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Science News for March 24, 2020


Regular tub bathing linked to lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease

A long-term study found that regular tub bathing is associated with a lower risk of death from heart disease and stroke, with higher frequencies seeming to offer greater protection. The study tracked over 61,000 middle-aged adults in Japan and found that daily hot baths were linked to a 28% lower overall risk of cardiovascular disease.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalHeart·DateMar 24, 2020

Images reveal how bacteria form communities on the human tongue

The study reveals that microbial biofilms on the tongue have a complex spatial organization, with key bacterial genera such as Actinomyces, Rothia, and Streptococcus. The images show patchy community structure, with consorcia dominated by single taxa, and suggest a model for how these communities are generated.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 24, 2020

How to win more B2B contracts with effective e-sales

A new study analyzes e-communications to provide sellers with insights about buyers' needs and behaviors. The research identified four distinct influence tactics: information sharing, recommendation, promise, and assertiveness. Effective use of these tactics requires complementary tactics to prompt internalization or compliance.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMar 24, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Alliance for Academic Internal Medicine honors BU doc

Dr. Emelia J. Benjamin, a renowned researcher and educator, has been recognized with the Alliance for Academic Internal Medicine Diversity Award for her tireless efforts to promote ethnic, racial, and gender diversity within Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateMar 24, 2020

Study shows key factors for reducing brain damage from cardiac arrest

Researchers discovered that shorter time to receiving ECPR significantly improves neurological function in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients, especially those with heart rhythms responding to defibrillation. The study's findings can inform future revisions to international CPR guidelines.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCirculation·DateMar 24, 2020

Health Canada's COVID-19 response grants funding to three projects at the LDI

Researchers at McGill University receive funding to develop a rapid diagnostic device for COVID-19 testing, screen approved drugs for efficacy against the virus, and study key genetic markers of immune response. The goal is to understand how coronaviruses evade human immunity and develop effective interventions to halt the pandemic.

SourceMcGill University·DateMar 24, 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.

A genetic nano-toolkit for the generation of new biomaterials

A team of microbiologists at the University of Bayreuth created a modular system for genetic reprogramming of bacteria, turning them into cell factories for multifunctional magnetic nanoparticles. These nanoparticles combine various useful functions and properties, offering a promising new material in biomedicine and biotechnology.

SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalSmall·DateMar 24, 2020

Coronavirus massive simulations completed on Frontera supercomputer

Researchers have created a massive computer model of the coronavirus, which will help design new drugs and vaccines. The model, built by Rommie Amaro's team, contains 200 million atoms and simulates the virus's interaction with human cells.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 24, 2020

Modeling the human eye in a dish

Scientists from Osaka University created a new cellular model of the human eye using hiPSCs, enabling them to isolate specific cells involved in eye development and study related diseases. The novel model uses PITX2, a key protein during eye development, to track cell expression and differentiate between eye cells.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 24, 2020

Past your bedtime? Inconsistency may increase risk to cardiovascular health

A recent study by University of Notre Dame researchers found that individuals who went to bed even 30 minutes later than their usual bedtime presented a significantly higher resting heart rate, which lasted into the following day. This increase in resting heart rate carried over into the next day and was linked to an increased risk to ...

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalNature·DateMar 24, 2020

The Lancet Infectious Diseases: Singapore modelling study estimates impact of physical distancing on reducing spread of COVID-19

A Singapore modelling study suggests that quarantining infected individuals and their families, school closures, and workplace distancing are effective in reducing COVID-19 cases. The combined approach was found to be most effective, preventing a national outbreak at relatively low levels of infectivity.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateMar 24, 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.

How personalization and machine learning can improve cancer outreach ROI

Researchers found that personalized cancer outreach using machine learning and targeted interventions can improve return on investment by 74-96%. The study used a randomized field experiment to analyze the effectiveness of different outreach programs, which varied in their impact depending on patient demographics and characteristics.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMar 24, 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.

