Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for March 17, 2020


Common anti-parasite treatments used on cattle have devastating impacts on wildlife

A study by University of Sussex researchers found that common anti-parasite treatments for cattle have devastating impacts on dung beetles, key prey items for various bird and bat species. The treatments, which are widely used and available without veterinary oversight, can attract adult beetles and impair their larvae's development.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateMar 17, 2020

Hollow-core fiber technology closes in on mainstream optical fiber

Researchers have demonstrated a significant leap in hollow-core fibre performance, enabling faster data transmission rates and reducing latency. The new technology has shown a 50% reduction in attenuation and a doubling of maximum transmission length compared to conventional glass fibres.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·DateMar 17, 2020

Engineered botox is more potent and safer in mice

A new study engineered a form of botulinum toxin B with improved binding to nerve cells, increasing potency and reducing diffusion into surrounding tissue. The modified toxin demonstrated enhanced therapeutic potential and reduced adverse effects.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 17, 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.

Predicting reaction results: Machines learn chemistry

Researchers at University of Münster develop AI tool to predict reaction outcomes using molecular structures, enabling accurate predictions for yields and stereoselectivities. The model can be applied to diverse reactions and is expected to significantly change the approach to chemical syntheses.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalChem·DateMar 17, 2020

Immunotherapy combo achieves reservoir shrinkage in HIV model

Researchers at Emory University have achieved significant shrinkage of the viral reservoir in SIV-infected nonhuman primates using a combination of CTLA-4 and PD-1 inhibitors. However, this approach does not prevent or delay viral rebound when antiviral drugs are stopped. The findings have important implications for HIV cure research.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 17, 2020

Natural solutions to the climate crisis? One-quarter is all down to Earth...

A new study reveals that soil has a significant role in mitigating climate change, with up to 25% of global potential for natural climate solutions. The research highlights the importance of agroforestry and improved agricultural practices in enhancing soil health and carbon sequestration.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Sustainability·DateMar 17, 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.

Innovative NICU training lauded as 'best article' by national journal

A NICU training program at Children's National Hospital has been recognized for its innovative approach to emergency evacuation preparedness. The program, led by Lisa Zell and Lamia Soghier, involves periodic evacuation simulations and has been named the 'best article' by The Journal of Perinatal & Neonatal Nursing.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Perinatal & Neonatal Nursing·DateMar 17, 2020

Composing new proteins with artificial intelligence

Researchers use machine learning to translate protein structures into musical scores, generating new proteins with unique properties. The method has the potential to design entirely new biomaterials and improve existing enzymes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Bioengineering·DateMar 17, 2020

Observed 'gateway' effect of e-cigarettes among teens 'likely to be small'

Research comparing teen e-cigarette users with those who tried other tobacco products first found that only a tiny proportion of experimental vapers went on to smoke. Young vapers were less likely to smoke than peers trying out other tobacco products, contradicting previous studies linking teen vaping to smoking.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalTobacco Control·DateMar 17, 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.

Medical radiation exposure fell in the US from 2006 to 2016

A study found that per capita radiation exposure in the US decreased by 20% between 2006 and 2016, mainly due to a decline in nuclear medicine procedures. Meanwhile, CT scans increased but saw a small drop in effective dose thanks to advancements in dose modulation technology.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMar 17, 2020

A protein that controls inflammation

Researchers discovered how protein A20 prevents inflammation through a non-enzymatic mechanism, opening up new possibilities for treatment. The study builds upon earlier work demonstrating A20's anti-inflammatory activity and reveals its role in preventing disease development.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Immunology·DateMar 17, 2020

COVID-19: The immune system can fight back

Researchers at the University of Melbourne mapped immune responses from a patient with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 symptoms, showing the body's ability to recover from the infection. The study found that broad immune responses were associated with clinical recovery, similar to what is seen in seasonal influenza infections.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 17, 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.

