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Science News for September 10, 2020


Climate changed in steps in the past

A new paleoclimate record covering the last 66 million years has significantly improved our understanding of climate variability and predictability. The study confirms four distinct climate modes: hothouse, warmhouse, coolhouse, and icehouse.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalScience·DateSep 10, 2020

Evidence of power: Phasing quantum annealers into experiments from nonequilibrium physics

Researchers validate the Kibble-Zurek mechanism in quantum magnetic systems and demonstrate its applicability to open quantum systems using commercially available D-Wave annealers. The study provides strong experimental evidence for the generalized theory, showcasing the potential of quantum annealers in exploring nonequilibrium physics.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateSep 10, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Stem cell function may explain higher colon cancer rate in males

Research finds that high androgen levels can cause intestinal stem cells to divide excessively and produce fewer mature epithelial cells, increasing the risk of tumor formation. The study's findings may have implications for treating or preventing colon cancers through androgen regulation.

SourceInternational Society for Stem Cell Research·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateSep 10, 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.

Unraveling 66 million years of climate history from ocean sediments

An international team publishes a global reference curve in Science, reconstructing the Earth's climate since the last great extinction 66 million years ago. The study provides a detailed understanding of past climate dynamics and recurring patterns, allowing for more accurate dating and correlation of climate events.

SourceMARUM - Center for Marine Environmental Sciences, University of Bremen·JournalScience·DateSep 10, 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.

Research sheds light on earliest stages of Angelman syndrome

A new study from North Carolina State University has shed light on the earliest stages of Angelman syndrome, a genetic disorder affecting brain development and function. The research used human cerebral organoids to monitor the behavior of a key gene, UBE3A, revealing its role in early brain tissue development.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateSep 10, 2020

Association for Molecular Pathology announces 2020 award recipients

Drs. Dennis Lo, Karen Mann and Ronald Przygodzki are recognized for their pioneering work in non-invasive prenatal testing and cancer detection using circulating nucleic acids. Their innovations have created a paradigm in prenatal medicine and advanced the field of molecular diagnostics.

SourceAssociation for Molecular Pathology·DateSep 10, 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.

LSU Health study 1st to show nonharmful stress protects against disease in offspring

A groundbreaking LSU Health study reveals that nonharmful stress can protect against disease in offspring, reprogramming heritability to promote resilience. The research used mild systemic hypoxia to trigger adaptive changes in adult mice, which were then passed on to their offspring.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateSep 10, 2020

Hubble observations suggest a missing ingredient in dark matter theories

Astronomers have discovered a discrepancy between theoretical models and Hubble observations of galaxy clusters, suggesting a potential gap in our understanding of dark matter. The study used unprecedentedly detailed observations to map the distribution of dark matter on small scales.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalScience·DateSep 10, 2020

Gestational diabetes may accelerate child's biological age

Children born to mothers with gestational diabetes in pregnancy are at increased risk for accelerated aging and poor health outcomes later in life. The study found a link between epigenetic age and higher weight, body mass index, blood pressure, and cardiovascular risks.

SourceRutgers University·JournalEpigenetics·DateSep 10, 2020

Study takes us a step closer to a universal antibody test for COVID-19

A new study by Houston Methodist has developed a uniform, universal COVID-19 antibody test that can quickly and easily screen plasma donors. The test, which uses ELISA assays, was found to have an 80% probability of comparable antibody levels to VN titers at or above FDA-recommended levels for convalescent plasma.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 10, 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.

