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Science News for November 5, 2020


Nanobodies that neutralize SARS-CoV-2

Researchers identified nanobodies that bind tightly to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, providing a unique prophylactic and therapeutic strategy. These therapeutics have the potential to be produced in bulk from microbes and delivered via aerosol, offering an affordable alternative to monoclonal antibodies.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 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.

Crystals reveal the danger of sleeping volcanoes

A new method using zircon crystals reveals that up to 350 km3 of magma are stored below Nevado de Toluca volcano, potentially leading to devastating eruptions. This technique provides a resolution two times higher than existing methods and is applicable to most types of volcanoes.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 5, 2020

Llama nanobodies could be a powerful weapon against COVID-19

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have developed a new method to extract tiny but extremely powerful SARS-CoV-2 antibody fragments from llamas. These nanobodies are much smaller than human antibodies and many times more effective at neutralizing the virus, with the potential to prevent and treat COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 2020

HKUST scientists make breakthrough discovery of new therapeutic targets for Alzheimer's

Researchers at HKUST have identified novel molecular targets for Alzheimer's drug development, focusing on endothelial cells and microglia. The study reveals a link between blood vessel dysregulation and AD pathogenesis, as well as potential therapeutic interventions through the cytokine IL-33.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 5, 2020

Story tips: Ice breaker data, bacterial breakdown, catching heat and finding order

Researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory have made groundbreaking discoveries in climate science, providing unprecedented data to improve global environmental models. Additionally, scientists have uncovered a mechanism that disease-causing bacteria use to anchor their protective outer membranes, which could inform strategies to c...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateNov 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.

USask researchers find face masks don't hinder breathing during exercise

A USask study of 14 healthy individuals wearing face masks during strenuous workouts found no detrimental effects on performance and minimal impact on blood and muscle oxygenation. The researchers' findings support the safe use of face masks in indoor exercise facilities, making them safer for gym-goers and allowing sports to continue.

SourceUniversity of Saskatchewan·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateNov 5, 2020

Past is key to predicting future climate, scientists say

Researchers recommend using past climates to evaluate and fine-tune climate models, as they often perform better with historic climates but struggle with ancient climates. This could help narrow uncertainties surrounding future temperature, ice sheet, and water cycle changes.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 2020

Mystery molecule in bacteria is revealed to be a guard

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science reveal retrons, hybrid structures found in many bacterial species, are 'guards' that prevent viruses from spreading. These retrons activate a programmed cell death mechanism to protect the bacterial colony.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalCell·DateNov 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.

The burning question of Bonfire Night pollution

Scientists from the University of Leeds monitored air quality during Bonfire Night events and found elevated concentrations of soot, which is around 100 times its normal level. The research highlights the potential health impacts of pollution on individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateNov 5, 2020

Genetic testing: Employee perk or privacy hazard?

The study aims to assess the prevalence and attitudes towards workplace genomic testing in diverse workplaces, as well as employees' interest and objections to such testing. The research team will analyze employers' perspectives, employee responses, and potential issues related to genetic privacy and discrimination.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateNov 5, 2020

Blocking energy pathway reduces GVHD while retaining anti-cancer effects of T-cells

MUSC researchers discovered blocking an energy pathway for T-cells after hematopoietic stem cell transplant reduces graft-versus-host disease, while maintaining ability to kill leukemia cells. The study uses a lysosomal acid lipase-deficient mouse model, showing promising results with FDA-approved inhibitor orlistat.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 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.

Virus that causes COVID-19 puts a plug in cellular defenses

Researchers at Yale University discovered how SARS-CoV-2 virus blocks cell production of immune molecules and contributes to severe illness. The viral protein Nsp1 forms a plug in the ribosome, preventing it from receiving genetic instructions for new proteins.

SourceYale University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateNov 5, 2020

Species more likely to die out with rapid climate changes

Rapid climate change can cause sudden disruptions in food supply for certain species, making it difficult for them to adapt and survive. Studies found that great tit populations would be guaranteed to become extinct by 2100 if larvae appeared 24 days earlier than normal.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEcology Letters·DateNov 5, 2020

ACA results in fewer low-income uninsured, but non-urgent ER visits haven't changed

A recent study by Washington State University's Bidisha Mandal found that the Affordable Care Act's Medicaid expansion program has reduced the number of uninsured low-income residents, particularly in rural areas. However, the likelihood of repeated emergency room visits for non-urgent reasons has not decreased.

SourceWashington State University·JournalApplied Economic Perspectives and Policy·DateNov 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.