Antibodies in the brain trigger epilepsy

A study by the University of Bonn has identified an autoantibody that triggers epilepsy in some patients. The autoantibody targets the protein Drebrin, disrupting nerve cell transmission and leading to inflammation and seizures.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateMar 24, 2020

How fire causes office-building floors to collapse

Researchers tested concrete floors with steel beams to understand fire behavior and structural failure. The study found that even well-designed structures can collapse due to extreme temperature shifts, highlighting the need for improved fire safety measures.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of Structural Engineering·DateMar 24, 2020

Scientists reveal how proteins team up to repair DNA

Researchers discovered a crucial DNA repair process in yeast that involves a protein called Rad51 and two helper proteins called Swi5-Sfr1. This finding may help understand why DNA repair processes fail to function properly in humans, leading to diseases like cancer and inherited conditions.

SourceeLife·DateMar 24, 2020

Self-sanitizing face mask project receives NSF RAPID grant

A Northwestern University researcher received an NSF RAPID grant to develop a self-sanitizing face mask that deactivates viruses on contact. The project aims to reduce the number and activity of viruses in respiratory droplets, providing an additional layer of protection for healthcare workers and others.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateMar 24, 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.

What motivates sales of pollinator-friendly plants?

Consumer awareness and information type significantly impact pollinator-friendly plant purchases. A study found that positive information from trusted sources increases willingness to buy, while neutral or negative info has little effect. Trusted sources include universities, major media outlets, and government agencies.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateMar 24, 2020

Co-occurring contaminants may increase NC groundwater risks

A new Duke University study finds that co-occurring contaminants in North Carolina's private wells can heighten health risks for millions of residents. The study highlights the need for more research to better understand the health impacts of geogenic contaminants and mixtures.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 24, 2020

Entanglement by identity, or interaction without ever touching

Researchers explore whether intuition on interaction is justified in quantum mechanics. They show that entangled states can be generated without direct contact using the fundamental indistinguishability of particles.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 24, 2020

Study uses AI to estimate unexploded bombs from Vietnam War

Researchers used AI to detect bomb craters from satellite images, increasing true detection by over 160%. The study suggests 44-50% of the area's dropped bombs may still be unexploded, posing a risk to local farmers. This method could help identify high-priority areas for demining efforts.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 24, 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.

Manipulating ligands

Researchers created surface-clean noble metal aerogels with controlled ligand chemistry, revealing a new dimension for enhancing electrocatalysis performance. The intrinsic electrocatalytic properties of these clean gels were unveiled and found to be positively correlated with the oxidation state of metals.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 24, 2020

Changes in surface sugarlike molecules help cancer metastasize

Researchers at UC Davis have discovered that changes in surface sugarlike molecules, or glycans, on cancer cells help them metastasize. The study found that cancer cells with high levels of mannose glycan were more likely to spread into surrounding tissues.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 2020

How well do you know the back of your hand, really?

A study by York University researchers found that the brain's representation of the back and palm of the hand are different. The perceived width of the back of the hand changes depending on its orientation, but the palm's size is accurately judged.

SourceYork University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 24, 2020

Small horses got smaller, big tapirs got bigger 47 million years ago

Researchers found that ancient horse body sizes shrunk over time due to faster reproduction rates and shorter lifespans. In contrast, big tapir ancestors grew larger as they lived longer and had more resources for reproduction. The study provides new insights into mammal evolution using exceptionally preserved fossils from Germany.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 24, 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.

Telemedicine reduces mental health burden of COVID-19

A new study published in Telemedicine and e-Health highlights the effectiveness of telehealth in reducing depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms among COVID-19 patients. The study emphasizes the importance of mental health support, especially via telehealth, to maintain psychological well-being during the pandemic.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTelemedicine and e-Health·DateMar 24, 2020

Global surgical guidelines drive cut in post-surgery deaths -- study

A new global guideline aims to reduce post-surgical deaths by improving practice in surgery, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The guideline recommends nine essential steps to prevent Surgical Site Infections (SSIs), which can significantly improve patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalBJS·DateMar 24, 2020

Wuhan study shows lying face down improves breathing in severe COVID-19

A retrospective study of 12 patients with severe COVID-19 found that lying face down improved lung function and reduced the need for high positive pressure. Prone positioning was associated with increased lung recruitability, reducing harm to patients.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 24, 2020

CUNY New York City COVID-19 Survey week 2

A recent survey of NYC residents found that nearly 3 in 10 reported losing their jobs due to coronavirus. Additionally, 80% experienced reduced ability to get food they need, and two-thirds lost social connections. The findings highlight disproportionate impacts on Hispanics, lower-income city residents, and middle-aged respondents.

SourceCUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy·JournalJournal of Health Communication·DateMar 24, 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.

Recipe for neuromorphic processing systems?

Researchers developed a recipe for creating ideal hybrid memristive-CMOS neuromorphic computing systems, exploiting the advantages of low-precision, noisy, and variable neurons. This work aims to enable compact and efficient real-time processing for applications such as bio-signal processing and brain-machine interfaces.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 24, 2020

Sandia initiatives to protect US energy grid and nuclear weapons systems

Sandia's Resilient Energy Systems campaign aims to defend large electrical utility systems against cyberhacks, electromagnetic disturbances, and natural disasters. The Assured Survivability and Agility with Pulsed Power research campaign explores technologies to simulate nuclear explosions without actual tests, aiming to maintain the U...

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateMar 24, 2020

Creating stretchable thermoelectric generators

Researchers at Linköping University have developed a soft and stretchable organic thermoelectric module that can harvest energy from body heat. The breakthrough was made possible by a new composite material with high electrical conductivity and good thermoelectric properties.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 24, 2020

Shining light on sleeping cataclysmic binaries

A new study models the life cycle of cataclysmic binaries, confirming that observable novae are just a small fraction of these systems. The research shows that most binaries spend 90% of their lifetimes in a detached state, waiting to be detected.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalNature Astronomy·DateMar 24, 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.

Brain or muscles, what do we lose first?

Researchers from UNIGE used a database of over 100,000 people to study the relationship between physical and cognitive abilities after 50 years of age. They found that cognitive decline precedes physical activity, suggesting prioritizing brain exercise may slow down an inevitable decline.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalHealth Psychology·DateMar 24, 2020

Researchers develop early warning system to fight disinformation online

A new system uses AI to root out political memes and disinformation on social media platforms, highlighting the threat of coordinated campaigns to incite violence and manipulate elections. The project aims to flag manipulated content in real-time to prevent harm.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalBulletin of the Atomic Scientists·DateMar 24, 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.

PETA Science Group contributes to first non-animal 3D lung alveolar model of its kind

The PETA International Science Consortium Ltd. has contributed to the development of EpiAlveolar, a human cell-based alveolar model that can simulate the effects of inhaling different substances on the human lung. This breakthrough technology allows for the testing of chemicals and other respirable materials without animal testing.

SourcePeople for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 24, 2020

eDNA provides researchers with 'more than meets the eye'

Researchers used eDNA metabarcoding to detect biodiversity in two regions of Western Australia, finding that bulk arthropods and animal droppings detected the most species. The study suggests that eDNA can be a fast and accurate tool for biomonitoring, but careful surveys are needed to avoid contamination from outside organisms.

SourceCurtin University·JournalMolecular Ecology Resources·DateMar 24, 2020

Bacterial protein fragment kills lung cells in pulmonary fibrosis, study finds

Researchers at University of Illinois and Mie University discover salt-loving bacteria secret a peptide that rapidly kills lung cells, leading to acute exacerbation. The finding offers a potential new target for treating pulmonary fibrosis, a disease affecting millions worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 24, 2020

A molecule that directs neurons

A genetic study by the University of Trento identified a crucial molecule (Wnt inhibitory factor 1, Wif1) in the correct composition of habenula neurons and their connectivity. This discovery may provide new insights into the causes of neurological disorders like autism.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalDevelopment·DateMar 24, 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.

Efficiency of non-invasive brain stimulation for memory improvement: Embracing the challenge

Researchers at Skoltech discovered that non-invasive magnetic stimulation of the brain can enhance human working memory. The effects of magnetic stimulation weaken as the brain works on a cognitive task under stimulation. Cognitive activity can even reduce the efficiency of TMS, suggesting new protocols may be needed for optimal results.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalBrain Sciences·DateMar 24, 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.

Is step count associated with lower risk of death?

