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Science News for October 7, 2020


NASA analyzes Hurricane Delta's water vapor concentration

NASA's Aqua satellite gathered water vapor data on Hurricane Delta, revealing highest concentrations of water vapor and coldest cloud top temperatures around the center of circulation. The storm is expected to produce heavy rainfall and flash flooding in the northern Yucatan Peninsula.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 7, 2020

New biomarker to prevent graft-versus-host disease in stem cell transplants discovered

MUSC researchers have identified a new biomarker that may predict which patients are at risk of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. High levels of plasmacytoid dendritic cells expressing ICOS ligand are associated with increased severity of GVHD and lower survival rates.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 7, 2020

Same-gender couples interact better than heterosexual couples

A new UC Riverside study found that same-gender couples have higher-quality interactions both inside and outside their relationships compared to heterosexual couples. The study also showed that women in male-dominated relationships tend to have the largest social networks, while men with men have smaller ones.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateOct 7, 2020

Fighting intestinal infections with the body's own endocannabinoids

Research led by UTSW scientists finds that endocannabinoids can shut down genes needed for pathogenic intestinal bacteria to colonize and cause disease. The study suggests that these native chemicals similar to those found in cannabis may eventually lead to new ways to fight gastrointestinal infections.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell·DateOct 7, 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.

Sicker livestock may increase climate woes

A new study finds that infectious diseases in livestock can lead to increased methane emissions, exacerbating climate change. Ruminant animals infected with intestinal worms or suffering from mastitis release up to 33% and 8% more methane per kilogram of feed or milk produced.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·DateOct 7, 2020

MU earns $5.45 million to advance literacy efforts throughout Missouri

The University of Missouri is receiving $5.45 million to improve literacy in Missouri schools through the Show Me Literacies Collaborative. The grant will support early childhood educators in extending family literacy practices into the classroom, with a focus on inclusive and multilingual literacies.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateOct 7, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

COVID-19 has a prolonged effect for many during pregnancy

A national study found that COVID-19 symptoms in pregnant women can last two months or longer, impacting health and wellbeing. Researchers analyzed 594 women who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 virus during pregnancy, discovering that half had symptoms after 3 weeks and 25 percent had symptoms persisting beyond 8 weeks.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateOct 7, 2020

Teens diagnosed with depression show reduction in educational achievement

Researchers found that teenagers diagnosed with depression show a significant decline in educational attainment, especially in GCSEs. Targeted support for children struggling with depression could benefit vulnerable groups, such as boys and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

SourceNIHR Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateOct 7, 2020

Enhanced reimbursement to oncology clinics increases prescriptions of evidence-based drugs

A pay-for-performance program increased prescriptions of high-quality, evidence-based cancer drugs by 5.1 percentage points without significantly changing total spending on care. The program improved the rate of high-value prescribing in oncology, leading to better patient outcomes and longer life expectancy.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateOct 7, 2020

COVID-19- to COVID-20

The COVID-19 pandemic has shifted from a single disease entity to a 'syndemic', with concurrent co-morbidities and social determinants of health contributing to collateral morbidities.

SourceSociety for Disaster Medicine and Public Health, Inc.·JournalDisaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·DateOct 7, 2020

A step toward a universal flu vaccine

A new study describes a vaccine that triggers an immune response against an influenza protein segment rarely mutated by the virus, raising the possibility of effective protection against seasonal and pandemic strains. The vaccine uses nanoparticles coated with flu proteins to train the immune system to create desired antibodies.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Systems·DateOct 7, 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.

Unusually shallow earthquake ruptures in Chinese fracking field

A magnitude 4.9 earthquake triggered by hydraulic fracturing in a Chinese shale gas field occurred along a fault about one kilometer deep. The event challenges current understanding of seismic risk for shallow faults, highlighting the need to reassess evaluation strategies.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateOct 7, 2020

Risk of deadly skin cancer may be gauged by accumulated DNA damage

A new study has discovered that accumulated DNA damage in skin cells can be used to estimate the risk of deadly skin cancer. Researchers sequenced DNA from individual melanocytes and found a significant number of mutations associated with melanoma, even in people without visible moles.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateOct 7, 2020

Molecular mechanism of cross-species transmission of primate lentiviruses

Primate lentiviruses, such as HIV-1, overcome species barriers through viral infectivity factor (Vif) and APOBEC3 protein interactions. A study by the University of Tokyo found that gorilla APOBEC3G can restrict SIVcpz replication but a specific amino acid substitution in Vif can evade this restriction.

