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Science News for September 14, 2020


Hitchhiking seeds pose substantial risk of nonnative plant invasions

A recent study found that nonnative plant invasions can occur through hitchhiking seeds on shipping containers, with potential risks to agriculture and native ecosystems. The researchers propose strategies such as liquid pre-emergent herbicide application and inspection for exterior seeds to reduce risk of invasion.

SourceUSDA Forest Service ‑ Southern Research Station·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 14, 2020

Curtin research creates faster, on-site way to detect PFAS

A new on-site detection method for PFAS, developed by Curtin University researchers, allows for immediate and accurate measurement of levels. This method could aid in the removal of persistent environmental pollutants from contaminated lands and waters around the world.

SourceCurtin University·DateSep 14, 2020

Study examines how civil wars affect wildlife populations

A new study reveals that civil wars have a negative impact on native mammal populations, with increased access to automatic weapons and suspension of anti-poaching patrols leading to population collapse. The authors warn that restoring depleted wildlife populations may take many decades and require active intervention efforts.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 14, 2020

New treatments for deadly lung disease could be revealed by 3D modeling

Researchers developed a 3D bioengineered model of lung tissue that showed drugs effective in Petri dish tests did not work in patients, highlighting the need to target other aspects of pulmonary fibrosis. The study used tissue engineering and mechanical cues to understand how fibroblasts drive disease progression.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 14, 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.

CCNY engineer Xi Chen and partners create new shape-changing crystals

Researchers led by CCNY engineer Xi Chen create supramolecular crystals that change shape in response to evaporation, enabling direct observation of water-material interactions at the molecular level. The new crystals have potential applications in energy harvesting, actuators, and artificial muscles.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 14, 2020

Antarctic ice shelf damage and instability

Researchers document rapid acceleration and thinning of Pine Island and Thwaites Glaciers in Antarctica. The growth of damage areas on the ice shelves compromises integrity and drives further disintegration, highlighting the importance of incorporating damage processes into ice sheet models.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020

Hostility linked with higher risk of death after second heart attacks

A recent study published in the European Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing found that heart attack patients who exhibit hostile behavior are at a higher risk of dying from a second heart attack. The study, which included over 2,300 heart attack survivors, suggests that improving hostile behaviors could be a positive move for patients.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing·DateSep 14, 2020

City-dwelling mosquito and malaria risk in Africa

A study suggests that urban mosquito species Anopheles stephensi could spread to dozens of cities across Africa, putting millions at higher risk of contracting malaria. The authors used location data and spatial models to predict the spread of this Asian mosquito species in Africa, identifying 44 highly suitable locations.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 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.

Easing restrictions on abortion pill greatly improved access to care in Canada

A University of British Columbia-led study found that removing restrictions on mifepristone in Canada greatly improved access to abortion care, particularly in rural communities. The research also highlighted the importance of flexible regulations to reduce confusion among healthcare providers.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 14, 2020

Innovative approaches to stabilizing bridges, highway slopes

Researchers are exploring the use of recycled plastic pins to repair deep-seated failures on embankments and areas around highway bridges. The pins provide stabilization and reduce costs by more than 50%, while also testing the feasibility of using just a moisture barrier for slope stabilization.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateSep 14, 2020

Project Phoenix: DNA unlocks a new understanding of coral

Researchers have developed a new genetic tool to classify corals, challenging over 200 years of traditional classification. The study reveals new insights into coral evolution and identification, providing crucial knowledge for conservation efforts and proposal assessment.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateSep 14, 2020

New insight into how muscles and fat cells work together to make you more fit

Researchers found that short-term exercise increases DICER levels in fat cells, enabling muscles to adapt and release fatty acids for energy. This signaling axis between muscle and fat tissue is central to the adaptive response to exercise training.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020

Predicting the slow death of lithium-ion batteries

A new algorithm developed by Stanford University scientists can accurately predict the remaining storage capacity and charge level of lithium-ion batteries in real-time. This innovation has the potential to enable smaller battery packs and greater driving ranges in electric vehicles, reducing costs and environmental impact.

SourceStanford University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Control Systems Technology·DateSep 14, 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.

