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Science News for June 23, 2020


Females use anti-inflammatory T cells to keep their blood pressure down

Researchers found that females upregulate anti-inflammatory T cells to maintain lower blood pressures, which may lead to new hypertension treatment strategies for females. In contrast, males did not show a significant response to reduced Treg levels, suggesting their blood pressure is less dependent on this mechanism.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalHYPERTENSION·DateJun 23, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Existing drugs may limit damage caused by HIV

Yale researchers identified four approved drugs that can suppress HIV reactivation and reduce damaging immune responses. These drugs, including ruxolitinib and mycophenolic acid, show promise as a complement to antiretroviral therapy in treating HIV infection.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 23, 2020

Gear treated with 'forever chemicals' poses risk to firefighters

Research by the University of Notre Dame found high concentrations of fluorine on firefighter PPE, including moisture barrier and outer shell. PFAS can contaminate thermal layer and skin, posing occupational health risk to firefighters.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJun 23, 2020

Striking differences revealed in COVID-19 mortality between NHS trusts

A University of Cambridge team found striking differences in COVID-19 mortality between NHS trusts, with some patients in certain trusts over four times more likely to die than those in average trusts. The researchers are calling for urgent research to understand these differences and inform ICU optimization.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalIntensive Care Medicine·DateJun 23, 2020

Breaking the limit

Scientists have synthesized brand-new transition metal carbonyl complexes, including Ta2(CO)12 and M(CO)7+, which transcend new chemical frontiers. These substances go beyond current compound limits, offering new possibilities for practical use and basic science research.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 23, 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.

Sweet or sour natural gas

Researchers developed tailored polyimide membranes to efficiently separate H2S and CO2 from sour gas. By adjusting the ratio of building blocks, they achieved balanced separation efficiency for both gases.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 23, 2020

Prenatal stress associated with infant gut microbes

A new study from the University of Turku found that prenatal stress is associated with changes in infant gut microbiota composition, specifically with increased abundances of Proteobacteria and decreased abundances of Akkermansia. The study also discovered a link between low cortisol concentrations and increased Lactobacillus bacteria ...

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateJun 23, 2020

Defining paths to possible mother to child coronavirus transmission

UC Davis Health researchers outline three potential mechanisms of vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from mother to fetus, emphasizing the importance of understanding timing and infection routes. Intrapartum or early postnatal infection can occur through exposure to infected maternal blood or secretions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Perinatology·DateJun 23, 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.

St. Jude creates resource for pediatric brain tumor research

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have created orthotopic patient-derived xenograft models representing a variety of pediatric brain tumor types. These models are molecularly characterized and available through a cloud-based data portal, enabling researchers worldwide to access them.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateJun 23, 2020

Rice professor attracts grant to study magnetism

Rice University experimental physicist Ming Yi has been awarded a five-year grant from the Department of Energy to explore magnetism in two-dimensional materials. Her research aims to understand how key ingredients for magnetism evolve as materials transition from 3D to 2D.

SourceRice University·DateJun 23, 2020

Researchers identify novel genetic variants linked to type-2 diabetes

A massive genomic analysis has found hundreds of new genetic variants associated with type-2 diabetes, as well as those tied to related conditions like coronary heart disease and chronic kidney disease. The discovery may lead to personalized treatments for patients at high risk of developing the disease.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 23, 2020

Scientists use protein, RNA to make hollow, spherical sacks called vesicles

Researchers have created biological storage compartments using protein and RNA, offering an alternative to traditional lipid-based vesicles. The hollow spheres can be used for targeted drug delivery or pesticide release, and their structure resembles classical lipid vesicles without being made from lipids.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 23, 2020

New research deepens mystery of particle generation in proton collisions

Researchers have found that neutral pions emitted in the very forward area of polarized proton-proton collisions retain a large degree of left-right asymmetry. This finding suggests reevaluation of previous theories on particle generation. Further study is needed to understand the mechanism underlying this phenomenon.

SourceRIKEN·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 23, 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.