SourceThe Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateOct 7, 2020

Experience and instinct: Both count when recognizing infant cries

A new study published in Nature shows that rodents rely on a combination of innate instincts and learning to recognize unique infant cries. Experienced caregivers were found to be more effective at identifying subtle variations in distress calls and retrieving crying pups, while inexperienced animals required extensive training.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateOct 7, 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.

Amniotic fluid may yield new, better treatment for ischemic stroke

A study in STEM CELLS Translational Medicine suggests that amniotic fluid stem cell-derived secretome can restore neuronal plasticity and improve cognition after an ischemic stroke. The findings offer a potential new avenue of treatment for ischemic stroke, which affects 87% of all strokes.

SourceAlphaMed Press·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateOct 7, 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.

Prevalence of suicide-related behaviors among physicians

A review of 35 studies found a lifetime prevalence of 17.4% for suicidal thoughts and 1.8% for attempts among physicians. Geographic region was linked to variations in suicidal behavior rates, with Europe showing higher prevalence than the US.

SourceWiley·JournalSuicide and Life-Threatening Behavior·DateOct 7, 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.

Global food production poses an increasing climate threat

The study found that nitrous oxide has risen 20% from pre-industrial levels, with the largest contributors coming from East Asia, South Asia, Africa, and South America. This increase is incompatible with pathways to achieve the Paris Agreement's climate goals.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature·DateOct 7, 2020

Why some friends make you feel more supported than others

A study found that participants rated themselves as receiving more support from a network of friends who were closely connected to each other. This cohesive group provided emotional support and a sense of belonging. The results suggest that having a strong social network is crucial for feeling supported, rather than just the number of ...

SourceOhio State University·JournalSocial Psychology Quarterly·DateOct 7, 2020

The Lancet Planetary Health: Restricting supermarket promotions of high-sugar food and drinks reduces sales without reducing store profits

A randomized controlled trial found that restricting merchandising of unhealthy products in stores reduced the purchase of sugar sweetened drinks and confectionery by 2.8%, resulting in a reduction of free sugar purchased from food and drinks by 2.8%. Despite these reductions, business performance was unaffected.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateOct 7, 2020

Taking the STING out of MND

Melbourne researchers have identified the primary immune pathway triggered by TDP-43 accumulation in MND patients, paving the way for a new treatment. By blocking the STING immune sensor, they can prevent inflammation and promote motor neuron survival, offering a vital first step towards a treatment therapy.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalCell·DateOct 7, 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.

Paleontologists identify new species of mosasaur

A team of researchers led by Catie Strong identified a new mosasaur species, Gavialimimus almaghribensis, with a distinctive long, narrow snout and interlocking teeth. The discovery sheds light on the adaptations that allowed these ancient marine reptiles to thrive in competitive ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Systematic Palaeontology·DateOct 7, 2020

Physical activity and sleep in adults with arthritis

A new study identifies four profiles of 24-hour physical activity and sleep among adults with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and knee osteoarthritis. Younger age, lack of sitting jobs, and outside walking habits are associated with balanced activity.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateOct 7, 2020

New findings pave the way to environmentally friendly supercapacitors

Researchers at Graz University of Technology have developed a sustainable hybrid supercapacitor made of carbon and aqueous sodium iodide electrolyte. The system achieves unexpectedly high energy storage capacity by storing all chemical energy in solid iodine particles, enabling fast charging and discharging processes.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 7, 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.