One of Darwin's evolution theories finally proved by Cambridge researcher

Researchers have proved one of Charles Darwin's evolution theories for the first time, showing that mammal subspecies are crucial to long-term evolutionary dynamics. The study, led by Laura van Holstein, found that subspecies play a pivotal role in shaping the future of species, particularly in response to habitat disruption.

SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·DateMar 17, 2020

Walter Reichman named SIOP Fellow

Dr. Walter Reichman has been named a Fellow of the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) for his outstanding contributions to pro-social I-O. As a pioneer in the field, he has made significant impacts through research, teaching, advocacy, and mentoring.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 17, 2020

'Natural killer' cells could halt Parkinson's progression

Researchers found that natural killer cells can regulate and restrain inflammation of brain tissue, reducing protein clumping and viral resistance. The study suggests NK cells play a critical role in protecting against Parkinson's disease progression.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 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.

The life and death of one of America's most mysterious trees

A study led by University of Arizona researchers challenges the long-held view of the Plaza Tree of Pueblo Bonito as a living tree in an otherwise treeless landscape. Dendroprovenance analysis revealed that the tree did not grow where it was found, suggesting it may have come from distant mountain ranges.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalAmerican Antiquity·DateMar 17, 2020

Janine Waclawski named SIOP Fellow

Janine Waclawski has made significant impacts on senior leadership and talent development in organizations. Her data-driven approaches have driven change in large companies such as Shell Oil and NASA.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 17, 2020

In-Sue Oh named SIOP Fellow

Dr. In-Sue Oh recognized for his significant research on personality assessment and meta-analysis, with over 7,000 citations and an h-index of 34.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 17, 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.

How horses can save the permafrost

Researchers found that horse herds can significantly slow the loss of permafrost soils, preserving 80% of them until 2100. The approach, inspired by a Russian experiment, uses large herbivores to manipulate snow cover and reduce freezing temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Hamburg·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 17, 2020

Passport tagging for express cargo transportation in cells

Researchers at Nagoya City University develop a 10-amino acid sequence that enhances the cellular secretion of recombinant erythropoietin. The 'passport' sequence is recognized by a cargo receptor, allowing for improved production yields of biopharmaceuticals.

SourceNagoya City University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 17, 2020

Bacteria play 'rummy' with genes, UofSC biologist shows

Researchers discovered that bacteria employ a strategy of adding new DNA while shedding unused genes, allowing them to avoid overloading their genomes. This process helps the bacteria outgrow competitors and potentially infect other organisms more easily.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 17, 2020

Rethinking mortality and how we plan for old age

A new IIASA study finds that many Europeans, especially women, underestimate their remaining life expectancy, leading to costly decisions. The researchers used SHARE data from 9 European countries to estimate subjective life expectancies from age 60 to 90 for men and women.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 17, 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.

Susan Mohammed named SIOP Fellow

Dr. Susan Mohammed, a leading researcher on team mental model conceptualization and measurement, has been recognized as an SIOP Fellow for her significant impact on the field of industrial and organizational psychology. Her research on temporal cognition, diversity, and leadership has important implications for I-O psychology practice.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 17, 2020

Independent investigative agency needed to tackle abuse in elite youth sport

A renowned expert urges the establishment of an independent international safeguarding agency to handle athlete disclosures, investigate and process allegations, and support victims of abuse. An international offender database is also needed to prevent 'perpetrator migration' to new sport organisations.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateMar 17, 2020

Acid reflux drugs linked to increased fracture risk in kids

A study published in JPGN found that proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may increase the risk of fractures in pediatric patients. The analysis showed a significantly higher fracture rate in children exposed to PPIs, with a 20% higher probability of fracture compared to non-exposed children.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition·DateMar 17, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Finding the Achilles' heel of cancer cells

Cancer cells rely on different factors for survival when DNA replication is blocked. Researchers found that inhibiting a key protein called Cdc7 selectively kills cancer cells by inactivating their safety mechanism. This discovery provides a new strategy for targeting cancer cells and developing anti-cancer agents.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science·DateMar 17, 2020

Semiconductors can behave like metals and even like superconductors

Researchers at Swansea University have discovered that semiconductor materials can behave like metals and even superconductors when their surface crystals are structured in a specific way. This breakthrough could lead to advances in energy-efficient electronic devices with lossless energy transport.

