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Science News for March 5, 2020


The harmful effects of stress during pregnancy can last a lifetime

Researchers at Yale University found that mice exposed to stress in the womb and after birth experience lifelong immune system deficiencies, making them more susceptible to bacterial infections and tumors. Early-life exposure to glucocorticoids permanently alters immune responses, rewiring the body to respond differently.

SourceYale University·JournalCell·DateMar 5, 2020

What we don't know (about lakes) could hurt us

Researchers found a significant knowledge gap in how lakes respond to extreme storms, with inconsistent findings across studies. The team calls for a collaborative effort to develop a research framework to better predict phytoplankton responses to storm-induced changes.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMar 5, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Corn productivity in real time: Satellites, field cameras, and farmers team up

Researchers developed a scalable method for estimating crop productivity in real time using satellite data, in-field camera networks, and ground measurements. The method provides highly accurate estimates of leaf area index (LAI) and can be used to detect underperforming fields or segments that need targeted management practices.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateMar 5, 2020

Mapping movement

Researchers have uncovered neural mechanisms that govern complex motor sequences in fruit flies, revealing the importance of spatial comparisons in decision-making. The findings could lend insight into pathologies such as Parkinson's Disease and obsessive-compulsive behaviors.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 5, 2020

Tissue-digging nanodrills do just enough damage

Researchers have successfully tested molecular motors that can destroy diseased cells in worms, plankton, and mice. The nanomachines caused various degrees of damage to tissues, showing their potential for treating skin diseases such as melanomas and eczema.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 5, 2020

Rats avoid to hurt other rats

In a study published in Current Biology, researchers found that rats exhibit harm aversion, stopping use of their preferred lever when it would cause pain to a neighboring rat. This phenomenon is linked to the same brain region associated with empathy in humans, suggesting that harm aversion is deeply ingrained in our biology.

SourceNetherlands Institute for Neuroscience - KNAW·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 5, 2020
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

World's smelliest fruit could charge your mobile phone

Researchers from University of Sydney have developed a method to store electricity efficiently using durian and jackfruit waste. The fruits' biomass is converted into super-capacitors that can quickly charge electronic devices, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJournal of Energy Storage·DateMar 5, 2020

Veterinarians: Dogs, too, can experience hearing loss

Researchers describe cases of hearing loss in working dogs, highlighting the importance of noise protection. Hearing loss can be treated, and owners can adapt to help their pets thrive despite the condition.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalTopics in Companion Animal Medicine·DateMar 5, 2020

Self-driving car trajectory tracking gets closer to human-driver ideal

Researchers have developed a new optimization method for tracking self-driving car trajectories that reduces errors while keeping computation demands low. The method prioritizes passenger comfort, aiming to replicate human drivers' ability to balance speed, safety, and route choice.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateMar 5, 2020

Unexpected discovery: Blue-green algae produce oil

Cyanobacteria, previously thought to lack oil production ability, can now produce oil from water and carbon dioxide with light. This discovery opens up possibilities for producing animal feed or biofuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 5, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Cooling magnets with sound

Researchers at the University of Innsbruck have developed a method to cool microparticles using sound waves, enabling quantum experiments without photons. This innovative approach also provides a path to probe and manipulate exotic dynamics of acoustic and magnetic waves in small particles.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 5, 2020

Novel sepsis treatment enhances bacterial capture by neutrophil 'traps'

Researchers developed a novel treatment that compacts and stabilizes neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) to enhance bacterial capture, resist degradation, and improve sepsis outcomes. The treatment improved survival in mice with sepsis by reducing severity of illness and decreasing bacteria levels.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalBlood·DateMar 5, 2020

Artificial Intelligence to improve the precision of mammograms

A combination of AI algorithms and radiologist interpretations improved mammogram accuracy, avoiding unnecessary tests for 10% false positives. This approach has the potential to increase detection value and make healthcare more sustainable.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalJAMA·DateMar 5, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Spin-preserving chiral photonic crystal mirror

Researchers have developed a novel planar chiral mirror that preserves the spin of light upon reflection, overcoming limitations of traditional mirrors. This innovation has potential applications in quantum information processing and quantum optics.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMar 5, 2020

Satellite data boosts understanding of climate change's effects on kelp

Researchers used 35 years of satellite imagery to study the effects of climate change on kelp forests in Oregon, finding that warm water isn't always bad news for these near-shore seaweeds. The study also challenged previous assumptions about the impact of large winter waves on kelp populations.

