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Science News for June 5, 2020


Chance of finding young Earth-like planets higher than previously thought

The study, published in The Astrophysical Journal, found that there are more stars like the Sun than expected in these groups, increasing the chances of finding Earth-like planets. These 'magma ocean planets' are easier to detect near stars like the Sun and emit heat that can be observed with next-generation infrared telescopes.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateJun 5, 2020

A tiny arctic shrub reveals secrets of plant growth on Svalbard

Researchers found that plants on Svalbard grow in synchrony due to July temperatures, reflecting climate change. Tiny growth rings of the polar willow shrub show distinct patterns, allowing scientists to track growth and understand ecosystem dynamics.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalOikos·DateJun 5, 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.

Wearable brain scanner technology expanded for whole head imaging

Scientists developed a wearable brain scanner that can scan the entire brain, allowing researchers to track electrophysiological processes involved in mental health problems. The device tracks brain activity with millimetre accuracy, enabling new possibilities for scanning children and epileptic patients.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNeuroImage·DateJun 5, 2020

Fitful nightly sleep linked to chronic inflammation, hardened arteries

A recent study from University of California, Berkeley reveals that disrupted nightly sleep leads to chronic inflammation, which is linked to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. The findings suggest that poor sleep quality can be an important risk factor for heart health, highlighting the need for improved sleep hygiene.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 5, 2020

'Mole-bot' optimized for underground and space exploration

The Mole-bot, a biomimetic drilling robot, has been optimized for underground and space exploration. It boasts powerful forelimbs, a stout scapula, and an expandable drilling bit that can excavate three times faster than conventional models with six times higher directional accuracy.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·DateJun 5, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fighting mosquito-borne viruses requires a precise balance of immune cells

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology discovered that antibodies against one virus can make another more severe. However, a specific type of T cell can counteract this effect. The study suggests the need for future vaccines to elicit a balanced response from both antibodies and T cells.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJun 5, 2020

Fewer antibiotics to better fight bacterial infections

A multicentre study involving over 500 patients found that a shorter treatment duration, reduced to half the standard 14-day course, was equally effective in treating bacteraemia. The researchers also identified certain risk factors, including older age and pathogen type, which can influence the effectiveness of antibiotic treatment.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalJAMA·DateJun 5, 2020

Dreaming with purpose

Adult-born neurons in the hippocampus play a crucial role in memory consolidation during REM sleep, according to a study published in Neuron. The researchers found that activity in these neurons is necessary for memory consolidation and that synaptic changes occur during learning, enabling memory formation.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNeuron·DateJun 5, 2020

Diet, gut microbes affect cancer treatment outcomes, research suggests

Dietary changes can trigger changes in the host's response to chemotherapy drugs, increasing or decreasing their effectiveness and toxicity. Researchers found that common components of daily diets can have a profound impact on cancer treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 5, 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.

Is e-cigarette use associated with relapse among former smokers?

Researchers examined electronic cigarette use among former smokers and found an association with increased risk of smoking relapse. The study analyzed nationally representative survey data, revealing a potential connection between e-cigarette use and relapse in former smokers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 5, 2020

CSIC researchers will use CRISPR tools to destroy the COVID-19 coronavirus genome

A Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) project uses CRISPR tools to target and destroy the SARS-CoV-2 RNA genome in cells, potentially providing a new therapeutic approach. The researchers will test the functionality and non-toxicity of CRISPR reagents in zebrafish embryos before moving on to human viruses and infected cells.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·DateJun 5, 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.

PFAS present throughout the Yadkin-Pee Dee river food chain

Scientists identified strong links between ecosystem groups leading to biomagnification of PFAS compounds in the river's aquatic food chain. The study found that PFAS accumulation occurs at each step of the food chain, including in humans who consume contaminated fish.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateJun 5, 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.

Are kidney transplant patients at higher risk? The European experience

A recent analysis found that kidney transplant patients are at a higher risk of death from COVID-19, with advanced age being the most significant factor. The study, conducted on ERACODA database, showed that 21% of kidney transplant recipients died within 28 days, compared to 25% of dialysis patients.

SourceERA – European Renal Association·DateJun 5, 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.