Astronomers discover clues that unveil the mystery of fast radio bursts

Researchers have made breakthrough discoveries about fast radio bursts (FRBs), a mysterious phenomenon. The studies reveal that magnetars, incredibly dense neutron stars, can produce FRBs through magnetic field dissipation. These findings narrow down the understanding of FRB mechanisms, offering new insights into this enigmatic field.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalNature·DateNov 5, 2020

Large-area flexible organic photodiodes can compete with silicon devices

Large-area flexible organic photodiodes have surpassed conventional silicon photodiode technology in detecting low levels of light across large areas. The devices offer advantages over silicon, particularly in biomedical imaging and biometric monitoring, with performance comparable to rigid silicon photodiodes.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 2020

NYCHA secondhand smoke policy needs more time and effort to show how well it works

A new study by NYU Langone researchers found that tenant exposure to secondhand smoke in NYCHA buildings has not declined despite a smoking ban implemented one year ago. The policy requires more intensive efforts to support and enforce the rule, including better training for building managers and resident education.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 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.

After election: making the endangered species act more effective

A team of conservation scientists and ESA policy experts recommend deeper improvements to the rules governing the US Fish & Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service. The goal is to make the Act more effective in protecting species, particularly in a warmer future.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 2020

NTU scientists develop energy-saving 'liquid window'

The NTU researchers developed a 'smart window' by placing hydrogel-based liquid within glass panels, reducing up to 45% of heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning energy consumption. The 'liquid window' is also around 30% more energy efficient than commercially available low-emissivity glass.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalJoule·DateNov 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.

Researchers use genomics to reconstitute yellow fever outbreak in São Paulo

A study based on genomic analysis of 51 viral isolates extracted from mosquitoes and monkeys reveals three waves of the disease swept the state between 2016 and 2018. The use of MinION genetic sequencing technology allowed researchers to pinpoint the virus entry, spread speed, and geographical distribution of different lineages.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 5, 2020

Shining a light on the issue of wine fraud

A novel method of authenticating wine using fluorescence spectroscopy has been developed by University of Adelaide researchers, offering a potential solution to the estimated billions of dollars' worth of wine fraud globally. The technique provides a unique 'fingerprint' of wine samples and has been proven effective in detecting region...

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalFood Chemistry·DateNov 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.

Study suggests most humans are vulnerable to type 2 diabetes

A recent study suggests that the evolution of insulin has encountered a roadblock, rendering most people vulnerable to Type 2 diabetes. The researchers discovered that even slight variations in the insulin-sequencing process can impair insulin folding and induce cellular stress.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 5, 2020

Ecological "big-data" reveals insights into a changing arctic

A new ecological dataset, AAMA, combines decades-long animal tracking studies across the Arctic to understand rapid climate changes. The open-source archive identifies early signs of local or Arctic-wide changes in animal behavior and biology due to ongoing climate change.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 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.

Hubble launches large ultraviolet-light survey of nearby stars

The ULLYSES program aims to create a comprehensive dataset for understanding star formation and its impact on planet habitability. The Hubble Space Telescope will observe over 300 stars across eight regions, capturing their spectral templates to inform research on stellar evolution and planetary chemistry.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 5, 2020

COVID-19: Enzyme targeted by virus also influences gut inflammation

A new study from Cedars-Sinai found that the ACE2 enzyme, which helps coronavirus infect cells, also plays a role in gut inflammation and patient outcomes in inflammatory bowel disease. Treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs for IBD may aid recovery from COVID-19.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateNov 5, 2020

Human intelligence just got less mysterious says Leicester neuroscientist

A new study by University of Leicester neuroscientists argues that the way humans store memories is key to our superior intelligence. Contrary to long-held beliefs, the same group of neurons stores all memories, enabling abstract thinking and cognitive abilities unique to humans.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateNov 5, 2020

Scientists work to shed light on Standard Model of particle physics

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory are upgrading a measurement system for the Muon g-2 experiment, which could reveal undiscovered particles. The upgraded system will enable precise measurements of the muon's spin precession rate and magnetic field strength.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Instrumentation·DateNov 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.