SourceOregon State University·JournalEcology·DateMar 5, 2020
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

'Tickling' an atom to investigate the behavior of materials

Scientists have developed a diagnostic technique using electron microscopy to measure the behavior of individual atoms in materials. This allows them to detect and monitor impurities at the atomic level, with potential applications in various fields such as electronics and materials science.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScience·DateMar 5, 2020

Food scientists slice time off salmonella identification process

Researchers from Cornell and Mars Global Food Safety Center developed a method for whole-genome sequencing to determine salmonella serotypes in two hours. This improves the efficiency of food safety response to salmonella contamination incidents, which can occur in various foods.

SourceCornell University·JournalFood Microbiology·DateMar 5, 2020

Ultra-wide field retinal imaging techniques cannot be used interchangeably

A new study from the Joslin Diabetes Center reveals that ultra-wide field (UWF) fluorescein angiography detects over three times more microaneurysms than UWF color imaging, highlighting the need for cautious use of these techniques when evaluating and treating diabetic retinopathy. The research also suggests that AI can automate the gr...

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·DateMar 5, 2020

PET imaging offers new insights into post-transplant care for heart patients

Researchers used PET myocardial perfusion imaging to quantify myocardial blood flow and flow reserve, successfully detecting cardiac allograft vasculopathy and predicting prognosis. The study found MFR had higher accuracy in predicting overall prognosis for cardiac transplant patients.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMar 5, 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.

Skoltech scientists break Google's quantum algorithm

A team of Skoltech scientists discovered reachability deficits in the widely adopted QAOA algorithm, limiting its ability to solve certain problems. The study found that QAOA's performance depends on the problem density, with high-density instances having optimal solutions that cannot be approximated with guaranteed success.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 5, 2020

App, AI work together to provide rapid at-home assessment of coronavirus risk

A new coronavirus app coupled with machine intelligence will enable individuals to get an at-home risk assessment based on their symptoms and travel history. The app will also provide real-time information to local and public health officials, aiding in the targeting of prevention and treatment initiatives.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateMar 5, 2020

All-solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries with high capacity and long life

The researchers developed a low-cost and straightforward liquid phase process to create an active sulfur material and carbon nanofiber composite. This composite showed higher discharge capacity and better cycle stability than traditional lithium-ion secondary batteries. The new battery technology has the potential to revolutionize the ...

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateMar 5, 2020
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

New approach to sustainable building takes shape in Boston

The new Boston building will be one of the largest residential wooden structures in the US, featuring a cross-laminated timber structure that eliminates most greenhouse-gas emissions. Its kit-of-parts approach and energy-efficient design make it a pioneering example of sustainable building in urban areas.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMar 5, 2020

Researchers question reliability of common autistic personality test

A new study published in Experimental Results journal found that a commonly used autism screening tool, the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ10) questionnaire, lacks reliability in measuring autistic personality traits. The researchers suggest that new systems are needed to better capture the range of autistic traits across the population.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalExperimental Results·DateMar 5, 2020
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Illness won't stop vampire bat moms from caring for their offspring

A study on vampire bats found that mothers continued to groom and feed their healthy offspring despite feeling sick, suggesting a strong family connection. Social grooming among unrelated bats decreased when they were ill, but food sharing remained consistent, highlighting the importance of social behavior in survival.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMar 5, 2020

Using holograms helps in studying the quality of composite materials

Researchers developed a digital holography method for assessing composite materials' quality, particularly ceramic spraying materials. This technique allows for precise analysis without distorting results or requiring sensor installation.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics·DateMar 5, 2020

Is life a game of chance?

A new study suggests that life in the universe is likely to be common, but only under specific conditions. The research, led by Professor Tomonori Totani, found that complex RNA structures necessary for life to exist may have formed spontaneously in vast regions of space beyond our observable horizon.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 5, 2020

UConn researchers discover new stem cells that can generate new bone

Researchers at UConn School of Dental Medicine have discovered a population of stem cells residing along vascular channels in bone that can generate new bone-forming cells. These perivascular cells may regulate bone formation and participate in bone mass maintenance.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalStem Cells·DateMar 5, 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.

