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Science News for November 19, 2020


Antibody cocktails at low doses could be more effective at treating COVID-19

Researchers found that pairs of antibodies targeting different parts of the viral spike protein can prevent or treat SARS-CoV-2 infection at lower doses than single antibodies. This approach may help reduce the chance of the virus mutating and becoming resistant to antibody treatments.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateNov 19, 2020

Three reasons why COVID-19 can cause silent hypoxia

Researchers used computer modeling to investigate the mechanisms behind silent hypoxia in COVID-19 patients. They found that a combination of biological factors, including damaged lung tissue, blood clotting, and air-to-blood flow mismatch, contribute to low oxygen levels. This understanding can inform treatment decisions for clinicians.

SourceBoston University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 19, 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.

The very hungry, angry caterpillars

Researchers observed that monarch caterpillars become more aggressive in the absence of milkweed, their primary food source. The study revealed that limited food availability triggers an attack response among caterpillars, highlighting a previously unexplored aspect of insect behavior.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·DateNov 19, 2020

New tool to combat terrorism

Forensic experts at Flinders University developed a system to trace dust DNA for terrorist investigations, matching soil profiles from specific regions or countries. This technique complements existing forensic intelligence tools and provides evidence of travel history.

SourceFlinders University·JournalForensic Science International·DateNov 19, 2020

A filter for environmental remediation

Researchers developed a nanopowder made of sodium titanate nanofibers that can efficiently capture Co2+ ions, increasing surface area for improved removal efficiency. The seaweed-like morphology enhances the filter's ability to remove hazardous heavy metals and radionuclides from water.

SourceOsaka University·JournalRSC Advances·DateNov 19, 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 Lancet: Phase 2 trial of Oxford COVID-19 vaccine in healthy older adults finds it is safe and provokes immune response

A phase 2 trial of the Oxford COVID-19 vaccine found it to be safe and provokes an immune response in healthy older adults, who are at a disproportionate risk of severe COVID-19 disease. The vaccine induces both T cell and antibody responses in older and younger adults, suggesting potential protection against infection with SARS-CoV-2.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 19, 2020

Incretin hormone levels linked to arteriosclerosis

High levels of GIP are linked to an increased risk of early arteriosclerosis signs, while GLP-1 is associated with a lower risk. The study suggests a potential link between raised GIP levels and cardiovascular disease in diabetic patients, highlighting the need for further investigation.

SourceLund University·JournalDiabetes Care·DateNov 19, 2020

Antimicrobial peptides with anticancer properties

The article reviews antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with anticancer properties, highlighting their potential use in tumor therapy due to their ability to interact with negatively charged cell membranes. Recent advances and challenges in the application of these peptides are also discussed.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalBIO Integration·DateNov 19, 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 novel drug target for neonatal and infant heart failure

A novel drug target has been identified for neonatal and infant heart failure, a condition with no specific treatment. The target stimulates cardiac contractility in newborns and infants with minimal side effects, offering new possibilities for pediatric heart failure treatment.

SourceShinshu University·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 19, 2020

Vibrations of coronavirus proteins may play a role in infection

Researchers suggest that the mechanical properties of spike proteins can account for a strategy used by coronaviruses to trick cells into letting the viruses inside. The study found strong correlations between the rate and intensity of the spikes' vibrations and infectivity, as well as lethality rates.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMatter·DateNov 19, 2020

Marine bacterium yields promising new antifungal

A marine bacterium has yielded a potent new antifungal molecule, turbinmicin, effective against Candida auris and Aspergillus fumigatus resistant to major classes of drugs. Turbinmicin blocks vesicle trafficking in fungi, offering a potential solution to the growing threat of multidrug-resistant fungal infections.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

'Domestication' increases mosquito's zika virus susceptibility

Researchers found that domesticated Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in Asia, Africa, and the Americas are more susceptible to acquiring Zika virus than their African counterparts. Genetic differences on chromosome 2 are believed to be the cause of this increased susceptibility.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 2020