Intelligent nanomaterials for photonics

Scientists at the University of Jena have developed a novel material platform by integrating 2D materials with glass fibers, enabling novel applications in sensors and non-linear optics. The breakthrough allows for the direct growth of 2D materials on optical fibers, overcoming laborious transfer processes.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 7, 2020

Individual psychological well-being may guard heart health in Black adults

A study found that psychosocial resilience is positively associated with cardiovascular health among Black adults, independent of neighborhood context. Higher psychosocial resilience scores were linked to a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease, even in neighborhoods with high rates of heart disease and stroke.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateOct 7, 2020

Plant-based spray could be used in n95 masks and energy devices

Researchers have developed a method to spray extremely thin wires made from a plant-based material, methylcellulose, onto 3D objects. This innovation could improve the effectiveness of N95 mask filters and be used in energy harvesting devices, with potential applications in organ creation.

SourceRutgers University·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateOct 7, 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.

Major deficits in addressing mental health needs of asylum seekers

A German study found that only 2.6% of asylum seekers received a diagnosis for depression, while 1.4% received a diagnosis for anxiety disorder and 2.9% for PTSD symptoms. Many diagnosed individuals did not receive treatment, highlighting the need for urgent improvements in mental health care.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 7, 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.

NASA finds dry air sapping Tropical Storm Norbert's strength

Dry air is eroding Tropical Storm Norbert's strength by suppressing the development of thunderstorms that need warm, moist air to form. The storm has weakened due to entrainment of dry air, disrupting its compact system and limiting its ability to strengthen.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 7, 2020

Researchers find consistent mercury levels in arctic seals

Mercury concentrations in ringed seals from the Canadian Arctic have remained stable since 1977, with limited declines detected. Climate parameters may be influencing mercury accumulation in seals, according to a 45-year study.

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateOct 7, 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.

The effects of oxytocin on social anxiety depend on location, location, location

A University of California - Davis study found that oxytocin produced in a specific area of the brain can increase stress-induced social anxiety behaviors in mice. The researchers also discovered that this effect is stronger in females, which could help explain why social anxiety disorders are more common and severe in women.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 7, 2020

Mental illness, mental health care use among police officers

A survey study in Texas found that a significant portion of police officers experience mental illness and utilize mental health care services. The study highlights the need for improved mental health support within law enforcement agencies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 7, 2020

Airdropping sensors from moths

University of Washington researchers develop a 98mg sensor system that can be released from drones or insects and land safely without breaking, collecting data for almost three years. The system uses a magnetic pin to hold the sensor, which is then released using a wireless command, allowing for remote monitoring in hard-to-reach areas.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateOct 7, 2020

Scientists reveal urgent solutions for boosting Protected Areas effectiveness

A new global review finds that protected areas need better funding, climate smart measures, and equitable management to be effective. The study identifies crucial steps to take, including reducing the funding shortfall for area-based conservation measures and recognizing indigenous community groups' role in nature conservation.

SourceUNEP-WCMC·JournalNature·DateOct 7, 2020

Beat the heat: Novel passive cooling device for surfaces and enclosed spaces

A new passive radiative device, Janus emitter, absorbs heat from the inside of an enclosure and emits it on the outside, creating a sustainable way to keep temperatures low. The technology has potential applications in stationary vehicles, building interiors, and solar cells.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 7, 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.

A hydrogel that could help repair damaged nerves

Researchers have created a stretchable conductive hydrogel that can help restore lost tissue in damaged nerves. The material, containing polyaniline and polyacrylamide, allows nerve cells to enter and adhere, helping to improve nerve conduction and recovery.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 7, 2020

Feline friendly? How to build rap-paw with your cat - new psychology study

Researchers found that cats are more likely to slow blink at their owners if they have received a slow blink stimulus, and approach the experimenter after slow blinking. This technique can provide positive communication between cats and humans, enhancing the bond and potentially improving feline welfare.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 7, 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.

Data tool helps users manage water resources, protect infrastructure

Researchers developed a tool to connect streamgage and reservoir data, providing critical information for managing water systems efficiently. The tool accounts for hydrological connections over large watersheds and can be used by power plant operators, reservoir operators, and water resource managers.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScientific Data·DateOct 7, 2020

Researchers awarded $2.7M to study loneliness and Alzheimer's

A $2.7M NIH grant will fund a research program investigating the relationship between loneliness and brain structure/function in typically aging people and those at risk for Alzheimer's disease. The project aims to advance understanding of how social isolation impacts brain aging and progression to AD.

