditions, producing more biomass with less water. Mixed with supplements, sorghum can achieve desirable feed quality and increase profitability without sacrificing nutrition.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateJul 9, 2020

Researchers call for worldwide biosurveillance network to protect from diseases

Researchers recommend a decentralized disease surveillance system to monitor pathogens in wildlife and humans, expanding beyond human disease outbreaks to encompass broader understanding of pathogens. The network aims to provide early warnings of spillover potential and assist in containment and development of therapeutic treatments.

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2020

Using electricity to break down pollutants left over after wastewater treatment

Researchers at INRS have successfully tested an advanced electro-oxidation process, which uses electric current to break down non-biodegradable pollutants in treated domestic wastewater. The process generates hydroxide radicals that attack refractory molecules without requiring chemicals, reducing the cost of treatment.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJul 9, 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.

Intimate partner violence, history of childhood abuse worsen trauma symptoms for new moms

A study found that recent episodes of intimate partner violence and history of childhood abuse worsen trauma symptoms such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, and sleep disorders in new mothers. Postnatal medical screenings may help identify signs of abuse and provide an opportunity for intervention.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Traumatic Stress·DateJul 9, 2020

Temple scientists identify key factor regulating abnormal heart growth

A study published in Circulation reveals that FoxO1 plays a crucial role in regulating abnormal heart growth, a condition characterized by cardiac hypertrophy. The research suggests that targeting FoxO1 could lead to the development of novel therapies for cardiac hypertrophy.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalCirculation·DateJul 9, 2020

CU researchers identify key role of immune cells in brain development

Researchers at CU School of Medicine identified microglia's essential role in regulating myelination, a process forming connections between neurons and glial cells. This finding may lead to improved understanding of potential causes for neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 9, 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.

Prize winner uncovers microbes' role in tissue repair

Scientists discovered that Staphylococcus epidermidis interacts with the immune system to promote wound healing and prevent inflammation. The study's findings may lead to therapies for conditions like atopic dermatitis and inflammatory bowel diseases, affecting millions worldwide.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateJul 9, 2020

Lightning data have more use than previously thought

A recent study from the Institute of Atmospheric Physics found that lightning activity and charge structure varied before and after a severe hailfall. The research suggests that lightning data can serve as an indicator for hazardous weather phenomena and improve short-term forecasting.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJul 9, 2020

Cell-cell signaling promotes invariability in sea squirt embryogenesis

Researchers discovered precise cell-to-cell contact areas required for invariant embryonic cell lineages, suggesting a range of cell signaling events limits reproducibility during development. Ascidian embryos maintain highly regimented cell-fate from early developmental stages to later stages, even between distantly related species.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 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.

An $18 million boost to materials science research at UC San Diego

The UC San Diego lab funded by the grant will focus on developing new materials with improved properties for medical diagnostic tests, therapeutics, and decontamination. The center will also provide opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students to work together and chart new avenues for innovation in materials science.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateJul 9, 2020

Unraveling the mystery of wheat herbicide tolerance

Researchers used alien substitution lines to pinpoint chromosomal region 5A as key player in wheat's natural tolerance to synthetic auxin herbicides. They found minimal injury in some plant lines due to their ability to naturally detoxify the chemical, while others were highly sensitive to high rates of the herbicide.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 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.

Liquid water is more than just H2O molecules

Researchers at Skoltech found a significantly higher concentration of short-lived ions (H3O+ and OH-) in pure liquid water than previously thought. This discovery has far-reaching implications for our understanding of the intricate structure of water, including its role in redox processes, catalytic reactions, and electrochemical systems.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 2020

Pasteurizing breast milk inactivates SARS-CoV-2

New research finds that pasteurizing breast milk inactivates severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), making it safe for use. The Holder method, a common technique used by over 650 human breast milk banks worldwide, is effective at neutralizing viruses in human milk.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 9, 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.

