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Science News for October 9, 2020


NASA finds hurricane delta packing heavy rainfall

Hurricane Delta is expected to produce significant flash, urban, and small stream flooding in Louisiana, with isolated maximum totals of 15 inches. NASA's satellite rainfall product estimated rainfall rates around the center of circulation as high as 50 mm per hour.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 9, 2020

HSE University researcher develops global HIV prevention index for drug users

A new index assesses HIV/AIDS prevention policies among people who inject drugs globally, with top performers including Spain and Switzerland. Russia ranks 59th, highlighting the need for improved policies to combat the spread of HIV among drug users.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·DateOct 9, 2020

Four in 10 extra deaths in Lombardy not linked to COVID-19

A new study found that about 24,000 more people died in Lombardy than expected between January and April, with only 14,000 confirmed as COVID-19-related. The researchers estimated that up to 43% of excess deaths may be due to delayed or reduced access to healthcare for other health issues.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 9, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Meltwater lakes are accelerating glacier ice loss

A new study reveals that meltwater lakes at glacier margins cause ice to recede much further and faster than glaciers terminating on land. This finding has significant implications for estimates of recession rates and ice mass loss, potentially leading to under-estimates in the coming decades.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateOct 9, 2020

'Universal law of touch' will enable new advances in virtual reality

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have discovered a universal scaling law for touch sensitivity using seismic waves. The law enables better understanding of touch experiences across species, predicting similar sensations despite differences in force and receptor depth.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 9, 2020

Immune cell activation in severe COVID-19 resembles lupus

Researchers observed an overactive B cell response in severely ill COVID-19 patients, reminiscent of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which may inform treatment decisions. The findings could lead to the development of targeted therapies for patients with severe immune dysregulation.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Immunology·DateOct 9, 2020

Nerve cell activity shows how confident we are

Researchers identified nerve cells in the brain whose activity indicates decision-making confidence. The frequency of electrical pulses in these neurons increased with increasing decision confidence.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 9, 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.

Metoprolol: an old drug with unique cardioprotective properties

A study by CNIC scientists reveals metoprolol's ability to protect the heart during a heart attack is not shared by other beta-blockers. This unique property limits inflammatory damage and hyperactivation of neutrophils, which can cause significant additional injury to the heart.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateOct 9, 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.

Palladium catalysts can do it

Researchers have found a way to directly couple aryl halides and alkyllithium compounds using palladium catalysts containing YPhos-type ligands. This breakthrough enables the efficient synthesis of complex chemical structures with minimal side products, reducing costs and environmental impact.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 9, 2020

Stay-at-home orders cut noise exposure nearly in half

Researchers found daily average sound levels dropped approximately 3 decibels during the pandemic, which could have a significant impact on people's overall health outcomes. The analysis shows that digital devices can be used to evaluate daily behaviors and exposures.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateOct 9, 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.

Post-traumatic stress experienced by partners following miscarriage

A new study from Imperial College London found that one in 12 partners experience post-traumatic stress after miscarriage, with symptoms persisting for up to nine months. The research highlights the need for improved psychological support for both women and their partners following pregnancy loss.

SourceImperial College London·JournalUltrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateOct 9, 2020

HIV and lung cancer in East Africa: CWRU and UH secure research funds

The HAMRC will investigate novel approaches to characterize lung cancer epidemiology, somatic mutation burden, and the relationship between HIV-1 infection and accelerated aging. The team aims to develop diagnostic computational imaging algorithms to discern lung cancer from respiratory infections.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateOct 9, 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.

Urine-based liquid biopsy test outperforms urine cytology in detecting bladder cancer

A new urine-based liquid biopsy test, UroCAD, has been developed to detect bladder cancer with higher sensitivity and similar specificity compared to traditional urine cytology. The test analyzes DNA copy number variants in urine exfoliated cells and shows promise for reducing the frequency of cystoscopy examinations.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateOct 9, 2020

The Colorado river's water supply is predictable owing to long-term ocean memory

A new tool developed by Utah State University scientists can predict drought and water flow in the Colorado River several years in advance. The model uses long-term ocean memory and associated atmospheric effects, as well as filtering effects of land systems to temper short-term precipitation events.

