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Science News for October 6, 2020


Warmer winters are keeping some lakes from freezing

A study analyzing nearly 80 years of lake ice data found ice-free years have become more than three times more frequent since 1978, with 11% of lakes experiencing at least one completely ice-free year. Warmer winter temperatures are driving this trend, and the researchers project it will continue due to climate change.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateOct 6, 2020

Can your diet help protect the environment?

A new study suggests that shifting American diets to increase vegetable and nut intake while decreasing red meat and added sugar consumption could reduce environmental degradation by 28-38%. This approach would also improve health outcomes, making it a win-win for the environment and human health.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalEnvironmental Justice·DateOct 6, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Evolution: Shifts in mating preference

Researchers have identified five genes associated with the different visual mating preferences of two tropical butterfly species. These genes are linked to the processing of visual information during courtship, without affecting perceptions of other aspects of the environment. This study provides insights into the evolutionary changes ...

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 2020

Best materials for border molding in complete dentures fabrication

The study found that thermoplastic materials, such as GC Iso functional sticks and Impression compound green sticks, outperformed silicone impression materials in border molding accuracy. The measured mean negative pressure values showed close values for each patient, highlighting the importance of anatomical features of the prosthetic...

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalFolia Medica·DateOct 6, 2020

Climate-friendly cooling to help ease global warming

A new study suggests that coordinated international action on energy-efficient, climate-friendly cooling could avoid as much as 600 billion tonnes CO2 equivalent of greenhouse gas emissions in this century. The Kigali Amendment aims to phase down HFCs, and improving energy efficiency in cooling technologies can lead to significant elec...

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateOct 6, 2020

Battling with neighbors could make animals smarter

According to a study published in Nature Communications, interactions with outsiders may drive the evolution of intelligence in animals. Big-brained animals have adapted to contend with rival outsiders, requiring considerable brain power to defend territories, find mates and compete for resources.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 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.

UC study: More coverage of climate wanted

A new report by the University of Cincinnati suggests that large majorities of American news audiences care about climate change and want more information on the topic. The study found that fewer than 20% of Americans in these news audiences feel 'very well informed' about climate change.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateOct 6, 2020

Some employees more likely to adhere to information security policies than others

A new study from Binghamton University found that professional subcultures within an organization significantly impact employees' compliance with information security policies. Researchers discovered that different groups, such as physicians and support staff, have varying levels of adherence due to their unique work responsibilities a...

SourceBinghamton University·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateOct 6, 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.

Promising treatment for aggressive childhood cancer

Researchers at Lund University identified and tested a drug effective against neuroblastoma, showing promising results with tumor growth prevention and prolonged survival in mice. The KSP inhibitor has been shown to be especially effective against the aggressive variant, which often has poor prognosis.

SourceLund University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 6, 2020

Toothless dino's lost digits point to spread of parrot-like species

A newly discovered species of toothless, two-fingered dinosaur has provided evidence of digit loss in the oviraptor family, enabling them to adapt and diversify during the Late Cretaceous Period. The discovery also revealed that young dinosaurs roamed together in groups, suggesting a social behavior.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateOct 6, 2020

Plasma scientists optimize plant growth and yield

Recent experiments by Alexander Volkov have shown that plasma delivery improves seed surface properties, accelerating germination and water uptake. The study suggests that plasma could increase yields in countries with harsh winters, particularly for unusual or high-value crops.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateOct 6, 2020

Energy-harvesting plastics pass the acid test

A KAUST team engineered self-powered devices using a conducting polymer containing PEDOT:PSS chains, which exhibited improved thermoelectric behavior. The researchers discovered that polyethylenimine coating enhanced the device's lifetime and energy harvesting capabilities.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateOct 6, 2020

'Brain fog' following COVID-19 recovery may indicate PTSD

A new report suggests that COVID-19 survivors may be experiencing 'brain fog' and other neurological symptoms due to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study, published in The Clinical Neuropsychologist, explores historical data on previous coronaviruses and finds a heightened risk of PTSD among survivors. Researchers emphasize...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalThe Clinical Neuropsychologist·DateOct 6, 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.

Interplanetary storm chasing

Researchers Jeremy Bloxham and Rakesh K. Yadav use a 3D simulation model to understand the formation of Saturn's massive hexagon storm, which has remained relatively unchanged for nearly 40 years. The study suggests that deep thermal convection plays a key role in creating the unique shape and persistence of the storm.

