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Science News for March 10, 2020


Intralipid improves efficacy of chemotherapy treatment

Researchers found that pairing Abraxane with Intralipid enhances tumor-killing macrophages, reducing cancer growth and protecting organs from damage. The combination also decreases the amount of expensive drugs needed for treatment.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 10, 2020

Observed: An occultation of a brown dwarf by another

Astronomers detected velocities of both brown dwarfs in a system orbiting each other, confirming the hypothesis that 2M1510 is composed of two brown dwarfs. The discovery provides rare data on the mass, radius, and age of brown dwarfs, allowing for verification of theoretical models.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalNature Astronomy·DateMar 10, 2020

NIST study uncovers a potential driver of premature solar panel failures

Researchers at NIST identified acetic acid as a prime suspect in accelerating the degradation of polyamide-based backsheets, which are common in solar panels. The study highlights the importance of interplay between solar panel components in determining their longevity.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalProgress in Photovoltaics Research and Applications·DateMar 10, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Muscle stem cells compiled in 'atlas'

A team of Cornell researchers compiled a 'cell atlas' of muscle regeneration, cataloging the activity of almost every type of cell involved in muscle repair. The dataset provides a comprehensive picture of cellular interactions and may lead to improved rehabilitation strategies for patients recovering from muscle injuries.

SourceCornell University·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 10, 2020

More than a nice coating

Researchers found that degrading perineuronal nets improves learning abilities in mice but disrupts memory storage. Children's brains have flexible connections allowing for better learning and recovery from brain injury due to intact perineuronal nets.

SourceNetherlands Institute for Neuroscience - KNAW·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 2020

APS tip sheet: Understanding the tears of wine

Researchers created a new model to account for wine tears' complex fluid structures, which form due to changes in surface tension induced by alcohol evaporation. The study reveals the interplay between gravity, surface tension, and fluid physics leading to these unusual phenomena.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·DateMar 10, 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.

Cancer cells spread using a copper-binding protein

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology identified Atox1 as a copper-binding protein that facilitates breast cancer cell migration. High Atox1 levels in tumours are linked to lower survival times, suggesting it may be a biomarker for disease aggressiveness.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 2020

Wetting property of Li metal with graphite

Graphite has been found to be intrinsically lithiophilic at 500K, contradicting previous conclusions that it was lithiophobic. The study uses ab initio molecular dynamics simulation and shows that surface chemistry plays a key role in the wetting performance of Li metal on graphite.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateMar 10, 2020

Disturbed retinal gene function underlying canine blindness

A study by University of Helsinki researchers identified a gene variant in the regulatory region of the retina responsible for canine blindness in Miniature Schnauzers. The finding provides valuable insights into retinal biology and offers a new model for understanding related diseases, such as retinitis pigmentosa.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 10, 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.

Biomass fuels can significantly mitigate global warming

Researchers found that biomass fuels derived from grasses like switchgrass and giant miscanthus can reduce carbon emissions by 78-290% compared to petroleum-based fuels. The study suggests that these crops could provide a significant portion of the decarbonization needed to curb global warming.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 10, 2020

Indian Ocean phenomenon spells climate trouble for Australia

Researchers find historically rare events in Indian Ocean have become more frequent and intense, with potential dire impacts on Australia's climate. The study uses coral records to reconstruct variability over the last millennium, providing new insights into how the Indian Ocean interacts with ENSO.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalNature·DateMar 10, 2020

Study ties kin selection to host-manipulating behavior in parasites

A new study by Texas A&M University biologist Dr. Charles Criscione and collaborators reveals that family ties play a crucial role in the survival of parasitic organisms. Brain flukes sacrifice themselves to ensure the survival of their relatives, who co-infect the same ant's abdomen.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 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.

How heartbreak and hardship shape growing old

A new study found that people who experienced the greatest levels of hardship, stress, and personal loss were five times more likely to experience a lower quality of life, with significantly more health and physical difficulties in later life. Those raised by emotionally cold mothers were also less likely to experience good quality of ...

