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Science News for September 22, 2020


What have we learned from COVID-19 in persons with type 1 diabetes?

People with type 1 diabetes are at higher risk of severe COVID-19 clinical outcomes, especially older individuals with longer disease duration and worse glucose control. However, young people with or without diabetes are coping better with the infection, likely due to differences in anatomy, epidemiology, and gene expressions.

SourceDiabetologia·DateSep 22, 2020

Exercise before menopause is important to optimise health in later years

A new study published in the Journal of Physiology found that exercising before menopause is crucial for women to develop blood vessels in muscles and improve muscle strength. The research revealed that capillaries in skeletal muscle are essential for physical capacity, health, and insulin sensitivity, which can lead to Type II diabetes.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateSep 22, 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.

'Cheater mitochondria' may profit from cellular stress coping mechanisms

A recent study published in eLife reveals that cheater mitochondria can thrive in simple worms by exploiting cellular stress coping mechanisms. This finding sheds light on the evolution of cheating and cooperative behaviors within organisms, suggesting that competing selection pressures may promote group-level tolerance to cheating.

SourceeLife·DateSep 22, 2020

NIST scientists get soft on 3D printing

Researchers at NIST create complex structures with nanometer-scale precision using a new 3D-printing method, enabling the production of tiny medical devices such as flexible electrodes. The technique uses electron beams or X-rays to initiate gel formation, allowing for finer structural detail than traditional methods.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 22, 2020

Black and Hispanic people in US face increased risk of testing positive for coronavirus

A recent study published in PLOS Medicine found that individuals from Black and Hispanic backgrounds in the US are twice as likely to test positive for COVID-19 than their White counterparts. Despite this higher risk, there was no significant difference in mortality rates among those who tested positive across racial and ethnic groups....

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 22, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Dresden physicists develop printable organic transistors

Researchers at Technische Universitßt Dresden have successfully developed printable organic transistors with high switching frequencies and adjustable threshold voltages. These breakthrough devices can be used to create complex logic circuits and enable flexible electronic applications such as RFID and high-resolution displays

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 22, 2020

Water on exoplanet cloud tops could be found with hi-tech instrumentation

Researchers demonstrate that high-resolution spectroscopy can detect water vapour and other chemicals in the atmospheres of exoplanets behind dense clouds. Models based on known exoplanets with clouds show promise for detecting trace species with just a few nights of observations.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 22, 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.

Self-harm content on Instagram: "self-harm or self-help?"

A study found that Instagram users posting self-harm content use ambiguous hashtags to avoid detection, creating online communities for those seeking support. The prevalence and impact of such content remain unknown, with some research suggesting potential benefits from supportive interactions and others highlighting risks of normaliza...

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 22, 2020

Study shows light therapy is safe and may benefit patients with TBI

A pioneering study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers found light therapy to be safe and measurable in the brain, showing promise as a treatment for TBI. The study included 68 patients with moderate traumatic brain injury and found statistically significant differences in myelin integrity surrounding neurons.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 22, 2020

NASA sees rebirth of Tropical Storm Paulette

Tropical Storm Paulette reformed in the central North Atlantic Ocean, with estimated rainfall rates of up to 5mm per hour. NASA's IMERG satellite product provided near-real-time rainfall estimates, showing the storm's intensification and potential impact on the region.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 22, 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.

Children and schools during the COVID-19 pandemic: do school closures help?

A review of evidence suggests that school closures may have negative consequences on children's mental health and limited effectiveness in preventing transmission. Experts recommend balancing pros and cons of reopening strategies, taking into account psychological, educational, and social consequences.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateSep 22, 2020

Living in an anoxic world: Microbes using arsenic are a link to early life

Researchers found evidence of arsenic-based photosynthesis in deep time, providing insight into early life's metabolic processes. The discovery of an active microbial mat in the Atacama Desert suggests that life may have used arsenic instead of oxygen for energy in ancient times.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateSep 22, 2020

Remembrance of waves past: memory imprints motion on scattered waves

Researchers have discovered a memory effect that dramatically alters the Doppler wave signature in scattered waves. This effect, which appears in both relativistic and classical regimes, is influenced by memories of prior wave interactions, resulting in asymmetric peaks in the scattered spectrum.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateSep 22, 2020

Resuming sexual activity soon after heart attack linked with improved survival

A recent study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that resuming sexual activity within months after a heart attack is positively associated with long-term survival. Maintaining or increasing sexual frequency was linked to a 35% lower risk of death compared to abstaining.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateSep 22, 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.