SourceHarvard University·DateOct 6, 2020

Supercharged ‘clones’ spark scarlet fever’s re-emergence

Researchers discovered a significant rise in scarlet fever cases globally, attributed to superantigen-toxin 'supercharged clones' of Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. The toxin genes were acquired through viral infections, enabling the bacteria to better colonize and outcompete other strains.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 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.

ACM announces new conference on AI in finance

The inaugural ACM International Conference on AI in Finance (ICAIF) will explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the finance industry. The conference features a dynamic program of work from top researchers, including papers on machine learning methods to detect money laundering and algorithms in future capital markets.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateOct 6, 2020

NREL, UK university partner to dive deeper into how enzymes digest plastic

A collaboration between NREL and the University of Portsmouth has led to breakthroughs in understanding how enzymes like PETase and MHETase work together to degrade polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic. The research reveals that combining these two synergistic enzymes significantly improves their ability to break down PET.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 6, 2020

UMD biologist awarded $ 1.5 million to develop brain mapping techniques

A University of Maryland biologist has been awarded $1.5 million to develop new tools for studying brain mapping techniques. The project aims to create a comprehensive molecular map of synapses during development, aging, and disease, which could lead to potential treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders and other cognitive functions.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·DateOct 6, 2020

RTL1 gene a likely culprit behind temple and Kagami-Ogata syndromes

Researchers identify RTL1 gene as likely culprit behind temple and Kagami-Ogata syndromes, associated with muscle symptoms in models of both conditions. The study suggests that RTL1 plays a critical role in fetal muscle development and is essential for maintaining placental fetal capillaries.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalDevelopment·DateOct 6, 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.

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.

Consuming sugary beverages while breastfeeding affects cognitive development in children

A new study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming sugary beverages during breastfeeding can lead to poorer cognitive development in children nearly two years later. Moms who reported greater consumption of these beverages had children with lower cognitive development scores.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateOct 6, 2020

Revising climate models with new aerosol field data

Aerosol particles play a significant role in heat absorption and deflection by the atmosphere. Researchers have now detected the rate at which these tiny particles leave the atmosphere, revealing a much narrower range of lifetimes than previously suggested. This new understanding can improve climate models and air quality forecasting.

SourceColorado State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 6, 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.

$7.1M grant to review opioid alternatives to treating sickle cell disease pain

A five-year study led by University of Illinois Chicago researchers will assess the effectiveness of acupuncture and guided meditation in managing sickle cell disease pain, aiming to reduce opioid use. The study, funded at $7.1M, will explore non-pharmacological pain management interventions for approximately 360 patients.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateOct 6, 2020

CRISPRing trees for a climate-friendly economy

Scientists have discovered a way to reduce lignin in poplar trees using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, leading to increased wood processing efficiency and a potential solution for a carbon-neutral bio-based economy. The research found that engineered trees showed no negative impact on growth or biomass yield.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 2020

Emerging field of integrative palliative care highlighted in journal special issue

A special issue on Integrative Palliative Care was published in JACM, featuring research from 11 countries on this new model of care. The issue highlights the potential value of greater mutual respect and exploratory collaborations between palliative medicine and integrative health communities.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateOct 6, 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.

Expanded newborn screening could save premature infants' lives

A novel screening method could lead to earlier detection of life-threatening complications in babies born preterm and help reduce racial disparities in outcomes. The study identified a combination of six newborn characteristics and 19 metabolites that reliably predict preterm babies at increased risk for death and severe illness.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateOct 6, 2020

UM researchers help study largest estimated Greenland ice loss

A multiorganizational collaboration of climate modelers, ice core scientists, and paleoclimate researchers contributed to a study forecasting significant ice loss in Greenland. The team used ice sheet modeling to reconstruct the ancient climate and projected the ice sheet's future into 2100.

SourceThe University of Montana·JournalNature·DateOct 6, 2020

Study finds odor-sensing neuron regeneration process is adaptive

Researchers found that reduced odor stimulation reduces newly-generated neurons with specific receptors, suggesting a selective alteration in neurogenesis. This discovery challenges the random subtype identity model and suggests a potential adaptive function for lifelong olfactory sensory neurogenesis.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 6, 2020

Astronomers turn up the heavy metal to shed light on star formation

Researchers reconstruct when most stars formed in the Universe, agreeing with telescope observations for the first time. They use a new algorithm to model energy and wavelengths of light coming from 7000 nearby galaxies.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateOct 6, 2020

Multi-institutional team extracts more energy from sunlight with advanced solar panels

A new study shows that layering advanced materials atop traditional silicon can produce multilayered solar panels with improved efficiency. The researchers used a precisely controlled fabrication process to create the new panels, which have the potential to convert more sunlight into usable electricity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateOct 6, 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.