Sodium found to regulate the biological clock of mice

A study by McGill researchers found that sodium concentrations can influence circadian rhythms in mice, activating neurons associated with the master clock. This discovery opens new possibilities for treating negative health effects of long distance travel or shift work.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2020

Lead fallout from Notre Dame fire was likely overlooked

A new study estimates that nearly a ton of lead dust settled within a kilometer of the Notre Dame cathedral after the 2019 fire. The study found significantly higher lead levels in areas downwind of the fire, exceeding France's limit of 300 milligrams per kilogram of soil.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalGeoHealth·DateJul 9, 2020

Living close to green space benefits gut bacteria of urban, formula-fed infants

A new study found that living close to green space can mitigate changes in infant gut bacteria associated with formula feeding. Formula-fed babies living near natural environments had a gut microbiome more similar to breastfed babies, with increased presence of Proteobacteria.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalEnvironment International·DateJul 9, 2020

CT of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) versus CT of influenza virus pneumonia

Most COVID-19 lesions are located in the peripheral zone and close to the pleura, whereas influenza virus pneumonia is more prone to show mucoid impaction and pleural effusion. However, differentiating between the two conditions remains challenging due to overlapping CT manifestations.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateJul 9, 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.

Scientists reveal comprehensive proteomic map of human lung adenocarcinoma

A comprehensive proteomic analysis of 103 Chinese patients with lung adenocarcinoma revealed molecular characteristics associated with clinical outcomes and potential prognostic biomarkers. The study identified 27 potential plasma biomarkers and several drug targets for LUAD, providing new insights into the disease.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell·DateJul 9, 2020

Feeling with the heart

Researchers found that brain activity and perception of sensory stimuli change with the cardiac cycle, suppressing heartbeat perception but affecting other stimuli perception. The study may provide insight into anxiety conditions associated with heart rate changes.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 9, 2020

Breakthrough with cancer vaccine

The new vaccine targets key tumour cells, maximising effectiveness while minimising side effects. It can be produced as an 'off the shelf' clinical grade formulation, addressing financial and logistical issues.

SourceTranslational Research Institute·JournalClinical & Translational Immunology·DateJul 9, 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.

Evolution makes the world less ragged

A team of international researchers found that evolution tends to dampen or smooth out variations in ecological patterns across landscapes. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, analyzed over 500 studies and identified 14 mechanisms affecting the direction of evolution's impact.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 9, 2020

A memory game could help us understand brain injury

A new memory game helps researchers understand how brain regions process sensory information and remember skills after traumatic brain injury. The game reveals that certain areas of the brain, such as S1 and S2, have both localized and distributed processing roles.

SourceBoston University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 9, 2020

Arctic Ocean 'regime shift'

Phytoplankton blooms have drastically altered the Arctic's ability to transform atmospheric carbon into living matter, with net primary production increasing by 57% between 1998 and 2018. The surge in phytoplankton biomass may represent a significant 'regime shift' for the Arctic ecosystem, with implications for food supply and carbon ...

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 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.

Gall fly outmaneuvers host plant in game of "Spy vs. Spy"

Researchers discovered that goldenrod plants respond to gall fly sex pheromones by priming their chemical defenses, reducing gall formation, but varying effects depending on male fly age. Younger males result in fewer galls, while older males yield more galls.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateJul 9, 2020

Aquaculture's role in nutrition in the COVID-19 era

The article discusses four possible scenarios for the future of aquaculture, including a growth-first nationalistic approach, sustainable localized production, and a globally competitive market. These scenarios aim to maximize aquaculture's nutrition benefits while ensuring environmental sustainability.

SourceAmerican University·JournalReviews in Fisheries Science & Aquaculture·DateJul 9, 2020

How fear transforms into anxiety

A University of New Mexico research team has identified brain-wide neural correlates of the transition from fear to anxiety, shedding new light on the brain's response to fearful events and why some people don't easily recover. The study found that vulnerability to anxiety correlates with elevated activity in specific regions of the br...

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·DateJul 9, 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.

Native bees also facing novel pandemic

A growing evidence suggests a fungal pathogen known as Nosema is infecting native bees worldwide, with little known about its impact on these species. This infection threatens pollination and ecosystems, as native bees contribute to agricultural crop pollination and play a crucial role in local ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 9, 2020

Magnetic memory states go exponential

Researchers at Bar-Ilan University have developed a structure that can support exponentially many discrete magnetic states, opening the door to ultra-high-density magnetic memory and novel computing applications.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 9, 2020

Otago researchers find link between rape and breathing problems

Researchers have found that a history of rape is associated with dysfunctional breathing and late-onset asthma diagnosis, particularly in women. Nearly 20% of women reported being raped, and those who experienced trauma were more likely to develop respiratory problems at 38 years old.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateJul 9, 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.