Complications from diabetes linked to worse memory, IQ in children

A study led by UC Davis Health researchers found that diabetic ketoacidosis is associated with cognitive problems in children, including lower long-term memory and IQ. The study also showed that repeated episodes of DKA can lead to worsening cognitive deficits over time.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalDiabetes Care·DateSep 22, 2020

Announcing the 2020 Excellence in Institutional Writing Award winners

The National Association of Science Writers has honored the winners of the 2020 Excellence in Institutional Writing Awards for their exceptional science writing. Miles Hatfield from NASA won in the long-form category with 'A Shot in the Dark: Chasing the Aurora From the World's Northernmost Rocket Range.' Marshall from the University o...

SourceNational Association of Science Writers·DateSep 22, 2020

New approach to test integrity of Texas bridges

A new approach to evaluating bridge strength and remaining life is being developed by a University of Texas at Arlington engineer, combining non-destructive evaluation (NDE) techniques with computer modeling and full-scale load testing. The method aims to prioritize repairs without closing roads.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateSep 22, 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.

Muslims, atheists more likely to face religious discrimination in US

A study by the University of Washington found that US public schools display bias towards Muslim and atheist students, with a 5-13% lower response rate compared to Christian students. The researchers suggest that this bias may stem from perceived costs associated with accommodating religious needs.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalPublic Administration Review·DateSep 22, 2020

Wildfire smoke more dangerous than other air pollutants for asthma patients

A new study found that wildfire smoke leads to a 6.1% increase in medical visits for asthma patients compared to days with similar pollution levels from other sources. The research team suggests that wildfire PM is more hazardous than non-wildfire PM for asthma patients, likely due to differences in chemical composition or human behavior.

SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateSep 22, 2020

Deep learning helps explore the structural and strategic bases of autism?

Researchers from KAIST applied deep learning techniques to identify abnormal brain structures associated with autism. These findings suggest AI can aid in more consistent diagnoses than human observations alone. The analysis tool provides a prognosis of how the condition could develop.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalIEEE Access·DateSep 22, 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.

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers developed a decision tool called the COVID-19 Inpatient Risk Calculator (CIRC) to predict disease trajectory in patients. Older age and obesity are identified as independent risk factors for progression to severe disease or death, according to findings published in Annals of Internal Medicine.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 22, 2020

NIH expands clinical trials to test convalescent plasma against COVID-19

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is expanding two randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of convalescent plasma as a treatment for patients hospitalized with COVID-19. The trials aim to assess clinical improvement measures and resource needs, such as ventilators.

SourceNIH/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)·DateSep 22, 2020

When painting reveals increases in social trust

Facial displays of trustworthiness increased in European portraits between the fourteenth and twenty-first centuries, closely following rising living standards. The study used face-processing software on over 6,000 portraits to validate its findings.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 22, 2020

Global survey suggests patients most with type 1 diabetes that have adapted to remote medical appointments would continue this post COVID-19 pandemic

A global survey of over 7,000 patients with type 1 diabetes found that three-quarters would continue using online or telephone appointments with their doctors. Glucose control was positively associated with a positive perception of telemedicine, and age and education level did not appear to influence perceptions.

SourceDiabetologia·DateSep 22, 2020

UIC mental health research center gets $4 million

A University of Illinois Chicago team has been awarded over $4 million to establish a research center focusing on the health and function of people with serious mental illness. The center will test interventions to help patients access medical care, learn illness self-management strategies, and rebuild their lives.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateSep 22, 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.

Can ripples on the sun help predict solar flares?