Smartphones can predict brain function associated with anxiety and depression

A study from Dartmouth College found that passive monitoring of phone usage can mirror activity in the brain linked to traits such as anxiety, with predictions matching fMRI scans at 80% accuracy. Phone data analysis also supported long-term emotional traits and helped eliminate subjectivity in other information-gathering techniques.

SourceDartmouth College·DateSep 14, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Combining two precision medicines can treat drug-resistant cancers

Researchers found a combination of olaparib and capivasertib to be effective against advanced cancers, including those that stopped responding to chemotherapy. The treatment targets two weaknesses in cancer, DNA repair and AKT addiction, offering new hope for patients with drug-resistant cancer.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalCancer Discovery·DateSep 14, 2020

COVID-19 measures deepening health inequalities in slum communities

Measures to control COVID-19 are creating a 'perfect storm' of factors that harm health in slum communities, where crowded conditions and poor sanitation make social distancing challenging. Adopting mobile consulting and upskilling local providers could provide access to healthcare services for residents.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateSep 14, 2020

Women's authorship, open science, and reproducibility

Researchers analyzed nearly 3,000 articles between 2010-2017, finding women's participation grew in high-status positions within open science literature, but declined in reproducibility literature. Open science literature adopted communal and collaborative approaches, improving science.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020

Temperature and mammal lactation

A study on mice and hamsters reveals that high temperatures during lactation lead to decreased pup growth and increased mortality in hamsters. Temperature extremes have a critical effect on rodent parenting success, particularly during late lactation.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 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.

Embryos taking shape via buckling

Researchers from UNIGE have successfully demonstrated that cellular tissues deform through buckling, a phenomenon that could be crucial for understanding embryo development. By recreating the process in vitro and analyzing the mechanical properties of artificial embryos, the team provided quantitative proof of the hypothesis.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateSep 14, 2020

Tandem devices feel the heat

Scientists investigate how perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells perform in sunny and hot environments, finding that the perovskite bandgap gets larger as the device heats up, allowing more stable compositions to be used.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Energy·DateSep 14, 2020

High-risk patients for colorectal cancer lack knowledge about colonoscopy

A study by Florida Atlantic University found that 28.6% of high-risk patients were unaware of the need for repeat colonoscopy or the proper surveillance interval. The researchers emphasize the importance of objective data and clinician sharing findings to improve patient care.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Gastroenterology & Digestive Systems·DateSep 14, 2020

Substance use disorders linked to COVID-19 susceptibility

A National Institutes of Health-funded study found that people with substance use disorders are more susceptible to COVID-19 and its complications. Individuals with a recent SUD diagnosis were more likely to develop COVID-19 and experience worse outcomes than those without an SUD.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateSep 14, 2020

How to harness the power of biosolids to make hydrogen

Researchers at RMIT University have developed a patented technology that harnesses the power of biosolids to produce hydrogen from wastewater, providing a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to existing methods. The approach traps carbon emissions while producing clean fuel, offering a true environmental and economic win.

SourceRMIT University·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateSep 14, 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.

Gene-edited livestock 'surrogate sires' successfully made fertile

Scientists have created pigs, goats, and cattle with the ability to produce sperm carrying only donor animal traits, enabling selective breeding and improving food production. This technology has great potential for genetic conservation of endangered species and addressing global food insecurity.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020

Antarctica: cracks in the ice

Researchers have investigated the emergence and development of cracks in glaciers, revealing a feedback process that accelerates fractures and weakening. This process is key to determining the stability of ice sheets and their contribution to rising sea levels.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 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.

Mediterranean and tropical biodiversity most vulnerable to human pressures

A new study by UCL researchers reveals that animals in tropical and Mediterranean areas are the most sensitive to climate change and land use pressures. The findings suggest that large declines in tropical biodiversity are likely to occur imminently due to agriculture expansions and temperature extremes.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateSep 14, 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.