Cracking open the proton

The COMPASS experiment at CERN is analyzing the proton's inner structure using particle collisions and complex algorithms. The team confirmed a theoretically expected sign change in the Sivers function, which relates to quark orbital motion inside the proton.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateJun 5, 2020

Early-life education improves memory in old age -- Especially for women

A study published in the journal Aging, Neuropsychology, and Cognition found that children who attend school for longer periods have better memory abilities in old age, particularly for women. More years of early-life education counteract age-related memory losses, suggesting a protective effect against Alzheimer's disease.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·DateJun 5, 2020

Physicists create quantum-inspired optical sensor

Researchers developed an advanced quantum algorithm for measuring physical quantities using simple optical tools, exceeding the shot noise limit and achieving Heisenberg-limited sensitivity. This breakthrough enables affordable and effective platforms for moderate-scale quantum measurements and computations.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 5, 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 report examines challenges and implications of false-negative COVID-19 tests

A new report published in the New England Journal of Medicine examines the limitations of COVID-19 diagnostic tests, highlighting concerns over false-negative results. The study emphasizes the need for highly sensitive and validated tests to accurately declare individuals uninfected, ensuring safe reopening of communities.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 5, 2020

New killing mechanism discovered in 'game-changing' antibiotic

Scientists have discovered a new killing mechanism in teixobactin, a potent natural antibiotic that can kill superbugs. The research provides fundamental insights into how teixobactins work and could lead to the development of new drugs.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 5, 2020

France has won the R-number battle, but the COVID war rages on

A new study confirms lockdown restrictions reduced COVID-19 transmission in France, but a second wave is possible due to low herd immunity. The R-number, a key measure of disease transmission, fell from 3.2 to 0.47, highlighting the effectiveness of containment efforts.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Medicine·DateJun 5, 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.

Protecting the neuronal architecture

Heidelberg researchers demonstrate that restoring VEGFD levels can preserve dendritic arborisation and reduce brain damage after a stroke. A treatment using recombinant VEGFD and nose drops achieved similar results in mouse models.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 5, 2020

Psychedelic drug psilocybin tamps down brain's ego center

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that psilocybin reduces neural activity in the claustrum by 15% to 30%, associated with stronger subjective effects. The study also showed changes in how the claustrum communicates with other brain regions involved in hearing, attention, and memory.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNeuroImage·DateJun 5, 2020

Genomic surveillance of antibiotic resistance in the Philippines established

The study mapped bacterial resistance to last-line antibiotics in the Philippines, enabling better tracking of resistant bacteria and controlling outbreaks. The genomic capacity has enhanced national infection control efforts and improved understanding of antimicrobial resistance at local, national, and international scales.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 5, 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.

EULAR 2020: Thrombosis risk particularly high for people suffering

Patients with high disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis are at a higher risk of developing venous thromboembolism. Treatment with biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) such as TNF inhibitors can reduce this risk by nearly half compared to conventional synthetic drugs.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·DateJun 5, 2020

NASA analyzes Cristobal, the big rainmaker

NASA's Aqua satellite gathered infrared imagery and cloud top temperature data on Tropical Depression Cristobal, revealing areas of powerful thunderstorms with potential for heavy rainfall. The storm is expected to strengthen later today and regain tropical storm strength in the next 48 hours.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 5, 2020

DNA increases our understanding of contact between Stone Age cultures

Researchers analyzed DNA from 25 Stone Age individuals and found that those buried in typical Pitted Ware culture graves were genetically similar to earlier Scandinavian hunter-gatherers. The presence of Battle Axe culture influences in some graves suggested trade and cultural exchange between the groups, rather than genetic migration.

SourceUppsala University·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateJun 5, 2020

Study documents the challenges of herbicide-resistant annual bluegrass in turf

Researchers have identified 31 populations of herbicide-resistant annual bluegrass in Australia, highlighting the narrowing options for effective control. The weed has developed resistance to multiple herbicides, including propyzamide and rimsulfuron, with levels of resistance ranging from two-fold to 56-fold.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalWeed Science·DateJun 5, 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.