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Public Health·DateMar 10, 2020

A possible end to 'forever' chemicals

Excess electrons can shatter carbon-fluorine bonds in PFAS, breaking them down into by-products that may accelerate the process. The discovery offers a potential method to tackle widespread contamination of water supplies across America.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateMar 10, 2020

NCCN releases recommendations for standardizing quality measurement in oncology

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) has published a list of high-impact measures for assessing quality improvements in cancer care. The recommendations reflect a landscape analysis from leading oncology experts and include endorsement of 15 existing measures and seven new concepts proposed for development.

SourceNational Comprehensive Cancer Network·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·DateMar 10, 2020

FAIR Health launches shared decision-making tools for palliative care

FAIR Health has launched a groundbreaking website feature that combines clinical and cost information to support seriously and chronically ill patients in shared decision making with clinicians. The new tool offers three palliative care scenarios, including kidney dialysis, nutrition options, and breathing assistance.

SourceFAIR Health·DateMar 10, 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.

Inherited arrhythmia in young Finnish Leonbergers under investigation

A study of 46 Finnish Leonbergers found that 15% had severe arrhythmia and 15% had milder cardiac changes, with sudden deaths linked to cardiac arrhythmia. The researchers aim to identify the genetic cause of the disorder to develop early diagnostics, breeding programs, and potential drug therapies.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of Veterinary Cardiology·DateMar 10, 2020

Genetic test could pick out 'ultra high risk' bone marrow cancer patients

A new genetic test can identify patients with multiple myeloma who are at 'ultra high risk' of their cancer progressing aggressively early on. These patients have poorer survival rates and are unlikely to benefit from lenalidomide alone, highlighting the need for alternative treatment approaches.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalLeukemia·DateMar 10, 2020

Feeding wildlife can disrupt animal social structures

Researchers observed that male macaques were more likely to interact with humans for food rewards, disrupting normal social behaviors and reducing opportunities for positive interactions such as grooming. This disruption can have detrimental effects on the monkeys' health, life span, reproductive success, and infant survival.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 10, 2020

Education the key to equal parenting rights for same-sex couples

A study found that educating people about the impact of same-sex parenting on children reduces prejudices and misconceptions. However, legal issues persist due to a lack of inclusive marriage policies, which can affect same-sex families in separation cases.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAustralian Journal of Psychology·DateMar 10, 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.

Modern virtual and augmented reality device can help simulate sight loss

Researchers from City, University of London developed a software tool to simulate glaucoma's impact on daily life, using commercially available head-mounted displays (HMDs). The study found that participants with simulated visual impairment performed tasks slower and made more movements compared to those without impairment.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·DateMar 10, 2020

Grad student names new treehopper species after Lady Gaga

A graduate student at the University of Illinois has discovered a new treehopper species named after Lady Gaga, showcasing the diversity of this bug group. The newly identified species, Kaikaia gaga, features unusual characteristics, including horned thoraxes and leg hairs, which differentiate it from other treehoppers.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalZootaxa·DateMar 10, 2020

Arming the body's immune cells

Researchers at UC have discovered a mechanism that could lead to new immunotherapies for patients with head and neck cancers. By understanding how calmodulin interacts with ion channels in immune cells, scientists may be able to develop new treatments to restore the ability of these cells to enter and kill tumors.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·DateMar 10, 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.

Disease-causing virus manipulates crop plants to favor its vector

The disease-causing virus BYDV manipulates its host plant and aphid vector to create warmer regions for feeding, increasing the vector's heat tolerance. This allows certain aphids to thrive in warmer conditions, posing implications for crop health as the global climate warms.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2020

Some domesticated plants ignore beneficial soil microbes

Researchers found that domestication of crops led to a decline in their ability to form symbiotic relationships with beneficial soil microbes. This loss has negative environmental consequences, including increased fertilizer use and pollution. Reintroducing genes from wild relatives could help restore these traits.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 10, 2020

IKBFU physicists keep improving 'smart' composites for biomedical sensors

Researchers successfully tested a new magnetic micro wire-based concept for 'smart' composite production, creating multiferroic-class materials with controlled magnetic and electric properties. The new composites are expected to enable the development of highly sensitive sensors for health monitoring devices.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalMaterials·DateMar 10, 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.