X-ray eyes peer deeper into deadly pathogen

A new study reveals unprecedented details of the bacterium Francisella tularensis' key membrane protein Flpp3, responsible for its virulence. The researchers used X-ray free electron laser technology to gather detailed structural information, which will help develop targeted drugs and effective vaccines against tularemia.

SourceArizona State University·JournalStructure·DateMar 5, 2020

Microcensus in bacteria

Researchers discovered that bacteria, specifically Bacillus subtilis, can sense the ratios of different bacterial groups in their environment. This ability allows them to adjust their behavior and make informed decisions about their surroundings.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 5, 2020

Cool beans: A vertical crop fit for Africa's changing climate and nutritional gaps

A new study proposes climbing beans as an intensification solution to increase yield and meet Africa's growing demand for food. Climbing beans can adapt to Africa's future climates in several ways, including intensifying cultivation in high-producing areas.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalMitigation and Adaptation Strategies for Global Change·DateMar 5, 2020
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Hong Kong study shows best practices protect healthcare workers from COVID-19

A Hong Kong study found that applying best practices for infection control, including handwashing and wearing personal protective equipment, prevented healthcare worker infections during the COVID-19 outbreak. Researchers tested over 1,275 cases and treated 42 active confirmed cases without any hospital-acquired infections.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateMar 5, 2020

Neural hardware for image recognition in nanoseconds

A new chip has been developed at TU Wien that can recognize certain objects within nanoseconds, leveraging artificial intelligence and a special material. The chip integrates the neural network with its AI directly into the image sensor, making object recognition faster by many orders of magnitude.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature·DateMar 5, 2020
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Preventing spread of SARS coronavirus-2 in humans

Researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 requires the protease TMPRSS2 to enter host cells, a target for therapeutic intervention. The drug camostat mesilate, approved for pancreatic inflammation, shows promise in blocking virus entry into lung cells.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalCell·DateMar 5, 2020

Bacteria killed by new light-activated coating

A new light-activated coating has been developed that successfully kills bacteria in low-intensity ambient light, including <em>Clostridioides difficile</em> and <em>Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus</em>. The coating works by producing hydrogen peroxide, a mild reagent used in contact lens cleaner solutions.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 5, 2020

Native Americans and higher cigarette use: Stereotype goes up in smoke

A recent study by the University of Arizona Health Sciences found that Native Americans do not have inherently higher cigarette use rates, contrary to long-held stereotypes. After adjusting for income and education levels, white Americans were more likely to use cigarettes daily and be nicotine dependent.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateMar 5, 2020

Social isolation could cause physical inflammation

Researchers found that social isolation is associated with increased inflammation in the body, particularly in males. Inflammation can lead to various health issues, including cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews·DateMar 5, 2020
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Study finds music therapy helps stroke patients

A new study has found that music therapy sessions have a positive effect on the neurorehabilitation of acute stroke patients. The research, conducted at Anglia Ruskin University, showed that NMT helped improve mood regulation, concentration, and brain function through neural reorganisation.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalTopics in Stroke Rehabilitation·DateMar 5, 2020

Solving a mystery in 126 dimensions

Researchers from UNSW Sydney have successfully analyzed the complex structure of benzene in 126 dimensions, shedding light on its stability and interactions. The discovery reveals unexpected electron behavior, where up-spin double-bonded electrons interact with down-spin single-bonded electrons.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 5, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Triglycerides control neurons in the reward circuit

Scientists at CNRS have discovered that triglycerides interact with certain neurons in the brain's reward circuit, reducing their excitability and strengthening reward-seeking behavior. The study also found a correlation between blood triglyceride levels and brain activity in response to food odors.

SourceCNRS·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 5, 2020

ACM publishes new journal on the Internet of Things

The ACM Transactions on Internet of Things (TIOT) journal chronicles the transformative development of the IoT. The journal covers a broad range of topics, including low-power wireless networking, embedded systems, data analytics, and security, with a strong emphasis on experimental validation.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·JournalACM Transactions on Internet of Things·DateMar 5, 2020
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Caffeine boosts problem-solving ability but not creativity, study indicates

A recent study by University of Arkansas researcher Darya Zabelina found that caffeine significantly improves convergent thinking, while having no impact on divergent thinking. Caffeine consumption did not affect working memory, but improved mood and reduced feelings of sadness in test subjects.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalConsciousness and Cognition·DateMar 5, 2020

Pesticides increase the risk of schistosomiasis, a tropical disease

Researchers found that pesticide-contaminated freshwater bodies support larger snail populations, which can increase the risk of schistosomiasis. The study suggests reducing pesticide use near waterways and improving sewage systems as key measures to mitigate the disease.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 5, 2020

One step closer to understanding the human brain

An international team of scientists has launched a comprehensive overview of all proteins expressed in the human brain, published in Science. The Brain Atlas resource offers medical researchers an unprecedented resource to deepen their understanding of neurobiology.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalScience·DateMar 5, 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.