Twist on CRISPR gene editing treats adult-onset muscular dystrophy in mice

Researchers demonstrate that one dose of RNA-targeting CRISPR-Cas9 gene therapy can nearly completely reverse symptoms in a mouse model of myotonic dystrophy, reducing toxic RNA buildup by over 50%. This approach holds promise for treating other genetic diseases caused by repetitive RNA buildup.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateSep 14, 2020

The expanding aims of high schools in the 21st century

A Boston College study found that 95% of Massachusetts high schools altered their mission statements between 2001 and 2019, with a focus on students' emotional development, cognitive development, and civic development. The research also showed an increase in career preparation and environmental challenges as school objectives.

SourceBoston College·JournalJournal of Education & Social Policy·DateSep 14, 2020

Finding the best way to get COVID-19 test kits where they're needed

A team of researchers at North Carolina State University is developing a computational model to ensure accurate and timely distribution of COVID-19 test kits. The model will be used to address key questions related to COVID-19 testing, including optimal allocation plans for hospitals, clinics, and state agencies.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateSep 14, 2020

Gun laws in neighboring states affect state gun deaths, new evidence

A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that weaker gun laws in neighboring states are associated with increased gun deaths in adjoining states. The researchers analyzed 578,022 firearm deaths over a 17-year period and found that stronger state gun policies were linked to decreased firearm deaths.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateSep 14, 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.

Citizens help scientists demonstrate value of protected areas in biodiversity hotspots

A new study shows that protected areas are effective in conserving rare and threatened bird species, particularly those with small ranges or specialized forest habitats. The research used citizen science data from eBird to analyze over 2.6 million bird observations from 7,000 observers across eight tropical biodiversity hotspots.

SourceCenter for Functional and Evolutionary Ecology (CEFE)·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 14, 2020

Immune cells sculpt circuits in the brain

Researchers found that microglia direct neurons to modify their connectivity in response to visual stimuli, shaping the brain's neural circuits. This discovery sheds light on how sensory experience influences brain maturation and may have implications for neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNeuron·DateSep 14, 2020

Bioactive nano-capsules to hijack cell behavior

Scientists develop nanocapsules loaded with enzymes that can enter cells and integrate into their signaling processes, amplifying natural reactions. The combination of nano-capsules increases cellular reactivity by 8-fold.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 14, 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 pandemic halts cancer care and damages oncologists' wellbeing

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a huge backlog of cancer treatments and research, with delays and cancellations reported across 18 countries. Oncology professionals are also facing burnout and wellbeing damage due to the pandemic's impact on their workload and job performance.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateSep 14, 2020

New study explores if flirting is real and shows it can work

A new study published in the Journal of Sex Research found that internal states, such as romantic or sexual interest, can be conveyed nonverbally through facial expressions. Researchers identified specific facial cues, including a head turn and smile, as representative of flirting, which men are able to recognize with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalThe Journal of Sex Research·DateSep 14, 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.

Doctors get plenty of advice on starting treatment; this could help them know when to stop

A new study provides a framework for guideline developers to offer specific guidance on right-sizing care, including when to start and stop treatments or screening. The recommendations are tailored for adult primary care and aim to reduce unnecessary testing and treatment, improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 14, 2020

Gentle probes could enable massive brain data collection

The Rice University project aims to optimize the use of flexible nanoelectronic thread (NET) probes to record neuronal activity in different brain regions. The biocompatible probes can be implanted in various areas of the brain, enabling researchers to analyze complex patterns of neural dynamics over time.

SourceRice University·DateSep 14, 2020

Neural cartography

Researchers demonstrate a new x-ray microscopy technique called x-ray holographic nano-tomography (XNH) that can image large volumes of brain tissue at high resolutions. This technique, combined with artificial intelligence-driven image analysis, enables the comprehensive cataloging of neurons and tracing of individual neurons from mus...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateSep 14, 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.