Trends in positive BRCA test results among older women

The study analyzed national health record data to examine the rate of positive BRCA gene variant tests among older women. Between 2008 and 2018, the trend in positive results varied by age group, with younger women showing a higher increase in positivity.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 5, 2020

New study shows that football fixture pile-ups are forcing layers and coaches to change

A new study reveals that footballers are conserving energy for intense bursts in games with congested fixture lists. Coaches are also rotating players more frequently to manage fatigue and injury risks, particularly among central defenders. The findings highlight the impact of fixture congestion on player performance and team management.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalSports Medicine·DateNov 5, 2020

9.3 million euros to investigate the origin of the universe

Researchers aim to discover if neutrinos are their own antiparticle, solving the cosmic asymmetry between matter and antimatter. The NEXT-BOLD project will build a new detector capable of detecting barium ions, a key indicator of this discovery.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·DateNov 5, 2020

Artificial Intelligence has learned to estimate oil viscosity

A group of Skoltech scientists created machine learning algorithms that can predict oil viscosity based on nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data. This method has the potential to revolutionize the way oil is processed and understood.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalEnergy & Fuels·DateNov 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.

Tokyo's voluntary standstill may have stopped COVID-19 in its tracks

A comparative analysis of Tokyo residents' mobility data revealed a significant slowdown, leading to reduced social contacts and lower disease transmission. The study found that people with higher income were more capable of limiting their movement and contact, validating the effectiveness of non-pharmaceutical interventions.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 5, 2020

Surprising insights into the role of autophagy in neuron

Researchers discovered that autophagy protects neurons by regulating calcium levels, which are essential for excitatory transmission. When autophagy is switched off, calcium stores become damaged, leading to elevated neurotransmitter release and neuronal hyperactivity.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalNeuron·DateNov 5, 2020

Graz researchers identify biomarker for cardiovascular diseases

Researchers at Graz University of Technology identified dipeptidyl peptidase 3 (DPP3) as a key regulator of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), which affects blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases. DPP3 deficiency led to increased angiotensin II levels, causing oxidative stress and reduced metabolism.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 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.

COVID-19 linked to worse stroke outcomes

A recent study published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry found that COVID-19 is associated with worse stroke outcomes, particularly among people of Asian descent. The study revealed a significantly higher mortality rate and more severe strokes among patients with COVID-19 at stroke onset compared to those without.

SourceUniversity College London·DateNov 5, 2020

Nervous systems of insects inspire efficient future AI systems

Researchers study insect brain computation to develop faster, more efficient machine learning algorithms. The fruit fly's ability to generalize experiences in complex environments informs the creation of an AI model capable of rapid adaptation.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 5, 2020

The ebb and flow of brain ventricles

Researchers observed that brain ventricles expanded in MS patients during inflammation, but then shrunk back to normal size after symptoms subsided. This finding suggests that ventricle volume fluctuations may be reversible and have clinical relevance for monitoring disease progression.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalJCI Insight·DateNov 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.

How parental involvement affects children's performance in school

Researchers found that students' educational achievements are positively correlated with parents' active participation in school meetings, hiring tutors, and providing auxiliary literature. In contrast, excessive control and organizational activities have no effect on outcomes.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalInternational Journal of Educational Development·DateNov 5, 2020

Trehalose 6-phosphate promotes seed filling by activating auxin biosynthesis

Researchers found that trehalose 6-phosphate activates auxin biosynthesis, leading to increased embryo growth and reserve starch accumulation. The study used pea seeds, where a reduction in embryonic T6P content resulted in wrinkled seeds with impaired storage product accumulation.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalNew Phytologist·DateNov 5, 2020

Shifts in water temperatures affect eating habits of larval tuna at critical life stage

A study from Oregon State University found that small changes in water temperature can significantly impact the eating habits and growth rate of larval blackfin tuna, leading to slower growth and reduced survival rates. The research highlights the importance of prey availability in supporting fish growth during critical life stages.

SourceOregon State University·JournalICES Journal of Marine Science·DateNov 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.

Metal pollution in British waters may be threatening scallops, study reveals

A study by the University of York reveals that metal pollution from historic mining is weakening scallop shells, threatening marine ecosystems. The research found that contaminated seabed sediments with zinc, lead, and copper are causing brittle shell thinning, affecting the species' survival.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateNov 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.

Super-resolution microscopy of neurons

Researchers have successfully raised funding for a project to develop a new super-resolution microscopy technique that can visualize individual synapse proteins with nanometer-scale resolution. The project combines expansion microscopy and single-molecule-sensitive super-resolution microscopy to achieve improved microscopic resolution.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateNov 5, 2020

How does the brain process fear?

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory are studying the brain circuits that underlie fear, using sophisticated neuroscience tools to map their connections. They found that the amygdala is not only involved in fear processing but also plays a crucial role in reward-based learning and regulating fearful memory.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·DateNov 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.