SourceMcGill University·DateOct 7, 2020

Detecting SARS-CoV-2 in the environment

Researchers developed an effective environmental monitoring methodology for SARS CoV-2 virus, detecting viral RNA persistence on surfaces for at least 8 days. The study found that a minimum of 1,000 viral particles per 25 cm2 are required to detect the virus effectively.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSystems·DateOct 7, 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.

High-speed photos shine a light on how metals fail

High-speed cameras reveal intricate behavior of metal alloy samples under extreme stretching. Researchers discovered that a well-established magnetism model can accurately predict material deformation, offering new insights into the Portevin-Le Chatelier effect.

SourceAalto University·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 7, 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.

Faster COVID-19 testing with simple algebraic equations

A new method for processing large volumes of COVID-19 tests uses simple algebraic equations to identify positive samples and take advantage of 'pooling' technique. This allows more patients to be tested with the same number of test tubes, reducing testing time and false negatives.

SourceCardiff University·JournalHealth Systems·DateOct 7, 2020

Yes or No: Forcing a choice increased statin prescribing for heart disease patients

A clinical trial found that active choice nudges led to significant increases in optimal statin prescribing for patients with heart disease, while passive nudges had no effect. The study suggests that small design changes can improve the impact of alerts, and future research will focus on clinician and patient nudges.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateOct 7, 2020

Does general anesthesia increase dementia risk?

Researchers investigated exposure to general anesthesia versus regional anesthesia in elective surgery and found no long-term link to dementia. The Journal of the American Geriatrics Society study followed 7,499 individuals aged 66+ for up to 5 years.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 7, 2020

Scientists unpack how the brain separates present from past dangers

A team of neuroscientists has identified processes the brain uses to distinguish real and present dangers from those linked to past experiences in mice. The findings have significant implications for our understanding of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), where patients struggle to distinguish between safety and threat cues.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature·DateOct 7, 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.

The benefits of a prostate cancer screening tool

The availability of mpMRIp in Australia has led to a significant reduction in prostate biopsies by an average of 354.7 per month. This is estimated to save $13.2 million annually, making it a financially sensible policy from a healthcare perspective.

SourceWiley·JournalBJU International·DateOct 7, 2020

Seagrass restoration speeds recovery of ecosystem services

A long-term monitoring study shows seagrass restoration has substantial increases in fish and invertebrate abundance, water clarity, and carbon and nitrogen trapping. The project demonstrates a blueprint for restoring and maintaining healthy ecosystems to safeguard multiple benefits.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 7, 2020

Joel L. Lebowitz honored with 2021 Dannie Heineman Prize for Mathematical Physics

Joel L. Lebowitz, director of the Center for Mathematical Sciences Research at Rutgers University, has been awarded the 2021 Dannie Heineman Prize for Mathematical Physics for his significant contributions to nonequilibrium statistical mechanics. His work investigates how macroscopic systems behave dynamically in a nonequilibrium state.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateOct 7, 2020

Oral cancer pain predicts likelihood of cancer spreading

Research at NYU College of Dentistry identifies genes highly expressed in painful, metastatic oral cancers, revealing a mechanism for cancer pain. The study's findings may lead to the development of biomarkers and objective molecular tests to diagnose risk of metastasis.

SourceNew York University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 7, 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.

Printing organic transistors

Scientists at the University of Tokyo have created a new method for printing organic transistors, which could lead to the development of new display technologies and wearable electronic products. The breakthrough uses a lyophobic surface and a special U-shaped metal-film pattern to create uniformly grown semiconductor films.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 7, 2020

First detailed look at how molecular Ferris wheel delivers protons to cellular factories

Researchers have figured out a key step in how molecular Ferris wheels work in yeast proton pumps, providing insight into a fundamental process that could be harnessed to thwart disease. The study uses high-resolution images and computer simulations to confirm the role of water molecules in conveying protons through the membrane.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 7, 2020

Deep learning takes on synthetic biology

Researchers have developed machine learning algorithms to predict which RNA-based toehold switches function well, enabling the identification and optimization of these tools. The algorithms analyzed a massive dataset of over 100,000 toehold switch sequences and predicted their behavior with high accuracy.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 7, 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.