The arrival of the laptop in the classroom and parental mediation

A study examines family views on eduCAT1x1 programme, finding parents feel unrest managing out-of-school laptop uses, which compete with academic activities. The research suggests the need to coordinate education reforms with family dynamics.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalRevista Complutense de Educación·DateMar 5, 2020

New sleep method strengthens brain's ability to retain memories

Researchers at Tel Aviv University and Weizmann Institute of Science developed a new sleep method that uses smell to strengthen memory retention in the brain. The technique, which administers a specific scent to one nostril, has shown promise in boosting memory consolidation during sleep.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 5, 2020

City fox and country fox

Researchers identified two genetically distinct 'urban' and 'rural' fox populations in Berlin, influenced by physical barriers and human activity levels. Foxes from the city population are bolder but prefer to avoid areas of high human activity, highlighting their risk management strategies.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMar 5, 2020
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Longest microwave quantum link

Researchers at ETH Zurich create a five-metre long microwave quantum link, demonstrating the feasibility of quantum local networks. The breakthrough could enable the development of powerful quantum computers by connecting smaller devices in a cluster.

SourceETH Zurich·DateMar 5, 2020

Engineered bone marrow cells slow growth of prostate and pancreatic cancer cells

A study published in Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer found that introducing bone marrow cells with a specific gene deletion can induce an immune response against prostate and pancreatic cancer cells. The technique, known as adoptive cell therapy, uses patients' own marrow cells to target cancer.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·DateMar 5, 2020

New next-generation sequencing technique dramatically shortens diagnosis of sepsis

A new next-generation sequencing technique using real-time nanopore sequencing can analyze tiny amounts of microbial cell-free DNA, offering accurate diagnosis of sepsis-causing agents within hours. The technique achieved a 3.5-fold increase in sequencing throughput and allowed for pathogen identification within minutes.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateMar 5, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

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

First real-time observation of the chaos within 3D liquid crystals

Researchers created a 3D nematic system using bacteriophage virus particles and microtubules to study the motion of defects in real-time. They found excitations in 3D nematics were primarily disclination lines and loops that can nucleate, shrink, open and merge.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 5, 2020

AI reveals differences in appearance of cancer tissue between racial populations

Researchers used AI to analyze digitized images of cancer tissues and found critical variations between black and white male patients, which could improve care for black patients with prostate cancer. The study suggests that there are biological differences in the disease that cannot be explained by other disparities.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateMar 5, 2020
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Water splitting observed on the nanometer scale

Researchers developed a new investigation method to study electrocatalytic water splitting on gold surfaces with high spatial resolution. The study found that surfaces with nanometer-scale protrusions split water more efficiently than flat surfaces.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Polymer Research·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 5, 2020

Many Lyme disease cases go unreported; a new model could help change that

A new model developed by Columbia University researchers identifies areas in the US where Lyme disease cases are likely to go unreported. The model, based on 17 years of data, helps predict the trajectory of Lyme disease spread, allowing authorities to alert physicians and the public to early treatment opportunities.

SourceColumbia University·JournalJAMA·DateMar 5, 2020

Chlamydia build their own entrance into human cells

Researchers discovered that Chlamydia uses the host cell's endocytosis mechanism to invade by producing SemC, which changes the membrane curvature. This process is essential for infection, and reducing SNX9 protein levels makes it harder for the bacteria to infect cells.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 5, 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.

Layered solar cell technology boosts efficiency, affordability

Researchers at CU Boulder have developed a low-cost solar cell with one of the highest power-conversion efficiencies to date by layering perovskite cells on top of silicon cells. The new technology increases efficiency by up to 27% and is more affordable than current silicon-based cells.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience·DateMar 5, 2020

App helps reduce osteoarthritis pain

A new mobile app has been shown to reduce osteoarthritis pain and improve physical function in patients by an average of 43% over six months. The study, published in PLOS ONE, used a mobile app to track daily exercises and provide information on the disease, with results exceeding expectations.

