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Science News for March 18, 2020


Alzheimer risk genes converge on microglia

A study reveals that Alzheimer risk genes are linked to microglia's response to amyloid-beta, a key protein in the disease. The researchers identified 11 new risk genes that are upregulated when facing increased amyloid-beta levels.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateMar 18, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rapid, automatic identification of individual, live brain cells

Researchers developed a computer program to identify each nerve cell in fluorescent microscope images of living worms, overcoming previous challenges by creating unique genetic modifications. The program uses a mathematical algorithm to analyze images and assign neuron identities based on position variations between individual animals.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalBMC Biology·DateMar 18, 2020

Distortion isn't a drag on fluid-straddling particles

A team of researchers found that drag forces experienced by particles straddling interfaces between un-mixable fluids are less affected by the shape of the distortion. The study's discovery could have implications for self-assembling properties of various species, including nano- and microparticles, proteins, and other molecules.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMar 18, 2020

Scorpion venom shows promise for treating fetal alcohol spectrum disorder

A scorpion venom-derived drug has shown promise in treating fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) by reversing motor skill deficits. The study found that administering the drug at 30 days of life improved large- and small-muscle motor skills, suggesting potential treatment for children with FASD.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMar 18, 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.

PTSD strongly linked with heart disease in female veterans

A large-scale study finds a strong association between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and ischemic heart disease in female veterans. Women with PTSD were 47 years old on average, five years younger than those without the condition, highlighting the need for earlier screening and routine care.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 18, 2020

New technique 'prints' cells to create diverse biological environments

Scientists have developed a new technique that can rapidly print two-dimensional arrays of cells and proteins mimicking various cellular environments. This method harnesses photolithography and programmable DNA, allowing for high-throughput study of cell interactions contributing to tissue function.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 18, 2020

New study: National monuments can boost the economy in the American West

A new study published in Science Advances reveals that national monuments have positive effects on local economies in the American West. The study found that designations led to a 10% increase in nearby business establishments and an 8% rise in jobs, primarily in service industries like business services, financial services, and constr...

SourceResources for the Future (RFF)·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 18, 2020

Salmon provide nutrients to Alaskan streambanks

Researchers found that salmon-derived nutrients decrease over time but are retained in soils, supporting microbial and plant growth. The study revealed contrasting nutrient cycling pathways between two soil types, with potential for increased plant growth in the riparian zone.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateMar 18, 2020

Three-drug combination reduces COPD patient mortality

A new study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine reports that a three-drug combination of fluticasone furoate, umeclidinium, and vilanterol reduces all-cause mortality by 42% in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) treated with an inhaler once daily.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 18, 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.

'Breastfeeding gap' exists among Mexican-origin women living in Texas

A study by the University of Texas at Austin found that Mexican women living in Texas breastfed longer than their counterparts born and educated in the US. The research showed that early formula use, returning to work, and smoking were risk factors for discontinuing breastfeeding earlier than intended.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 18, 2020

How 'pioneer' protein turns stem cells into organs

A new study led by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine reveals that the pioneering protein FoxA2 simultaneously binds to chromosomal proteins and DNA, opening gates for gene activation. This discovery helps untangle mysteries of embryonic stem cell development into organs, moving regenerative medicine forward.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 18, 2020

Heatwaves risky for fish

A recent study found that heatwaves have varying effects on different fish species, with some struggling more than others. The research tracked changes in gene expression in five coral reef fishes before, during, and after a severe marine heatwave, revealing species-specific responses to the heightened temperatures.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 18, 2020

6,000-8,000 km round trip flight of migratory wading birds tracked

Researchers tracked the migration routes of little ringed plovers, a freshwater wader species, covering 3,108-4,226km over 32-136 days. The study found rice paddy fields to be their preferred wintering sites, with increased reliance during non-breeding seasons.

SourceShinshu University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 18, 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.