Toxic masculinity is unsafe...for men

A Michigan State University study found that toxic masculinity can lead to social isolation among aging men, negatively affecting their health and well-being. The researchers suggest an alternative understanding of masculinity can help alleviate social isolation.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalSex Roles·DateMar 10, 2020

Cancerous tumors, surrounding cells illuminated by new imaging agent

A new imaging agent has been developed to identify cancer cells and their supporting compromised cells. The compound binds to activated annexin A2 protein present in many solid tumors, allowing for targeted imaging and potential dual targeting of the tumor and surrounding cells with chemotherapy drugs.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateMar 10, 2020

How plants protect themselves from sun damage

A new study reveals that plants transfer excess energy from chlorophyll to carotenoids, which release it as heat, preventing photodamage. This discovery could help scientists develop new ways to improve crop yields by understanding the natural photoprotection system of plants.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 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.

Tracking down false parkers in cancer cells

A research team led by University of Würzburg scientists has found a way to inactivate the cancer protein NP63, which is crucial for squamous cell carcinoma growth. By using a preclinical inhibitor, they were able to switch off NP63's parking ticket remover and stop tumor cells from growing.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateMar 10, 2020

Columbia study evaluates cervical cancer risks of IUDs

A Columbia study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that patients using copper intrauterine devices (Cu IUDs) had a lower risk of high-grade cervical neoplasms compared to those using levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems (LNG-IUS). The study analyzed data from over 10,000 patients and found the diagnosis rate of high-g...

SourceData Science Institute at Columbia·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateMar 10, 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.

Routine childhood vaccination linked to improved schooling among adults in India

A study of 109,908 non-migrant individuals found that routine childhood vaccination was associated with 0.2-0.3 additional schooling grades among adults, a significant link across socioeconomic and demographic factors. The finding supports the long-term benefits of vaccines beyond health outcomes.

SourceCenter for Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateMar 10, 2020

Higher concentrations of IGF-1 are a probable cause of breast cancer

New research suggests that higher concentrations of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) may be a probable cause of breast cancer. Studies found an association between IGF-1 and breast cancer development, with higher levels linked to increased risk. The findings support a causal role of the IGF pathway in breast cancer development.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateMar 10, 2020

Tomosynthesis outperforms digital mammography in five-year study

A new study published in Radiology found that digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) improved cancer detection rates and reduced false positives compared to digital mammography (DM). DBT screening detected a higher proportion of poor prognosis cancers than DM, with better visualization of lesions and reduced tissue superimposition.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMar 10, 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.

Knowing more about a virus threat may not satisfy you

A recent study on Zika virus found that individuals who thought they knew more about the threat were actually more likely to feel uncertain and anxious. The researchers suggest that public health agencies should focus on providing ongoing updates and shaping messages that encourage people to stay informed, as uncertainty can fuel fears...

SourceOhio State University·JournalRisk Analysis·DateMar 10, 2020

Crosstalk captured between muscles, neural networks in biohybrid machines

Researchers developed a platform to coculture neurons and muscle cells, capturing the emergence of neuromuscular junctions and synchronized bursting patterns. The study provides new insights into biohybrid machines and their potential applications in fields like intelligent drug delivery and environment sensing.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Bioengineering·DateMar 10, 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.

First-ever analysis of video recorded CPR improves resuscitation outcomes in emergency departments

Researchers developed a novel approach called MTV-CPR to video record and review CPR practices, leading to improved survivorship rates for cardiac arrest patients. The study found that the use of video recording and team-focused strategy increased the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) rate from 26% to 41%.

SourceNorthwell Health·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateMar 10, 2020

Community factors influence how long you'll live, study shows

A recent study by Penn State researchers found that communities with more fast food restaurants, higher population density, and jobs in the extraction industry have shorter life expectancies. Conversely, areas with growing populations, good access to physicians, and high social cohesion tend to have longer lifespans.

SourcePenn State·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateMar 10, 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.