Boosting chickens' own immune response could curb disease

Researchers developed an immunomodulatory feed additive to boost chickens' immune response against coccidiosis, a parasite-borne intestinal disease. The treatment showed promise in promoting gut health and reducing the effects of severe infection, but may not prevent disease altogether.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPoultry Science·DateOct 7, 2020

Early COVID-19 cases in Southern California linked to New York

A study at Cedars-Sinai found that most COVID-19 patients in Southern California were infected by a variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus introduced from New York state via Europe, not directly from China. The genetic analysis identified unique clusters of cases linked to specific transmission routes.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 7, 2020

New study confirms advice given to the UK government about school closures

A re-analysis of data from Imperial College London's report suggests that school closures would lead to more overall covid-19 deaths, while general social distancing was effective in reducing cases. The study also found that mitigation strategies focusing on shielding elderly and vulnerable people could minimize deaths.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateOct 7, 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.

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.

Genomic characteristics, transmission routes of patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 in Southern California during early stage of COVID-19 pandemic

A case series of 192 SARS-CoV-2 positive patients in Southern California investigated transmission routes and local community spread within the Los Angeles metropolitan area. The study found that multiple transmission routes existed, including household, healthcare-associated, and travel-related cases.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 7, 2020

Phosphorus deficit may disrupt regional food supply chains

A new study reveals that regions with high population growth rates are also experiencing a phosphorus deficit, posing serious challenges to food production. The study estimates that the phosphorus supply chain will lead to alarming rates of pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

SourceStockholm University·JournalGlobal Food Security·DateOct 7, 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.

Next-gen smartphones to keep their cool

Researchers at KAUST have developed a fast and efficient way to make a carbon material that can dissipate heat in electronic devices. The new material, called nanometer-thick graphite film (NGF), is approximately 100 nanometers thick and can be grown on nickel foils using chemical vapor deposition.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNanotechnology·DateOct 7, 2020

Applying artificial intelligence to science education

Machine learning transforms traditional science assessment by tapping into complex constructs, improving functionality and facilitating automatic scoring. The technology is expected to redefine science assessment practices and change the future of education.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Research in Science Teaching·DateOct 7, 2020

The good cough and the bad cough

Researchers have identified separate brain pathways for good and bad coughs, potentially leading to new treatments for chronic cough disorders. The study used functional brain imaging to assess cough reflex sensitivity and identified two distinct neural circuits involved in coughing.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateOct 7, 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.

DNA test identifies genetic causes of severe fetal and newborn illness

A new study by UCSF researchers uses exome sequencing to identify genetic diseases as the underlying cause in 37 cases of nonimmune hydrops fetalis, a life-threatening condition. The study finds that genetic diagnoses are critical for families and healthcare providers to guide prenatal management strategies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 7, 2020

Sensory device stimulates ears and tongue to treat tinnitus in large trial

A non-invasive device has reduced tinnitus symptoms by up to 1 year, achieving high patient satisfaction. The bimodal technique uses sound and low-voltage electricity to stimulate the ears and tongue, providing a potentially effective treatment for this debilitating auditory disorder.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 7, 2020

Looking for pieces of Venus? Try the moon

A new study proposes that pieces of Venus could have crashed on the moon, providing a possible solution for testing Earth-like environment theories. Ancient rocks from Venus are thought to contain valuable information about the planet's history and its interactions with asteroids and comets.

SourceYale University·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·DateOct 7, 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.