Polymer films pass electron gun test

Researchers developed polyarylene ether ketone-based copolymer (co-PAEK) films that can withstand electrostatic discharges caused by ionizing radiation. The films' high conductivity and low switching thresholds make them promising candidates for space electronics protection.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalPolymers·DateMar 18, 2020

National monuments help more than hurt local economies in US West

A new study by Margaret Walls and colleagues found that national monuments in the US West increase establishment growth rates near the monument. The research indicates that fears of economic restriction after monument designation are unwarranted, as designated areas do not affect existing jobs or traditional industries.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 18, 2020

'Wonderchicken' fossil from the age of dinosaurs reveals origin of modern birds

The discovery of a nearly complete 66.7-million-year-old bird skull, nicknamed the Wonderchicken, provides direct insight into the early evolution of modern birds. The fossil, found in Europe, combines features common to chicken- and duck-like birds, suggesting it is close to the last common ancestor of modern chickens and ducks.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateMar 18, 2020

Blacks' views on racism affect likelihood of self-employment

Research from Rice University found that working blacks with high awareness of systemic racism are seven times more likely to pursue self-employment. However, these individuals often experience worse financial situations and lower education levels than their counterparts. The study suggests racism's influence on career choices and fina...

SourceRice University·JournalEthnic and Racial Studies·DateMar 18, 2020

Tracking adeno-associated virus capsid evolution

Using high-throughput screening of adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector capsid libraries, researchers identified functional and efficient AAV variants after only one round of selection. Infection with a high multiplicity of infection (MOI) was found to be preferable to infection with a low MOI, reducing variation between screens.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateMar 18, 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.

UC research: Women tend to run more sophisticated political campaigns

A University of Cincinnati study analyzed 1,351 candidate responses and found that women candidates tend to run more sophisticated campaigns with a focus on general themes. Despite this, women often face challenges in winning elections due to various factors such as voter demographics and campaign strategies.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalPolitical Research Quarterly·DateMar 18, 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.

$8.3M award to WHOI extends observational record of critical climate research

The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution has received an $8.3 million grant to extend the life of the Overturning in the Sub-polar North Atlantic Program, a key part of Earth's ocean-climate system. The program provides a high-resolution view of processes that regulate global climate and influence weather in Europe.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·DateMar 18, 2020

Control mechanism of force-induced cell-to-cell adhesion

Researchers have discovered that physical forces, such as centrifugal force, play a crucial role in enhancing cell-to-cell attachment and increasing tissue stiffness during embryonic development. The study reveals that the FGF receptor/Erk2 signaling pathway is essential for this process.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 18, 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.

The ACMG Foundation presents Takeda/ACMG Foundation Next Generation fellowship awards

The ACMG Foundation for Genetic and Genomic Medicine has presented the Takeda/ACMG Foundation Next Generation Fellowship Awards to Dr. Aixa M. Gonzalez Garcia and Dr. Chen-Han Wilfred Wu. The awards provide funding for medical biochemical genetics subspecialty fellowship and clinical laboratory biochemical genetics training, respectively.

SourceAmerican College of Medical Genetics and Genomics·DateMar 18, 2020

Hodor 'holds the door' open for a potential new way to curb mosquito populations

Researchers discovered an insect-specific metal-sensing receptor in the gut lining that plays a crucial role in regulating nutrient uptake and development. Inhibiting this receptor, called Hodor, was fatal in mosquitoes, making it a promising target for controlling mosquito populations and preventing disease transmission.

SourceMedical Research Council (MRC) Laboratory of Medical Sciences·JournalNature·DateMar 18, 2020

Beetles changed their diet during the Cretaceous period

Researchers discovered four new beetle species in 99 million-year-old amber fossils from Myanmar, which helped flowering plants spread and benefited the beetles. The beetles' adaptability allowed them to form a mutually beneficial symbiosis with the emerging angiosperms.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournaliScience·DateMar 18, 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.

Bacteria cause problems for genetic research

Researchers at Linköping University discover that bacteria, not human cells, are responsible for the detection of epigenetic mark 6mdA. The team finds multiple methods used to detect 6mdA produce false positive results due to bacterial contamination and technical issues.