Delirium in older patients with COVID-19

A study examined the frequency of delirium in older adults with COVID-19 presenting to emergency departments. The researchers found that a significant proportion of patients developed delirium during their hospital stay.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 19, 2020

Cesarean-born babies at increased risk of infection-related hospitalisation in childhood

A new study of over seven million births from four countries found that cesarean-born babies are at increased risk of infection-related hospitalisation during early childhood. The study recorded a small but consistent increase in the absolute risk of infection-related hospitalisation rates in children up to five years of age compared w...

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 19, 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.

Showing robots how to drive a car...in just a few easy lessons

USC researchers have developed a system that lets robots autonomously learn complicated tasks from a very small number of imperfect demonstrations. The system uses signal temporal logic to evaluate the quality of each demonstration, allowing robots to learn more intuitively and adapt to human preferences.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateNov 19, 2020

Predicting forces between oddly shaped nanoparticles

Researchers at Duke University have developed a simplified method to calculate the attractive forces between nanoparticles, allowing for faster simulations and potentially leading to breakthroughs in fields like solar energy and catalysis. The new approach has been shown to be accurate within 8% of the actual results.

SourceDuke University·JournalNanoscale Horizons·DateNov 19, 2020

Chemical physicist to collaborate on NASA-funded study of Saturn's moon Titan

A team of researchers, led by Northern Arizona University and Lowell Observatory, will investigate the behavior of chemical elements in Titan's lakes and seas. They aim to understand how molecules interact and change under extreme conditions, which could inform NASA's Dragonfly mission and our understanding of early Earth.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·DateNov 19, 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.

A case of pediatric heart failure caused by anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery

A pediatric patient with anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery developed severe heart failure at 3 months old. The authors review a case and discuss the challenges in early diagnosis, highlighting the importance of considering ALCAPA as a differential diagnosis.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateNov 19, 2020

Simple measurement could transform injury rehabilitation

Researchers from Edith Cowan University have developed a simple method to analyze the effectiveness of exercise training using vertical jumps. By measuring forces produced on the ground during jumps, they can predict detailed information about technique and muscle activation patterns.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateNov 19, 2020

Two liquids of water exist

Scientists have observed the transformation between two liquid states of water at extremely low temperatures and pressures. This breakthrough discovery sheds light on water's unusual behavior and has significant implications for various fields, including biology and desalination.

SourceStockholm University·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 2020

How rotavirus causes severe gastrointestinal disease

Rotavirus-infected cells release signaling molecules adenosine diphosphate (ADP) that bind to P2Y1 receptors on neighboring uninfected cells, triggering intercellular calcium waves and disrupting normal function. This discovery provides a new potential strategy for treating viral diarrhea.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 2020

Social isolation during COVID-19 pandemic linked with high blood pressure

A study found that social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with a significant increase in high blood pressure among patients admitted to emergency departments. The researchers suggest that increased stress, changed behaviors, and limited personal contact may contribute to this link.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateNov 19, 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.

Scientists age quantum dots in a test tube

Researchers at Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology have proposed a way to obtain arbitrarily sized quantum dots using chemical aging. The process involves introducing oleic acid and oleylamine into the solution, causing the sulfur and lead atoms to retreat back into the solution, gradually reducing dot size.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalMaterials Today Chemistry·DateNov 19, 2020

Changes in vaping, other substance use, another side effect of COVID-19

A recent study by Mayo Clinic researchers found significant changes in substance use among young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nearly 70% of respondents increased alcohol consumption, while vaping decreased in 44% of people. The study suggests that loneliness, anxiety, and depression may fuel increases in substance use.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalSAGE Open·DateNov 19, 2020

Drug eases recovery for those with severe alcohol withdrawal

Researchers at Yale University found that prazosin significantly reduced withdrawal symptoms in patients with severe alcohol use disorder. The study showed that patients who received prazosin had fewer heavy drinking episodes and days of drinking compared to those who received a placebo.