Scientists have found that part of the acoustic energy released from a solar flare emanated from about 1,000 kilometers beneath the solar surface, suggesting that flares can create seismic activity. This discovery may lead to the development of a new method to forecast the size and severity of solar flares.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateSep 22, 2020

"New" lactic acid bacteria can make African camel milk safe

Researchers at Technical University of Denmark have isolated new strains of lactic acid bacteria that can increase the safety of fermented camel milk products. The bacteria can kill off disease-causing microorganisms such as E.coli and salmonella, making the milk safer for consumption.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalInternational Dairy Journal·DateSep 22, 2020

When bots do the negotiating, humans more likely to engage in deceptive techniques

Researchers found that humans are more willing to employ deceptive negotiating techniques when using virtual agents, particularly those with prior experience or negative negotiation experiences. The study suggests that people may feel more comfortable relying on virtual agents to act deceptively, as they perceive it as less personal.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of Artificial Intelligence Research·DateSep 22, 2020

Chromium steel was first made in ancient Persia

Researchers at University College London have discovered that chromium steel was first made in ancient Persia, dating back to the 11th century CE. The production of chromium crucible steel marks a distinct Persian tradition, separate from Central Asian methods.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateSep 22, 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.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

The impact of human mobility on disease spread

A study investigated human dispersal's effect on disease control and total extent of an infection's spread. Researchers used the susceptible-infected-susceptible model to analyze the impact of human migration on infection sizes and disease prevalence in different regions.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics·DateSep 22, 2020

New drug candidate found for hand, foot and mouth disease

Researchers at Duke University have identified a potential new drug candidate against enterovirus 71, a common cause of severe hand, foot and mouth disease. The small molecule inhibits the virus's RNA structure, blocking replication and potentially offering a new treatment option.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 22, 2020

Targeting the treatment of autoimmune diseases

Researchers at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin and the Deutsches Rheuma-Forschungszentrum (DRFZ) successfully treat two patients with systemic lupus erythematosus using daratumumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting plasma cells. The treatment resulted in sustainable clinical responses and reduced systemic inflammation.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 22, 2020

Blood vessel growth in muscle is reduced in women after menopause

A new study from the University of Copenhagen found that postmenopausal women have impaired formation of small blood vessels in their muscles, which can lead to increased risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Physical activity prior to menopause may help prevent this decline.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateSep 22, 2020

New freshwater database tells water quality story for 12K lakes globally

A publicly available water quality database has been created for nearly 12,000 freshwater lakes worldwide, providing insights into lake health and the effects of human activity, climate warming, and land use on water quality. The database can help scientists monitor and manage lake health, informing environmental management decisions.

SourceYork University·JournalScientific Data·DateSep 22, 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.

Photoacoustic microscopy for identifying sentinel lymph nodes of breast cancer

A new method for identifying sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) in breast cancer uses photoacoustic microscopy and CD44 and SR-B1 dual-targeting nanoparticles. The technique distinguishes between metastatic SLNs and inflamed LNs, providing a potential solution for reducing complications during surgery.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateSep 22, 2020

Evaporation critical to coronavirus transmission as weather changes

Researchers studied the effects of relative humidity, environmental temperature, and wind speed on coronavirus transmission. They found that evaporation is a critical factor in virus survival and concentration, with high temperatures and low relative humidity reducing virus viability.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateSep 22, 2020

A fresh sense of possibility

Researchers at KAUST have developed graphene-based sensors to monitor multiple environmental variables in extreme conditions. The sensors can withstand temperatures of up to 650 degrees Celsius and offer increased sensitivity in temperature sensing.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 22, 2020

Fungi in a warmer world

A $1m research project will examine fossilised fungi from 15-17 million years ago to forecast the impact of predicted rises in current global temperature on present day species. The study aims to understand how fungi respond to past warm climates, which could provide valuable information for adapting to climate change.

SourceNorthumbria University·DateSep 22, 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.

NASA catches Tropical Storm Dolphin swimming north

Tropical Storm Dolphin is moving northward and is expected to weaken gradually before becoming extra-tropical near Tokyo. NASA's Terra satellite captured visible imagery of the storm on September 22, revealing strong storms and thunderstorms in its northeastern quadrant.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 22, 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.