Colors evoke similar feelings around the world

A comprehensive survey found similar color-emotion associations worldwide, with red linked to both love and anger globally. National peculiarities were observed, such as white being associated with sadness in China and purple with mourning in Greece. Climate may also influence these associations.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 10, 2020

CityU develops anti-bacterial graphene face masks

A research team from City University of Hong Kong has produced graphene masks with an anti-bacterial efficiency of 80%, which can be enhanced to almost 100% with exposure to sunlight. The graphene masks are easily produced at low cost and can help resolve the problems of sourcing raw materials and disposing of non-biodegradable masks.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 10, 2020

Global Clinical Practice Guideline program to improve patient care

The joint Clinical Practice Guidelines program aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for clinical care, addressing global differences in access to diagnostic tools and therapies. The guidelines will support better patient care, improved health outcomes, increased patient safety, and controlled healthcare costs.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateSep 10, 2020

Superconductors are super resilient to magnetic fields

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have discovered a new explanation for how superconductors recover from temporary exposure to magnetic fields without losing energy. The proposed mechanism involves the presence of a topological quantum number, which allows supercurrents to be switched off without Joule heating.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalEPL (Europhysics Letters)·DateSep 10, 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.

Systematic approach crucial for person-centred care

A University of Gothenburg study emphasizes the importance of a systematic approach to achieve person-centered care in healthcare. The researchers argue that person-centred care must be practiced systematically on an everyday basis, creating organisational and individual conditions for partnership between patients, staff, and relatives.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe BMJ·DateSep 10, 2020

Nanophysics - Spectral classification of excitons

Researchers developed a theoretical model to predict spectral splitting of excitons in WSe2 under magnetic field. The results provide better understanding of opto-electronic properties and potential applications in quantum technologies.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 10, 2020

The web of death

Scientists have developed a new method to combat cancer by using molecular fibers that target the acidic and reactive environment of cancer cells. The approach has shown promising results in laboratory tests, with cancer cells dying within four hours.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Polymer Research·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 10, 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.

Loss of a pet can potentially trigger mental health issues in children

A new study published in European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry found that the death of a family pet can lead to prolonged and profound grief in children, potentially triggering depression. Researchers analyzed data from over 6,000 children and found that the emotional attachment to pets can result in measurable psychological distress.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalEuropean Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateSep 10, 2020

Vaccine proves effective against the most severe type of pneumonia

A new study published in The Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific found that the pneumococcal vaccine PCV13 reduced hypoxic pneumonia and pneumonia requiring oxygen support by 37 per cent in children in Laos. This significant reduction in severe cases has great potential to alleviate the burden of disease on vulnerable populations.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific·DateSep 10, 2020

Jupiter's moons could be warming each other

Researchers discovered that moon-moon interactions may be responsible for more tidal heating than Jupiter alone, potentially leading to the melting of ice or rock internally. The study suggests that tidal resonance occurs when tides generated by other objects in the system match a moon's resonant frequency, resulting in increased heating.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 10, 2020

Mold now associated with food quality

A study by the University of Copenhagen found that Danes associate purity with naturalness, preferring foods with visible mold to those with long shelf lives. This trend suggests a shift in attitudes towards food purity, with consumers prioritizing natural ingredients and visible signs of spoilage.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalSociology·DateSep 10, 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.

UNC researchers publish striking images of SARS-CoV-2 infected cells

The UNC School of Medicine lab generated high-powered microscopic images showing startlingly high SARS-CoV-2 viral loads on human respiratory surfaces. These images illustrate the incredibly high number of virions produced and released per cell inside the human respiratory system, making a strong case for mask use to limit transmission.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 10, 2020

Uncovering the science of Indigenous fermentation

Researchers from the University of Adelaide and Australian Wine Research Institute discovered complex microbial communities associated with natural fermentation of Eucalyptus gunnii sap. The study sheds light on traditional Australian Aboriginal practices and identifies new strains of yeast and bacteria unique to Australia.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 10, 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.

Degradation outpaces deforestation in Brazilian Amazon

Research reveals that degradation of the Brazilian Amazon forest has surpassed deforestation in terms of area affected. The study found that between 1992 and 2014, degraded forest cover increased by 29,116 square kilometers compared to the 308,311 square kilometers lost to deforestation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 10, 2020

Seeing the eye like never before

Scientists accelerated vision restoration by visualizing photoreceptors' response to light in the living eye. Researchers modified OCT technology to detect minute changes, enabling high-resolution visualization of cone photoreceptors and potential therapies like stem cells or gene therapy.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJournal of Mathematical Sciences Advances and Applications·DateSep 10, 2020

Telomere length varies across human tissue types

A new study reveals that telomere length in whole blood cells can serve as a reliable proxy for other tissues, with 15 out of 23 tissues showing positive correlation. The findings help clarify conflicting results on relationships between individual traits and telomere length.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScience·DateSep 10, 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.