SourceLinköping University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 18, 2020

Bariatric surgery is linked to significantly fewer heart attacks and strokes

A nationwide study found that bariatric surgery significantly reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes among obese patients. The surgery was associated with a 60% lower rate of fatal and non-fatal heart attacks and stroke, as well as significant weight loss and improved type 2 diabetes management.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMar 18, 2020

Black hole team discovers path to razor-sharp black hole images

Researchers predict a nested series of rings within black hole images, with each successive ring becoming increasingly sharper due to its higher number of orbits around the black hole. This discovery enables new possibilities for observing black holes using only two telescopes far apart.

SourceInstitute for Advanced Study·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 18, 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.

Radiation damage spreads among close neighbors

Researchers discovered that a single soft x-ray can destroy a protein-sized molecule by inducing radiation damage in neighboring atoms. The findings could lead to safer medical imaging and a better understanding of heavy metals' electronic properties.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 18, 2020

Overlooked caregivers? Children, teens help care for parents with ALS

A study found that children and teens aged 8-18 provide an average of 5 hours per day in caregiving activities, including tasks like medication management and cooking meals. Despite their efforts, many youth feel isolated and undertrained, highlighting the need for training and support.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMar 18, 2020

A new window into psychosis

A recent study in mice found that psychosis may be caused by problems with specialized nerve cells and learning behavior. The researchers hope this could provide insight into the emergence of delusions in patients with psychosis or schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature·DateMar 18, 2020

Mirror, mirror, on the wall

Researchers found that people's prior beliefs about themselves may prevent accurate judgment of real appearance. By viewing their body from a third-person perspective, individuals rated it more attractively, pointing to potential applications for treating body perception disorders.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Robotics and AI·DateMar 18, 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.

New sensor could help prevent food waste

Researchers created a tiny sensor that can detect ethylene gas concentrations as low as 15 parts per billion. The sensor uses carbon nanotubes and palladium catalysts to measure ethylene levels in real-time, revealing when fruits and vegetables are about to spoil.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 18, 2020

Maggot analysis goes molecular for forensic cases

Researchers developed a faster and more objective alternative to traditional maggot analysis methods. They created a new hierarchical conformal predictor that can distinguish between six different maggot species, revolutionizing the field of forensic entomology.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateMar 18, 2020

Soft robot, unplugged

The isoperimetric soft robot is a human-scale, pneumatic robot that can move without a tether and navigate unstructured environments. It achieves this by deforming its soft fabric tubes while maintaining its perimeter constant.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience Robotics·DateMar 18, 2020

Women carry heavier burden of chest pain, but less artery narrowing

Women with coronary artery disease experience more chest pain due to plaque build-up, but have less extensive disease compared to men. The study highlights the need for more research and clinicians to adopt a dual focus to prevent cardiovascular events and improve patients' quality of life.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 18, 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.

Opioid withdrawal increases health risks for people who inject drugs

A new study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence reveals that experiencing opioid withdrawal increases the likelihood of needle sharing and non-fatal overdose among individuals who inject drugs. The research also highlights the urgent need for medication-assisted treatment to address this public health issue.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateMar 18, 2020

Revamping optical fibers to transmit even more data

Researchers explore alternative materials to improve optical fiber's data transmission capabilities, as telecom demands grow. They discovered fluoride glass can transmit light over a wider range of wavelengths, but it is more expensive and brittle.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 18, 2020

Microplastics found in a quarter of San Diego estuary fish

The study found that fish species and size affect the types and amounts of plastics ingested, with larger fish consuming more plastics. The research sheds light on how plastics enter marine ecosystems from urban watersheds and highlights the need for better understanding to reduce plastic pollution's impact.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 18, 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.

Novel system allows untethered high-quality multi-player VR

Purdue University researchers have created a novel system that allows multiple players to interact with the same VR game on smartphones, reducing latency and improving user experience. The Coterie system enables 4K-resolution VR on commodity mobile devices and supports up to 10 players in the same application.