SourceYale University·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateNov 19, 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.

Researchers peer inside deadly pathogen's burglary kit

A team of researchers has unpacked the bacterium Francisella tularensis' toolbox, revealing the shapes and interactions of its infectious machinery. The insights point to a way in which the bacteria's unique infectious machinery might be blocked, potentially preventing it from infecting over 200 animal species.

SourceDuke University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateNov 19, 2020

Confirming simulated calculations with experiment results

Scientists have successfully detected a topological Kosterlitz-Thouless (KT) phase in the rare-earth magnet TmMgGaO4 using highly sensitive nuclear magnetic resonance and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The experiment confirms long-held theoretical predictions, marking a significant breakthrough in understanding the behavior of q...

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 19, 2020

An INRS research team pushes back the boundaries of high-energy laser pulses

Researchers at INRS used the Advanced Laser Light Source facility to generate extremely short and intense laser pulses that are highly-stable in time and space. The discovery has significant technological impact, enabling compact high-power laser systems for industrial applications and advanced biomedical imaging.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalNature Photonics·DateNov 19, 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.

Spill-over effects show prioritising education of very poorest improves attainment of all

New research from the University of Cambridge shows that targeting the education of the world's poorest children and marginalized girls can significantly improve the attainment of all young people. The study found that interventions like CAMFED's bursaries for disadvantaged girls lead to notable academic improvements, including improve...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Development Effectiveness·DateNov 19, 2020

A gene mutation that protects against disease

Researchers have discovered a gene mutation that protects against liver disease and may offer a 'fountain of youth' for French-Canadian families. The PCSK9Q152H mutation has been found to lower bad cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular diseases, allowing individuals to live longer and healthier into their late 80s and mid-90s.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 19, 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.

Food, housing insecurities may delay breast cancer diagnosis

Research finds that women with food and housing insecurity are at risk of undiagnosed breast cancer due to lapses in follow-up appointments. The study, presented at the Radiological Society of North America meeting, found that these unmet social needs lead to longer intervals between diagnostic imaging and biopsy.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 19, 2020

Long-acting antipsychotic therapy plus cognitive training show promise for schizophrenia

Researchers found that combining long-acting antipsychotic medication with cognitive training led to significant improvements in cognitive deficits and work/school functioning in schizophrenia patients. The study, published in Psychological Medicine, suggests a potential breakthrough in treating the condition.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateNov 19, 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.

UCLA receives $6.4 million to fund cannabis research

The grants will focus on studying the impact of Proposition 64, employment conditions, and marketing on cannabis use among various demographics. UCLA faculty members will conduct research on workplace experiences, safety conditions, and career trajectory in the cannabis industry.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateNov 19, 2020

Bed dust microorganisms may boost children's health

Researchers found a link between microorganisms in bed dust and children's bacteria, suggesting a potential reduction in asthma and allergy risks. The study analyzed bed dust samples from 577 infants and respiratory samples from 542 children, revealing a correlation between the two.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalMicrobiome·DateNov 19, 2020

Do meal kits tick right boxes?

A study analyzing meal kit recipes found high energy from fat and protein, while also being relatively high in sodium. However, the researchers suggest that improving vegetable and wholegrain ingredients could enhance nutritional value.

SourceFlinders University·JournalHealth Promotion International·DateNov 19, 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.

Study finds low risk of pregnancy complications from COVID-19

A new study from UT Southwestern Medical Center found that 95% of pregnant women who tested positive for COVID-19 had no adverse outcomes, while the virus was transmitted to the fetus in only 3% of cases. The study also found that diabetes may increase the risk of severe or critical maternal illness.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 19, 2020

New process narrows the gap between natural and synthetic materials

Researchers at EPFL create composite polymers with unique properties by encapsulating monomers in compartments and using UV radiation to polymerize them. The resulting material is exceptionally strong and can withstand heavy loads without damage.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateNov 19, 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.