Approximating a kernel of truth

By using approximations instead of explicit kernels, researchers have accelerated machine learning speeds and improved AI's ability to handle large datasets. The new approach uses statistics to derive a nearly accurate kernel that can be computed much faster than traditional methods.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Networks and Learning Systems·DateMar 10, 2020

Common feed ingredient tested safe in bulls

Researchers found that bulls fed distillers grains had higher sperm quality and greater body weight, but no significant difference in body fat. The study suggests that distillers grains can be safely used in bull development rations, with minimal impact on reproductive health.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalTranslational Animal Science·DateMar 10, 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.

Young sugarcane workers at high risk of kidney function decline

Researchers found that young, first-time sugarcane workers with even slightly lower than average kidney function were at a greater risk for rapid onset of kidney injury. The study highlights the importance of routine blood pressure and renal function screenings for workers in high-risk occupations.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 10, 2020

Amazon rainforest could be gone within a lifetime

The Amazon rainforest could disappear within a lifetime if a tipping point is reached, according to new research. Ecosystems dominated by single species are more stable and take longer to shift, while the loss of key species like elephants can trigger rapid changes.

SourceBangor University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2020

New research shows children and teens worry about political issues

A new study reveals that children and teenagers worry about political issues, with concerns spanning environmental issues, gun violence, and racial/ethnic minorities. While the worry may not be harmful in moderation, caregivers of youth with anxiety disorders should be aware of its potential impact.

SourceAmerican University·JournalChild Psychiatry & Human Development·DateMar 10, 2020

Leaving your baby to 'cry it out' has no adverse effects on child development

Researchers at the University of Warwick found that leaving babies to 'cry it out' does not affect their behavior or attachment, but may actually help them learn self-regulation and reduce crying duration. Parents who adapt to their baby's needs and wait before intervening can provide a safe space for their child to develop.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateMar 10, 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.

Paper sheds light on infant universe and origin of matter

Researchers at IAS and University of Michigan propose QCD axion as solution to cosmological excess of matter over antimatter. The QCD axion could explain three missing pieces of physics puzzle, including the strong CP problem and dark matter.

SourceInstitute for Advanced Study·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 10, 2020

Low-dose chest CT leaves DNA intact

A study found that low-dose chest CT scans used for lung cancer screening do not cause significant DNA damage or chromosome aberrations. The results suggest that the risks of low-dose CT are minimal, and it can be used for lung cancer screening.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMar 10, 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.

Slime mold simulations used to map dark matter holding universe together

Researchers have successfully mapped the cosmic web's filamentary structure using a slime mold-inspired algorithm, providing insights into dark matter's role in shaping the universe. The study revealed that denser regions of intergalactic gas are organized into filaments that stretch over 10 million light-years from galaxies.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 10, 2020

New study identifies valuable tool for treating pancreatic cancer patients

Researchers developed a new concept of resectability and identified objective pre-operative prognostic factors to predict long-term survival in pancreatic cancer patients. The study's nomogram can estimate patient outcomes before surgery, regardless of local anatomic features.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateMar 10, 2020

Poor sleep in infancy linked to behavioral and emotional problems in toddlers

Researchers at the University of Birmingham found a clear relationship between infant sleep problems and emotional and behavioral problems in toddlers. Infants who experienced frequent night wakings, short sleep duration, or difficulty falling asleep were more likely to show emotional and behavioral problems by 24 months.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalBMJ Paediatrics Open·DateMar 10, 2020

Astronomers use slime mold model to reveal dark threads of the cosmic web

Researchers use a Physarum-based algorithm to visualize the cosmic web's filaments, connecting galaxies and diffuse hydrogen gas. The model replicates the distribution of dark matter on large scales, providing a new tool for understanding the universe's structure.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 10, 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.