Igniting the synthetic transport of amino acids in living cells

Researchers from ICIQ and IRBBarcelona have developed a synthetic carrier that can transport amino acids, such as Proline, across cell membranes. The study shows a 30-fold increase in L-Proline transport activity, opening up new possibilities for treating diseases related to amino acid metabolism.

SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalChem·DateOct 6, 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.

The first human settlers on islands caused extinctions

A study of fossil records reveals that human arrival in the Bahamas caused devastating effects on birds, with some species losing their habitats and going extinct. The researchers found that many bird species, such as parrots and hawks, were still present in the islands until around 1,000 years ago.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 6, 2020

Indonesia's old and deep peatlands offer an archive of environmental changes

Researchers have identified a 47,800-year-old inland peatland in Indonesia that contains an archive of environmental changes and a large carbon stock. The study provides new insights into the climate of equatorial rainforests during the last ice age, suggesting that these areas remained wet and warm enough to support peat growth.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateOct 6, 2020

How mobile apps grab our attention

Researchers at Aalto University conducted the first empirical study on mobile app design, finding that larger and brighter elements don't catch users' eyes. Instead, text elements and specific locations like the top-left corner tend to draw attention.

SourceAalto University·DateOct 6, 2020

Evolution in action: New Plant species in the Swiss Alps

A new plant species, Cardamine insueta, has emerged in the Urnerboden region of the Swiss Alps, 150 years after land conversion from forest to grassland. The species inherited traits from its parent plants, allowing it to grow in a distinct environmental niche.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·DateOct 6, 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.

Liquid gel in COVID patients' lungs makes way for new treatment

Researchers at Umea University have found that a substance called hyaluronan is responsible for the jelly-like substance in COVID-19 patients' lungs. The discovery could lead to new effective therapies, including treatments using cortisone and Hymecromone.

SourceUmea University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 6, 2020

New techniques probe vital and elusive proteins

Researchers develop new approach to acquire structural data of membrane proteins, including GPCRs, using LCP crystallization and MicroED. This method enables the determination of detailed structures of previously inaccessible proteins.

SourceArizona State University·JournalStructure·DateOct 6, 2020

US Insulin prices 8 times higher than in other nations

A new study by the RAND Corporation found that US insulin prices are significantly higher than those in other high-income countries, even when accounting for rebates and discounts. The average price per unit across all types of insulin in the US is $98.70, compared to a fraction of this cost in other nations.

SourceRAND Corporation·DateOct 6, 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.

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.

There's a reason bacteria stay in shape

Bacteria remain roughly the same size and shape due to a theoretical model that links random processes of growth and division, canceling each other out. This discovery may provide new insights into disease mechanisms, including cancer proliferation.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateOct 6, 2020

WHOI receives NOAA awards to study, predict harmful algal blooms

Researchers at WHOI will contribute to improving the nation's collective response to harmful algal blooms (HABs) through $2.5 million in funding over the coming year. The projects aim to enhance monitoring and determine socioeconomic impacts of blooms nationwide, with a focus on protecting human health, ecosystems, and local economies.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·DateOct 6, 2020

Evolution of the Y chromosome in great apes deciphered

Researchers reconstructed the ancestral great ape Y chromosome, showing rapid evolution in bonobo and chimpanzee. The study found accelerated rates of DNA sequence change and gene loss, suggesting mating habits may have driven this evolution.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 6, 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.

Fighting pandemics with plasma

Researchers use plasma to kill pathogenic bacteria and viruses on PPE, with promising results shown for N95 masks and other supplies. A low-cost approach also uses ozone generated by a plasma ball to sterilize PPE, potentially reducing thousands of tons of waste per day.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateOct 6, 2020

Targeting our second brain to fight diabetes

Researchers at Université catholique de Louvain have discovered a link between the brain and intestinal bacteria that plays a crucial role in regulating sugar levels in the blood. The study found that a particular lipid acts on the gut 'second brain' to restore communication and reduce diabetes risk.

SourceUniversité catholique de Louvain·JournalGut·DateOct 6, 2020

COVID-19 outcomes in patients with rare inborn immune disorders

Patients with rare inherited immune disorders had similar disease outcomes to the general population after SARS-CoV-2 infection, with some immune defects even appearing protective against severe disease. However, younger male patients with PIDs were more likely to require ICU admission and suffer severe COVID-19.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateOct 6, 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.

