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Science News for September 11, 2020


Stronger bones thanks to heat and microbiota

Researchers found exposure to warmer temperatures improves bone strength, preventing bone density loss typical of osteoporosis. The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in this phenomenon, adapting to heat by disrupting polyamine synthesis and degradation, which affects osteoblasts and osteoclasts.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 11, 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.

How plants ensure regular seed spacing

Researchers have identified a uniform genetic mechanism controlling seed position in plant pods, regardless of environmental factors. The study found that a specific peptide pair coordinates ovule initiation patterns with seed number and fruit size, leading to even spacing and optimal growth.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 11, 2020

Buschmann and Ross receive funding for capstone project design

Researchers at George Mason University are developing a senior-year capstone course and summer clinical immersion program to integrate nursing and health informatics students into Bioengineering Design teams. The program aims to apply the new curriculum in real-world clinical contexts, addressing newly identified clinical needs.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateSep 11, 2020

Climate change recasts the insect communities of the Arctic

Researchers found climate change impacts parasitoid wasps and flies, altering ratios between warm- and cold-adapted species. This study provides insights into how global warming affects ecosystems, increasing understanding of ecology and potential solutions.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateSep 11, 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.

Researchers discover gene that could decrease likelihood of developing alcoholic cirrhosis

A new study published in Hepatology has identified a gene, Fas Associated Factor Family Member 2 (FAF2), that may reduce the risk of developing alcoholic cirrhosis. The researchers found that this gene is involved in lipid droplet organization pathway and is linked to other genes that increase the likelihood of liver disease.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalHepatology·DateSep 11, 2020

Depression risk detected by measuring heart rate changes

A pilot study found that measuring 24-hour heart rate can reliably indicate whether someone is depressed, providing an early warning and rapid indication of treatment effectiveness. The study also identified a link between heart rate variability and response to ketamine treatment.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateSep 11, 2020

Heated rivalries for pollinators among arctic plants

Warmer temperatures cause Arctic plants to compete for pollinators, with the most attractive species monopolizing services. Researchers found that Avens and Moss Campion experience altered flowering periods due to temperature changes, impacting competition and pollination success.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateSep 11, 2020

Middle-aged individuals may be in a perpetual state of H3N2 flu virus susceptibility

Researchers found that middle-aged individuals have different H3N2 flu virus antibody specificities, which can leave them more susceptible to infection. Early childhood infections can elicit strong, long-lasting memory immune responses, but these may not be effective against newer strains of the virus.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 11, 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.

To recreate ancient recipes, check out the vestiges of clay pots

A study has discovered that unglazed ceramic cookware can retain the residue of not just the last meal cooked, but potentially earlier dishes, allowing for the reconstruction of ancient recipes. The research team analyzed chemical compounds adhering to and absorbed by the earthenware in which they were prepared.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 11, 2020

Factors associated with suicide risk after leaving military service

A recent observational study found that US veterans who transitioned from active military service to civilian life were at a higher risk of suicide, with depression and PTSD being key factors. The study also identified other demographic and military service characteristics associated with increased suicide risk.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 11, 2020

Galapagos guides to 'barcode' wildlife

The 'Barcoding Galapagos' scheme trains naturalist guides to survey wildlife and plants using genetic techniques, providing an alternative income source for a population reliant on eco-tourism. The project aims to fill gaps in biological knowledge of the islands and lessen the impact of illegal harvesting.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateSep 11, 2020

COIVD-19: A barometer for social justice in New York City

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated public health-related inequities among people of color in the US, particularly in NYC. A tracking survey revealed disparities in access to healthcare, employment, housing, food, and education among Black and Latinx New Yorkers.

SourceCUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateSep 11, 2020

Carbon-rich exoplanets may be made of diamonds

A team of researchers from Arizona State University and the University of Chicago found that carbon-rich exoplanets could convert to diamond and silicate under high heat and pressure. However, these planets are unlikely to be habitable due to their geological inactivity.

SourceArizona State University·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·DateSep 11, 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.

How does chronic stress induce bone loss?

A central neural circuit in the forebrain to the hypothalamus mediates chronic stress-induced bone loss via the peripheral sympathetic nervous system. Isolation significantly increases anxiety levels, inducing bone loss in human subjects.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 11, 2020

Researchers find cuttlebone's microstructure sits at a 'sweet spot'

Cuttlebone's unique chambered 'wall-septa' design optimizes weight, stiffness, and damage tolerance, allowing for controlled failure and energy absorption. The structure's wavy walls induce fractures at the middle of walls, limiting external impact.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 11, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A phonon laser - coherent vibrations from a self-breathing resonator

Researchers develop novel approach for efficient generation of coherent vibrations using semiconductor structures. The phonon laser operates in the tens of GHz range and is based on Einstein's predictions for Bose-Einstein condensates of coupled light-matter particles.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 11, 2020

Massive-scale genomic study reveals wheat diversity for crop improvement

A massive-scale genotyping and diversity analysis of wheat has identified untapped valuable variation for breeding high-yielding, resilient and nutritious varieties. The study found that relatively little of the genetic diversity available in landraces has been used in modern breeding.