SourcePurdue University·DateMar 18, 2020

Therapeutic HPV vaccine may improve outcomes in advanced cervical cancer

Combining therapeutic HPV vaccine ISA101 with chemotherapy drugs carboplatin and paclitaxel may extend survival in patients with advanced cervical cancer. The vaccine was well-tolerated, reducing suppressive myeloid cells to better stimulate T cell responses.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 18, 2020

Mathematicians develop new theory to explain real-world randomness

Researchers have developed a novel theory to explain the chaotic movements of particles in dynamic environments, where passive particles interact with active swimmers. The model suggests that such movements can be explained by Lévy flights, which arise from hydrodynamic interactions between swimmers and passive particles.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature·DateMar 18, 2020

Brand new shark(s), doo doo, doo doo doo doo

International team discovers two new species of six-gilled sawsharks in the West Indian Ocean, raising concerns about their vulnerability to overfishing. The discovery highlights the importance of assessing shark and ray biodiversity globally.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 18, 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.

Loss of protein disturbs intestinal homeostasis and can drive cancer

A recent study reveals that the loss of protein MCL1 can drive cancer formation in the intestine, even without bacterial-driven inflammation. The research found that mice lacking MCL1 developed tumors and intestinal damage, similar to human cases with chronic intestinal inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateMar 18, 2020

Warming seas

Researchers studying coral reef fish found species-specific physiological responses to warming temperatures, influenced by heatwave intensity and duration. The study's results signal potential long-term consequences for fish fitness and ecosystem health.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 18, 2020

How people investigate -- or don't -- fake news on Twitter and Facebook

A study by University of Washington researchers found that people often ignore fake news on social media, but some use strategies like evaluating the source or noticing inconsistencies to detect misinformation. The study provides a framework for understanding how people react to fake news and could inform interventions to resist misinf...

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateMar 18, 2020

Using 'organs-on-a-chip' to model complicated diseases

MIT biological engineers develop a multitissue model of the colon and liver, revealing how different tissues contribute to inflammatory diseases. The study finds that metabolic byproducts generated by bacteria play an important role in exacerbating inflammation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Systems·DateMar 18, 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.

Crop diversity can buffer the effects of climate change

A new Stanford study found that diversified farms in Costa Rica provide a more secure habitat for birds and shield against the impacts of climate change. Diversified farms are more stable in supporting bird populations and offer refuge to threatened species.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateMar 18, 2020

Fine-tuning radiocarbon dating could 'rewrite' ancient events

A new study refines radiocarbon dating to better understand Mediterranean history, including the tomb of Tutankhamen and a volcanic eruption on Santorini. Regional variations in cosmic radiation lead to small but critical periods of variation in radiocarbon levels.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 18, 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.

Concern over industry support for wider access to medical cannabis

A recent investigation by The BMJ uncovered links between groups advocating for wider medical cannabis access and those pushing for recreational legalization. Industry funding for research into medicinal properties of cannabis has raised concerns about conflicts of interest and the potential normalization of cannabis use.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 18, 2020

Aboriginal scars from frontier wars

A long-running ARC-funded project explores the recruitment and impact of Aboriginal men as native mounted police in Queensland, revealing ongoing psychological impacts of historical dispossession and frontier violence. The study argues that inter-generational trauma persists among Indigenous Australians.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Genocide Research·DateMar 18, 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.

Frozen-planet states in exotic helium atoms

Physicists have mapped the energy levels of exotic helium atoms and discovered a 'frozen planet' state configuration where an antiproton is trapped. This study provides insights into the stability of such configurations, which may be more amenable to experimental research.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateMar 18, 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.

Late Cretaceous dinosaur-dominated ecosystem

A new study published in Geology found that Late Cretaceous ecosystems in North America were characterized by diverse and mixed diets, with resource interchange between aquatic and terrestrial components being common. The research used stable isotope analysis to reconstruct the diets and habitat use of dinosaurs and other animals, cont...