COVID-19 study links strict social distancing to much lower chance of infection

Researchers found that practicing strict social distancing outdoors significantly lowers the likelihood of SARS-CoV-2 infection, while frequent public transportation use increases the risk. The study surveyed over 1,000 people in Maryland and analyzed their social distancing practices and behavior.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateSep 10, 2020

Experiments reveal why human-like robots elicit uncanny feelings

Researchers found that attributing a mind to an android and then 'dehumanizing' it leads to the uncanny valley phenomenon. The study suggests that at first sight humans anthropomorphize an android, but within milliseconds they detect deviations and dehumanize it.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalPerception·DateSep 10, 2020

Genome analyses track SARS-CoV-2's early introduction to the US and Europe

Researchers analyzed 455 SARS-CoV-2 genomes from Washington State and found evidence of a single introduction between January 22 and February 10. The analysis suggests that widespread surveillance is crucial even after the pandemic is brought under control, as community transmission can still occur.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 10, 2020

Ellipsys system offers greater patient eligibility and reduced time to dialysis

The new study found that both Ellipsys and WavelinQ systems enabled patients to start dialysis sooner compared to surgery, offering significant quality-of-life benefits. The Ellipsys System demonstrated higher technical success rate and more durable access, with 82% of Ellipsys fistulas still functional at 12 months.

SourceDowling & Dennis PR·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateSep 10, 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.

Sleep apnea linked with higher spine fracture risk among women

A new study published in Journal of Bone and Mineral Research suggests that women with a history of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are at a higher risk of developing vertebral fractures. The study found that OSA was associated with a 2-fold increased risk of vertebral fracture, particularly among those experiencing daytime sleepiness.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateSep 10, 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.

Portable MRI brings brain imaging to the patient bedside

A portable, low-field MRI device can be safely used at bedside to evaluate critically-ill patients for suspected stroke or traumatic brain injury. The device produced important neuroimaging findings in 29 of 30 patients and detected abnormal neurologic findings in eight of 20 patients with altered mental status.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateSep 10, 2020

Scientists map freshwater transport in the Arctic Ocean

Researchers investigate freshwater discharge from Russian rivers, mapping its spread in the Kara and Laptev seas. The study reveals how river plumes interact with wind forces, affecting ice conditions and biological processes.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 10, 2020

New UBCO study examines pain tolerance among cannabis users

A UBCO study examined pain tolerance among frequent cannabis users and found no association with increased sensitivity to pain. The research suggests that cannabis may be a safer alternative to opioids for managing chronic pain, offering hope for patients seeking relief.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalClinical Journal of Pain·DateSep 10, 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.

Bumblebees benefit from faba bean cultivation

A study by researchers at the University of Göttingen found that bumblebees thrive in faba bean fields, with populations more than twice as high as in non-bean landscapes. In contrast, other wild bees do not benefit from faba bean cultivation but rely on semi-natural habitats for survival.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateSep 10, 2020

Older and richer: Old grasslands show high biodiversity and conservation value

Researchers from the University of Tsukuba discover that old grasslands have higher plant diversity than new ones, and that grassland longevity can indicate high conservation priority. This finding suggests that focusing conservation efforts on long-standing grasslands will be most effective in preserving biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalEcological Research·DateSep 10, 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.

Antibiotic molecule enables immune system to kill HIV infected cells

A team of researchers has discovered a novel approach to combat HIV using an antibiotic molecule called concanamycin A. The compound inhibits the Nef protein, allowing cytotoxic T lymphocytes to recognize and destroy HIV-infected cells. This breakthrough offers new hope for a potential cure for HIV by combining with existing treatments.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 2020

Dietary changes could produce big offsets to carbon emissions

Researchers found that producing animal-sourced foods consumes over 80% of the Earth's agricultural acreage, leading to widespread deforestation and climate change. Shifting to land-friendly diets could regrow native vegetation capable of absorbing CO2, reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateSep 10, 2020

Loss of sea otters accelerating the effects of climate change

New research reveals that climate change is exacerbating the decline of sea otters, which in turn are destroying Alaskan kelp forests. The loss of sea otters is allowing sea urchins to overgraze the coralline algae that form the reefs.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·JournalScience·DateSep 10, 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.