Study offers global review of impact of COVID-19 on cancer treatment and research

The study reveals that while COVID-19 complicates cancer care, it also spurs innovative solutions to clinical challenges. Researchers found that patients with cancer are at heightened risk of severe illness due to weakened immune systems, but also highlighted the benefits of telemedicine and creative approaches to treatment.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalCancer Cell·DateOct 6, 2020

Telehealth trains parents to improve behavior skills of children with autism

A Rutgers researcher developed a virtual training program to help parents of children with autism spectrum disorder improve behavioral skills. The study found that parents who received the telehealth training showed significant improvements compared to those who did not receive training.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Applied Behavior Analysis·DateOct 6, 2020

Many Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma patients can skip radiation, collaborative study finds

Researchers found that 91% of patients with limited stage DLBCL who received no radiation were alive five years after treatment. A PET scan after three cycles of R-CHOP can determine if patients need additional chemotherapy or radiation. This approach may improve patient outcomes and reduce toxicity.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateOct 6, 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.

Who is driving whom? Climate and carbon cycle in perpetual interaction

Scientists analyzed deep-sea sediment cores to reveal changing climate-carbon cycle interactions. They found that the carbon cycle exerted control over climate at times of volatility, not stability, and provided new insights into their complex relationships.

SourceMARUM - Center for Marine Environmental Sciences, University of Bremen·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 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.

ACM announces new conference on AI in finance

The ACM International Conference on AI in Finance (ICAIF) will explore the effects of AI on the finance world through a dynamic program of work from top researchers. Key topics include machine learning methods for detecting money laundering and algorithms for future capital markets.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateOct 6, 2020

Hospitalized COVID-19 patients are younger, healthier than influenza patients

Patients hospitalized with COVID-19 were more likely male, younger and had fewer comorbidities than those with influenza. Despite this, however, those with COVID-19 were seen to generally be healthier, with lower rates of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cardiovascular disease, and dementia.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 2020

Birds risk starvation trying to "keep pace" with climate change

Birds breeding earlier due to climate change face increased risk of mortality, as chicks hatch into unpredictable weather conditions. This study examines the impact on Tree Swallows, finding that advancing breeding dates result in reduced availability of food resources, exacerbating the effects of climate change.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 6, 2020

Hunting for the lowest known nuclear-excited state

Researchers have successfully measured the lowest known nuclear-excited state in thorium-229, a crucial step towards constructing a nuclear clock. The measurement was made using an extremely accurate detector that detected tiny temperature increases due to energy released during de-excitation of the atomic nucleus.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 6, 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.

Breaking the coupling process

Researchers at University of Freiburg and University of Zurich provide detailed understanding of allostery's dynamics and structure changes. Allostery is crucial for protein signaling, with disruptions potentially leading to diseases like cancer.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 6, 2020

Testing for a lipoprotein linked to heart risk is as effective as blood work

A new study suggests genetic risk scoring of lipoprotein(a) can accurately predict atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, comparable to directly measured levels. This could help physicians identify candidates for treatment or clinical trials, particularly those using direct-to-consumer genetic testing kits.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateOct 6, 2020

Experiments with twisted 2D materials catch electrons behaving collectively

Researchers at the University of Washington have discovered that stacked graphene bilayers can exhibit highly correlated electron properties. The team found evidence of exotic magnetic states and correlated insulating states with features resembling superconductivity. The origins of these features are attributed to quantum mechanical p...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 6, 2020

WHOI-NOAA partnership tackles critical gap in climate knowledge

Researchers at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution have developed a machine learning-based framework to improve estimates of air-sea heat exchange in the Arctic Ocean. The project leverages remote sensing technologies and data from sensors, saildrone USVs, and satellites to validate satellite-based modeling of the Arctic region.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·DateOct 6, 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.

Infrared NASA imagery finds Chan-hom organizing, consolidating

Tropical Storm Chan-hom is consolidating, indicating a strengthening trend, according to NASA's infrared data. The AIRS instrument captured cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating strong storms with heavy rain potential.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 6, 2020

Big drug costs for small patients with rare diseases, study finds

A new study found that orphan drug costs for children with rare diseases have increased by 65% over five years, with families facing significantly higher out-of-pocket expenses. The top three drugs driving the increase are used to boost height in children with growth hormone deficiency and are prescribed off-label for other conditions.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalHealth Affairs·DateOct 6, 2020

Earth grows fine gems in minutes

Research from Rice University found that certain cooling magmas can grow large crystals in just hours or days, defying traditional understanding of crystal growth. The study used advanced techniques to measure the chemical composition and growth rates of sample crystals, revealing surprisingly fast growth rates.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 2020

This 'squidbot' jets around and takes pics of coral and fish

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed a squid-like robot that can swim rapidly and efficiently, taking photos of coral and fish in the process. The soft robot uses jet propulsion to maneuver and achieve speeds of up to half a mile per hour.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateOct 6, 2020

A timeline on the evolution of reptiles

Researchers created the largest available timeline of reptile evolution using CT scans and fossil data from over 1,000 specimens. The study found that major transitions in evolution occurred through many small bursts of morphological changes over 50 million years, contradicting a widely held theory on rapid evolutionary bursts.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 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.