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateMar 18, 2020

Ethylene sensor could help monitor plant health

Researchers developed an easy-to-use sensor that can sensitively detect changes in ethylene levels, a key hormone in plant health. The sensor uses a network of single-walled carbon nanotubes to monitor fluctuations in ethylene gas levels, with high sensitivity suitable for monitoring plants in the field.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 18, 2020

To prevent tick encounters, where you dump your leaves matters

A new study suggests that raking leaves just out to forest edges can result in a three-fold increase in blacklegged ticks. Homeowners can reduce tick habitats by removing leaves from high-use areas, composting them, or taking advantage of municipal curbside leaf pickup.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateMar 18, 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.

How gene therapy may hold key to treating life-threatening cardiac disease

Researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine identified a novel way to treat Danon disease using gene therapy, adding a specially designed gene that restores LAMP2 function. The treatment improved cardiac and liver function in mice with the disease, offering a new approach beyond heart transplants.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 18, 2020

New COVID-19 info for gastroenterologists and patients

Key information for gastroenterologists and patients with chronic digestive conditions about COVID-19 includes prioritizing patient safety and maintaining medication regimens. Laboratory findings in COVID-19 patients also include liver function test abnormalities, emphasizing the importance of monitoring.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateMar 18, 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.

Access to forbidden rings

Researchers at UNIGE have developed a new technique for creating chains of molecular rings that do not use standard chemical interactions but instead contact with large molecular surfaces. This discovery helps answer an old contradiction in classical chemistry and provides new prospects for molecular cyclization.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 18, 2020

Trauma relapse in a novel context may be preventable

A Korea Brain Research Institute study found that the posterior parietal cortex plays a role in fear renewal in novel contexts. This discovery may lead to the development of new treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and fear-related disorders.

SourceKorea Brain Research Institute·JournalMolecular Brain·DateMar 18, 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.

Shedding light on optimal materials for harvesting sunlight underwater

Researchers at New York University develop guidelines for optimal band gap values in wide-band gap semiconductors for efficient underwater use. Various materials, such as organic and alloys, are shown to be suitable for deep waters, potentially extending the range of autonomous submersible vehicles.

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·DateMar 18, 2020

Supercomputers unlock reproductive mysteries of viruses and life

Researchers used supercomputer simulations to study viral reproduction and DNA replication mechanisms. They discovered that twisting stress in protein filaments plays a key role in creating membrane deformations, which is crucial for virus release and cellular processes.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMar 18, 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.

Sugar brings a lot of carbon dioxide into the deeper sea

Researchers found that laminarin plays a central role in the marine carbon cycle, storing an average of 12 gigatons of carbon annually. The study also revealed that laminarin comprises 50% of organic carbon in sinking diatom-containing particles.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 18, 2020

Ancient fish fossil reveals evolutionary origin of the human hand

A 1.57-meter long ancient Elpistostege fish fossil found in Canada has yielded the missing evolutionary link between fish and tetrapods, revealing a humerus (arm), radius, ulna, carpus, and phalanges organized in digits (fingers). The discovery pushes back the origin of digits in vertebrates to the fish level.

SourceFlinders University·JournalNature·DateMar 18, 2020

How does an intersex bee behave?

Researchers discovered a Megalopta gynandromorph, exhibiting both male and female characteristics. The bee's activity patterns closely resembled those of females, with higher intensity periods during the day.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Hymenoptera Research·DateMar 18, 2020

Getting too little -- or too much -- sleep may be bad for the heart

Research found that sleeping seven or eight hours a night is associated with lower evidence of arterial stiffness and a reduced risk of heart disease. However, both short and long sleep durations were linked to increased plaque buildup in the carotid arteries. A balanced sleep pattern may be key to maintaining cardiovascular health.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 18, 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.

New details revealed on how plants maintain optimal sperm-egg ratio

A team of UMass Amherst biologists discovered how plants maintain an optimal sperm-egg ratio by controlling the environment in their ovules. FERONIA regulates a gene that interacts with pectin, a sugar polymer in cell walls, to create a receptive environment for pollen tubes and prevent polyspermy.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature·DateMar 18, 2020

Having a low birthweight baby may increase risk for early heart failure

A new study suggests that giving birth to a low-weight baby under 5.5 pounds may be an independent risk factor for developing changes in heart function that can lead to heart failure. Researchers found that women who experienced adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preeclampsia or pre-term birth, had a higher risk of heart failure at 30...