Building better diffusion models for active systems

New theories have enabled researchers to model unusual dynamics where particle motions are no longer influenced by previous events. The 'memory term' principle allows studying this effect in a broader range of situations, particularly for advanced materials that respond to their environment.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateNov 19, 2020

Breaking the power and speed limit of lasers

A novel vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser design has been developed, combining multiple transverse coupled cavities to enhance optical feedback. This innovation extends the temporal bandwidth of VCSELs, enabling a modulation bandwidth of up to 100 GHz, beyond the known limit of relaxation oscillation frequency.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalNanophotonics·DateNov 19, 2020

Analysis of the relations between Spanish civil society organizations and science

A recent study by researchers at Universitat Pompeu Fabra reveals that many Spanish civil society organizations are not involved in science and technology, or unaware of their involvement. However, the study also highlights the potential for these organizations to contribute to research and improve relations between science and society.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalPublic Understanding of Science·DateNov 19, 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.

Could kelp help relieve ocean acidification?

A new study published in JGR Oceans suggests that giant kelp forests may help mitigate ocean acidification by reducing acidity near the surface, but has no impact on the ocean floor where sensitive species dwell. The research found an overall less acidic environment within the kelp forest compared to outside of it.

SourceStanford University·DateNov 19, 2020

Stem cell transplantation: undesirable rejection mechanism identified

A recent study by MedUni Vienna dermatologists has discovered that skin-resident and inactive T cells survive chemotherapy and radiotherapy intact and go on to cause inflammation after a stem cell transplant. In some cases, these tissue-resident T cells even prove beneficial to the recipient by assuming their role in immune defense.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 19, 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 of 'exceptional responders' yields clues to cancer and potential treatments

A study of patients with cancer who had exceptional responses to therapy has identified molecular changes in their tumors that contribute to these unexpected and long-lasting responses. The researchers used genomic characterizations to uncover genetic alterations that may help understand the mechanisms behind these rare responses.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalCancer Cell·DateNov 19, 2020

Increasing diversity and community participation in environmental engineering

A new study proposes exposing students to community-based participatory methods, establishing action research groups for faculty, and broadening the definition of research impact to improve tenure promotion experiences for minority faculty. The goal is to combat systemic racism and increase diversity in environmental engineering programs.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalEnvironmental Engineering Science·DateNov 19, 2020

Researchers recommend more transparency for gene-edited crops

Researchers at North Carolina State University recommend a coalition, CLEAR-GOV, to provide basic information about gene-edited crops for greater transparency. The proposed model would include details on plant species, trait modifications, and downstream uses.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 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.

A pressure sensor at your fingertips

A new nanomesh pressure sensor allows for precise recording of finger movement and touch, without disrupting user sensitivity. The technology has potential applications in sports, medical science, neuroengineering, and the digital archiving of craftwork.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 2020

Mediastinal tuberculoma mimicking malignant cardiac tumor

A rare case of mediastinal tuberculoma mimicking a malignant cardiac tumor was diagnosed after postoperative pathological examination. Multimodality imaging, including echocardiography and contrast-enhanced ultrasonography, played a crucial role in distinguishing the benign condition from a malignant tumor.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateNov 19, 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.

Loneliness in youth could impact mental health over the long term

A rapid review found extensive evidence of an association between loneliness and increased risk of mental health problems for children and young people. Loneliness is associated with both depression and anxiety, with some studies suggesting a three-fold increase in depression among lonely youth.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateNov 19, 2020

VLA sky survey reveals newborn jets in distant galaxies

Astronomers have found distant galaxies with supermassive black holes that launched powerful radio-emitting jets within the past two decades. The study used data from the VLA Sky Survey and compared it with earlier surveys to identify these new jets.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateNov 19, 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.