Animals' magnetic 'sixth' sense may come from bacteria, new paper suggests

Researchers propose a hypothesis that animals use magnetotactic bacteria in a symbiotic relationship to gain a magnetic sense, which could improve human navigation and inform ecological research. The study found evidence of magnetotactic bacteria associated with various animal species, including sea turtles, birds, and mammals.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateSep 14, 2020

Arctic transitioning to a new climate state

The Arctic has transitioned into a new climate state due to rapid warming, with sea ice extent dropping by 31% since the 1970s. The study found that even unusually cold years will no longer have the same amount of summer sea ice as in the mid-20th century.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalNature Climate Change·DateSep 14, 2020

Certain coping strategies can help offset pandemic's mental health hits

Researchers at Penn State found that certain coping techniques, such as wearing masks and focusing on self-care, were associated with positive mental health outcomes during the pandemic. These strategies, along with protecting oneself from COVID-19 and seeking support, can help bolster mental health.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateSep 14, 2020

Big answers from tiny particles

Physicists develop new theory to explain neutrino properties, solving lepton conservation issues and potential dark matter answers. The research provides predictions testable by the Large Hadron Collider.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalPhysical Review D·DateSep 14, 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.

As domestic violence spikes, many victims and their children have nowhere to live

A Rutgers study found that survivors of domestic violence often struggle to access safe housing and community resources, leading to instability and increased risk of re-victimization. The study's findings emphasize the critical need for supportive services and financial assistance to help families regain independence.

SourceRutgers University·JournalViolence Against Women·DateSep 14, 2020

Novel immune-oncology approach for potential cancer treatment

Researchers have developed an immune-oncology approach that uses nanobodies to target cancer cells and boost the body's natural immune response. The new therapy has shown promise in treating multiple myeloma and acute myeloid leukemia, and could lead to new treatments for a range of cancers.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Cancer·DateSep 14, 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.

Hints of life on Venus

Astronomers have discovered phosphine in the clouds of Venus, leading to speculation about the presence of microbial life. Calculations suggest that terrestrial organisms would need to operate at 10% of their maximum productivity to produce the observed quantity of phosphine.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalNature Astronomy·DateSep 14, 2020

Princeton lab uncovers small fratricidal molecule

Researchers at Princeton University have discovered a small molecule named Streptosactin, which exhibits fratricidal activity in the human microbiome. This is the first time a small molecule has been found to kill its own kind.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 14, 2020

IU researchers trace the outlines of two cultures within science

A study by Indiana University researchers reveals two distinct scientific cultures within the movements of open science and reproducibility. Open science is associated with more prosocial language, increased participation from women and underrepresented groups, and a culture that promotes transparency and collaboration.

SourceIndiana University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 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.

Should we mandate a COVID-19 vaccine for children?

The article examines the evidence for vaccinating children against COVID-19, highlighting both benefits and drawbacks. Experts consider factors such as vaccine efficacy, side effects, and long-term health implications in making their case for or against mandates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 14, 2020

Fighting breast cancer with nanotech, immunotherapy

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University are developing a novel technique using nanotechnology to wake up 'cold' tumors, allowing immune cells to locate and neutralize them. The approach aims to improve treatment outcomes for metastatic breast cancer patients by combining nanotechnology with immunotherapy.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateSep 14, 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.

The road to cheaper electric vehicles

UD Prof. Koffi Pierre Yao receives a $1 million grant to create a next-generation battery that will power devices longer, making them more affordable and accessible. The new anode material can store up to 10 times the energy of current batteries.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateSep 14, 2020

New study from MD Anderson and BridgeBio's Navire Pharma shows SHP2 inhibition overcomes multiple therapeutic-resistance mechanisms in lung cancer

A preclinical study from MD Anderson and BridgeBio's Navire Pharma shows that SHP2 inhibition can overcome osimertinib resistance in lung cancer. The study found that IACS-13909 suppressed tumor cell proliferation and caused tumor regression in various activated kinase-driven models.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 14, 2020

Expansion of rice agriculture in Southeast Asia

The study found that paddy rice farming and grasses increased significantly between 2,700 and 2,000 years ago, indicating anthropogenic deforestation and expansion of rice agriculture in southern China and Southeast Asia. Over the past 3,000 years, coastal landscapes expanded coinciding with suitable land for growing rice.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020

COVID-19 patients with sleep apnoea could be at additional risk

A new study from the University of Warwick reveals that individuals diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnoea may be at higher risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes. The review of eighteen studies highlights the need for better recording and management of the condition, which is estimated to affect up to 85% of people in the UK.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalSleep Medicine Reviews·DateSep 14, 2020

Some but not all US metro areas could grow all needed food locally, estimates study

A study by Tufts University researchers estimates that some but not all US metro areas could grow all the food they need locally, based on population, geography, and diet. The modeling study suggests that reducing animal products in the diet can increase the potential to produce sufficient food for a metro area.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateSep 14, 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.