New technique for engineering living materials and patterns

Scientists at the University of Warwick created a method called MeniFluidics to control cellular patterns, enabling the creation of arbitrary patterns and opening doors for tissue engineering and bio-art. This breakthrough could lead to innovations in antibiotic resistance and biofouling prevention.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateJun 5, 2020

Scientists iron out the physics of wrinkling

Researchers from OIST discovered that curvature at material edges affects wrinkling, with larger windows reducing wrinkles and strain. A theoretical model was developed to explain findings, which could aid in designing devices with functional wrinkles or reduced wrinkling.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 5, 2020

To think like a dinosaur

Palaeontologists from St Petersburg University have created the most detailed virtual 3D-model of the endocranial cast and blood vessels of the head of an ankylosaurian. They found that ankylosaurs had a unique cooling system, an extremely developed sense of smell, and could hear low-frequency sounds.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalBiological Communications·DateJun 5, 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.

New discovery advances optical microscopy

A new discovery enables researchers to directly visualize unlabeled nanoscale objects with deep sub-wavelength separations, advancing the field of optical microscopy. This breakthrough has significant implications for applications in semiconductor wafer inspection, nanoparticle sensing, material characterization, and biosensing.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 5, 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.

Scientists develop unique polymer coating to tackle harmful fungi

Researchers from the University of Nottingham have created a novel solution to combat fungi using a non-toxic polymer coating that reduces attachment of fungal pathogens. The coating, made from (meth)acrylate polymers, has shown up to 100% reduction in fungal growth on various surfaces.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 5, 2020

A newly discovered disease may lead to better treatment of cystic fibrosis

Researchers have discovered a new disease that affects the same chloride channel as cystic fibrosis, potentially leading to improved treatment options. The study found that patients with this disease do not develop respiratory symptoms, suggesting a possible treatment target for cystic fibrosis.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalJournal of Medical Genetics·DateJun 5, 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.

American lobster, sea scallop habitat could shift off the northeast

Researchers project that American lobster will move further offshore and sea scallops will shift north in the coming decades. The study's findings pose fishery management challenges as changing habitats can impact where species can be caught and who has access to them.

SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateJun 5, 2020

BESSY II: Experiment shows for the first time in detail how electrolytes become metallic

An international team developed a sophisticated experimental technique at BESSY II to observe the formation of a metallic conduction band in electrolytes. The team analyzed the process using soft X-rays and combined it with theoretical predictions, making this a significant contribution to fundamental understanding.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalScience·DateJun 5, 2020

T cell immunity in the elderly

Researchers found that T cells increase their metabolism to survive, contradicting previous assumptions about immune function. The study suggests that targeted interventions like vaccines or immunotherapies could boost T cell immunity in the elderly.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 5, 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.

Russian scientists demonstrate ion implantation advantages for the use of silicon in optoelectronics

Researchers demonstrate that introducing dislocations through ion implantation can increase the thermal stability of photoluminescence in silicon. By optimizing implantation conditions, they achieved measurable levels of luminescence at room temperature.

SourceLobachevsky University·JournalNuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section B Beam Interactions with Materials and Atoms·DateJun 5, 2020

Creating hairy human skin: Not as easy as you think

Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital successfully recreate human skin with hair, nerves, and fat using a novel culture technique. The breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize wound treatment, burn care, and cosmetics testing, as well as aid in the development of new treatments for diseases such as Merkel cell carcinoma.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature·DateJun 5, 2020

Elsevier announces support for World Environment Day 2020

Elsevier has launched a free access special issue of curated content focused on biodiversity, highlighting the urgent need for climate action and protecting the planet. The collection features over 60 carefully selected journal articles and book chapters supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

SourceElsevier·JournalOne Earth·DateJun 5, 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.

Can deep water masses in the Mediterranean cross the Sicily Strait?

A new study reveals that deep water masses in the eastern Mediterranean can reach up to 70% of the western basin, contradicting classic hypotheses. The research uses rare earth elements and neodymium isotopes as conservative tracers to reconstruct the oceanographic structure of the Mediterranean basins.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalProgress In Oceanography·DateJun 5, 2020

Protecting the kidneys from failing

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis is a common cause of steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome, which may progress to end-stage renal disease. Researchers found that the protein MafB plays a protective role in FSGS, with increased levels of MafB reducing kidney damage and nephrotic syndrome.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalKidney International·DateJun 5, 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.