'Firefly' imaging method zooms in on 'the forces within us'

Researchers create a new technique using luminescent DNA tools to visualize mechanical forces of cells at the molecular level. They discovered that platelets have a concentrated core of mechanical tension and a thin rim that continuously contracts, opening up new possibilities for studying blood clotting disorders.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Methods·DateSep 22, 2020

Most people infected with SARS-CoV-2 develop symptoms

A new study published in PLOS Medicine suggests that true asymptomatic cases of SARS-CoV-2 comprise a minority of infections. The researchers estimated that 20% (95% CI 17-25) of COVID-19 infections remained asymptomatic during follow-up.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 22, 2020

COVID-19 mortality rates higher among men than women

A new review article reveals that COVID-19 mortality rates are significantly higher among men than women, with sex-based physiological differences potentially contributing to the increased risk. The study highlights the importance of considering sex as a key variable in research related to immunity and infectious disease.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateSep 22, 2020

Wels catfish genome assembled

A research team has successfully sequenced and assembled the Wels catfish genome, which is expected to reveal insights into its remarkable growth rate, appetite, and lifespan. The study's findings will help address bottlenecks in aquaculture and conservation of wild populations.

SourceEstonian Research Council·DateSep 22, 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 theory predicts movement of different animals using sensing to search

A Northwestern University research team developed a new theory that can predict the movement of an animal's sensory organs while searching for vital information. The theory, called energy-constrained proportional betting, provides insight into how animals gamble on energy expenditure to get useful information.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateSep 22, 2020

Exercise hormone may modulate genes associated with replication of novel coronavirus

Researchers found that irisin altered the expression of genes regulating ACE-2, a key protein in viral entry. Irisin also tripled levels of TRIB3 transcription, which has been linked to lower replication of SARS-CoV-2. The study suggests irisin's therapeutic potential for COVID-19 treatment.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMolecular and Cellular Endocrinology·DateSep 22, 2020

Researchers find new way to protect plants from fungal infection

Scientists have found a new metabolic pathway that can be disrupted with acetohydroxamic acid, preventing many plant fungi from invading the host plant. The discovery provides a new approach to pathogen control using an existing active ingredient.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalPhytopathology·DateSep 22, 2020

Is rheumatoid arthritis two different diseases?

A new study published in PLOS Medicine suggests that rheumatoid arthritis patients with and without autoantibodies have distinct conditions. Longitudinal data from 1,285 RA patients showed improved disease activity but varying long-term outcomes depending on autoantibody status.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 22, 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.

Mayo study identifies barriers to physician adoption of federal Right to Try law

A new Mayo Clinic study found that clinical oncologists are less informed about the federal Right to Try (RTT) law, citing concerns over patient safety and regulatory burden. The study also revealed that most oncologists had limited familiarity with RTT despite having experience with FDA's Expanded Access Programs.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 22, 2020

Small increase in risk of autism seen for pre- and post-term births

A study of over 3.5 million Nordic children found a slight increase in autism risk for each week of gestation before or after 40 weeks, regardless of sex or birth weight. The relative risk was highest for children born at 22-31 weeks and lowest for those born post-term (after 42 weeks), with an overall low ASD incidence of 1.44%.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 22, 2020

Scientists predict potential spread, habitat of invasive Asian giant hornet

The study predicts the Asian giant hornet's potential spread in the US, including down the west coast, and globally to parts of Africa, Europe, Australia, and South America. Suitable habitats include regions with warm summers, mild winters, and high rainfall.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2020

NASA analyzes Tropical Storm Lowell's very cold cloud tops

Tropical Storm Lowell's strongest storms were located around its center and southern quadrant, with cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Wind shear played a significant role in the storm's formation and strength, with NASA providing data to support forecasters' predictions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 22, 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.

Engineers pre-train AI computers to make them even more powerful

Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology engineers developed an approach to overcome the initial trial-and-error phase of reinforcement learning. This allows computers to quickly find the right path without extreme fluctuations, slashing energy use by over 20% in complex systems.

SourceSwiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology - CSEM·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Networks and Learning Systems·DateSep 22, 2020

Under (intraocular) pressure

A team of Pitt professors has received a $1 million NSF grant to create an at-home glaucoma monitoring device that uses acoustic waves to measure intraocular pressure. The project aims to enable patients and non-clinicians to reliably assess IOP, allowing doctors to tailor treatments more effectively.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateSep 22, 2020

Childhood sexual abuse: Mental and physical after-effects closely linked

A new Canadian study reveals that childhood sexual abuse survivors experience a higher incidence of genitourinary problems, such as urinary tract infections and pain during sex. The research also found that psychological distress is partly responsible for the physical trauma, highlighting the need for a combined approach to treatment.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalHealth Psychology·DateSep 22, 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.

Bundled payment model reduces health disparities for Black patients

A nationwide study led by OHSU finds that the Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement model improves health outcomes for Black patients, with reduced spending and hospital readmissions. Hispanic patients showed mixed results, but overall disparities persisted despite improvements in post-acute care use.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 22, 2020

Study shows keeping gratitude journal reduces gossip, incivility in workplace

A University of Central Florida study suggests that keeping a gratitude journal can lead to less rude behavior and mistreatment of others in the workplace. Researchers found that employees who spent a few minutes a day writing down things they were grateful for engaged in fewer gossiping, ostracizing behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateSep 22, 2020

Water trapped in star dust

A research team from Friedrich Schiller University Jena has proven that dust particles and ice are mixed in the interstellar medium. This finding suggests complex organic molecules may be present on dust particles, which can contribute to planetary formation. The study also reveals a hidden reservoir of oxygen in solid-state water.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalNature Astronomy·DateSep 22, 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.

News coverage in Chicago disproportionately devalues Black and Hispanic lives

Stanford researchers found that local news media in Chicago give less coverage to Black and Hispanic victims than white victims, even when controlling for neighborhood demographics. The study revealed disparities in word count and complexity of personhood, highlighting the need for more nuanced reporting.

SourceStanford University·JournalSociology of Race and Ethnicity·DateSep 22, 2020

Herd immunity an impractical strategy, study finds

A new model developed by University of Georgia scientists found that achieving herd immunity through mitigation is unlikely without constant adjustments in lockdown measures. The suppression strategy offers a more feasible approach, predicting fewer fatalities with self-isolation engagement and social distancing measures.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2020

Seismic data explains continental collision beneath Tibet

New seismic data gathered by Stanford University researchers provides the first west-to-east view of the subsurface where India and Asia collide. The study suggests two competing processes are operating beneath the collision zone: movement of one tectonic plate under another, as well as thinning and collapse of the crust.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2020

Stanford researchers combine CAT scans and advanced computing to fight wildfires

Using advanced X-ray Computed Tomography (XCT) to study smoldering, Stanford researchers developed a new analysis method that provides three-dimensional images of wood structures. Their computer model can predict where wildfires might strike next and allocate resources more efficiently, saving lives and reducing property loss.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the Combustion Institute·DateSep 22, 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.

Better conservation planning can improve human life too

University of Queensland research reveals that conservation planning is often inadequate, neglecting critical ecosystem services that benefit humans, such as freshwater and pollination services. The study proposes a formal process for governments and policymakers to develop more effective plans.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·DateSep 22, 2020

Diabetes dramatically reduces the kidney's ability to clean itself

Researchers found that diabetes increases autophagy initially, but then decreases it due to the activation of tumor suppressor p53 and microRNA miR-214, leading to hypertrophy, scarring, and inflammation in the kidneys. This discovery offers a potential target for preventing or slowing kidney failure.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 22, 2020

Mining molecular data with cryo-EM unveils hidden biological secrets

Researchers use a new method to extract information from cryo-EM data, enabling the visualization of minimum free-energy pathways during simulations. This study demonstrates the potential of cryo-EM in understanding biological functions and has implications for drug discovery.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 22, 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.

ADHD study reveals unique genetic differences in African American patients

Researchers identified potential causal mutations that differ between ancestral groups in ADHD patients, highlighting the importance of considering ethnic background in treatment approaches. Whole genome sequencing technology revealed novel structural variants that may impact how patients respond to medications.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 22, 2020

MTU engineers build three new open-source tools for COVID-19

The Michigan Tech's Open Sustainability Technology (MOST) Lab has developed three new open-source tools in response to COVID-19: a high-temperature 3D printer, a firefighter PAPR mask, and an emergency-use ventilator. These devices can be built using locally sourced materials, reducing costs and increasing accessibility.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalHardwareX·DateSep 22, 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.