SourceInternational Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT)·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 11, 2020

Get diamonds, take temperature

Researchers from Osaka City University developed a microscope-based thermometer that uses quantum technology to detect temperature changes in live, microscopic animals. The thermometry algorithm successfully tracked temperature fluctuations in C. elegans nematode worms after inducing a fever by stimulating their mitochondria.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 11, 2020

Novel virus-based colorimetric sensor can show true colors of airborne threats

Scientists developed a novel colorimetric sensor using genetically engineered viruses to detect airborne chemicals, showing practical applicability. The sensor's high sensitivity and mass-producibility hold promise for various real-life applications, including detecting harmful industrial chemicals and assessing air quality.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateSep 11, 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.

Harvard team uses laser to cool polyatomic molecule

A Harvard team has successfully cooled a six-atom molecule to just above absolute zero using laser light, marking the first time such a complex molecule has been achieved. The breakthrough opens up new avenues of study in quantum simulation and computation, particle physics, and quantum chemistry.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateSep 11, 2020

Trout don't follow the weather forecast

A UC study found that steelhead migration in California's Santa Clara River is triggered by the lengthening daylight of spring, not recent rains. The study recommends limiting water extraction during migration months to allow late migrating fish to return upstream.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNorth American Journal of Fisheries Management·DateSep 11, 2020

Relaxed through pregnancy

A study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that mothers' ability to cope with stress during pregnancy is positively correlated with their children's telomere length. This suggests that maternal psychological resilience may have a protective effect on child development and lifelong health.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 11, 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.

Feeding off fusion or the immortalization of tumor cells

Researchers found that Brat tumors in Drosophila are highly oxidative, with increased oxygen consumption rates compared to normal brains. Oxidative metabolism plays a key role in tumor cell immortalization, driven by mitochondrial fusion and increased efficiency in oxidative phosphorylation.

SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalCell·DateSep 11, 2020

New immunotherapy to beat cancer

Researchers at Université catholique de Louvain have discovered a molecule that blocks immune responses in cancer patients, and are now developing an immunotherapy to neutralize it. The treatment combines anti-GARP antibodies with another proven approach to increase effectiveness in fighting cancer.

SourceUniversité catholique de Louvain·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 11, 2020

Researchers develop rapid test for ovarian cancer detection

Researchers at the University of Turku developed a rapid point-of-care diagnostic test to detect ovarian cancer from blood samples in 30 minutes. The new test shows improved sensitivity and accuracy compared to conventional CA125 diagnostics.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalCommunications Biology·DateSep 11, 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.

Holding up a mirror to a dark matter discrepancy

A new study by Yale astrophysicist Priyamvada Natarajan and colleagues found that the smaller dollops of dark matter associated with cluster galaxies are significantly more concentrated than predicted by theorists. The discovery implies a possible gap in scientists' understanding of dark matter.

SourceYale University·JournalScience·DateSep 11, 2020

Lab-on-paper strip: Small, inexpensive platform for diagnosing tropical fevers

A team of scientists has developed LAMDA, a compact lab-on-paper strip that can diagnose mosquito-borne diseases in under an hour. The device uses Loop-mediated isothermal amplification to detect viral RNA and has great potential for resource-limited clinics and point-of-care diagnostics.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateSep 11, 2020

NASA satellite finds a wedge-shaped Tropical Storm Paulette

Tropical Storm Paulette's unique shape is attributed to the strong southwesterly wind shear affecting it and its companion storm, Rene. Infrared imagery reveals powerful thunderstorms with cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 11, 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.

Site of male sexual desire uncovered in brain

A Northwestern University study has identified the specific regions of brain tissue where a key gene named aromatase regulates male sexual behavior in mice. Aromatase converts testosterone to estrogen, driving male sexual activity. The discovery could lead to new treatments for disorders of low and compulsive sexual desire.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalEndocrinology·DateSep 11, 2020

Creating diamond devices to detect Parkinson's early

A team led by Michigan State University is developing diamond devices to monitor brain biochemistry for early warning signs of Parkinson's disease. The devices aim to detect low levels of dopamine, a chemical neurons use to communicate, and could potentially treat the disease earlier.

SourceMichigan State University·DateSep 11, 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.

Novel discovery challenges a current kidney cancer paradigm

Researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute discovered that HIF-1α is linked to aggressive tumors, metastasis, and poor patient survival, while HIF-2α is associated with less aggressive tumors and better outcomes. The study suggests a potential new paradigm for understanding kidney cancer.