How the brain creates the experience of time

A new study from JNeurosci found that time-sensitive neurons in the supramarginal gyrus fatigue and distort our subjective experience of time. When repeatedly exposed to a fixed duration stimulus, these neurons wear out, leading to skewed perceptions of time.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateSep 14, 2020

Structure of ATPase, the world's smallest turbine, solved

Researchers have solved the structure of F1Fo ATP synthase, shedding light on its rotation mechanism and permeability transition pore formation. The fully resolved structure reveals the c-ring is plugged by two lipids, one from each side of the membrane.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateSep 14, 2020

NIH augments large scale study of Alzheimer's disease biomarkers

The NIH has augmented the Health and Aging Brain Among Latino Elders (HABLE) Study to include additional biomarkers, including positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, to better understand Alzheimer's disease in Mexican Americans. The study will help identify health disparities and potential treatments for the condition.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·DateSep 14, 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.

Facebook anniversaries inspire reflection, nostalgia

A new study from Cornell University finds that Facebook anniversaries, like birthdays, prompt users to reflect on time and patterns in their lives. This tradition stems from newspapers' 'on this date' lists, which encourage people to put time into perspective by remembering significant events.

SourceCornell University·JournalNew Media & Society·DateSep 14, 2020

Researchers create morphing crystals powered by water evaporation

Scientists at CUNY ASRC develop morphing crystals that convert water evaporation into powerful motions, offering a clean source of energy for mechanical devices. The materials are biocompatible, biodegradable, and cost-effective, with potential applications in robotics and micro-machines.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 14, 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.

Guidance balances staph infection prevention in critically ill infants with family contact

A new white paper from the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America provides targeted screening and decolonization strategies to prevent Staphylococcus aureus infections in critically ill infants. The guidance balances infection prevention with the need for skin-to-skin contact with parents and siblings.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateSep 14, 2020

Virtual reality trains public to reverse opioid overdoses

Researchers developed a virtual reality training program to educate the public on administering naloxone, reversing opioid overdoses. The 9-minute VR training was found to be just as effective as an in-person training in increasing knowledge and confidence among participants.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateSep 14, 2020

Imaging agent developed at Washington University spotlights inflammation

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have developed an experimental imaging agent called Galuminox that detects inflammation via positron-emission tomography (PET) scans. The agent has shown promise in imaging inflammation in the lungs of mice with acute lung injury, and its potential uses include cancer treatment an...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalRedox Biology·DateSep 14, 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.

Magnetic field with the edge!

A team of Indian and Japanese physicists have overturned the six-decade old notion that giant magnetic fields in plasma evolve from small scales. Instead, they originate at macroscopic scales defined by the boundaries of electron beams, leading to a new understanding of magnetic fields in astrophysical scenarios and laser fusion.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateSep 14, 2020

Carbon reduction and REDD+ projects

Researchers analyzed 12 voluntary REDD+ projects in the Brazilian Amazon and found that they overestimated reduction of deforestation and carbon emissions. Decreasing deforestation trends during early stages of REDD+ projects may explain why these projects resulted in less avoided deforestation than expected.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020

You can train your brain to reduce motion sickness

Researchers at the University of Warwick have developed a training tool to reduce motion sickness susceptibility by over 50% using visuospatial exercises. This method has shown promise in both driving simulators and on-road experimentation, with potential applications in autonomous vehicles and other domains.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalApplied Ergonomics·DateSep 14, 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.