Diamonds are a quantum scientist's best friend

Researchers at the University of the Witwatersrand have made a groundbreaking discovery in diamond, uncovering triplet spin superconductivity. This phenomenon has significant implications for the development of new technologies, including radiation detectors and advanced electronics.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateOct 7, 2020

Discovery of a new key player in long-term memory

A McGill-led research team found that protein synthesis in inhibitory cells plays a crucial role in controlling long-term memory. The study identified two distinct processes taking place in excitatory and inhibitory networks, with each neuronal system capable of selective manipulation for memory control.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature·DateOct 7, 2020

Association between chain restaurant advertising, obesity in adults

A recent study examining the relationship between chain restaurant advertising and weight changes among US adults found a significant association across 370 counties. The research suggests that increased spending on chain restaurant advertising was associated with higher rates of obesity in these areas.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 7, 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.

Traveling brain waves help detect hard-to-see objects

Researchers at Salk Institute discover patterns of neural signals that facilitate perception of faint objects. The brain's ability to recognize targets is directly related to when and where traveling brain waves occur in the visual system.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature·DateOct 7, 2020

New research determines if political "air war" or "ground game" is most effective

A new study by Lingling Zhang and Doug J. Chung found that mass media advertising is more influential among independent voters, while grassroots outreach is more effective at reaching a candidate's base. The research also suggests that television advertising can persuade undecided voters to change their minds.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateOct 7, 2020

Facemask use has lesser consequences on indicators of cognitive performance than expected

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Copenhagen found that facemask use does not affect indicators of cognitive performance when wearers are resting or performing moderate physical work in normal work-wear in hot environments. Wearing a facemask was shown to make it more difficult to breathe during physical work in a h...

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalTemperature·DateOct 7, 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.

New research explores how super flares affect planets' habitability

Researchers from UNC-Chapel Hill have measured the temperature of a large sample of super flares, providing insights into life-prohibiting levels of UV radiation. The study's findings will inform the choice of planetary systems to be observed by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·DateOct 7, 2020

Study confirms genetic link in cerebral palsy

A recent study published in Nature Genetics has confirmed the genetic link in cerebral palsy, revealing that rare gene mutations can cause this devastating movement disorder. The research, which analyzed DNA from 250 cerebral palsy families, found evidence of damaging genetic variants and inherited recessive gene variations.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Genetics·DateOct 7, 2020

Factors that increase or decrease suicidal behavior risk in adolescents

Certain internal and external factors increase adolescent suicidal behavior risk, including poor coping, smartphone abuse, and mental health history in parents. Reframing with meaningful life, adequate nutrition, and positive relationships can reduce the risk.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing·DateOct 7, 2020

Study finds older adults using cannabis to treat common health conditions

A recent study found that 61% of patients who used cannabis began using it after age 60, primarily for medical purposes. The most common reasons for cannabis use were pain, insomnia, and anxiety, with patients reporting relief from these issues. The study highlights the need for healthcare professionals to be aware of cannabis use amon...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 7, 2020

Long-term consequences difficult to predict

Research found that only 12% of ecosystem functioning variance can be explained by plant traits, highlighting the complexity of long-term ecosystem changes. Plant biomass production and pollination patterns varied greatly among years and communities.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateOct 7, 2020

Trust and income inequality fueling the spread of COVID-19

A study by McGill University researchers found that trust in public institutions is associated with lower COVID-19 mortality rates, while social trust and belonging are linked to higher deaths. Greater economic inequality is also a significant factor, particularly in countries with large gaps between rich and poor.

SourceMcGill University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateOct 7, 2020

Past tropical forest changes drove megafauna and hominin extinctions

Researchers found that the loss of grasslands was instrumental in the extinction of many megafauna, including ancient humans like Homo erectus. Tropical forests dominated the region from present-day Myanmar to Indonesia, but began to give way to savannah environments around a million years ago.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature·DateOct 7, 2020

Study to explore if impaired metabolic pathways lead to MS progression

Researchers investigate whether changes in metabolic pathways precede neurodegeneration in MS patients, which may lead to irreversible damage to brain and nervous tissue. The study aims to develop diet, lifestyle, and drug interventions to prevent progression and improve outcomes for MS patients.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateOct 7, 2020