Volcanic ash may have a bigger impact on the climate than we thought

A new study suggests that volcanic ash can persist in the air for months after an eruption, potentially hastening the transformation of volcanic gases and darkening the planet. The discovery was made using real-world observations and advanced computer simulations of the Mount Kelut eruption on Java in 2014.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 10, 2020

Scientists predicted new superhard materials

Researchers successfully predicted properties of over 120,000 crystal structures using convolutional neural networks, confirming diamond's hardness and suggesting potential superhard materials exist.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateSep 10, 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.

New genetic analysis method could advance personal genomics

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a computational system called Watershed to predict the functions of rare genetic variants in individual genomes. This breakthrough could lead to the identification of genetic causes for previously undiagnosed disorders and health issues, with implications for public health.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalScience·DateSep 10, 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.

Major trial uses blood test to match women with breast cancer to precision treatments

A major clinical trial found that a blood test can reliably match women with advanced breast cancer to effective targeted treatments by tracking disease evolution and mutations. The plasmaMATCH trial showed promising results, validating the use of liquid biopsies in routine care for patients with rare subtypes of breast cancer.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateSep 10, 2020

Innate immune system -- How cGAS is kept bottled up

The innate immune system interprets cytosolic DNA as a sign of intracellular pathogens. However, cGAS is found in the nucleus and prevents autoimmune reactions by binding to chromatin, not DNA. This interaction fails to activate the innate immune system.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature·DateSep 10, 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.

Solvation rearrangement brings stable zinc/graphite batteries closer to commercial grid storage

A research team at Chinese Academy of Sciences has developed a new solvation strategy to enhance the oxidation stability of carbonate-based electrolytes in Zinc/Graphite batteries. This breakthrough could lead to high-voltage cells with low self-discharge and long shelf life, making them suitable for large-scale grid storage.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 10, 2020

How chemical diversity in plants facilitates plant-animal interactions

Researchers discovered a complex chemical system in the neotropical shrub Piper sancti-felicis that helps it balance attraction and repulsion from wildlife. The plant produces alkenylphenol compounds with antifungal properties, which protect its fruit from harmful fungi but also make it less appealing to seed dispersers like bats.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalEcology·DateSep 10, 2020

How coronavirus took hold in North America and in Europe

A new study reconstructs the spread of coronavirus across the world with unprecedented detail, revealing that early interventions were effective at containing outbreaks. Contrary to speculation, the virus did not jump from China to Europe via British Columbia, Canada, but rather through direct flights and travel. Swift testing and isol...

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalScience·DateSep 10, 2020

Drugs bill warning over US/UK trade deal

A new study warns that an impending trade deal between the US and UK could lead to significant increases in NHS drug spending, with estimated costs rising from £1.39 billion to £6.42 billion for 50 brand-name prescription drugs.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateSep 10, 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.

Hospital COVID-19 risk lowest among intensive care staff

A UK hospital study found that intensive care staff have the lowest risk of COVID-19 infection, while cleaners and BAME workers were found to be at higher risk. The study suggests that type of personal protective equipment worn may play a key role in these differences.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThorax·DateSep 10, 2020

Improving the transition from pediatric to adult rheumatology care

A study of 141 pediatric patients transferred to an adult rheumatology clinic found that continued insurance coverage and referral from a pediatric rheumatologist reduced delays in attending adult visits. Pediatric patients with connective tissue diseases or Black race were particularly vulnerable to unscheduled hospitalizations.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateSep 10, 2020

Netflix - a zebra among horses: QUT researcher

A QUT researcher argues that Netflix has metamorphosed into a global television service, commissioning series in multiple countries and making them available to its 150-million subscribers. The study highlights the unprecedented impact of Netflix on national television markets and competitive fields.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Cultural Studies·DateSep 10, 2020

DNA-based nanotechnology stimulates potent antitumor immune responses

Researchers developed DNA-based nanovaccines that stimulate killer T cell immunity, resulting in tumor control. The synthetic vaccines enhanced CD8 T cell activation and induced muscle cell apoptosis, attracting macrophage infiltration and activating immune responses.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalCancer Immunology Research·DateSep 10, 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.