New approach to exotic quantum matter

Researchers have developed a new method to detect anyons in fractional quantum Hall systems by binding impurity particles to them. This approach doesn't require particle exchange or interferometry and can be applied to various quantum simulators.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 22, 2020

Playing video games as a child can improve working memory years later

A study from the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya found that people who played video games regularly as children performed better in working memory tasks even after stopping. However, those without gaming experience showed slower performance and did not benefit from improvements in processing irrelevant stimuli.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateSep 22, 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.

Why some cancers may respond poorly to key drugs discovered

Scientists at UT Austin identified a protein that promotes DNA damage in BRCA 1/2-mutated cancer cells, making them resistant to PARP inhibitors. The finding may help create more effective treatment plans for patients with these cancers.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 22, 2020

Reading in company boosts creativity

Researchers found that reading in company favors a more creative and integrated understanding of language, whereas solo reading is more detailed and systematic. This study highlights the importance of social interaction in language comprehension and suggests that it can be beneficial for both education and professional settings.

SourceUniversidad Complutense de Madrid·JournalCortex·DateSep 22, 2020

Making raw data more usable

A team of researchers, led by Gautam Das at the University of Texas at Arlington, is working on a human-in-the-loop framework to optimize the data science pipeline. This approach involves humans adding context to datasets, which can help computers determine what information is relevant, making the process faster and less labor-intensive.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateSep 22, 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.

Shared protein fingerprint could simplify treatment of common inherited heart disease

Researchers have discovered a shared protein fingerprint in patients with the most severe manifestations of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a common inherited heart disease. This finding suggests that treatments targeting these similarities could be effective in treating multiple patient varieties.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2020

Study shows that 40% of healthcare workers asymptomatic when COVID-19 positive, raising risk of silent transmission

A meta-analysis of studies shows that 40% of healthcare workers with COVID-19 are asymptomatic, increasing the risk of silent transmission. Healthcare workers exposed to COVID-19 are at risk of severe complications and death, highlighting the need for universal screening.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateSep 22, 2020

Kidney damage from COVID-19 linked to higher risk of in-hospital death

A recent study found that COVID-19 patients with kidney damage are at a significantly higher risk of in-hospital mortality. The study analyzed data from 1,392 patients and found that kidney damage was associated with a 5-times higher odds of dying while in the hospital.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 22, 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.

Single photon emission from isolated monolayer islands of InGaN

A team of scientists has developed a novel type of quantum emitter formed from spatially separated InGaN monolayer islands. The isolated islands exhibit high photostability and can be spectrally filtered to act as bright, fast single photon emitters at a wavelength of ~400 nm.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateSep 22, 2020

Mount Sinai researchers develop COVID-19 mortality prediction model

Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital developed a COVID-19 mortality prediction model based on patient's age, minimum oxygen saturation, and type of encounter. The model showed high accuracy (AUC=0·91) in predicting mortality among patients with COVID-19, offering potential for improved prognostication and management.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·DateSep 22, 2020

New vaccine strategy harnesses 'foot soldier' T-cells to protect against influenza

Researchers developed a T-cell-based vaccine strategy providing long-lasting, multi-pronged protection against multiple strains of influenza. The experimental vaccine administered through the nose delivered immune response by rallying T-cells in the lungs, offering potential for universal flu vaccine development.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateSep 22, 2020

COVID-19 and diabetes: what is the evidence?

A recent report found that people with type 1 diabetes had almost a 3-fold risk of death from COVID-19, while those with type 2 diabetes had an almost 2 times higher risk. High blood glucose levels are associated with poor outcomes in patients with COVID-19.

SourceDiabetologia·DateSep 22, 2020

For black girls, attitudes about being black affect risk of depression

A new study suggests that positive messages about being Black can decrease symptoms of depression in Black girls, while negative messages increase the risk. The research highlights the importance of avoiding negative stereotypes about Black women and incorporating gender-specific messages into mental health programs.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·DateSep 22, 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.