Touch-and-know: Brain activity during tactile stimuli reveals hand preferences in people

Researchers distinguish between brain activities of right-handers and left-handers using functional near-infrared spectroscopy, revealing asymmetry in response to passive touch stimulations. The study may have implications for brain-computer interfaces, rehabilitation robotics, and cognitive enhancement treatments.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 14, 2020

Which immune response could cause a vaccine against COVID-19?

Researchers at Sechenov University study immune reactions to develop an effective vaccine against SARS-CoV-2. The key finding is that vaccines should induce high-affinity neutralizing antibodies targeting ACE2, while avoiding eosinophilic complications.

SourceSechenov University·JournalInternational Archives of Allergy and Immunology·DateSep 14, 2020

The intricate protein architecture linked to disease

Researchers at the University of Leeds have visualised the structure of amylin fibrils, a key player in type 2 diabetes, and discovered an intricate architecture that makes some sequences more prone to aggregation. This finding suggests a potential explanation for the rapid onset of disease in individuals with early-onset type 2 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateSep 14, 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.

Reducing nitrogen with boron and beer

Researchers from the University of Würzburg have developed a method to convert nitrogen to ammonium at room temperature without using transition metals. The key to this process is the use of boron and water, which enables sequential reactions that bring the team close to producing ammonia.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 14, 2020

Light processing improves robotic sensing, study finds

Researchers discovered how the brain processes bright and contrasting light, enabling robots to team with humans. The study's findings reveal principles that can guide modeling toward correct mechanisms for reconstructing 3D shape in real-world luminance.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalJournal of Vision·DateSep 14, 2020

Tiny antibody component highly effective against SARS-COV-2 in animal studies

Researchers at University of Pittsburgh isolated the smallest biological molecule to date that neutralizes SARS-CoV-2. The tiny antibody component, known as Ab8, is 10 times smaller than a full-sized antibody and has been shown to be highly effective in preventing and treating SARS-COV-2 infection in mice and hamsters.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCell·DateSep 14, 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.

UofL receives $11.5 million to advance cancer immunotherapies

The University of Louisville will establish a Center for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy to develop and improve cancer treatments that utilize the immune system. Researchers will focus on advancing strategies to use the immune response to fight cancer, with the goal of saving lives through immunotherapies.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·DateSep 14, 2020

Turmeric supplement more effective than placebo for osteoarthritis knee pain

A randomized, double-blind trial found that turmeric supplements were more effective in reducing knee pain in patients with osteoarthritis compared to a placebo. The study also showed no adverse events and reduced medication usage, but highlighted the need for larger, longer-term trials.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 14, 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.

Genetic factors in chronic versus episodic migraine

Researchers found genetic markers protecting against migraines' chronification, enabling personalized prevention therapies for at-risk individuals. The study identified polymorphisms in the pain receptor TRPV1, which may help detect those prone to chronic migraine.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalJournal of Molecular Neuroscience·DateSep 14, 2020

Immune system affects mind and body, study indicates

Researchers found that immune cells surrounding the brain produce a molecule called IL-17, which is then absorbed by neurons and appears to be necessary for normal behavior. The findings suggest that elements of the immune system affect both mind and body.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Immunology·DateSep 14, 2020

Cool eyes on fever screening: Optimizing infrared thermography

Researchers found that full-face readings provide greater accuracy than targeting only the inner canthi region for fever screening with IRTs. The study evaluated over 500 individuals and reported excellent IRT performance with clear correlations to oral temperature baseline data.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateSep 14, 2020

Shining a light on disordered and fractal systems

The team used terahertz-frequency light to probe the vibrational modes of lysozyme, discovering that its glassy and fractal nature explains the anomalously large vibrations. The study may lead to improvements in industrial glass manufacturing by understanding disordered materials.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalPhysical Review E·DateSep 14, 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.

Estimating population without census surveys

A Bayesian modeling framework can estimate population in each 100-m grid cell with an overall error rate of 67 people per hectare. This approach may be suitable for conflict-affected or remote areas where regular census surveys are not feasible.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020

Solitary tortoises orient toward faces

Newly hatched tortoises preferentially orient toward face-like representations, which may be an evolutionary leftover from a common ancestor of mammals, birds, and reptiles. This exploratory behavior could play a role in learning and development.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020

Transplantation of sperm-producing stem cells

Researchers used CRISPR-Cas9 to remove endogenous germline in recipients, allowing for donor-derived spermatogenesis. The approach shows promise for improving livestock and conserving endangered species.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020

Possible marker of life spotted on venus

A team of international researchers has detected phosphine gas in Venus' clouds, a potential biosignature indicative of life. The finding is significant as it rules out natural non-biological processes that could produce the same amount of phosphine.