Concussion discovery reveals dire, unknown effect of even mild brain injuries

Even mild concussions can lead to severe and long-lasting impairments in the brain's ability to clean itself of toxins, potentially seeding Alzheimer's disease and dementia. The discovery sheds light on why repeated brain injuries are so harmful and suggests a reason for varying effects among individuals.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 10, 2020

Revealing the secrets of high-energy cosmic particles

The P-ONE initiative seeks to build a large-scale neutrino observatory in the Pacific Ocean to study high-energy cosmic particles. The project aims to uncover the origins of extragalactic neutrinos and potentially reveal the nature of dark matter.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Astronomy·DateSep 10, 2020

Lifestyle improvements may lessen cognitive decline

A new study suggests that lifestyle improvements can lessen cognitive decline in older adults by improving their lifestyles and boosting cognition. The results indicate that brain neuroplasticity can be retained through targeted interventions, enabling individuals to bounce back from decline.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateSep 10, 2020

Brazilian researcher creates an ultra-simple inexpensive method to fabricate optical fiber

A novel process for fabricating special optical fiber has been developed by Brazilian researcher Cristiano Cordeiro, simplifying the conventional method that requires costly equipment. The new process can be completed in under an hour and is significantly cheaper, enabling more researchers to produce their own optical fiber.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 10, 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.

New drug could stop deadly superbug, save tens of thousands of lives

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new small molecule to combat vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE), a leading cause of hospital-acquired infections. The molecule has been shown to target and treat VRE in both systemic circulation and the gastrointestinal tract, offering a potential solution to this deadly superbug.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateSep 10, 2020

How loss of single gene fuels deadly childhood brain cancer

Scientists identify how single gene loss fuels deadly childhood brain cancer by studying human stem cells and neural development. The study reveals that the loss of SMARCB1 leads to resistance to final cell differentiation and defect in maintaining normal cell health.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalGenes & Development·DateSep 10, 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.

Infrared NASA imagery provides Paulette's temperature palette

Tropical Storm Paulette's cloud top temperatures were as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating strong storms capable of creating heavy rain. The storm was weakened by wind shear, but forecast to re-strengthen over the weekend and potentially become a hurricane.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 10, 2020

66 million years of Earth's climate uncovered from ocean sediments

A new global climate reference curve reveals the natural variability and extreme climate events that occurred during warm climate states over the last 66 million years. The study provides context for ongoing anthropogenic change and its potential to exceed natural variability.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience·DateSep 10, 2020

NIH expands nation's Alzheimer's and related dementias research capacity

The National Institute on Aging has funded four new exploratory Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers to broaden current research initiatives with underrepresented populations. These centers will prioritize rural communities and focus on specific scientific areas such as vascular risk factors and disparities in the Deep South region.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·DateSep 10, 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.

Biological sex affects genes for body fat, cancer, birth weight

A new study from Northwestern Medicine reveals that biological sex has a small but significant impact on gene expression in every type of human tissue. The researchers found over 37% of genes were expressed differently in males and females, with diverse molecular functions involved, including disease-related traits.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateSep 10, 2020

COVID-19 may have been in LA as early as last December, UCLA-led study suggests

Researchers detected a significant spike in cough and acute respiratory failure cases at UCLA Health facilities between Dec. 2019 and Feb. 2020, exceeding previous year's averages by 1,000. This unexpected increase may indicate early COVID-19 cases in the area.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateSep 10, 2020

Quirky response to magnetism presents quantum physics mystery

Researchers discovered a topological insulator that exhibits two electronic states with opposite spin, but only one responds to magnetism. The findings challenge our understanding of exotic physics and raise questions about the properties of this material.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 10, 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.