New drug candidate reawakens sleeping HIV in hopes of functional cure

Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys have developed a new drug called Ciapavir that effectively reactivates dormant human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) without overactivating the immune system. This approach, called 'shock and kill,' aims to create a functional HIV cure by eliminating all pockets of dormant HIV.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateJun 23, 2020

Study suggests universal flu vaccine may be more challenging than expected

Researchers found that one flu strain, H3N2, can mutate relatively easily to escape broad-acting antibodies, while another strain, H1N1, is more difficult to evade. The study highlights the challenges involved in designing a universal flu vaccine and suggests that further research is needed to develop an effective treatment.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience·DateJun 23, 2020

Ideologically extreme Facebook users spread the most fake news

A study by the University of Colorado at Boulder found that Facebook users who are ideologically extreme, lacking trust in conventional media and one another, post misinformation more often. About 1% of users at the far ideological extremes were responsible for sharing nearly half of the fake news on the platform.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalHuman Communication Research·DateJun 23, 2020

Starved cancer cells became more sensitive to chemotherapy

Researchers at Lund University successfully blocked sugar uptake in cancer cells using inhibitors, making them more sensitive to chemotherapy. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML).

SourceLund University·JournalHaematologica·DateJun 23, 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.

Introducing a new isotope: Mendelevium-244

A team of scientists at Berkeley Lab has discovered a new form of the element mendelevium, creating the lightest known isotope, mendelevium-244. The discovery was made using the lab's 88-Inch Cyclotron and provides evidence for the existence of two separate decay chains with half-lives of 0.4 seconds and 6 seconds.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 23, 2020

Virtually captured

Researchers analyzed the Venus flytrap's biomechanical properties using digital 3D image correlation methods and finite element simulations. They found that the trap snaps shut when under prestress, and only traps with three tissue layers can close correctly.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 23, 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.

Supply chain expert reveals methodology behind Bordeaux pricing model

A study published in Production and Operations Management reveals a new methodology behind the Bordeaux pricing model, which uses four factors to estimate prices for fine wines. The model provides a transparent approach to setting realistic prices, reducing opportunistic behavior and adding systemic structure to decision-making.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalProduction and Operations Management·DateJun 23, 2020

Reducing the damage of a heart attack

Cardiology researchers from San Diego State University found that the protein MANF acts as a regulator, minimizing damage after a heart attack. The discovery could lead to the administration of MANF as a drug in ambulances to reduce damage and improve recovery rates.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 23, 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.

Exciting new developments for polymers made from waste sulfur

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have developed new sulfur polymers that provide an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional petrochemical-based plastics. The polymers, which can be recycled easily, exhibit shape-memory effects and can be self-repaired within minutes, opening up potential applications in soft robot...

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateJun 23, 2020

New opportunities for ocean and climate modelling

The new FOCI system allows for high-resolution ocean and climate modelling over centuries to millennia, enabling researchers to study natural climate fluctuations and anthropogenic climate change. With its modular design, FOCI can be configured to investigate various research questions and improve the accuracy of model simulations.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalGeoscientific Model Development·DateJun 23, 2020

Oncotarget: Bacteriome and mycobiome and bacteriome-mycobiome interactions

Researchers characterized bacteriome, mycobiome, and mycobiome-bacteriome interactions of oral wash in Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients, finding distinct differences compared to healthy controls. Unique interactions between fungal and bacterial communities may serve as potential screening tool for HNSCC.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJun 23, 2020

Researchers identify distinct subtypes of polycystic ovary syndrome with novel genetic associations

Researchers identified reproductive and metabolic subtypes of PCOS associated with novel gene regions, promising to transform understanding of the disorder. The study used clustering of clinical, metabolic, and hormonal data from women with PCOS, revealing two distinct subtypes with different genetic architectures.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 23, 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.

Helicopter or cartwheel?

The study investigates how molecules rotate when colliding with surfaces and its impact on the outcome of collisions. The research found that the rotational orientation of hydrogen molecules significantly influences their interaction with a Lithium Fluoride surface, affecting scattering probabilities, adsorption, or decomposition.