For quick COVID-19 testing, iSCAN can

The iSCAN test kit combines virus amplification with a CRISPR-Cas system for effective SARS-CoV-2 detection. It can be completed in under an hour and requires locally manufactured reagents.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalVirus Research·DateNov 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.

A species identified in 2016 as an ancient form of chameleon was misidentified at that time, say researchers

Researchers re-examined ancient fossils found in Myanmar's amber deposits, revealing that a species initially thought to be an ancient form of chameleon was actually part of the albanerpetontid lineage. The new findings indicate that these ancient amphibians were climbers with specialized tongues for catching food.

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

Researchers shrink imaging spectrometer without compromising performance

The new compact VNIR/SWIR imaging spectrometer offers improved spatial and spectral analysis capabilities, enabling applications in atmospheric science, ecology, geology, agriculture, and forestry. The instrument's small size and modular design make it suitable for airborne vehicles and planetary exploration missions.

SourceOptica·JournalApplied Optics·DateNov 5, 2020

Communication processes between plant cells

Researchers aim to understand the structure and function of plasmodesmata, key routes for coordinating tasks in plants. They will use state-of-the-art methods like cryo-electron tomography to visualize plasmodesmata's composition and function.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·DateNov 5, 2020

Boosting treatments for metastatic melanoma

Researchers have identified a new class of sedatives that could enhance the effectiveness of radiation and immunotherapy treatments for metastatic melanoma, reducing toxic side effects. In animal models, these treatments resulted in improved infiltration of immune cells into tumors, shrinking or eliminating cancerous growths.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalInternational Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics·DateNov 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.

Large-scale cancer proteomics study profiles protein changes in response to drug treatments

The study generated a valuable resource to aid in predicting drug sensitivity, understanding therapeutic resistance mechanisms, and identifying optimal combination treatment strategies. The dataset includes expression changes in over 200 clinically relevant proteins across more than 300 cell lines after treatment with 168 different com...

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateNov 5, 2020

Nature-inspired solutions to sustainably increase crop yield

GAIN4CROPS project uses nature-inspired approaches to enhance photosynthetic efficiency in sunflowers, promoting climate-resilient crops and sustainable agriculture. The research could lead to decreased land, nitrogen, and water usage, aligning with efforts to conserve biodiversity and reduce environmental impact.

SourceINsociety·DateNov 5, 2020

Children produce different antibodies in response to SARS-CoV-2

Children and adults produce different types and amounts of antibodies in response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, with children clearing the virus more efficiently. The study found that children produced fewer neutralizing antibodies against the virus's spike protein compared to adults.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Immunology·DateNov 5, 2020

Ecologically friendly agriculture doesn't compromise crop yields

Increasing diversity in crop production improves biodiversity and ecosystem services, while maintaining crop yields. Diversification practices like crop rotation, intercropping, and reduced tillage can enhance pollination, pest regulation, and soil fertility.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 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.

Temple researchers: bacterial biofilm in urinary tract accelerates lupus in humans

Researchers at Temple University Health System found that bacterial biofilms in the urinary tract can trigger autoimmune reactions in lupus patients. The study identified a link between chronic bacterial infections and increased frequency of lupus flares, suggesting a potential new approach to controlling flare-ups.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateNov 5, 2020

Archive of animal migration in the Arctic

The Arctic Animal Movement Archive provides a global dataset of animal migration patterns, revealing changes in behavior and ecosystem responses to climate change. Studies have found that golden eagles arrive earlier in spring following mild winters, while caribou herds are giving birth earlier in the north.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateNov 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.

De novo protein decoys block COVID-19 infection in vitro and protect animals in vivo

Neoleukin Therapeutics announces a novel protein decoy NL-CVX1 that blocks SARS-CoV-2 infection in vitro. The lead molecule is shown to protect hamsters from lethal doses of the virus through intranasal administration. This development demonstrates the potential of de novo protein design technology for addressing biological problems.

SourceRathbun Communications, INC.·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 2020

From hard to soft: making sponges from mussel shells

Researchers have discovered a new form of calcium carbonate that is soft and absorbent, found in mussel shells. They tested its ability to absorb oils and dyes, finding it highly effective but limited by scalability and cost, for potential use in marine pollution cleanup.

SourceCell Press·JournalMatter·DateNov 5, 2020

Improving the Endangered Species Act requires more than rule reversal

The Trump administration's recent ESA changes have sparked controversy due to their potential impact on economic activity. To address the issue, researchers propose improving consensus and transparency in the ESA language to reduce inconsistencies and promote conservation legitimacy.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 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.