Children's Hospital Los Angeles conducts largest pediatric genomic COVID-19 study to date

A team of scientists at Children's Hospital Los Angeles conducted the largest pediatric genomic COVID-19 study to date, finding a possible link between specific viral mutations and disease severity. The study analyzed over 100,000 samples and identified a potential correlation between certain mutations and severe symptoms in children.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateNov 19, 2020

COVID-19 and multimorbidity

International experts will discuss COVID-19's effects on the human body when combined with other health conditions, such as HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis. The panel aims to provide advice on coping with multimorbidity in high-income countries.

SourceLeopoldina·DateNov 19, 2020

Blue whales return to South Georgia after near extinction

After being wiped out by whaling, blue whales have made a comeback to South Georgia, with 58 sightings reported in a 2020 survey and numerous acoustic detections. The discovery is key evidence in learning how the species is recovering following a ban on commercial whaling.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalEndangered Species Research·DateNov 19, 2020

Truffle munching wallabies shed new light on forest conservation

A study led by Edith Cowan University discovered that swamp wallabies are effective at dispersing truffle spores across the environment. The animals can move hundreds of metres from the original truffle source before spores appear in their poo, making them a key factor in forest survival.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateNov 19, 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.

Potential new target to combat inflammatory diseases

A team of researchers has discovered a drug-like compound that blocks the CD14 inflammatory protein, reducing inflammation and preventing cytokine storms in laboratory tests. The compound's potential as a new treatment for inflammatory diseases, including COVID-19, is being explored in pre-clinical trials.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalEBioMedicine·DateNov 19, 2020

How the flu virus spreads within cities

A study published in PLOS Pathogens found that hundreds of influenza introductions within a city drove the seasonal flu season. Transmission dynamics were linked to temperature, with elderly individuals primarily infected within their own networks, while school-aged children played a central role in spreading the virus.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 19, 2020

Mystery solved: a 'New Kind of Electrons'

Researchers at TU Wien discovered a new type of electron emission in carbon materials like graphite, where electrons are emitted with a precise energy of 3.7 eV. The symmetry-breaking electrons cause the material to emit electrons with the properties of two different states simultaneously.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 19, 2020

Building a better electronic touch

Researchers have developed two new materials that enhance the capabilities of electronic 'touch,' allowing for more realistic simulations of human skin. These advances enable the creation of wearable healthcare sensors, prosthetics, and artificial skin for robots, with applications in grasping objects without disrupting natural touch.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 2020

Can eating mangoes reduce women's facial wrinkles?

A pilot study found that consuming Ataulfo mangoes four times a week reduced deep wrinkles by 23% in postmenopausal women after two months. However, eating more than half a cup per serving may increase wrinkles due to high sugar content.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNutrients·DateNov 19, 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.

Army, MIT explore materials for transforming robots made of robots

Scientists from the US Army and MIT's Center for Bits and Atoms created a new way to link materials with unique mechanical properties, enabling the design of modular materials with tailored properties. This could lead to dynamic structures that can reconfigure on their own, such as swarms of robots forming bridges.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 19, 2020

New podcast series reveals the truth about hormones and health

The Hormones: The Inside Story podcast series explores the facts behind hormones and their impact on daily life, sleep, stress, body fat, fertility, and more. It cuts through myths and misinformation with expert-led science, empowering listeners to make informed decisions about their health.

SourceSociety for Endocrinology·DateNov 19, 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.

Taking out the trash is essential for brain health

A build-up of cellular trash in the brain can cause neurodegeneration and death. Researchers found that Wipi3, a protein involved in alternative autophagy, is essential for preventing toxic iron accumulation.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 19, 2020

Plastic film used to protect foods and surfaces inactivates novel coronavirus

A Brazilian company developed a plastic film that eliminates 79.9% of SARS-CoV-2 particles in three minutes and 99.99% in up to 15 minutes, making it a promising material for food packaging protection against the novel coronavirus. The film contains silver and silica nanoparticles and has been successfully tested in laboratory settings.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateNov 19, 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.