Researchers analyzed data from nearly 5,000 adults and found that taking more steps was associated with a reduced risk of death. Higher step intensity also showed a significant association with lower mortality rates, suggesting that stepping is a crucial factor in overall health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 24, 2020

Crumpled graphene makes ultra-sensitive cancer DNA detector

Researchers at the University of Illinois created a crumpled graphene sensor that detects ultra-low concentrations of disease markers in blood or serum, improving sensitivity ten thousand times over current designs. This breakthrough enables rapid diagnosis and could lead to portable, handheld devices for monitoring various biomarkers.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 24, 2020

COVID-19: The time is now to prepare for people affected by humanitarian crises

The COVID-19 pandemic exposes vulnerable populations in humanitarian crises to increased risk due to lack of access to basic needs like healthcare and hygiene facilities. Researchers call on governments and international organizations to develop evidence-based approaches to combat respiratory viruses.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalInternational Journal for Equity in Health·DateMar 24, 2020

Development of a solid material capable of slowly releasing H2S and NO

Researchers at NIMS developed a solid material that slowly releases hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and nitric oxide (NO), which can induce physiologically favorable effects. This material will facilitate the medical use of these gases, overcoming storage and concentration difficulties.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 24, 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.

Molecule co-discovered at UL leads to breakthrough on how data is stored

Researchers at University of Limerick's Bernal Institute have helped discover a molecule that can switch between three distinct states, paving the way for low-energy data storage and processing. This breakthrough could have a major impact on the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications.

SourceUniversity of Limerick·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 24, 2020

The physics that drives periodic economic downturns

Professor Adrian Bejan explains how the physics of spreading and growth can lead to economic downturns, but also highlights the potential for innovation and creativity to drive new growth and prosperity.

SourceDuke University·JournalInternational Journal of Energy Research·DateMar 24, 2020

Engineers model mutations causing drug resistance

Engineers have developed a method to predict which mutations will occur in people, making it easier to create effective pharmaceuticals. The researchers used algorithms similar to those used in chemical physics to model how evolution works and found that biased random events play a big part in the evolution of resistance in leukemia.

SourcePenn State·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 24, 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.

Rats give more generously in response to the smell of hunger

Researchers found that rats prioritize providing food assistance to those in need, as indicated by the 'smell of hunger'. Seven volatile organic chemicals differed significantly between hungry and satiated rats, serving as a reliable cue for reciprocal cooperation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 24, 2020

New study: Cannabis helps fight resistant bacteria

A new study published in Scientific Reports found that cannabidiol (CBD) enhances the effect of antibiotics against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, a major human pathogen. The combination of CBD and antibiotics showed a more powerful effect than using antibiotics alone, reducing the need for antibiotics to achieve the same outcome.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 24, 2020

Mechanical forces shape bacterial biofilms' puzzling patterns

Bacteria form intricate starburst-like patterns as they grow on soft substrates, with wrinkles forming at the edges and propagating toward the center. The researchers developed a chemo-mechanical model to predict where wrinkles would form, corresponding well with experimental measurements.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 2020

Researchers develop language test for people with Fragile X syndrome

A new test measures expressive language skills in individuals with Fragile X syndrome, helping increase participation in clinical studies aimed at improving intellectual and cognitive functioning. The test's reliability and validity were demonstrated through consistent scores across multiple administrations.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalJournal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders·DateMar 24, 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.

Ships' emissions create measurable regional change in clouds

New research measures cloud changes caused by ship pollution, revealing a measurable regional impact on global temperatures. The study found that globally, cloud changes due to industrial pollution block 1 Watt of solar energy per square meter.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAGU Advances·DateMar 24, 2020

Plants and animals aren't so different when it comes to climate

A new study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution found that plants and animals share similar patterns of niche evolution in response to climate change. The research analyzed climatic data from 952 plant species and 1,135 vertebrate species, revealing that both groups have a narrow breadth of tolerated environmental conditions.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 24, 2020

New model helps explain seasonal variations in urban heat islands

The new coarse-grained model explains how seasonal changes in rainfall, solar radiation, and vegetation conditions affect surface urban heat islands at a city-wide scale. It provides general insights for city planners and scientists to design heat mitigation strategies.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 2020

Planning for future water security in China

A new study found that China's water use has decelerated since the 1980s due to the adoption of efficient irrigation techniques and industrial water recycling technologies. However, uncertainties remain due to land institution transitions, urbanization, and potential increased water use in intensive farming and industrial sectors.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 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.