SourceSwansea University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 23, 2020

Genetic analysis suggests distinct subtypes of polycystic ovary syndrome

A study funded by NIH analyzed nearly 900 women with irregular menstrual periods and identified two PCOS subtypes, each associated with distinct groups of gene variants. The reproductive subtype had higher levels of luteinizing hormone and lower BMI, while the metabolic group had a higher BMI and insulin levels.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 23, 2020

Slow-growing rotavirus mutant reveals early steps of viral assembly

A slow-growing rotavirus mutant has allowed researchers to observe the early steps of viral assembly, providing new insights into the formation of viroplasms. The study found that NSP2 phosphorylation plays a crucial role in triggering lipid droplet formation, a key step in viroplasm formation.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJun 23, 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.

Researcher develops tool to protect children's online privacy

Researchers developed a tool called COPPTCHA that can detect Android games and mobile apps in compliance with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) with 99% accuracy. The tool accesses device-level activity, posing risks to child users if exploited by traffickers.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalIEEE Transactions on Information Forensics and Security·DateJun 23, 2020

Research determines financial benefit from driving electric vehicles

Researchers at NREL have found that driving electric vehicles can save motorists as much as $14,500 on fuel costs over 15 years. The study considered state-by-state differences and the cost of charging equipment and installation costs to estimate total fuel cost savings.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalJoule·DateJun 23, 2020

Parkinson's Foundation awards nurse faculty grants

The Parkinson's Foundation has awarded nearly $30,000 in grants to three nurses who specialize in Parkinson's care. The grant recipients will launch individual projects to improve life for people with Parkinson's disease in their local community.

SourceParkinson's Foundation·DateJun 23, 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.

Statement on metabolic and bariatric surgery during COVID-19 pandemic

The ASMBS emphasizes the effectiveness of metabolic and bariatric surgery in treating severe obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. The organization recommends carefully considering individual patient factors and local COVID-19 prevalence before resuming procedures.

SourceAmerican Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery·JournalSurgery for Obesity and Related Diseases·DateJun 23, 2020

Brain exosomes from blood samples allow earlier diagnosis of ALS

Researchers at Brain Chemistry Labs have developed a new blood test that can diagnose ALS earlier than current methods, using brain exosomes and microRNA. The test, based on genetic material shed by different tissues, distinguishes between ALS patients and healthy controls with high accuracy.

SourceBrain Chemistry Labs·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJun 23, 2020

Lack of damage after secondary impacts surprises researchers

A recent study on spall fracture in metals revealed that certain materials can withstand secondary shocks with minimal damage, even without obvious signs of voids and cracks. The researchers found that a specific shock stress could recompact damaged copper targets and create new bonds between the broken surfaces.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJun 23, 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.

LIGO-Virgo finds mystery object in 'mass gap'

Scientists have detected an object of 2.6 solar masses, firmly placing it within the 'mass gap' between neutron stars and black holes. The discovery was made using LIGO and Virgo detectors and may challenge current theoretical models.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·DateJun 23, 2020

Dimethylsulfoniopropionate concentration in coral reef invertebrates

A study published in Scientific Reports highlights how benthic assemblages impact coral and giant clam species' dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) production. The researchers found that DMSP concentration is modulated according to the complexity of species assemblages, suggesting a connection between neighbors and metabolism.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 23, 2020

Obesity linked to higher dementia risk

A new study published in the International Journal of Epidemiology found that obesity is associated with a higher risk of dementia, with women facing a 39% increased risk. The study suggests that weight management could play a significant role in reducing this risk.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateJun 23, 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.

A bacterial toxin turning cells into swiss cheese

Researchers from Kanazawa University purified and characterized Monalysin, a pore-forming bacterial toxin, to study its interaction with the innate immune system. The study revealed that activated Monalysin forms pores in cell membranes, leading to cell death, and that it preferentially inserts into curved parts of membranes.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateJun 23, 2020

Extending the coverage of PM2.5 monitoring to help improve air quality

By extending available data, researchers developed a method to estimate mass concentrations of particulate matter from humidity and visibility measurements. This approach has the potential to provide broader understanding of how particulate matter evolves and improve visibility in daily life.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 23, 2020

How does the electronic medical record affect physician education?