SourceSwansea University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMar 17, 2020

New understanding of immune modulator interleukin-2 guides drug discovery

Researchers have uncovered the intricate details of interleukin-2's interactions with receptor molecules, providing a blueprint for more targeted therapies. The study shows how IL-2 can act as either a throttle or a brake on the immune response in different contexts.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2020

Kaiser Permanente finds weight loss lasts long after surgery

A large Kaiser Permanente study found that patients who underwent bariatric surgery maintained significantly more weight loss at 5 years compared to those who did not have surgery. Gastric bypass surgery showed better results than sleeve gastrectomy, with fewer participants regaining weight.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateMar 17, 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.

Vitamin D boosts chances of walking after hip fracture

A Rutgers-led study found that vitamin D levels greater than 12 nanograms per milliliter are associated with a higher rate of walking at 30 and 60 days after hip fracture surgery. Vitamin D deficiency is common in elderly patients with hip fractures, often occurring together with malnutrition.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMar 17, 2020

Plant water saving system works like clockwork, it transpires

Researchers discovered that plant circadian clocks play a critical role in water consumption, allowing plants to use resources more efficiently. The study found that altering circadian rhythms can improve water use efficiency without compromising plant growth.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateMar 17, 2020

Pesticide seed coatings are widespread but underreported

The study found that farmers know less about pesticides applied to their seeds than those applied in other ways, due to seed treatments being exempt from labeling requirements. This lack of knowledge can lead to overuse of pesticides, harming the environment and farmers' health. The researchers recommend improved labelling of pesticide...

SourcePenn State·JournalBioScience·DateMar 17, 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.

Compartments without borders

Researchers at Penn State developed a laboratory method to create membraneless compartments within a liquid, allowing them to segregate and concentrate components for important cellular functions. The findings could provide insight into how cells use these compartments to perform different tasks in different locations, with potential a...

SourcePenn State·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateMar 17, 2020

Brian Welle named SIOP Fellow

Brian Welle named a Fellow of SIOP for his rigorous research and applications in improving workplace diversity, inclusion, and performance management. He has made significant contributions to the field through academic publications, research reports, and conference presentations.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 17, 2020

AI-powered shoes unlock the secrets of your sole

Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology developed an AI-powered smart insole that turns any shoe into a portable gait-analysis laboratory. The technology provides accurate real-time data on stride length, speed, and power, overcoming limitations of existing wearable technologies.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·DateMar 17, 2020

New coronavirus stable for hours on surfaces

The study found SARS-CoV-2 stable in aerosols for up to three hours and on copper for up to four hours, while also detectable for 24 hours on cardboard and two to three days on plastic and stainless steel. This stability suggests people may acquire the virus through air and after touching contaminated objects.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 17, 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.

Blocking sugar structures on viruses and tumor cells

Researchers at TUM designed an artificial binding protein with a unique chemical composition to bind to biological sugar structures. This protein has superior affinity to natural lectins and can inhibit cell growth, making it a potential therapeutic agent for conditions like cancer and infectious diseases.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalChemBioChem·DateMar 17, 2020

Long-distance fiber link poised to create powerful networks of optical clocks

Researchers in Japan have developed a low-noise fiber link to connect high-precision clocks, enabling the creation of powerful networks for applications like earthquake detection and communication systems. The system uses a cascaded link with ultralow-noise laser repeater stations to minimize noise and stabilize the laser signal.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateMar 17, 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.