Precision chemo-immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer?

Researchers have developed a novel antibody-drug conjugate that selectively recognizes and penetrates pancreatic tumors, reducing tumor size and metastasis. The treatment, which uses MRI-based molecular imaging to monitor its effect, shows promise as a more precise approach than existing treatments.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalAdvanced Science·DateNov 5, 2020

Utilizing a 'krafty' waste product: Toward enhancing vehicle fuel economy

Researchers from Kanazawa University create a new, high-performance carbon fiber material by chemically modifying Kraft lignin, reducing its weight while maintaining mechanical strength. The resulting composite exhibits almost 3-fold improvement in mechanical strength compared to unmodified Kraft lignin.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateNov 5, 2020

Host genetic factors shape composition of virus communities

Research at the University of Zurich reveals that host genetic differences explain most of the variation in virus community composition. Genetic diversity within species is crucial for immune system function and should be prioritized in agriculture to improve pathogen resistance.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 5, 2020

Keeping our cool

Agricultural emissions alone could exceed the 1.5°C limit by 2050 if left unchecked, according to Tilman. Reducing food production emissions is crucial to keeping the planet livable in its current state, with strategies including more plant-rich diets and easing fertilizer use.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 2020

COVID-19 is making tinnitus worse -- new study

A new study found that COVID-19 is making tinnitus worse in 40% of cases, with internal and external factors contributing to the increase in symptoms. Tinnitus affects an estimated one in eight adults in the UK, and the pandemic has made it more difficult for people to access healthcare support for the condition.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateNov 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.

NIH researchers identify gene in mice that controls food cravings, desire to exercise

Researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have discovered a gene called Prkar2a in mice that influences their eating habits and motivation to exercise. The study found that mice lacking this gene consumed less high-fat food and drank less sugar solution than those with the gene, while also being more inclined to exercise.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalJCI Insight·DateNov 5, 2020

Better health - for people and the planet - grows on trees

Researchers outline the benefits of tropical fruits in terms of nutrition and discuss barriers to scaling up supply. Smallholder farmers and marginalized groups can benefit from tree-sourced food sources, which can also provide ecosystem services like carbon sequestration.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalPeople and Nature·DateNov 5, 2020

Blood cell mutations confound prostate cancer liquid biopsy results

Researchers discovered that clonal hematopoiesis, a phenomenon where non-cancer DNA mutations are present in blood plasma, is confounding prostate cancer liquid biopsy results. This can lead to false positives and incorrect treatment for patients undergoing liquid biopsies.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateNov 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.

Multidisciplinary team to lead €10.4 million project, 4-OCEANS

A multidisciplinary team will assess the significance of marine life to human societies during the last two millennia. The 4-OCEANS project aims to understand the consequences of marine resource exploitation for societal development, with a focus on informing the UN's Sustainable Development Goals and the Decade for the Oceans.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·DateNov 5, 2020

Hospitalizations for drug use-related eye infections in US

Researchers investigated changes in rates and risk factors for vision-threatening eye infections related to IV drug use. Over a decade, US hospitalizations for these infections increased, with notable risks among young adults and those with underlying health conditions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateNov 5, 2020

Researchers study strength-training gender gap, possible solutions

New Penn State research reveals disparities in physical activity between men and women, with women more likely to feel uncomfortable using campus recreation facilities. The study suggests that design changes, social environments, and policies can help create welcoming spaces for all students.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of American College Health·DateNov 5, 2020

Antiangiogenic therapy can cause malignancy in kidney cancers

Researchers found that antiangiogenic therapy can increase the invasiveness of kidney tumors and induce a poor prognosis. A new biomarker, ALDH1A3, has been identified to predict patient response to treatment.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateNov 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.

Changes in cancer survival after Medicaid expansion

Researchers found a significant increase in cancer survival rates among Medicaid expansion states compared to non-expansion states. The study analyzed data from breast, colorectal, and lung cancer patients and discovered improved survival outcomes following the expansion of healthcare coverage.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 5, 2020

Costs to informal carers for people in the last three months of life are larger than those to formal

A new study published in BMC Medicine reveals that informal carers provide more than half of total care costs in the UK, Ireland, and US during the last three months of life. The research emphasizes the need for improved integration and support for community palliative care services to enhance care quality and reduce burden on caregivers.