A new study found that electronic medical records (EMRs) enhance the education of nephrology fellows, providing efficient access to patient lab and x-ray results. However, EMR data entry time demands contribute to work-hour violations, frustration, and burnout among fellows.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJun 23, 2020

Dieting success: Top performers provide more positive support than peers

A new study finds that social interactions with top performers have a positive impact on weight loss success, while those with average performers have a negative effect. The study suggests using the successes of top performers to inspire dieters and avoid using overall group success as a benchmark.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateJun 23, 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.

Simple device monitors health using sweat

Researchers at Penn State and Xiangtan University developed a device that analyzes sweat for biomarkers like pH and glucose to monitor health conditions. The single-opening device reduces evaporation and allows for on-the-spot analysis using a colorimetric approach.

SourcePenn State·JournalLab on a Chip·DateJun 23, 2020

Blocking sugar metabolism slows lung tumor growth

A study suggests that blocking two sugar-transporting proteins could help slow the growth of lung tumors. Researchers genetically engineered mice with lung cancer and found that tumors grew slower when both glucose transporters were lacking.

SourceeLife·DateJun 23, 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.

Role-play shows which expectant dads will thrive as new fathers

A five-minute role-play with a doll predicted parenting quality nine months after birth, measuring intuitive parenting skills such as talking to the face and showing concern. The study found that these skills can be taught, and good co-parenting relationships and personality traits also predict better parenting.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateJun 23, 2020

Does 'mommy brain' last? Study shows motherhood does not diminish attention

A new study from Purdue University finds that mothers do not have diminished attention and may even have better executive control attention compared to non-mothers. The research used a revised Attention Network Test to compare reaction times among 60 mothers and 70 non-mothers, finding no evidence to support the 'mommy brain' stereotype.

SourcePurdue University·JournalCurrent Psychology·DateJun 23, 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.

Scientists modelled natural rock arcades

Researchers from Russia and the Czech Republic modelled natural rock arcades, finding that they appear in areas with discontinuities due to erosion. The study used a mathematical model that describes the formation of arches and pillars through weathering and erosion processes.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalGeomorphology·DateJun 23, 2020

Income, race are associated with disparities in access to green spaces

Researchers analyzed data from Columbus, Ohio, and Atlanta, Georgia, to find that income and race significantly affect access to green spaces. Wealthier neighborhoods have greater access to parks, trees, and sports fields in Columbus, while racial disparities are more pronounced in Atlanta.

SourceOhio State University·JournalLandscape and Urban Planning·DateJun 23, 2020

Hot ring produces microwave-powered ultrasound pulses wirelessly

Researchers develop wireless ultrasound transducer that uses microwave absorption to generate sound waves, avoiding acoustic losses. The device consists of a copper ring with an oil-filled envelope, which concentrates microwaves into a hot-spot for efficient ultrasound emission.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJun 23, 2020

Launch of mobile app that controls the perfect amount of fertilizers and water

The Reutivar App aims to optimize fertilizer and water application in olive orchards, reducing waste and environmental impact. By using reclaimed water with macronutrient content, farmers can control fertilizing calendars and reduce nitrogen use, promoting a more sustainable approach to irrigation.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalComputers and Electronics in Agriculture·DateJun 23, 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.

Study: Air pollution major risk for cardiovascular disease regardless of country income

A new study published in The Lancet Planetary Health found that long-term exposure to fine particulate outdoor air pollution is a major contributor to cardiovascular disease and death worldwide. The study analyzed data from 157,436 adults across 21 countries and found a significant link between PM2.5 exposure and cardiovascular events.