Oil spill clean- up gets doggone hairy

Researchers found that natural-origin sorbent materials, including peat moss, dog fur, and human hair products, can be effective in cleaning up oil spills on land. Sustainable options like dog fur and human hair show promise as cheaper and biodegradable alternatives to synthetic fabrics.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalEnvironments·DateJul 9, 2020

Shining light into the dark

Researchers have developed a new method to analyze microscopic samples without using external light, reducing interference and damage to living specimens. The 'glow in the dark' approach uses chemical stimuli to activate chemicals, enabling precise control over localized oxidative hotspots.

SourceCurtin University·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateJul 9, 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.

Daytime aardvark sightings are a sign of troubled times

Research reveals that aardvarks feeding in daylight during droughts may be starving due to lack of food. A long-term study showed that drought caused a shift from nighttime to daytime activity, which was not enough to save the aardvarks from starvation.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateJul 9, 2020

Teva presents latest data on AJOVY® ▼ (fremanezumab) at EHF Congress

AJOVY (fremanezumab) demonstrates clinically significant reductions in headache and migraine-related disability in the majority of patients studied. The treatment achieves downward shifts in disability severity and improves HIT-6 and MIDAS scores, particularly for patients with difficult-to-treat migraine.

SourceKetchum UK·JournalEuropean Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing·DateJul 9, 2020

Care for cats? So did people along the Silk Road more than 1,000 years ago

Researchers reconstructed a 1,000-year-old cat skeleton found along the Silk Road, revealing that the animal had been fed and cared for by humans. The study suggests cultural exchange and changes in animal husbandry practices in Central Asia during this time period.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 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.

Cherned up to the maximum

Researchers have observed that palladium gallium (PdGa) reaches the maximum allowed Chern number of four, a fundamental aspect yet to be settled in topological physics. The team also demonstrated control over the sign of the Chern number by manipulating the crystal's handedness during growth.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2020

New study supports remdesivir as COVID-19 treatment

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center report that remdesivir potently inhibited SARS-CoV-2 in human lung cell cultures and improved lung function in mice. The study provides the first rigorous demonstration of potent inhibition of SARS-CoV-2.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 9, 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.

Flaring, massively

Astronomers have successfully detected a superflare on the nearby red dwarf AD Leonis, with one flare being 20 times larger than those emitted by our sun. The high-quality data from the Seimei Telescope has revealed intriguing phenomena, including an increase in high-energy electrons and unusual light patterns.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPublications of the Astronomical Society of Japan·DateJul 9, 2020

Access to nature requires attention when addressing community health needs

A new study highlights the importance of access to nature in addressing community health needs, citing benefits to physical, mental, and social health. Researchers recommend incorporating assessments of nature access into patient encounters and refer patients to community groups increasing green areas.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJul 9, 2020

Cosmic cataclysm allows precise test of general relativity

The study confirms that the speed of light is constant in vacuum, as predicted by Einstein's general relativity theory. No energy-dependent time delay was detected in the arrival times of gamma rays from a high-energy gamma-ray burst, supporting GR. Strong constraints on the quantum gravity energy scale were also set.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Physics·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 9, 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.

Looking at linkers helps to join the dots

Researchers discovered a phase transition in quantum dot films, where conductivity increases when linker molecules replace long capping molecules. This breakthrough could lead to better solar panels and digital displays.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateJul 9, 2020

Amygdala changes in male patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder

Researchers at Kumamoto University found that DNA methylation in the serotonin transporter gene is inversely correlated with amygdala volume in male patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The study suggests a potential biomarker for onset prediction, diagnosis, and therapeutic effects.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalSchizophrenia Bulletin·DateJul 9, 2020

Brookhaven and Forge Nano to mature noble gas-trapping technology

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed nanocages to trap noble gases, including xenon and krypton, which can improve nuclear reactor efficiency and reduce radioactive waste. The team plans to scale up the production of these materials with partner Forge Nano.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·DateJul 9, 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.

Dissecting fruit flies' varying responses to life-extension diet

A study of fruit flies has found that analyzing small molecules involved in cell metabolism can help understand how calorie-restricted diets affect aging and lifespan. The research identified several genes linked to changes in metabolite levels, shedding light on the complex interplay between genetics, environment, and diet.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJul 9, 2020

Study of giant ant heads using simple models may aid bio-inspired designs

Researchers created a basic model of an ant body using ellipsoids to understand center of balance and evolution among body segments. The study reveals how ants maintain balance despite large head sizes, with implications for bio-inspired machine design.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalIntegrative and Comparative Biology·DateJul 9, 2020

Study says inhalers ok to use amid COVID-19 concerns

Researchers at University of Huddersfield found that the benefits of using inhalers and nebulisers containing steroids outweigh the risks despite COVID-19 concerns. The study confirms that patients with asthma or COPD can continue using their regular medicines, including steroids.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalRespiratory Medicine·DateJul 9, 2020

Sea surface temperature has a big impact on coral outplant survival

Researchers from Arizona State University found that coral outplant survival drops below 50% if sea surface temperatures exceed 30.5 degrees Celsius, highlighting the importance of considering temperature conditions in reef restoration efforts.