Higher daily step count linked with lower all-cause mortality

A new study found that taking higher daily step counts is associated with a lower risk of death from all causes. The study tracked over 4,800 U.S. adults and found that those who took 8,000 steps per day had a 51% lower risk compared to those who took 4,000 steps.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalJAMA·DateMar 24, 2020

Obama's 2008 election improved mental health of black men, research shows

New research from Rice University found that Barack Obama's 2008 presidential election improved the mental health of black men, with an average decrease in poor mental health days from four to three. However, this benefit did not extend to black women, who reported a slight increase in mental health problems following the election.

SourceRice University·JournalSociology of Race and Ethnicity·DateMar 24, 2020

Study challenges common view of oxygen scarcity on Earth 2 billion years ago

Researchers found strikingly high molybdenum, uranium, and rhenium concentrations in drill cores from shungite rocks, suggesting elevated oxygen levels at the time of their deposition. The discovery contradicts prevailing models of Earth's carbon and oxygen cycles and has implications for understanding the evolution of complex life.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 24, 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.

Researchers unveil framework for sharing clinical data in AI era

A new framework has been developed to share clinical data for research and AI algorithm development, prioritizing patient privacy and ethical standards. The framework supports the release of de-identified and aggregated data, with safeguards in place to protect patient identity.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMar 24, 2020

Eye blinking on-a-chip

Kyoto University scientists develop a device that mimics the movement of tears and blinking eyes, allowing for more accurate testing of ophthalmic drugs. The device shows promise in increasing filament production in corneal cells, potentially leading to improved ocular drug development.

SourceKyoto University·JournalLab on a Chip·DateMar 24, 2020

Diet quality of young people in US

The study analyzed national survey data to estimate overall diet quality among US children and teens from 1999 to 2016. Researchers found a significant improvement in dietary habits, with reduced consumption of unhealthy foods and increased intake of fruits and vegetables.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 24, 2020

Old human cells rejuvenated with stem cell technology, Stanford-led study finds

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have successfully rejuvenated old human cells using stem cell technology, rewinding molecular hallmarks of aging and rendering treated cells nearly indistinguishable from their younger counterparts. The study found that exposure to specific proteins, known as Yamanaka factors, can i...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 24, 2020

Scientists investigate why females live longer than males

A study of 101 wild mammal species found that females lived 18% longer than males for over 60% of the species, with a similar gap in humans. The researchers suggest complex interactions between environmental conditions and sex-specific costs of reproduction may contribute to this phenomenon.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 24, 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.

High-efficiency laser for silicon chips

Scientists have created a compatible semiconductor laser made of germanium and tin, with efficiency comparable to conventional GaAs semiconductor lasers on Si. The new laser can be manufactured during the CMOS production process, reducing waste heat and enabling continuous operation.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Photonics·DateMar 24, 2020

Lack of media skepticism tied to belief in rape myths

A new study co-led by a Cornell researcher found that individuals who recognize similarities between people they know and those depicted in the media are more likely to believe common rape myths. Media literacy education could help raise awareness about sexual violence and improve prevention programs on college campuses.

SourceCornell University·JournalViolence Against Women·DateMar 24, 2020

Teaching old transition metals new tricks: Chemists activate palladium catalysis by light

Researchers from the University of Münster have developed a novel approach to allyl functionalization using radical chemistry, generating π-allylpalladium complexes through visible light activation. The method has been shown to be highly selective and sustainable, with over 60 examples demonstrating its utility in various applications.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Catalysis·DateMar 24, 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.

More men, more problems? Not necessarily, FSU study finds

A new FSU study suggests that competition for mates leads to increased risk-taking and aggression in men, but also reveals a lesser-known female response: settling down quickly to avoid competition. The study found that when women outnumber men, they become more open to casual relationships and less likely to get married.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateMar 24, 2020

Changing how we think about warm perception

Researchers at MDC found that mice detect warmth and cooling with the same acuity as humans, relying on a population of neurons increasing activity during warming. Blocking neural pathways associated with warming reveals perception is diminished but not gone.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNeuron·DateMar 24, 2020

Whole body ownership is not just the sum of each part of the body

A study published in Scientific Reports found that observing scrambled body stimuli while moving the whole body produces a sense of possession of specific body parts, but not the entire body. Spatial arrangement plays a crucial role in creating an illusion of whole-body ownership.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 24, 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.