SourceOregon State University·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateJun 23, 2020

NASA satellite gives a hello to tropical storm Dolly

Tropical Storm Dolly formed over the Northern Atlantic Ocean after transitioning from a subtropical depression. NASA's Terra satellite captured an image of the storm on June 23, revealing strong winds and a thick band of thunderstorms. The National Hurricane Center predicts Dolly will weaken and become post-tropical by Wednesday.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 23, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

The COVID-19 pandemic is causing deaths with forced separations that deny final goodbyes and traditional mourning rituals. Bereavement care is essential to offset the risks of psychological distress. Authors suggest words clinicians can say to bereaved family members and guidance on referrals.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 23, 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.

A blue spark to shine on the origin of the Universe

An ultra-sensitive sensor has been developed to detect the nuclear decay of heavy neutrinos, which could explain the cosmic asymmetry between matter and antimatter. The researchers used a new fluorescent molecule to capture the barium ion produced in the process, providing a clear signal.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalNature·DateJun 23, 2020

Tracking down cryptic peptides

Scientists at the University of Würzburg have identified thousands of cryptic HLA peptides in tumor immunopeptidomes using a novel bioinformatics method. These peptides may serve as effective targets for cancer immunotherapies and vaccines against virus-infected cells.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCancer Immunology Research·DateJun 23, 2020

Getting real with immersive sword fights

A team at the University of Bath has developed Touche, a data-driven computer model that generates responsive animations against attacks and eliminates non-reactive behavior from characters. This framework simplifies the necessary technical work to achieve a convincing simulation, resulting in more realistic results for game developers.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateJun 23, 2020

Leveraging biodiversity science infrastructure in the COVID-19 era

The pandemic has highlighted the need for greater collaboration between biodiversity collections and other fields of study. Biodiversity data can be used to prevent or mitigate future infectious outbreaks. New investments are needed to support research and education in biodiversity science.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateJun 23, 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.

Star-shaped brain cells may play a critical role in glaucoma

A new study in rodents suggests that star-shaped brain cells called astrocytes may be responsible for killing nerve cells in glaucoma. The study found that increased pressure drove astrocytes to release toxins that killed neurons, highlighting a potential target for treating the disease.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 23, 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.

Innovative smartphone-camera adaptation images melanoma and non-melanoma

Researchers developed two dermascopes using smartphone-based cameras to image skin lesions, mapping differences between melanoma and erythema. The approach improves efficiency and efficacy of skin-lesion diagnostics with high precision and simplicity.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateJun 23, 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.

New research will look at heat wave risks during pandemic

A new research project aims to investigate the intersecting impacts of extreme heat and COVID-19 on vulnerable populations. The study will conduct three national surveys to understand perceptions and vulnerabilities in different states and counties.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateJun 23, 2020

Oncotarget: Mutation profile of primary subungual melanomas in Caucasians

This study defines the mutation profile of SUM in Caucasians using next-generation sequencing-based genomic analysis, identifying frequently mutated genes. The most abundant mutations were found in KIT and NRAS, while BRAF was only present in 3% of cases, providing insights into the genetics of subungual melanoma.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJun 23, 2020

Illuminating cell surface receptors

Researchers have developed a method to label and image cell surface receptors on live cells with two different colors, allowing for the study of receptor dynamics and pharmacology in their native setting. This innovation expands the possibilities for studying G-protein coupled receptors and other important drug targets.

SourceScience For Life Laboratory·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 23, 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.

Study links increased exercise with lower sleep apnea risk

A large study found that increased physical activity, including just walking alone, is associated with a lower risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea. The study analyzed data from over 155,000 adults and found that adding 20 minutes to daily walks can reduce the risk by 10%.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateJun 23, 2020

Teens' technology use and mental health: New report released

The report identifies gaps in understanding how teens support each other through digital media during times of stress and isolation. It highlights the need to move beyond simplistic questions about social media's impact on mental health and instead consider specific forms of engagement that amplify or mitigate risks.