Cord blood for stem cell transplant may outperform matched sibling donor

A University of Colorado Cancer Center study shows cord blood transplants to be comparable to matched sibling donors in terms of survival outcomes, with significantly fewer complications due to chronic graft-versus-host disease. Cord blood patients also experienced a lower rate of relapse in certain populations.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalBlood Advances·DateJun 5, 2020

'Whispering gallery' effect controls electron beams with light

A research team from the University of Göttingen has successfully harnessed the 'whispering gallery' effect to control electron beams using light. This breakthrough enables new possibilities for quantum technologies in nanoscale sensing and microscopy.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature·DateJun 5, 2020

Hospitalized COVID-19 patients with diabetes represent more than 20 percent of ICU population

Hospitalized COVID-19 patients with diabetes require comprehensive glucose management to minimize complications and death. The new guidance emphasizes the importance of limiting direct contact between clinicians and patients, using remote monitoring devices, and considering diabetes self-management for knowledgeable patients.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJun 5, 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.

Study identifies potential approach to treat patients with severe COVID-19

Researchers found that blocking Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) protein with acalabrutinib reduced inflammation and improved breathing in patients with severe COVID-19. The study suggests a potential new treatment approach for hospitalized patients with low blood-oxygen levels and evidence of inflammation.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalScience Immunology·DateJun 5, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine explores the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on ethnic minority communities, highlighting existing disparities in healthcare access and treatment. The authors offer a resilience approach to addressing these disparities, drawing parallels with the 1918 influenza pandemic.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 5, 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.

COVID-19 mortality alarmingly high in dialysis patients

A study of COVID-19 cases among dialysis patients in Spain found a significantly higher rate of infection and mortality compared to the general population. The mortality rate among these patients was found to be influenced by factors such as age, lymphopenia, and elevated LDH levels.

SourceERA – European Renal Association·DateJun 5, 2020

NMDA receptors may link psychosis and sleep deficits

Researchers discovered a link between NMDA receptor dysfunction and sleep spindle deficit in schizophrenia. Medicines targeting these receptors may help treat psychiatric disorders, such as psychosis.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalSchizophrenia Research·DateJun 5, 2020

Editorial: COVID-19 pandemic likely to result in lasting changes to medical school curricula

The COVID-19 pandemic will lead to a shift towards more flexible and adaptable medical school curricula, incorporating online education and new topics such as telemedicine and health equity. Accrediting agencies must adapt to these changes to ensure students are prepared for future pandemics and complex medical scenarios.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 5, 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.

Volcanic glass spray shows promise in controlling mosquitoes

A new study found that an indoor residual spray made from volcanic glass is effective in controlling mosquitoes carrying malaria. The spray, called Imergard WP, shows mortality rates of over 80% against both wild and susceptible strains of Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInsects·DateJun 5, 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.

Measuring Atlantic bluefin tuna with a drone

A pilot study tested the effectiveness of drones in measuring Atlantic bluefin tuna, showing they can capture images of individual fish and schools with high accuracy. The use of drones may supplement traditional fishing methods and provide valuable data for fisheries management.

SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·JournalJournal of Unmanned Vehicle Systems·DateJun 5, 2020

How is a metal formed?

Scientists have successfully mapped the electrolyte-to-metal transition in alkali metal-liquid ammonia solutions, revealing the formation of a conduction band with sharp Fermi edges. This study provides a detailed molecular picture of metallic behavior and could lead to the preparation of metallic water.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalScience·DateJun 5, 2020

Long term care faclities are where most COVID-19 deaths occur

The study found that LTCFs account for a significant proportion of COVID-19 deaths, with some states reporting over 70% of deaths occurring in these facilities. The authors attribute this to the asymptomatic spread of the virus and inadequate measures to prevent its entry into facilities.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJun 5, 2020

Investigational treatments of COVID-19 in children

Researchers estimated appropriate pediatric-specific dosing regimens for hydroxychloroquine and remdesivir to treat pediatric patients with COVID-19. The study suggests these treatments may be effective for children infected with the virus.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJun 5, 2020

Approved drug may help calm cytokine storm in COVID-19

Acalabrutinib improved oxygenation levels and decreased molecular markers of inflammation in most patients with severe COVID-19. The treatment showed promise in reducing the severity of the disease, particularly among those on mechanical ventilation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Immunology·DateJun 5, 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.

Palliative Care in emergency departments during COVID-19 pandemic

A case series examines the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients who received intervention by a COVID-19 palliative care response team. The study found that these interventions led to improved patient outcomes, including reduced mortality rates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 5, 2020