Donors more likely to give to COVID causes when font matches message

Researchers found that donors were more likely to give when heartfelt messages matched the typeface, with warm messages in handwritten fonts and competence-based messages in computer-generated fonts. The study suggests that matching the font to the message can strengthen appeals and encourage donations.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management·DateOct 6, 2020

Watch how cells squeeze through channels

Researchers observed cells moving through small channels to understand cell migration in 3D environments. The findings suggest that cancer cells may penetrate tissues and be blocked within small capillaries, potentially allowing them to metastasize.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateOct 6, 2020

ASHG 2020 Virtual Meeting to showcase innovative research in human genetics

The ASHG 2020 Virtual Meeting brings together thousands of scientists, clinicians, and advocates to share knowledge on the latest developments in human genetics and genomics. The event features over 200 oral presentations, nearly 2,000 scientific poster presentations, and special sessions recognizing outstanding achievements.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateOct 6, 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.

Could megatesla magnetic fields be realized on Earth?

Scientists at Osaka University have discovered a novel mechanism, microtube implosion, which generates megatesla-order magnetic fields. This breakthrough is three orders of magnitude higher than what has been achieved in a laboratory, with potential applications in materials science, quantum electrodynamics, and astrophysics.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 6, 2020

NASA-NOAA satellite finds Hurricane Delta rapidly intensifying

Hurricane Delta's cloud top temperatures were as cold as minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating strong storms capable of creating heavy rain. The storm is expected to produce significant flash flooding and mudslides across the northern Yucatan Peninsula and western Cuba.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 6, 2020

Every COVID-19 case seems different; these scientists want to know why

A new study provides an in-depth look at how CD4+ T cells respond to SARS-CoV-2, revealing a novel T cell subset that may contribute to severe COVID-19 cases. The research also found that dysfunctional TFH cells can lead to reduced antibody production and worsen disease severity.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell·DateOct 6, 2020

Novel testing platform designed for breast cancer cells

A Purdue University team has developed a magnetically moving cell culturing system to evaluate the impact of mechanical forces on breast cancer cells. The technology allows for the growth of 3D cancer cells in a new tissue environment, mimicking the physiological conditions found in the lungs during breathing.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateOct 6, 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.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Social media postings linked to hate crimes

A new study found that negative social media rhetoric about refugees in Germany correlated with an increase in anti-refugee hate crimes. The researchers used text analysis tools to investigate the relationship between social media content and offline behavior.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of the European Economic Association·DateOct 6, 2020

Colorectal cancer treatment: the winning combinations

Scientists have developed a technique that quickly identifies optimal synergistic combinations of anticancer drugs, reducing tumour growth by 80% and outperforming chemotherapy. The technology, called TGMO, achieves results in under two weeks, paving the way for personalized, effective, and safe cancer treatment.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalMolecular Oncology·DateOct 6, 2020

Predicting sports performance with "big data"

Researchers developed a mathematical model to estimate key physiological parameters like maximal aerobic speed and endurance in athletes. The non-invasive data gathering method offers new possibilities for treatments and monitoring.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 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.

California's August Complex largest fire in state's history

The August Complex of fires has grown to over 1,000,000 acres burned, making it the largest fire in California's history. The complex is 58% contained and poses a significant threat to structures in several areas, including Hidden Valley and Wildwood.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 6, 2020

Forearm artery reveals humans evolving from changes in natural selection

A significant increase in the prevalence of the median artery has been observed in humans since the late 19th century. This trend is attributed to genetic mutations or health problems during pregnancy, and may continue to rise, with a majority of people expected to have the median artery by 2100.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Anatomy·DateOct 6, 2020

Effects of acute and chronic graft-versus-myelodysplastic syndrome on long-term outcomes following a

A recent study has shown that graft-versus-tumor (GVT) effect associated with limited chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) improves survival in high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients. For those with low-risk MDS, acute and chronic GVHD did not improve overall mortality or relapse rates.

SourceThe Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateOct 6, 2020