Study provides insights on bouncing back from job loss

A new study published in the Journal of Employment Counseling found that high levels of self-regulation predict better well-being, job search clarity, and job search self-efficacy. The findings suggest that employment counseling efforts should help individuals improve their self-regulation to achieve positive outcomes after job loss.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Employment Counseling·DateSep 10, 2020

New machine learning-assisted method rapidly classifies quantum sources

A new machine learning-assisted method has been developed by Purdue University engineers to rapidly preselect solid-state quantum emitters for large-scale integration on chips. This approach significantly speeds up the process, reducing analysis time from minutes to seconds.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAdvanced Quantum Technologies·DateSep 10, 2020

Giant particle accelerator in the sky

Scientists discovered that electrons in Van Allen Radiation Belts are accelerated to extreme high speeds locally, reaching ultra-relativistic energies. This process is extremely efficient and may help understand acceleration processes in the universe.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 10, 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.

Emotion vocabulary reflects state of well-being, study suggests

A study analyzed public blogs and stream-of-consciousness essays to find that individuals with a larger negative emotion vocabulary tend to experience more psychological distress and poorer physical health. Conversely, those with a positive emotion vocabulary report better well-being and physical health.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 10, 2020

FSU-led research team discovers unique supernova explosion

A 100 million light year away, an unusual Type Ia supernova has been observed by a Florida State University led research team. The supernova's slow brightening and unusual characteristics are unlike any other, providing valuable insights into the origins of these powerful explosions.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateSep 10, 2020

Epigenetic changes precede onset of diabetes

Researchers have identified 105 epigenetic changes in blood cells that precede the onset of type 2 diabetes. These changes are associated with altered methylation activity and expression patterns in islets of Langerhans, suggesting a potential diagnostic marker for early detection.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalDiabetes·DateSep 10, 2020

Diamondback moth uses plant defense substances as oviposition cues

A Chinese-German research team identified two olfactory receptors that detect isothiocyanates from cruciferous plants, guiding female diamondback moths to lay eggs on these plants. The discovery offers approaches to control the pest using attractants or chemical agents to interrupt perception of isothiocyanates.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 10, 2020

Correcting COVID-19 misconceptions may require speaking to individuals' moral values

A new study finds that people's prevailing moral values significantly influence their acceptance of correct COVID-19 information. Tailored messaging can address differing moral orientations, such as prioritizing social cohesion or individual freedom. The authors suggest framing messages differently to connect with various moral beliefs.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Researcher·DateSep 10, 2020

Understanding the 'deep-carbon cycle'

Scientists have discovered that a small fraction of carbonate melt is present throughout the Earth's mantle, storing a large mass of carbon. This finding sheds light on seismology and its connection to climate change.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 2020

Artificial intelligence helps cut down on MRI no-shows

Researchers used modest data and basic engineering AI to solve complex MRI appointment no-shows. The study found a 17.2% improvement in no-show rates after implementing phone call reminders for high-risk patients.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateSep 10, 2020

GTEx findings reveal genetic regulatory variation across tissues and cell types

The GTEx resource provides an important tool to address the relationship between genetic variants and gene regulation, with analysis discovering eQTLs and sQTLs for the vast majority of genes. The study details mechanisms of how genetic effects from coding and non-coding regions affect gene expression and splicing regulation.

SourceNew York Genome Center·JournalScience·DateSep 10, 2020

Mutant tomato helps to crack the secrets of fruiting

A study published in PNAS reveals that fruit development rewires the central metabolism pathway in tomatoes via increased sensitivity to gibberellin. The role of this hormone in fruit-setting ovaries was previously unknown and has significant implications for breeding parthenocarpic fruits.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 2020

Structure of 'immortality protein' now better understood

Researchers from Kazan Federal University and Moscow State University studied the Est3 subunit of telomerase, revealing its importance for stabilizing the whole protein complex. The study used NMR spectrometry to understand the spatial structure and interactions of Est3 molecules.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 10, 2020

Does the Mediterranean diet protect against rheumatoid arthritis?