A novel biofuel system for hydrogen production from biomass

A novel biofuel system has been developed for hydrogen production from biomass, improving efficiency and reducing energy consumption. The system uses lignin as an electron donor to produce high-value-added compounds and extract electrons for hydrogen production.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalACS Catalysis·DateMar 10, 2020

Planet's largest ecosystems collapse faster than previously forecast

Research reveals large ecosystems like Amazon forests can collapse in 49 years and Caribbean coral reefs in just 15 years. This accelerated rate of transformation is attributed to the modular structure of larger ecosystems, which initially provides resilience but ultimately accelerates unraveling when a threshold is passed.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2020

Making more MXene

Researchers at Drexel University have developed a lab-scale reactor system that can produce large quantities of MXene in bulk, preserving its unique properties. The system uses a computerized process to refine the material and ensures consistency, a critical step towards achieving manufacturing standards.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAdvanced Engineering Materials·DateMar 10, 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 study confirms value of family meals

A new study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior confirms that frequent family meals are associated with better dietary outcomes and improved family functioning. The research found a positive relationship between family meal frequency and increased fruit and vegetable consumption, as well as measures of family c...

SourceThe Ginger Network·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateMar 10, 2020

Experts call for more support for parents of children with genetic learning disabilities

New research from the University of Cambridge suggests that parents of children with genetic learning disabilities are at risk of mental health problems. The study found that social factors do not predict a parent's risk of low mood and stress, instead highlighting the impact of the child's genetic disorder and behavior on family life.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateMar 10, 2020

APS tip sheet: correlating matter's distribution in the universe with gamma rays

Researchers have found the first direct correlation between dark matter and gamma rays in the universe. The study used gamma ray data from Fermi Large Area Telescope and mapped it with weak gravitational lensing, providing insights into the nature of dark matter and its potential connection to gamma ray emissions.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 10, 2020

Case Western Reserve University research finds high rates of trauma exposure, PTSD symptoms for those in drug court

A new study by Case Western Reserve University found that nearly 94% of defendants in Cuyahoga County drug court have been exposed to trauma, with many suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. The research suggests a need for increased trauma-informed care and possibly specialized, gender-specific support.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Offender Rehabilitation·DateMar 10, 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.

Chemists create new artificial enzyme

Chemists at the University of Miami have created an artificial enzyme with improved catalytic abilities. The new molecule is designed to tackle chemical reactions in industrial settings and could lead to the development of more efficient biofuel production, drug creation, and other applications.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 10, 2020

Injection strategies are crucial for geothermal projects

A new study analyzed temporal evolution of seismicity and growth of maximum observed moment magnitudes in various stimulation projects. The results show a clear linear relation between injected fluid volume and cumulative seismic moments for most projects, indicating that seismicity can be managed by changes in injection strategy.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 10, 2020

Intel processors are still vulnerable to attack

Researchers at KU Leuven exposed a security flaw in Intel processors, revealing a vulnerability in SGX enclaves that can be exploited for sensitive information. The 'Load Value Injection' attack allows attackers to inject data into software programs, compromising passwords and other personal data.

SourceKU Leuven·DateMar 10, 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.

Fatal overproduction of antibodies

Researchers identified a mutation responsible for destabilizing light chains, leading to the formation of deadly amyloid fibrils. The study provides new insights into the disease and potential diagnostic methods.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateMar 10, 2020

Pain researchers get a common language to describe pain

A new classification system for orofacial pain has been developed by international researchers, providing a common language for medical doctors and dentists to diagnose patients accurately. The system is expected to improve treatment outcomes for individuals suffering from chronic pain in the mouth, jaws, and face.

SourceAarhus University·JournalCephalalgia·DateMar 10, 2020

Patient-friendly brain imager gets green light toward first prototype

Sandia National Laboratories has received funding to develop a patient-friendly brain imager that uses quantum sensors for more accurate and accessible measurements. The new system aims to enable people with chronic pain and motor disorders to participate in MEG scans, improving the accuracy of diagnoses.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateMar 10, 2020

Study shows CRISPR effectiveness against colitis pathogen

Researchers used CRISPR-Cas system to effectively target and eliminate specific gut bacteria, including Clostridioides difficile, the pathogen that causes colitis. The study demonstrates the potential of this approach in preventing disease and promoting human gut health.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalmBio·DateMar 10, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

New clinical trial examines a potential noninvasive solution for overactive bladders

A new clinical trial led by Keck Medicine of USC is investigating the effectiveness of Transcutaneous Electrical Spinal Cord Neuromodulation (TESCoN) in treating overactive bladder due to neurological conditions. The trial aims to improve patients' sense of well-being by enhancing bladder control and reducing symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Systems Neuroscience·DateMar 10, 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.