SourceLund University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 5, 2020

Research shows microplastics are damaging to coral ecosystems

Research shows that microplastics are damaging to coral ecosystems, causing significant reductions in population size and cell size. The exposure of endosymbionts to microplastics led to elevated stress levels and reduced detoxification activities, highlighting the importance of minimizing plastic use to preserve the environment.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalChemosphere·DateMar 5, 2020
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Colorectal cancer burden shifting to younger individuals

The burden of colorectal cancer is shifting to younger individuals, with incidence rates increasing in people under 50 and declining in older age groups. In 2020, there will be about 18,000 cases of CRC diagnosed in people under 50, equivalent to 49 new cases per day.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·DateMar 5, 2020

Enhanced care coordination can benefit patients with multiple chronic illnesses

Patients with multiple chronic conditions who completed a patient-centered medical home program had more positive experiences and better health outcomes. Nurse care coordinators played a crucial role in the program's success, helping develop individualized care plans that met patients' unique needs.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalPopulation Health Management·DateMar 5, 2020

ALMA spots metamorphosing aged star

Astronomers using ALMA captured the moment when an old star starts to alter its environment, ejecting high-speed bipolar gas jets. The team's findings help scientists understand how complex shapes of planetary nebulae are formed.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 5, 2020

Same genes, same conditions, different transport

Lactococcus lactis bacteria use two amino acid transport systems to acquire methionine under low-methionine conditions. The choice of system is maintained over multiple generations, suggesting a strategy of bet-hedging or division of labor to adapt to changing environmental conditions.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 5, 2020

LGBT health improves when friends are just like them

A recent study published in the Journal of Health and Aging reveals that having a large social network consisting of people who share one's sexual identity can significantly reduce harmful effects of discrimination on health. This finding underscores the importance of considering a person's background in their overall well-being.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Aging and Health·DateMar 5, 2020
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Male privilege

A study by HSE University researchers found that men reap more benefits than women from additional job-related training, leading to a stronger sense of control over their lives. This disparity is attributed to societal perceptions of masculinity, with 'male' skills like leadership and physical endurance being valued more highly.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalInternational Journal of Lifelong Education·DateMar 5, 2020

GI symptoms and potential fecal transmission in coronavirus patients

Research published in Gastroenterology highlights GI symptoms and potential fecal transmission in coronavirus patients. Key findings include viral RNA detectable in stool and the virus shedding into the digestive system, raising concerns about fecal-oral transmission.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateMar 5, 2020
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Curcumin is the spice of life when delivered via tiny nanoparticles

Researchers from the University of South Australia have developed a nano formulation that increases curcumin's oral bioavailability by 117%, paving the way for clinical trials for Alzheimer's. The delivery method also shows promise in preventing genital herpes, with curcumin able to stop the virus and reduce inflammation.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateMar 5, 2020

Terahertz radiation technique opens a new door for studying atomic behavior

Researchers develop a new terahertz radiation technique to study atomic behavior, enabling faster and more accurate measurements of ultrafast processes. The method uses synchronized electron bunches and terahertz pulses to reduce timing jitter, allowing scientists to observe fundamental chemical reactions.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 5, 2020

Exciting tweaks for organic solar cells

Researchers at Kyoto University have improved the efficiency of organic solar cells by targeting the molecular backbone of the power-generating layer. The new design approach increased the excited state duration of the electron-accepting component, converting over 70% of light particles into current. Further modifications to the molecu...

SourceKyoto University·JournalChemical Science·DateMar 5, 2020
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Severe peanut allergy may be a 'gut reaction'

Researchers found IgE-producing plasma cells abundant in the stomach and duodenum of patients with peanut allergy, highlighting a potential mechanism for severe allergies. The study suggests that targeted prevention of class switch recombination in the gut may be a promising treatment approach for severe peanut allergy.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 5, 2020

Two-faced bacteria

Researchers at Texas A&M University have discovered a previously unknown response to indole in the beneficial gut bacteria E. coli, which seems to both repel and attract bacteria. The Janus response displays sophistication and could lead to a better understanding of the complexities of the gut microbiome.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 5, 2020