Breathing problems in teens: COVID-19 or lung injury due to vaping?

A medical case series presents three teenagers with unexplained breathing problems during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting similarities between vaping-related lung injury and COVID-19 symptoms. The study emphasizes the importance of considering EVALI in pediatric patients with respiratory failure and recommends vaping cessation coun...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalSAGE Open Medical Case Reports·DateNov 19, 2020

A neural network learns when it should not be trusted

A neural network has been developed to estimate uncertainty, allowing for safer outcomes in AI-assisted decision-making. The 'deep evidential regression' approach accelerates uncertainty estimation, enabling faster and more accurate confidence levels, reducing the risk of errors.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateNov 19, 2020

Gut microbiome link to deadly lung disease

Researchers found significant differences in gut microbiome and metabolite profiles between COPD patients and healthy individuals. The study suggests that stool sampling could be used to non-invasively diagnose and monitor for COPD.

SourceCentenary Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 19, 2020

Green hydrogen: Buoyancy-driven convection in the electrolyte

The team used fluorescent pH-sensor foils to visualize changes in local pH during electrolysis, observing a clockwise motion of the electrolyte and fluctuations in density due to electrochemical reactions. They developed a multiphysics model to simulate natural convection in electrochemical cells with various electrolytes.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateNov 19, 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.

College students are less food insecure than non-students

A study from the University of Illinois found that college students have significantly lower rates of food insecurity than non-students and the general population, with 9.9% of full-time students facing insecurity. The gap is largest for young adults, with part-time students showing similar rates to non-students.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalApplied Economic Perspectives and Policy·DateNov 19, 2020

The secret social lives of giant poisonous rats

African crested rats sequester plant toxins for chemical defense and form small family units, suggesting a monogamous lifestyle. The study provides insights into their social behavior and conservation implications.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Mammalogy·DateNov 19, 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.

Researchers create first map of bee species around the globe

A team of researchers has created a comprehensive map of bee species globally, identifying more species in the Northern Hemisphere and arid environments. The study also reveals a bimodal latitudinal gradient pattern, where diversity increases towards the tropics and decreases towards the poles.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 19, 2020

Giant aquatic bacterium is a master of adaptation

Achromatium oxaliferum is a highly adaptable bacterium that thrives in diverse environments, including hot springs and ice-cold water. Its unique gene expression mechanism allows it to 'archive' unused genes, enabling rapid adaptation to changing conditions.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateNov 19, 2020

A bypass route for the coronary vessels in the heart?

A novel bypass route for coronary vessels in the heart has been discovered using the VEGF-B growth factor, which can stimulate new blood vessel growth in damaged areas. This finding opens up possibilities for treating myocardial infarction by re-activating embryonic vessel growth programs.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalCirculation Journal·DateNov 19, 2020

UCF researchers identify features that could make someone a virus super-spreader

A new study by UCF researchers found that people with congested noses and full sets of teeth are more likely to spread viruses like COVID-19. The study used computer-generated models to simulate sneezes in different types of people, finding that these features can increase the distance droplets travel and linger in the air.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateNov 19, 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.

Elephant genetics guide conservation

African elephants in Tanzania show limited gene flow between protected areas, highlighting the importance of preserving wildlife corridors for conservation. The study found that some areas, like Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Conservation Area, were once connected but now have limited genetic exchange.