NASA imagery reveals strongest areas of Tropical Storm Beta

Tropical Storm Beta is expected to stall inland over Texas today, bringing heavy rains and flash flooding. NASA's Aqua satellite analyzed the storm using infrared data, revealing coldest cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 22, 2020

Patients with COVID-19 may have higher risk of kidney injury

Observational study finds COVID-19 patients with high suPAR levels are at increased risk for acute kidney injury and death. Elevated suPAR levels were found in over a third of patients hospitalized with COVID-19, leading to a 20-fold increase in dialysis needs.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 22, 2020

Children's immune response more effective against COVID-19

A new study found that children exhibit higher levels of two immune system molecules, IL-17A and INF-?, which contribute to their better COVID-19 outcomes. This robust innate immune response may protect children from progressing to severe pulmonary disease.

SourceYale University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 22, 2020

Is your drinking water toxic? This app may help you find out

A new tool, WellExplorer, provides information on potential exposure to hydraulic fracturing chemicals in drinking water. The app allows users to view the closest fracking sites, learn about used chemicals and their toxicity levels.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalDatabase·DateSep 22, 2020

Wild birds as offerings to the Egyptian gods

Scientists analyzed geochemical data from mummy remains to determine if they were bred or hunted. The results indicate that the birds were wild and migrating seasonally, suggesting mass hunting and capture. This discovery sheds light on ancient Egyptian practices and their impact on the environment.

SourceCNRS·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 22, 2020

Cities beat suburbs at inspiring cutting-edge innovations

A recent study suggests that population density plays a crucial role in innovation, with cities producing unconventional patents and suburbs producing conventional ones. The research found that large innovative companies tend to perform their research in suburban office parks, while urban cores facilitate interactions between researche...

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Economic Journal·DateSep 22, 2020

Concordia researchers delve into the Montreal Casino's "Vegas Nights" experience

A study by Concordia researchers examines the sensory design techniques used in the Montreal Casino's 'Vegas Nights' experience, revealing a complex interplay of sights, sounds, and smells that create a unique atmosphere. The authors argue that this 'sensuous' gambling experience is under-studied and warrants critical analysis.

SourceConcordia University·JournalThe Senses and Society·DateSep 22, 2020

Warming temperatures are driving arctic greening

A new study using satellite images tracked the Arctic tundra's vegetation changes over decades and found it has become greener due to warmer air and soil temperatures. This 'Arctic greening' is associated with higher soil temperatures and moisture, impacting local ecosystems and wildlife.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 22, 2020

Nearly 20 percent of americans don't have enough to eat

A new study reveals that nearly 20% of US adults face food insecurity, with worse rates among Hispanics, Blacks, people with obesity, and women. The report also links food insecurity to obesity and other health issues, highlighting the need for public policy solutions.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 22, 2020

Test, isolate, communicate: Keys to controlling a COVID-19 outbreak in a long-term care facility

A study by West Virginia University found that COVID-19 outbreaks in long-term care facilities can be controlled through rapid testing, isolation, and effective communication among staff, residents, and families. Communication played a crucial role in quashing an outbreak at Sundale facility, where only five residents died.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalJournal of Applied Gerontology·DateSep 22, 2020

Fostering 'political' attitude adjustments

Researchers at the University of Missouri developed a narrative writing exercise to encourage people to reduce political polarization. The study found that this exercise can foster different perspectives and create a sense of common identity, reducing angst toward those with opposing views.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Applied Communication Research·DateSep 22, 2020

Thin and ultra-fast photodetector sees the full spectrum

Researchers at RMIT University developed a hyper-efficient broadband photodetector that can see all shades of light, shrinking it by 1,000 times while maintaining speed and low-light sensitivity. The device has potential applications in biomedical imaging, motion detection, and fibre optic communication.