Novel error-correction scheme developed for quantum computers

Researchers have developed a novel error-correction scheme that takes advantage of bosonic symmetry to encode information efficiently. This approach could reduce the number of physical qubits required, enabling the scaling up of experimental quantum computers.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalPhysical Review X·DateMar 10, 2020

Leaf-inspired surface prevents frost formation

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered a new way to reduce frost formation on any surface using a leaf-inspired design. The study found that the optimized surface structure reduces frost by up to 60% and can be defrosted with considerably less energy.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 2020

Further evidence shows clinical viability of natural tooth repair method

Scientists at King's College London have found positive evidence that a natural tooth repair method has the potential to be translated into a clinical approach. The study discovered that reparative dentine produced is sufficient to repair cavities in human teeth, and the drug can activate repair up to ten times larger.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateMar 10, 2020

The axion solves three mysteries of the universe

Researchers propose axion as solution to three mysteries: matter-antimatter asymmetry, dark matter, and the strong CP problem. The axion's rotation creates a tiny excess of matter over antimatter, explaining why we exist.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 10, 2020

The Lancet HIV: Study suggests a second patient has been cured of HIV

A study of a second HIV patient to undergo successful stem cell transplantation from donors with a HIV-resistant gene finds that there was no active viral infection in the patient's blood 30 months after they stopped anti-retroviral therapy. The patient had a healthy CD4 cell count, suggesting they have recovered well from the transplant.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet HIV·DateMar 10, 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.

Baboon mothers carry their dead infant up to 10 days

Researchers found that baboon mothers in the wild carry dead infants for varying lengths of time, with an average duration of three to four days. The mother's age, infant cause of death, and climate conditions may influence the length of time a mother carries her dead infant.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMar 10, 2020

Immune cells against Alzheimer's?

Scientists have identified a specific antibody that binds to brain immune cells and triggers processes that enhance microglia activity. This stimulates the immune cells to detect and degrade abnormal protein deposits, known as plaques, more effectively, potentially providing better protection against Alzheimer's disease.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateMar 10, 2020

Noncitizens are undertreated for heart attack, stroke risk factors

A new study published in Circulation found that noncitizens in the US are less likely to receive treatment for cardiovascular disease risk factors due to lack of insurance coverage and a usual source of care. The disparities were significant, with only 16.5% of noncitizens receiving treatment for high cholesterol.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateMar 10, 2020

Solved: The mystery of the expansion of the universe

A UNIGE researcher has solved a scientific controversy about the speed of the universe's expansion by proposing that it may not be homogeneous on a large scale. This approach eliminates a divergence between two independent calculation methods, which previously yielded conflicting values for the Hubble constant.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPhysics Letters B·DateMar 10, 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.

Chip for liquid biopsy will help to detect prostate cancer

Researchers developed a microfluidics device that isolates cancer cells from urine, achieving high detection rates of up to 85% and 86% for localized cancer cases. The new method provides an alternative to invasive tissue biopsies and blood tests with false positive results.

SourceSechenov University·JournalCancers·DateMar 10, 2020

Novel blood test points to risk of weight gain and diabetes

Researchers developed a computer program analyzing molecules in blood plasma to identify individuals at risk of becoming overweight and developing obesity-related diseases. The test is 90% accurate in detecting whether the subject will gain weight without intervention, also predicting diabetes and other health risks.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateMar 10, 2020

Study reveals grasshopper declines associated with declines in quality of prairie grasses

A University of Oklahoma-led study reveals a decline in grasshopper numbers over the past two decades in a Kansas grassland preserve. The research identifies nutrient dilution as a key driver, caused by increased atmospheric CO2 levels, leading to declining plant quality and reduced sustenance for herbivores.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 10, 2020