Genetic signature may identify mothers at risk for preeclampsia

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have identified a genetic signature combining certain maternal and fetal gene variants that are associated with a higher risk of preeclampsia. This genetic signature could be used to identify women at risk and prepare in advance to manage their condition.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 17, 2020

John A. Weiner named SIOP Fellow

John A. Weiner has been recognized as a leading expert in assessment tools and technology-based assessment solutions for employment and credentialing. His work on validity, fairness, and legal issues has had a significant impact on the field of industrial and organizational psychology.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 17, 2020

Physicists propose new filter for blocking high-pitched sounds

Researchers have designed a system that uses tapered chains of spherical beads to effectively dampen high-frequency noises above human hearing range. The material's potential applications include use in headphones or other barriers to filter out such sounds, which may alleviate symptoms like nausea and headaches.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalGranular Matter·DateMar 17, 2020

Artificial intelligence helps prevent disruptions in fusion devices

An international team of scientists used AI to predict disruptions in fusion reactions, avoiding energy release and damage to facilities. The algorithm was trained on thousands of experiments and successfully forecasted disruptions in real-time.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateMar 17, 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.

Bentham Science announces an important new journal, 'Coronaviruses'

The new journal 'Coronaviruses' will publish original research, letters, reviews, and case reports on all aspects of coronaviruses. It will be essential reading for virologists, epidemiologists, microbiologists, and healthcare workers interested in the latest information about coronaviridae.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCoronaviruses·DateMar 17, 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.

Perovskite solution aging: Scientists find solution

Researchers from the Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology discovered a way to inhibit side reactions in perovskite solutions, leading to improved stability, efficiency, and reproducibility of solar cells. A low-boiling-point stabilizer, triethyl borate, was found to be effective in stopping unwanted reactions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalChem·DateMar 17, 2020

Scientists find sexual dimorphism in cannabinoid 1 receptor expression in mice

Researchers mapped CB1R mRNA expression in male and female mice, revealing distinct patterns in brain regions associated with Parkinson's disease, maternal behaviors, and the estrus cycle. The study provides a foundation for understanding sex differences in physiological and pathological brain functions related to cannabinoids.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalThe Journal of Comparative Neurology·DateMar 17, 2020

Building a better botox

Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital developed a new version of botox B with improved binding to nerves, leading to more effective paralysis, longer-lasting results, and reduced systemic toxicity. The enhanced toxin showed higher therapeutic efficacy and better safety range in a mouse model.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 17, 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.

Pediatrician uses her 'trusted voice' to help kids

A pediatrician used her clinical visits to educate families about the importance of completing the census. She aimed to minimize the negative effects of poverty and adversity on children by ensuring accurate data drives funding for critical resources like healthcare, schools, and nutrition programs.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalAcademic Pediatrics·DateMar 17, 2020

Changes in cellular degradation hubs can lead to cancer

Researchers found that increased lysosome numbers lead to hyperactivation of mTOR, stimulating abnormal cell growth. The study identified Rap1 as a regulator of lysosomal network organization and lysosome number, highlighting the central role of lysosomes in cancer progression.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 17, 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.

Shonna D. Waters named SIOP Fellow

Dr. Shonna D. Waters has been named a Fellow of the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) for her significant impact on the field. She was granted Fellow status by the SIOP Executive Board, recognizing her outstanding contributions to industrial and organizational psychology.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 17, 2020

Elizabeth L. Shoenfelt named SIOP Fellow

Dr. Elizabeth L. Shoenfelt has made significant contributions to master's level I-O education and applied the science of I-O psychology to improve policies and processes in various fields. She is a renowned researcher with numerous publications and awards, including the SIOP Distinguished Teaching Contributions Award.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 17, 2020

Major advances in our understanding of New World Morning Glories

A new monograph published in PhytoKeys reveals details about the 425 New World species in the largest genus of morning glories, including six new species and nine new subspecies. The study found that most plants originated from two large centers: South America and the Caribbean Islands.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalPhytoKeys·DateMar 17, 2020

Protein controls fat metabolism

Researchers at Max Delbrück Center have identified protein EHD2 as a key regulator of fatty acid uptake in fat cells. The study found that people with normal weight produce more EHD2 than those who are overweight, suggesting a correlation between EHD2 levels and fat metabolism.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 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.