SourceRMIT University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 22, 2020

Inducing plasma in biomass could make biogas easier to produce

Researchers have developed a method to break down thick biomass material using microwave pulses, reducing viscosity and breaking polymer chains. The plasma-liquid interaction forms reactive species that help degrade biomass, making it easier to produce biogas.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateSep 22, 2020

The co-occurrence of cancer driver genes, key to precision medicine

A computational pipeline predicts tumour response to different cancer treatments by identifying complex response markers from the patterns of co-occurrence between cancer driver genes. The system achieved 66% accuracy in predicting responses, offering a key factor in precision medicine for patients.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalGenome Medicine·DateSep 22, 2020

DOE funding boosts artificial intelligence research at Jefferson Lab

The DOE has awarded $2.16 million to two physicists at Jefferson Lab for AI-assisted experiment control and calibration, as well as improved SRF operation at the CEBAF accelerator facility. These projects aim to optimize operations and generate better-quality data, potentially shaving off months of research labor.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateSep 22, 2020

Divide and enlarge

A research team led by Prof. Dr. Robert Grosse has found that bundled fibers of actin play a crucial role in the expansion of cell nuclei after division. This process is essential for reorganizing genetic information and processing chromatin.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalEMBO Reports·DateSep 22, 2020

Web resources bring new insight into COVID-19

Researchers have developed two new web resources to study the effects of coronavirus infection on host molecular signaling pathways. These resources, freely available through the Signaling Pathways Project and Network Data Exchange, provide valuable information for accelerating the development of novel therapeutic strategies for COVID-19.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalScientific Data·DateSep 22, 2020

Most infants are well even when moms are infected by COVID-19

According to a new study, infants born to mothers infected with COVID-19 generally do well six to eight weeks after birth. However, there was a higher rate of NICU admissions reported if the mothers had COVID-19 up to two weeks prior to delivery.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateSep 22, 2020

Silk offers homemade solution for COVID-19 prevention

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati found that silk face masks are comfortable, breathable, and can help ward off airborne viruses like COVID-19. The fabric's natural copper content provides additional antimicrobial benefits, making it a promising alternative to traditional face coverings.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 22, 2020

COVID-19 opens a partisan gap on voting by mail

A partisan gap has opened up in voting by mail preferences during the COVID-19 pandemic, with Democrats expressing a significantly greater preference for mail ballots than Republicans. Despite this gap, there is bipartisan support for making mail ballots available to all voters who want them.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2020

Underground connection

Researchers developed the Effective Catchment Index (ECI) to analyze global data sets and determine how topographic and actual catchment areas differ. The study found that every third catchment has an effective area greater than twice or less than half its topographical area, influenced by water management activities.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateSep 22, 2020

NASA sees Hurricane Teddy threaten Eastern Canada

Hurricane Teddy is threatening Eastern Canada with powerful storms and cold cloud top temperatures indicating strong storms. The hurricane's forecast track predicts it will move over Nova Scotia on Wednesday, bringing tropical-storm-force winds and large swells.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 22, 2020

Study shows that control of blood sugar levels improved among people with type 1 diabetes who stopped working during lockdown

Among individuals with type 1 diabetes, those who stopped working during lockdown experienced improved blood sugar levels. This improvement was attributed to reduced opportunities for exercise and heightened psychological stress being replaced by a more regular lifestyle and increased focus on diabetes management.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetes Therapy·DateSep 22, 2020

Johns Hopkins researchers publish COVID-19 'prediction model'

Researchers used data from seven weeks of COVID-19 patient care to create the 'COVID Inpatient Risk Calculator' (CIRC), which assesses patient risk of disease worsening. The model considers factors like age, BMI, lung health, and vital signs to predict disease progression.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 22, 2020

Who's Tweeting about scientific research? And why?

Researchers mined Twitter users' follower descriptions to characterize them in detail and analyze the impact of taxpayer-funded research on academia. The study found that hundreds of papers had audience sectors dominated by conspiracy theorists or science denialists, highlighting the need for scientists to monitor social media engagement.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 22, 2020

County and ZIP code-level data show 'stark social inequities' in COVID-19

A study analyzing county and ZIP code-level data reveals consistently higher rates of COVID-19 illness and death among people living in more-disadvantaged communities. The analysis also showed that counties with higher percentages of poverty, crowding, and people of color had significantly higher COVID-19 death rates.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Public Health Management and Practice·DateSep 22, 2020