SourceUtah State University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateOct 9, 2020

Population health and the COVID-19 pandemic: Emerging stronger next time

A special issue of Population Health Management explores data-driven approaches to combatting COVID-19. The journal highlights the need for population health tools to successfully tackle emerging health crises, with expert insights from major companies and organizations.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalPopulation Health Management·DateOct 9, 2020

Spitzer space telescope legacy chronicled in Nature Astronomy

The Spitzer Space Telescope made significant discoveries in the solar system during its 16-year mission, providing a never-before-possible look at the universe. New papers catalog these findings and offer guidance for future scientists studying exoplanets and planet formation.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Astronomy·DateOct 9, 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.

More evidence of benefits of REGN-COV2 antibody cocktail to both protect from and treat disease

Researchers have found that REGN-COV2 offers benefits in animal models mimicking SARS-CoV-2 infection pathology, providing evidence for its therapeutic potential both as a preventative measure and treatment. The study demonstrates significant protection against weight loss and viral load reduction in golden hamsters treated with the drug.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 9, 2020

Droughts are threatening global wetlands: new study

A new review highlights the severe impacts of drought on global wetland soils, leading to irreversible changes and decreased water quality. The study emphasizes the need for better understanding and protection of these critical ecosystems, which support biodiversity and carbon storage.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalEarth-Science Reviews·DateOct 9, 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.

Hubble sees swirls of forming stars

The NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope has captured a stunning image of the Great Barred Spiral Galaxy NGC 1365, showcasing hundreds of baby stars and dusty sites of future stellar nurseries. The PHANGS survey, conducted jointly with ALMA in Chile, aims to understand how galaxy environments influence star formation.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 9, 2020

More than 40% of women suffer from constipation during pregnancy and right after childbirth

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that over 40% of women experience constipation during pregnancy and right after childbirth. Daily exercise, balanced diet, and hydration can help prevent constipation. Lifestyle changes may not be enough to alleviate symptoms, with laxatives needed in some cases.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalBJOG An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology·DateOct 9, 2020

Graphene microbubbles make perfect lenses

Researchers developed a method to generate precisely controlled graphene microbubbles with perfect spherical curvature, suitable for use as concave reflective lenses. The high uniformity of the graphene oxide films enables precise control over bubble position, size, and stability.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateOct 9, 2020

School absences correlate to impaired air quality

Research in Salt Lake City schools found a correlation between poor air quality and increased school absences. Even mild elevations in air pollution were associated with higher absenteeism rates, particularly among elementary students. The study suggests that low-level air pollution can have cumulative effects on health and education.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateOct 9, 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.

Research!America launches civic engagement program for young scientists

Research!America has launched a microgrant program supporting virtual civic engagement initiatives among young STEM graduate trainees, fostering skills in communication and government understanding. The program aims to create dialogue between public officials and community members, focusing on student-led projects.

SourceResearch!America·DateOct 9, 2020

Pulmonary artery thrombosis a complication of radiation therapy

Researchers found in situ pulmonary artery thrombosis associated with radiation therapy has unique imaging characteristics and does not typically embolize. The study identified 27 patients with PAT after RT, highlighting the importance of radiologist awareness for accurate diagnosis and management.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateOct 9, 2020

Climate patterns linked in Amazon, North and South America, study shows

Researchers developed a tree-ring chronology that links Amazon precipitation patterns with those in North and South America, revealing an inverse relationship between the areas' growth and precipitation levels. The study provides valuable insights into large-scale climate extremes and the impact of El Niño phenomenon.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateOct 9, 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.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

The choroid plexus: A conduit for prenatal inflammation?

Two new studies reveal that the choroid plexus, a miniature organ in the brain, is a hotbed of immune system activity. The choroid plexus regulates brain development by secreting instructive cues into the cerebrospinal fluid and provides a protective barrier. However, when this barrier is challenged, the choroid plexus can act as a con...

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateOct 9, 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.

When it comes to arthritic bone spurs, stem cells hurt instead of heal

A new study reveals that stem cells contribute to the formation of osteophytes, or pathological bone spurs, in arthritis patients. The researchers identified a specific type of stem cell with activity in the Sox9 gene as the major culprit behind this process.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateOct 9, 2020

Building a Trojan Horse to fight breast cancer

Michigan State University researchers are developing a precision nanotherapy that turns the body's own cells into weapons against breast cancer. The approach targets cancer cells' CD47 protein, which defends against immune cells, and uses ultra-thin carbon tubes to arm immune cells for a covert attack.