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 18, 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.

New technique has potential to protect oranges from citrus greening

Researchers identified peptides that trigger immune responses in multiple plant species, including citrus, potentially preventing or reducing yield loss from citrus greening. This discovery offers a new hope for the devastated citrus industry, where no resistant varieties are available and limited disease control measures exist.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateMar 18, 2020

Proximity of hospitals to mass shootings in US

Nontrauma center hospitals are disproportionately close to mass shootings in the US, according to a recent study published in JAMA Surgery. The researchers found that these hospitals were the nearest to most of the mass shootings that occurred in 2019, with an average distance of just 1.8 miles.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMar 18, 2020

New research unpicks root causes of separation anxiety in dogs

Separation anxiety in dogs is caused by four key forms of distress: getting away from something, wanting to get outside, reacting to external noises, and boredom. Understanding these root causes is crucial for effective treatment.

SourceUniversity of Lincoln·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·DateMar 18, 2020

Where you live may influence your baby's behavior

Research reveals that infants from rural families display more negative emotions like anger and frustration compared to their urban peers. Urban moms tend to be better at responding to their babies' needs, leading to calmer and less upset infants.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Community Psychology·DateMar 18, 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.

Closing the carbon cycle to stop climate change

Researchers at TIFR create metal-free catalyst that converts CO2 to methane with excellent productivity and selectivity. The catalyst is recyclable and shows significant increase in production rate after regeneration cycles.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 18, 2020

Alzheimer's disease: Inflammation triggers fatal cycle

Researchers discovered that an immune reaction in the brain adds fuel to the fire of inflammation, leading to the development of Alzheimer's disease. The microglia cells' activation of inflammasomes makes degradation of Aß proteins more difficult, creating a devastating process.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 18, 2020

In NIH trial, selumetinib shrinks tumors, provides clinical benefit for children with NF1

A phase 2 clinical trial conducted by the National Cancer Institute found that selumetinib improved outcomes for children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), shrinking inoperable tumors and reducing pain. The treatment also led to clinically meaningful improvements in quality of life, strength, and range of motion.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 18, 2020

Model simulator helps researchers map complex physics phenomena

A Cornell-led collaboration has successfully created a solid-state platform to simulate the Hubbard model in two dimensions, mapping a longstanding conundrum in physics: the phase diagram of the triangular lattice Hubbard model. The team observed a Mott insulating state and mapped the system's magnetic phase diagram.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateMar 18, 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.

Blood platelets trigger events that cause organ damage after heart surgery

Activated platelets attach to vessel walls and interact with mast cells, triggering a powerful inflammatory response that can lead to organ damage and death after heart surgery. Inhibiting platelet activation may prevent or minimize this response, according to a study published in Science Advances.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 18, 2020

Bad sleep habits can depress teens

A study by Flinders University found that bad sleep habits in teenagers are linked to negative thoughts, perfectionism, and an increased risk of depression. The researchers recommend alternative treatments for repetitive negative thinking and perfectionism, including encouraging regular bedtime routines and limiting screen time.

SourceFlinders University·JournalSleep Health·DateMar 18, 2020

Patient navigators cut ER visits, hospitalization for high risk health care users

A study by TTUHSC investigators found that an interprofessional patient navigation program reduced emergency room visits and hospital admissions among high-risk patients. The program, which used DSRIP guidelines, resulted in a significant decrease in hospital utilization, with participants experiencing 1.13 ER visits per year compared ...

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of Healthcare Management·DateMar 18, 2020

Kidney injury risks higher for hospitalized pregnant women

A new study found that hospitalized pregnant women have a significantly higher risk of acute kidney injury (AKI), with black and Native American women at increased risk. The study also suggests that awareness and detection of AKI may be contributing to the rising rates of kidney damage in pregnant women.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalAmerican Journal of Nephrology·DateMar 18, 2020