SourceKing's College London·JournalBMC Medicine·DateNov 5, 2020

Water striders learn from experience how to jump up safely from water surface

A new study shows that water striders modify their leg movements to jump safely, depending on their body weight and experience. Female water striders with added weight adjust their midleg movement speed and male striders don't show similar adjustments.

SourceLaboratory of Behavioral Ecology and Evolution at Seoul National University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 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.

New research on imposter stars may improve astronomical data

Researchers at UNC-Chapel Hill have linked quick flashes of light to growing satellite and space debris, providing a potential explanation for mysterious night sky phenomena. The study's findings may help reduce false alarms in astronomical surveys and improve data accuracy.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 5, 2020

Clay subsoil at Earth's driest place may signal life on Mars

Researchers discovered diverse microbes in Chile's Atacama Desert clay layers, which could indicate the presence of microorganisms on Mars. The study provides a guide for searching for life on the red planet, informing where to look and which instruments to use.

SourceCornell University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 5, 2020

Corn and other crops are not adapted to benefit from elevated carbon dioxide levels

Research reveals that crops adapted to pre-industrial environments, like corn and sorghum, cannot efficiently utilize elevated CO2 levels. Experts propose engineering these plants to optimize resource allocation, potentially boosting productivity in a future with rising CO2 concentrations.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·DateNov 5, 2020

European funding worth millions for Bielefeld computer scientist

Barbara Hammer and her team will explore new technologies for secure drinking water supply in cities with the help of 10 million euros from the European Research Council. They are developing controllable artificial intelligence to detect factors putting strain on the system, enabling operators to make informed decisions.

SourceBielefeld University·DateNov 5, 2020

UTEP leads collaborative abiotic CO2 project through $1.18 million NSF grant

The University of Texas at El Paso has received a $1.18 million grant from the National Science Foundation to study abiotic carbon dioxide (CO2) dynamics in dryland systems through irrigated pecan orchards. The project aims to understand the conditions that enhance CO2 production and develop methods to model and predict its impact.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·DateNov 5, 2020

Scientists define binary tropical cyclones

Researchers establish objective standards for defining and identifying binary tropical cyclones (BTCs), which can bring extreme precipitation and cause serious disasters. The study analyzed two best-track datasets and provides a main standard for defining BTCs, based on separation distance and coexistence time.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateNov 5, 2020

Next-generation computer chip with two heads

Researchers at EPFL's LANES laboratory have created a revolutionary circuit that combines logic operations and data storage into a single architecture, reducing energy losses and increasing efficiency. This breakthrough technology uses a 2D material called MoS2 to enable smaller, more powerful devices with improved performance.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateNov 5, 2020

Sugar-coated viral proteins hijack and hitch a ride out of cells

Researchers have discovered a potential broad-spectrum anti-viral drug target by identifying how encapsulated viruses hijack the protein manufacturing and distribution pathways in cells. This approach offers an attractive alternative to developing individual drugs for each virus, with the same compound targeting multiple viruses.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 5, 2020

Global food system emissions threaten achievement of climate change targets

The global food system accounts for nearly a third of total greenhouse gas emissions, with land clearing and deforestation, fertilizer use, and fossil fuel combustion major contributors. Reducing food system-related emissions is crucial to meeting the 1.5°C warming target

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

Urban air pollution estimates may overshadow full picture for China

Researchers found that particulate matter (PM2.5) is overestimated in winter and ozone (O3) is underestimated in urban areas compared to suburban areas across all of China. This highlights the need for more data outside urban areas to accurately assess air pollution impacts on ecosystem functions.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateNov 5, 2020

Reducing global food system emissions key to meeting climate goals

A new study published in Science finds that greenhouse gas emissions from the global food system could lead to a 1.5°C temperature increase by mid-century and 2°C by the end of the century. Transforming farming practices, eating habits, and reducing food waste are crucial to achieving climate goals.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 2020

Population dynamics and the rise of empires in Inner Asia

Researchers analyzed genome-wide data spanning 6,000 years in eastern Eurasian Steppe, revealing a spectacular level of genetic diversity among Xiongnu and Mongol populations. The study found no evidence for lactase persistence, challenging current medical models.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalCell·DateNov 5, 2020

Resensitizing 'last-resort' antibiotics for treatment of infections

Researchers repurpose an antirheumatic gold drug, auranofin (AUR), to revive the potency of 'last-resort' antibiotics against multi-drug resistant superbugs. The combination therapy shows promising results in eradicating multidrug-resistant bacteria in animal models.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 5, 2020