SourceArizona State University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 9, 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.

Engineering: Reducing noise transmitted through an open window

A new device reduces perceived loudness of urban noises by up to half through sound wave cancellation. The device, consisting of 24 speakers and a sensor, is tested in a replica room with various noise sources, demonstrating up to a 10 decibel reduction.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 2020

Rochester community initiative increases teenage use of effective contraception

A University of Rochester Medical Center partnership increased long-acting reversible contraception adoption among adolescents in Rochester by 20 times compared to the national average. The Hoekelman Center's community outreach initiative empowered adults to educate teens, providing accurate information and resources.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJul 9, 2020

Revealing winners & losers in projected future climates

Research reveals subtropical species are winners in future climates due to their ability to adapt to rising temperatures, while temperate species are most vulnerable. The study provides a catalogue of genes that informs about the adaptive capacity to climate change.

SourceFlinders University·DateJul 9, 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.

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.

X-ray scattering shines light on protein folding

A study by KAIST researchers used X-ray scattering to track protein folding, revealing multiple forms of an unfolded protein follow different pathways and timelines. The findings could improve computer simulations, paving the way for better disease studies and drug development.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 9, 2020

Study sheds light on bushfires' microclimate impact

Researchers monitored air temperature, humidity, and particulate matter pollution during the 2019-20 Australian bushfires. The study found specific combinations of air temperature and relative humidity led to higher pollutant accumulation, highlighting the importance of understanding microclimatic impacts on urban areas.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Communications·DateJul 9, 2020

Engineers design a reusable, silicone rubber face mask

A new, reusable face mask made of durable silicone rubber and an N95 filter has been designed to be easily sterilized and used many times. The team tested various sterilization methods and found that the material remained undamaged after autoclaving, oven treatment, or soaking in bleach and isopropyl alcohol.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJul 9, 2020

Comparing stress cardiomyopathy before, during COVID-19 pandemic

This observational study compared patients with acute coronary syndrome presenting during and before the COVID-19 pandemic to investigate stress cardiomyopathy incidence. Stress cardiomyopathy was found to be more prevalent during the pandemic, suggesting a potential impact of COVID-19 on cardiovascular health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 9, 2020

Cycad stem cuttings need wound sealants for successful propagation

A study by the University of Guam found that cycad stem cuttings require wound sealants to survive and propagate. The researchers discovered that petroleum jelly, lanolin paste, honeycomb wax, and even modelling clay can effectively cover wounds and retain hydration.

SourceUniversity of Guam·JournalTropical Conservation Science·DateJul 9, 2020

Discovery reveals how plants make cellulose for strength and growth

Researchers at the University of Virginia have discovered how plants make cellulose, a key component of cell walls. Cellulose is created through molecular machinery that produces three chains, which are then transported to the cell surface and assembled into microfibrils for added strength.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2020

A new role for a tiny linker in transmembrane ion channels

A team of researchers has discovered a new role for a tiny linker in regulating transmembrane ion channels, which could lead to new targets for drugs and treatment in conditions such as hypertension and autism. The study found that the linker plays a more active sensing role than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateJul 9, 2020

Contracting COVID-19, lifestyle and social connections may play a role

Research highlights the link between unhealthy lifestyle habits, emotional stressors, and increased risk of respiratory infections. Social isolation, loneliness, and interpersonal conflicts are also major contributors to the spread of COVID-19.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateJul 9, 2020

Bats offer clues to treating COVID-19

Researchers found that bats' ability to control inflammation may hold clues to developing new treatments for diseases in humans. By understanding the mechanisms underlying bats' unique abilities, scientists may be able to develop therapies to fight diseases like COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 9, 2020

Scientists trace the origin of our teeth from the most primitive jawed fish

Researchers use advanced X-ray technology to study ancient fish fossils, revealing modern features and challenging previous assumptions about tooth evolution. The findings suggest that the ancestors of modern vertebrates retained a common dental structure, with new teeth added on the inside, contrary to long-held perceptions.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2020