The analysis found that adherence to the Mediterranean diet was associated with a decreased risk of rheumatoid arthritis in women who smoked or used to smoke. Among these individuals, high adherence to the Mediterranean diet resulted in 383 cases per 1 million people per year compared to 515 cases per 1 million people per year.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateSep 10, 2020

A new way to solve thermal maturity of marine shales with high-over maturities

Researchers developed a new technique using Laser Raman spectroscopy to analyze mineral-organic aggregations (MOA) for estimating thermal maturity levels in high and over-mature marine shales. This method provides an alternative solution for evaluating maturity in lower Paleozoic and Precambrian shales with rare organic matter.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateSep 10, 2020

In the line of fire

A recent study by University of Colorado Boulder researchers reveals that humans caused 97% of wildfires in the wildland-urban interface, a fivefold increase from previous estimates. The study also found that human-started wildfires are expensive and account for half of firefighting costs.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalFire·DateSep 10, 2020

The pharmacist's role in HIV care in France

A recent study examined the pharmacist's role in HIV care in France, revealing that only 40% of pharmacists systematically offer online patient medication files to people living with HIV. The survey also found that 7% of those who were offered medication interviews felt well taken care of.

SourceWiley·JournalPharmacology Research & Perspectives·DateSep 10, 2020

The surprising rhythms of Leopards: Females are early birds, males are nocturnal

A study by the University of Copenhagen reveals that female leopards in Tanzania's Udzungwa Mountains are active from early morning to late afternoon, whereas male leopards only hunt at night. This finding contradicts previous assumptions and highlights the need for further research on these majestic predators.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalJournal of Zoology·DateSep 10, 2020

UCLA study shows how interferon-gamma guides response to cancer immunotherapy

A new UCLA study identifies two key drivers of the immune system's attack on cancer cells: T cell infiltration and interferon-gamma signaling. The research found that blocking immune checkpoints amplifies interferon-gamma signaling, leading to enhanced antitumor immune responses.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCancer Cell·DateSep 10, 2020

Americans sick with Covid disproportionately poor, minorities, uninsured and food insecure

A new study reveals the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on working-age adults in the US, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, racial/ethnic minorities, and those with less education. The analysis found that these individuals had high rates of uninsurance and food insecurity, which can exacerbate health harm.

SourcePhysicians for a National Health Program·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateSep 10, 2020

Factors linked to college aspirations, enrollment, and success

A recent study found that high school seniors with a college-going aspirational identity and clear post-secondary educational goals are more likely to attend college. Environmental factors like supportive colleges and financial certainty also play a crucial role in student success.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Counseling & Development·DateSep 10, 2020

Levodopa may improve vision in patients with macular degeneration

Researchers found that levodopa stabilized and improved vision in patients with advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD), reducing the number of treatments necessary. The drug's ability to target the GPR143 receptor led to a decrease in retinal fluid and an improvement in visual acuity.

SourceElsevier·DateSep 10, 2020

Weight stigma predicts emotional distress and binge eating during COVID-19

A study found that weight stigma in young adults predicted higher levels of stress, depressive symptoms, and binge eating during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research also showed that weight stigma was associated with worse health outcomes for both males and females, regardless of their body weight.

SourceUConn Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity·JournalAnnals of Behavioral Medicine·DateSep 10, 2020

Autistic adults have a higher rate of physical health conditions

A new study reveals that autistic individuals are 1.5 to 4.3 times more likely to have chronic physical health conditions, including low blood pressure, arrhythmias, asthma, and prediabetes. Autistic females also face increased risks of these conditions, depending on their biological sex.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAutism·DateSep 10, 2020

Addicted to the sun? Research shows it's in your genes

A study of over 260,000 people found that genetics play a key role in sun-seeking behaviour, making it more challenging to address excessive sun exposure. The research identified five genes linked to behavioural traits associated with risk-taking and addiction.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateSep 10, 2020