SourcePenn State·DateNov 19, 2020

Researchers prove water has multiple liquid states

A newly published Science journal paper reveals that water can exist as two liquids of differing density, with noticeably different properties and a 20% difference in density. The discovery explains many of water's anomalous properties and has significant implications for various scientific and engineering applications.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 2020

Importance of mitochondrial-related genes in dilated cardiomyopathy

The study analyzed a microarray dataset to identify differentially expressed genes in dilated cardiomyopathy, revealing 172 genes involved in various biological processes. The authors identified hub protein modules and key genes, including DLD and UQCRC2, which suggest potential therapeutic targets for the disease.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateNov 19, 2020

Virtual reality helps measure vulnerability to stress

Researchers have developed a virtual-reality method that measures susceptibility to psychogenic stressors by analyzing heart rate variability and locomotion data. The study's findings offer a standardized tool for measuring vulnerability to stressors based on objective markers, paving the way for early interventions.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 19, 2020

Study: Texas program successful in increasing private donations to public universities

A new study suggests that Texas's Research Incentive Program has increased private donations to eligible public universities by 37.2% annually. The program has also led to a $14 million increase in state funding for grants and contracts, but does not appear to have significantly impacted long-term endowment assets.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalAmerican Educational Research Journal·DateNov 19, 2020

The first battle for oil in Norway

Standard Oil's grip on the Scandinavian oil market weakened due to competing companies, leading to a court decision in the USA that dissolved the company into 34 smaller entities. Despite this, Standard Oil's successors remained significant players in Scandinavia until the 1930s.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalScandinavian Economic History Review·DateNov 19, 2020

Insights on a mechanism to stop COVID-19 replication

Researchers from Politecnico di Milano identified EBSELEN as a potent inhibitor of Mpro protein in SARS-CoV-2, which blocks virus replication. The study elucidates key aspects of the binding mechanism, highlighting selenium's role in inhibiting viral replication.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalNew Journal of Chemistry·DateNov 19, 2020

Understanding lung infections in patients with cystic fibrosis

A new model of CF lungs using pig lungs and synthetic mucus shows that S. aureus aggregates in mucus, rather than invading lung tissue, sparking debate over antibiotic treatment. This discovery could lead to reduced use of antibiotics and improved treatment for MRSA infection in cystic fibrosis patients.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalMicrobiology·DateNov 19, 2020

Artificial intelligence & satellite technologies reveal detailed map of air pollution across UK

A new study using AI and satellite technologies has produced the most detailed coverage of air pollution in Britain to date, revealing the South-East as the most polluted region. The research also shows an overall decline in air pollution in Great Britain over the last decade, with hotspots identified in urban and industrial areas.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalRemote Sensing·DateNov 19, 2020

Insights in the search for new antibiotics

A research team is working on developing new tools to guide the discovery and optimization of new antibacterial agents, addressing the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateNov 19, 2020

One in four older refugees are in psychological distress -- even decades after resettlement

A new study of Canadians aged 45-85 found that 24% of refugees were in psychological distress compared to 13% of non-refugee immigrants and those born in Canada. The researchers believe pre-migration traumas, lack of social support, and chronic health conditions are contributing factors.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalInternational Journal of Social Psychology Revista de Psicología Social·DateNov 19, 2020

Team preparing for SKA shortlisted for 'Nobel Prize of supercomputing'

An international team led by The University of Western Australia has been shortlisted for the prestigious Gordon Bell Prize for outstanding achievement in high-performance computing. The team developed data pipelines for the future Square Kilometre Array (SKA) telescope and achieved record-breaking performance on the Summit supercomputer.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·DateNov 19, 2020

A measure of smell

Weizmann Institute of Science researchers create framework to map smells based on molecular structure, enabling prediction of scent similarity. The system, developed by neurobiologists, computer scientists, and a master perfumer, can digitize and reproduce smells on command.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature·DateNov 19, 2020

Scientists discover roles for a cellular motor in cancer

Researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute discovered that chromatin remodeling machines have a motor-like component that drives the machine along DNA, disrupting nucleosome beads. The team found cancer-causing mutations in an area of the hub regulating motor activity, leading to improper gene expression and cancer.

SourceHuntsman Cancer Institute·JournalMolecular Cell·DateNov 19, 2020