SourceMichigan State University·DateOct 9, 2020

Cedars-Sinai to study unequal impact of COVID-19 on minorities

Cedars-Sinai will investigate the diversity and determinants of immune-inflammatory response to SARS-CoV-2 in a diverse population, highlighting ethnic and racial disparities in COVID-19 risk and severity. The five-year grant aims to advance knowledge of immunology and coronavirus in the US.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·DateOct 9, 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.

Future ocean conditions could cause significant physical changes in marine mussels

Researchers exposed blue mussels to current and future levels of ocean acidification and warming, finding that warming alone led to increased shell growth, while both together resulted in decreased growth. Warming also caused increased brittleness, threatening the mussels' survival, but acidification mitigated some effects.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateOct 9, 2020

Oncotarget: Rapid onset type 1 diabetes with anti-PD-1 directed therapy

A case series reports 5 patients developing type 1 diabetes after receiving immunotherapy, with rapid onset and serious risk for diabetic ketoacidosis. Monitoring glycemia does not predict diabetes occurrence, and GAD antibodies are present in half of these cases, warranting further investigation.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateOct 9, 2020

Development of cost-efficient electrocatalyst for hydrogen production

A cost-efficient electrocatalyst for hydrogen production has been developed using titanium-doped molybdenum phosphide. The new catalyst demonstrates enhanced durability and comparable performance to platinum, paving the way for more affordable hydrogen production.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalNano Energy·DateOct 9, 2020

Perforated bone tissue from too little sugar

Researchers found that too little sugar can lead to more bone-eating cells in people with bone marrow cancer. A special type of sugar water was shown to reduce perforations and cancer growth in mice with bone marrow cancer. Further animal experiments are needed to develop a treatment for humans.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalBlood·DateOct 9, 2020

Genomes offer new insights into fig-wasp symbiotic system

Researchers sequenced genomes of figs and pollinators to uncover dynamic karyotype variation associated with adaptive evolution. They also identified candidate genes for sex determination and a potential molecular mechanism of coevolution between fig species and their wasp pollinators.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell·DateOct 9, 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.

What tiny surfing robots teach us about surface tension

Researchers at Michigan Technological University have developed tiny surfing robots that can manipulate surface tension to propel themselves through water. This breakthrough could lead to new biomedical applications, such as surgery, by understanding the colonization of bacteria in the body.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·DateOct 9, 2020

Scientists find upper limit for the speed of sound

Researchers found the upper limit for the speed of sound to be around 36 km per second, which is faster than previously thought. This discovery has implications for various scientific fields, including materials science and condensed matter physics.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 9, 2020

Rutgers experts urge ban of menthol cigarettes nationwide

The American Medical Association joins forces with the African American Tobacco Control Leadership Council in urging a ban on menthol-flavored tobacco products. Research shows that menthol cigarette smoking persists among vulnerable populations, despite declining overall cigarette consumption. Experts argue that banning menthol cigaret...

SourceRutgers University·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateOct 9, 2020

Investing in protective gear for health care workers pays off

A new study predicts that investing $9.6 billion in personal protective equipment (PPE) for health care workers in low- and middle-income countries could save the lives of approximately 2.2 million healthcare workers and yield a substantial economic return of $755.3 billion, representing an 8,000% return on investment.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 9, 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.

Oldest monkey fossils outside of Africa found

Fossils found in southeastern Yunan Province, China, reveal monkeys existed in Asia alongside apes, and are believed to be ancestors of modern East Asian monkeys. These ancient primates were well adapted for movement both on land and in trees, with a versatile diet that allowed them to thrive in diverse environments.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateOct 9, 2020

Scientists suggest global guidelines for sustainable use of non-native trees

A team of international scientists has proposed eight recommendations for the sustainable use of non-native tree species, aiming to maximize benefits while minimizing negative impacts on biodiversity. The guidelines include using native trees, being aware of invasion risks, and developing global networks for information sharing.

SourceCABI·JournalNeoBiota·DateOct 9, 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.