Quantum leap for quantum computing

The University of California, Riverside, has been awarded $3.75 million to lead a collaborative effort in developing scalable quantum computers. The project aims to establish a novel platform for quantum computing that can scale up to many qubits, overcoming current limitations.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateMar 5, 2020

Young Academy appoints Anna Stöckl

Anna Stöckl, a renowned biologist, has been appointed to the Young Academy for her exceptional research on insect visual recognition and processing. Her work focuses on understanding how hummingbird hawk-moths navigate through colorful patterns.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateMar 5, 2020
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

New drug combination could support better cancer treatments

Researchers have identified a promising new drug combination that can help the immune system target and kill cancer cells. By combining an anti-nausea drug with existing cancer treatments, the treatment works by altering the surface of tumor cells to make them more recognizable to the immune system.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·DateMar 5, 2020
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Deep-sea fish community structure strongly affected by oxygen and temperature

A new study found that low oxygen levels and warm temperatures have a strong negative impact on fish diversity in the Gulf of California. Despite these conditions, some species can survive due to adaptations. The research has implications for managing deep-sea ecosystems as climate change occurs.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateMar 5, 2020

Drones can now scan terrain and excavations without human intervention

Researchers at Aarhus University have successfully automated the process of measuring and documenting terrain using drones, making it faster, cheaper, and easier. The AI system takes control of the drone's movement, adjusting its distance from the wall and camera position to capture high-quality images with minimal human intervention.

SourceAarhus University·DateMar 5, 2020

Using artificial intelligence to assess ulcerative colitis

Researchers developed an AI system that evaluates endoscopic mucosal findings in UC patients with accuracy equivalent to expert endoscopists. This may reduce the need for invasive procedures like biopsies, saving time and money for medical institutions.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateMar 5, 2020

Scientists monitored brains replaying memories in real time

Researchers analyzed brain cell firing patterns while patients learned word pairs, discovering unique sequences associated with learning and a similar replay pattern before successful recall. The study suggests that brains use distinct neural firing patterns to store memories and then replay them when recalling past experiences.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalScience·DateMar 5, 2020

Scientists create model to predict multipathogen epidemics

Researchers from Rice University and the University of Michigan created a model to predict the severity of multipathogen epidemics based on within-host pathogen interactions. The study used zooplankton as a model organism and found that altering the order of infection can change the course of an epidemic.

SourceRice University·DateMar 5, 2020

Unexpected ways animals influence fires

Research reveals that animals like goats, termites, and elephants can suppress fires by altering plant consumption and habitat structure. Grazing animals can increase wildfire severity if not managed strategically, while insects stimulate plant defenses against flames.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 5, 2020

Young teachers happier but say hard work is unrewarded

Newly qualified teachers in England reported higher levels of life satisfaction and wellbeing compared to other graduates. However, they were more likely to believe that hard work in Britain is unrewarded, with only 30% agreeing that it is rewarded.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalBritish Journal of Educational Studies·DateMar 5, 2020

Discovery of accurate and far more efficient algorithm for point set registration problems

A new algorithm has been discovered that can accurately register two point sets consisting of millions of points in a fraction of the time taken by conventional methods. The algorithm's accuracy is not compromised despite using approximations, and it has wide-ranging applications in computer graphics and computer vision.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence·DateMar 5, 2020

Humans transport dangerous smoke residues indoors

Research discovered that tobacco smoke off-gassing transports contaminants equivalent to several cigarettes of secondhand smoke into indoor areas. Thirdhand smoke includes residual chemicals left on surfaces and skin, presenting significant health risks to non-smokers.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemistry·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 5, 2020

Superhydrophobic magnetic sponge to help purify water from oil products

A new superhydrophobic magnetic sponge developed by Tomsk Polytechnic University and the University of Lille can effectively purify water from oil products. The material is capable of selectively absorbing oil molecules while repelling water, making it a promising solution for water pollution.

SourceTomsk Polytechnic University·JournalSeparation and Purification Technology·DateMar 5, 2020

Intestinal microbes reprogram genetic activity of gut mucosa

Research by German Cancer Research Center and Hebrew University finds that intestinal bacteria reprogram DNA activity in gut mucosa cells, controlling healthy gut development and inflammation. Demethylating enzymes TET2 and TET3 play a key role in this process.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalNature Microbiology·DateMar 5, 2020