SourceConnected Learning Lab·DateJun 23, 2020

Laser allows solid-state refrigeration of a semiconductor material

University of Washington researchers have successfully cooled a solid-state semiconductor material using an infrared laser, achieving a temperature drop of up to 20 degrees C. The method has wide potential applications in fields such as quantum communication and scientific instruments.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 23, 2020

Welfare concerns highlighted over 'institutional hoarding' of cats

A new epidemiological study found significant welfare concerns for hoarded cats not just from home environments but also from institutional settings. The study, which analyzed 371 hoarded cats relinquished to a shelter, showed that conditions such as overcrowding, uncontrolled breeding, and neglect were prevalent.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Feline Medicine and Surgery·DateJun 23, 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.

Immune system works differently between and first and later pregnancies

A new study reveals that the immune system works differently between a woman's first and second pregnancy, with potential implications for preventing miscarriages and preterm births. The research found that the immune pathways promoting a healthy first pregnancy are distinct from those in later pregnancies.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 23, 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.

Size matters in the sex life of salmon

The largest fish produce more offspring, while smaller competitors gain an advantage when it comes to finding mates. Females tend to be rarer than males at spawning grounds, and early life-history affects female reproduction.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateJun 23, 2020

Are you a hugger? It might be hereditary

Researchers found that genetic influences account for 45% of the variation in women's affectionate behavior, whereas environmental factors explain 55%. Men's affectionate behavior is entirely determined by their surroundings. The study aimed to determine whether social behaviors are learned or genetically driven.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalCommunication Monographs·DateJun 23, 2020

Faulty brain processing of new information underlies psychotic delusions, finds new research

Researchers from the University of Cambridge and King's College London discovered that problems in how the brain recognizes and processes novel information lie at the root of psychosis. The study found that defective brain signals in patients with psychosis could be altered with medication, leading to new treatment development pathways.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJun 23, 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.

An environmental warning system to monitor the coast

Researchers at the University of Seville developed a monitoring system using sessile bioindicators to detect changes in coastal environments. The SBPQ methodology confirmed its usefulness in detecting long-term trends and changes in coral reef communities, highlighting the importance of early detection and intervention.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 23, 2020

Healthcare facilities rapidly adapt & refine practices based on new evidence & supply shortages

During the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare epidemiologists used resourceful strategies to keep personnel and patients safe, including extending PPE use and reprocessing respirators. The survey of 69 facilities found that many were experiencing shortages and had to get creative with supply management.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateJun 23, 2020

Machine learning has a flaw; it's gullible

Researchers found that humans can complement machine learning in correcting for biases. Vintage-specific skills and domain expertise are key attributes that help humans guide machines in mitigating bias. Human collaboration improves ML productivity but its impact on long-term productivity is unclear.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateJun 23, 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.

Airborne mapping sheds light on climate sensitivity of California redwoods

Researchers used high-resolution data to identify environmental factors shaping redwood distribution, finding habitat suitability varies with moisture availability and fog across different landscape elevations. Redwood habitats are consistently more suitable near streams, with suitability ranging from 22-75% within a single landscape.

SourceArizona State University·JournalEcography·DateJun 23, 2020

Microscopic computers: The wires of the future may be made of molecules

Researchers have discovered a new type of molecular wire with good conductivity qualities, paving the way for the development of smaller and more powerful computers. The study's findings suggest that molecules could be used to create electronic devices in the future, overcoming current limitations.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 23, 2020

New research confirms higher rates of new coronavirus in Latinx populations

A recent study analyzing nearly 38,000 test results revealed a positivity rate among Latinx populations approximately three times higher than other racial and ethnic groups. Researchers attribute the disparities to socially and economically marginalized factors such as crowded living conditions and essential worker status.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateJun 23, 2020

CAR T cell therapy: potential for considerable savings

Researchers at the German Cancer Research Center found that CAR T cell production can be significantly reduced in an academic setting, from EUR 320,000 to around EUR 60,000. This could lead to substantial cost savings and faster treatment times for patients, as well as increased accessibility of this life-saving therapy.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateJun 23, 2020

Tropical forest loss

A new study finds that investments in tree plantations and palm oil production consistently lead to higher rates of tropical deforestation. Governments must provide transparent information on land deals to protect forests effectively.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 23, 2020