Breast cancer cells can reprogram immune cells to assist in metastasis

Researchers discovered that metastatic breast cancer cells can reprogram natural killer (NK) cells to stop killing cancer cells and instead aid in metastasis. This work also identifies new immunotherapy strategies to reverse this reprogramming process, offering a potential way to prevent or reduce breast cancer mortality.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJul 9, 2020

Study sheds light on how cancer spreads in blood

Researchers analyzed extracellular vesicles in human prostate cancer cells to understand how cancer spreads. The findings suggest a new approach to diagnose malignancies without invasive biopsies.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJournal of Extracellular Vesicles·DateJul 9, 2020

Gene yields insights into the causes of neurodegeneration

Researchers have identified a gene, TMEM106B, as a risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia. The study found that a mutation in this gene disrupts the formation of myelin sheaths around nerve fibers, leading to neurological defects.

SourceCornell University·JournalBrain·DateJul 9, 2020

Major cause of rare genetic mitochondrial disease identified

A cutting-edge study has identified ATAD3 as the most common cause of lethal mitochondrial disease in children dying soon after birth. The study found that spontaneous gene alterations resulted in fatal heart failure, but parents have a low risk of passing the disease to their next child.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalMed·DateJul 9, 2020

A new look at deep-sea microbes

Researchers found that microbes inside hydrocarbon seeps have less efficient, fast-growing lifestyles while those outside have slower but more efficient lives. This difference in lifestyle could mirror how microbes behave higher in the water column.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 2020

When child care meets aged care, worlds align

A new ageing well initiative aims to bring together children with older people in a structured way, delivering health and wellbeing benefits for all. The Child Care in Aged Care project promotes meaningful community connections and challenges stereotypes through intergenerational activities.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·DateJul 9, 2020

Advanced technology sheds new light on evolution of teeth

Researchers used synchrotron microtomography to visualize ancient fossils and found that acanthothoracid teeth were attached to jaw-bones like modern fish and land animals. This discovery challenges the common perception that sharks are primitive living vertebrates.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2020

Breast cancer cells turn killer immune cells into allies

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine discovered that breast cancer cells can alter the function of NK cells to facilitate their spread. The study suggests preventing this reprogramming might stop breast cancer from metastasizing, a major cause of death in breast cancer patients.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJul 9, 2020

Fishing for a theory of emergent behavior

The study used advanced metrics from information theory to describe the collective behavior of small schools of ayu fish, finding that groups of three or more exhibited noticeably different dynamics. This work may aid in developing cooperative biomimetic swarming robots and help understand fundamental problems in complexity theory.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalEntropy·DateJul 9, 2020

Surprisingly many peculiar long introns found in brain genes

A study of human and mouse genes reveals a link between intron phase and length, shedding light on the functioning of brain cells. Long phase 1 introns found in genes involved in nerve impulse transmission may play a key role in this process.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 9, 2020

Challenges in evaluating SARS-CoV-2 vaccines

Researchers must consider factors like population immunity, social distancing, and baseline immunity when evaluating vaccine efficacy. Adequate sample sizes are needed to demonstrate vaccine effectiveness, which may be influenced by COVID-19 severity in vaccinated individuals.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 9, 2020

Extreme rainfall events cause top-heavy aquatic food webs

Researchers replicated extreme rainfall events in Central and South America's neotropics, finding top-heavy food webs with predators when rainfall varied daily. This altered the trophic structure of bromeliad tanks, affecting energy flow through ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 9, 2020

Fair justice systems need open data access

A Northwestern University-led team has developed an AI-powered platform to make federal court records publicly available, enabling researchers to analyze and evaluate the justice system. The tool aims to provide quantitative feedback to fix variations in judges' decisions on fee waivers, ultimately promoting fair access to justice.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2020

Our itch to share helps spread COVID-19 misinformation

A study by MIT scholars reveals that social media sharing interferes with assessing news accuracy, but participants who think critically or have scientific knowledge share fewer false headlines. Rating non-Covid-19 headlines before sharing Covid-19 news increases accuracy significantly.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 9, 2020

Expansion stress enhances growth and migration of breast cancer cells

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that biomechanical forces in the tumor microenvironment enhance breast cancer cell growth, invasion, and metastasis. The study also discovered that exosome production plays a key role in promoting aggressive tumor growth and inducing immune suppression.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalLaboratory Investigation·DateJul 9, 2020