SourceESO·JournalNature Astronomy·DateSep 14, 2020

Smart virus

Researchers at HSE University have discovered microRNA molecules that can bind to coronavirus genomes, slowing down their replication and potentially allowing the virus to delay an active immune response. The study found four families of human miRNAs with binding sites for all seven types of human coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalPeerJ·DateSep 14, 2020

A warm Jupiter orbiting a cool star

Astronomers have detected a Jupiter-sized planet, TOI-1899 b, orbiting a low-mass star, providing insights into the formation of giant planets. The discovery was made possible by the Habitable-zone Planet Finder spectrograph and offers a unique opportunity to study the properties of warm Jupiters.

SourcePenn State·DateSep 14, 2020

Facebook political ads more partisan, less negative than TV

A study published in American Political Science Review found that Facebook political ads were more partisan and less negative than TV ads in the 2018 campaign season. Social media was a more practical option for many candidates due to its affordability, with nearly 6,000 candidates using only Facebook ads.

SourceWashington State University·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·DateSep 14, 2020

Peruvian Amazonian shaman rose to power in early 20th century

In the early 20th century, José Carlos Amaringo Chico rose to power as an Ashaninka shaman-chief, driven by his unwavering belief in transformation and immortality. He took a strong anti-slavery stance, fueling social liberation movements and achieving a peaceful transition with Seventh Day Adventist missionaries.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·DateSep 14, 2020

No benefit from drug used to reduce heart disease in kidney patients

A large-scale clinical trial has shown that lanthanum carbonate does not reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease developing in patients with chronic kidney disease. High phosphate levels are a common problem in kidney disease and linked to cardiovascular disease, but the study found no benefit from the medication.

SourceTranslational Research Institute·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 14, 2020

How do giraffes and elephants alter the African Savanna landscape?

Scientists studied giraffe and elephant foraging patterns in Kenyan savannas to understand how megaherbivores impact vegetation. They found that these animals prefer flat ground while feeding, leading to reduced damage on Acacia mellifera trees on steep slopes.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalBiotropica·DateSep 14, 2020

On the road to conductors of the future

Scientists have introduced a new finding about hydrogen sulfide, producing superconducting structures at relatively high temperatures. The discovery uses stoichiometric H3S produced by heating elemental sulfur with excess hydrogen under pressure.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 14, 2020

DNA webs may drive lung pathology in severe COVID-19

Studies published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine found that sticky webs of DNA released from immune cells cause much of the tissue damage associated with severe COVID-19. Blocking the release of these DNA webs could be a new therapeutic target for managing severe forms of the disease.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 14, 2020

DNA damage caused by migrating light energy

A team of researchers at KIT demonstrated that DNA damage can occur up to 30 DNA building blocks away from the entry point of UV radiation. This finding has significant implications for understanding DNA photodamage and its role in skin cancer.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateSep 14, 2020

Boston University researchers to develop new breast tumor models

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine aim to create new breast tumor models that represent women with comorbidities like diabetes, which can lead to improved outcomes in survival. The project's goal is to address the unmet clinical need for better treatment options for these patients.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateSep 14, 2020

Painless paper patch test for glucose levels uses microneedles

Researchers have developed a painless and biodegradable patch using microneedles to diagnose conditions like prediabetes. The patch combines porous microneedles with paper-based sensors for accurate glucose monitoring.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalMedical Devices & Sensors·DateSep 14, 2020

Single atom-thin platinum makes a great chemical sensor

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new material that can detect toxic gases with high sensitivity. The single-atom thin platinum layer interacts significantly with its chemical environment, making it suitable for ultra-sensitive detection.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateSep 14, 2020