SourceHuntsman Cancer Institute·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateSep 11, 2020

Antibody test developed for COVID-19 that is sensitive, specific and scalable

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed an antibody test for COVID-19 that is highly accurate and can handle a large number of donor samples. The test measures antibodies against specific proteins on the virus's spike protein and has been shown to be comparable to the gold standard of antibody testing.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 11, 2020

Pandemic spawns 'infodemic' in scientific literature

The rapid expansion of COVID-19 research has led to an infodemic in scientific literature, underscoring the need for more accessible and transparent research publication. Experts propose combining human expertise with AI to summarize and collect research, while curating findings to ensure relevant and reliable information.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalPatterns·DateSep 11, 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.

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers from Stanford University and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health propose a new method to accurately estimate COVID-19 mortality rates by measuring direct, indirect, and excess deaths. This approach could provide a more accurate picture of the pandemic's impact on human life.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 11, 2020

Taste buds may play role in fostering obesity in offspring

A mother's high-fat diet during pregnancy may alter the taste buds of her offspring, leading to a greater attraction to unhealthy food and obesity in adulthood. The study found that adult progeny fed with such a diet had more sweet-taste receptors inside their taste buds.

SourceCornell University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 11, 2020

More than 90% of protected areas are disconnected

A new study reveals that more than 90% of protected areas are isolated from each other due to human activities. This disconnects species from their habitats, making it difficult for them to migrate, escape danger, or track preferred microclimates under climate change.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 11, 2020

Veterinary college team IDs gene that drives ovarian cancer

Scientists at Cornell University's veterinary college have identified the genetic drivers of ovarian cancer, a deadly disease that kills more women than any other cancer. The study reveals that ovarian surface stem cells are more susceptible to mutations, while certain genes can inhibit cancer initiation.

SourceCornell University·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 11, 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.

Shedding light on coral reefs

A study published in Coral Reefs finds that materials in seawater affect light availability and wavelength on coral reefs, impacting photosynthesis and ecological zonation. Researchers used an instrument called a profiling reflectance radiometer to collect data profiles across Hawaiian and Bermudian reefs.

SourceBermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences·JournalCoral Reefs·DateSep 11, 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.

Ammonium triggers formation of lateral roots

The study reveals that ammonium uptake by roots provokes pH changes that bring auxin into a protonated form, triggering lateral root emergence. This process allows plants to adapt to fluctuating nutrient availabilities and optimize nutrient acquisition in agricultural settings.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalNature Plants·DateSep 11, 2020

Are male genes from Mars, female genes from Venus?

Research highlights sex differences in gene expression, finding over a third of genes display sex-biased expression in at least one tissue. Sex-linked disparities contribute to increased cancer rates in males and autoimmune disorders in females.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience·DateSep 11, 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.

COVID ventilator patients can have permanent nerve damage

A new study from Northwestern University finds that COVID-19 patients on ventilators are at risk of permanent nerve damage due to prone positioning. The study reveals that 12% to 15% of the most severely ill patients have experienced such injuries.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalBritish Journal of Anaesthesia·DateSep 11, 2020

US democratic indicators plummet amid racial justice protests and pandemic

The latest Bright Line Watch analysis reveals a significant decline in US democracy's performance on various principles, with substantial drops in government protection for peaceful protests, prevention of political violence, and free speech. Experts rate the US as performing poorly on dimensions associated with civility and behavior.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·DateSep 11, 2020

Halving the risk of infection following surgery

Researchers found that using CHG halves the risk of infection in certain types of surgery compared to povidone-iodine (PVI), with significant implications for global healthcare. The study, published in Annals of Surgery, suggests a simple switch could reduce infections and improve patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateSep 11, 2020

Computational modelling explains why blues and greens are brightest colous in nature

Researchers from the University of Cambridge used numerical experimentation to determine the limits of matt structural colour in the visible spectrum. They found that saturated, pure colors like reds, yellows, and oranges are difficult to recreate using this method, with blues and greens being the most feasible options.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 11, 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.

Phone calls create stronger bonds than text-based communications

A study from the University of Texas at Austin found that people form a significantly stronger bond with others through voice-based media, rather than text-based communication. The research revealed that despite initial fears of awkwardness, phone calls actually took less time and produced more meaningful connections.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·DateSep 11, 2020

Researchers identify role of protein in development of new hearing hair cells

A study by University of Maryland School of Medicine researchers identified GFI1 as a vital protein in the development of functioning adult hair cells. In its absence, embryonic cells were likely to develop into neuron-like cells. The findings could lead to new methods for regenerating lost hair cells and restoring hearing.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalDevelopment·DateSep 11, 2020

European ReIReS network launches online database for religious studies

The European ReIReS network has launched an online database offering improved access to research material and sources on Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The database combines the rich collections of various European institutions, providing a single platform for researchers to search and reuse data.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateSep 11, 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.

New molecule to repair and restore brain and spinal cord function

Researchers created a synthetic 'molecular bridge' to restore lost connections in the spinal cord and brain of mice with neurological disorders. The molecule, called CPTX, has shown promise in repairing neuronal connections and improving motor performance in animal models.

SourceUK Research and Innovation·JournalScience·DateSep 11, 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.