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Science News for September 30, 2020


Advancing carbon dioxide catalysis

Feng Jiao, a renowned chemical engineering expert, is leading research on transforming carbon dioxide into valuable chemicals using catalysis. His projects aim to produce formic acid and ethylene from CO2 without purification, with the goal of commercializing this technology.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateSep 30, 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.

Researchers use satellite imaging to map groundwater use in California's central valley

Researchers used satellite imaging to map groundwater use in California's San Joaquin Valley, finding that field crops and pasture crops have higher rates of subsidence than fruit and nut crops. This study provides new insights for irrigation policymaking and sustainable groundwater management in agricultural regions worldwide.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateSep 30, 2020

Metal-ion breakthrough leads to new biomaterials

Cornell engineers developed a modular process for designing elastomers with metals like iron and calcium, creating a wide range of mechanical properties. The framework allows for the creation of biodegradable and elastic materials for soft tissue reconstruction and regeneration.

SourceCornell University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 30, 2020

The proof is in the pudding

Researchers at the University of South Australia found that increasing meal sizes can improve nutrition intake among aged care residents. The study showed a correlation between portion size and food consumption, with each kilojoule increase in served energy resulting in a 0.73 kilojoule increase in consumed energy.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAustralasian Marketing Journal·DateSep 30, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

What is your attitude towards a humanoid robot? Your brain activity can tell us!

Scientists have found a correlation between brain activity and attitudes towards humanoid robots, with distinct neural patterns predicting people's bias in attributing intentionality. This study contributes to understanding engagement with robots and can inform the future acceptance of robots in healthcare applications.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·JournalScience Robotics·DateSep 30, 2020

How the Humboldt squid's genetic past and present can secure its future

Marine biologists warn of Humboldt squid's vulnerability to overfishing by fleets on its migration path, as its genetic stocks are found to be homogeneously co-distributed across the northern and southern hemispheres. The study emphasizes the need for an international marine policy to ensure sustainable fishing practices.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalReviews in Fish Biology and Fisheries·DateSep 30, 2020

Drink coffee after breakfast, not before, for better metabolic control

A new study from the University of Bath found that drinking coffee after breakfast, but not before, can improve blood glucose control and reduce the risk of conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Researchers discovered that strong black coffee consumed before breakfast substantially increased blood glucose response by around 50%.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateSep 30, 2020

Teen social networks linked to adult depression

A new study by Michigan State University found that teens with fewer friends are more likely to experience depression as adults. However, for women, being popular in adolescence can lead to lower depressive symptoms in adulthood. The study suggests that gender roles and expectations may contribute to this difference.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateSep 30, 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.

Revealing the impacts of COVID-19 on unborn children

A new study of 388 pregnancies in 22 countries found that COVID-19 infection during early pregnancy significantly increases risk of adverse fetal outcomes. Only one baby tested positive for the disease and was asymptomatic, suggesting rare transmission from mother to child.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalJournal of Perinatal Medicine·DateSep 30, 2020

Molecules responsible for radio-resistant glioblastoma identified

Glioblastoma multiforme is the most aggressive brain cancer with low five-year survival rate due to rapid development of radioresistance. Researchers from Hokkaido University and Stanford University identified Rab27b and epiregulin as key molecules contributing to radioresistance.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNeuro-Oncology Advances·DateSep 30, 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.

Bacteria virus combo may be cause of neonatal brain infections in Uganda

Researchers identified a previously unknown strain of Paenibacillus thiaminolyticus bacteria as the primary cause of post-infectious hydrocephalus in Ugandan infants. The bacteria is linked to cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection, which causes neurological damage and can lead to severe cognitive and physical disabilities.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 30, 2020

Drugs aren't typically tested on women. AI could correct that bias

Researchers developed AwareDX, a machine learning algorithm that groups data into sex-balanced subsets to identify potential sex-specific drug effects. The algorithm has successfully predicted effects for several drugs, including simvastatin and risperidone, based on genetic differences between men and women.

SourceCell Press·JournalPatterns·DateSep 30, 2020

New study reveals how reptiles divided up the spoils in ancient seas

Researchers modelled the changing ecologies of fossil reptiles in Mesozoic oceans, discovering six ecological categories that linked movement, habitat, and feeding styles. The study shows that these marine reptiles avoided competition with each other, with some groups conserving their ecological roles over time.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPalaeontology·DateSep 30, 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.

Hackers targeting companies that fake corporate responsibility

A new study suggests hackers are motivated by a company's attempts to fake social responsibility, targeting firms that engage in 'greenwashing' efforts. Companies with peripheral CSR actions are more likely to face data breaches and hacker attacks.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateSep 30, 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.

"There's no place like home" for rehab after stroke

A study published in Neurology suggests that outpatients who receive professional rehabilitation training at home through live video consultations may recover their motor skills better than those who do their rehab in person. The study found greater increases in physical mobility and functional brain activity among the remote training ...

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateSep 30, 2020

Modifiable health risks linked to more than $730 billion in US health care costs

A study published in The Lancet Public Health found that modifiable health risks, such as obesity and high blood pressure, account for 27% of US personal health care expenses. These costs are largely driven by five risk factors: overweight and obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, poor diet, and smoking.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateSep 30, 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.

WVU researcher to tackle the mysteries of dark energy and the universe beyond

A new project led by West Virginia University researcher Kevin Bandura aims to understand the nature of dark energy by mapping out the distribution of matter throughout the universe. The three-year project will use precise observations to study the expansion of the universe, which is currently accelerating due to dark energy.

SourceWest Virginia University·DateSep 30, 2020

"Immortal" in tree resin

An international team detected DNA from ambrosia beetles trapped in recent tree resin for less than seven years. The study challenges previous fails in finding DNA in older samples and opens up new possibilities for genetic research.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 30, 2020

Screen time can change visual perception -- and that's not necessarily bad

Research from Binghamton University found that the human perceptual system rapidly adjusts to changes in visual experience, including playing video games. The study shows that people can adapt quickly to changes in their environment, with some arguing that this adaptation is helpful in a digital world.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalPerception·DateSep 30, 2020

Consumers who avoid products with harmful chemicals on the label have lower body burden

A new study by Silent Spring Institute found that consumers who avoid products containing endocrine disruptors, such as parabens and BPA, have significantly lower levels of these chemicals in their bodies. The study showed that reading ingredient labels and avoiding certain products can reduce exposures to these harmful chemicals.

SourceSilent Spring Institute·JournalInternational Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health·DateSep 30, 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.

Planktonic sea snails and slugs may be more adaptable to ocean acidification than expected

A recent study has found that pteropods, or 'wing-footed' sea snails and slugs, are much older than previously thought and survived past environmental changes in the ocean. The research suggests that these creatures may be more adaptable to ocean acidification than expected.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2020

Wildcats threatened by their domestic cousins

European wildcats are at risk of genetic replacement by domestic cats due to hybridization, which can lead to the loss of distinct gene pools and ultimately extinction. A new study predicts that this process could occur within 200-300 years, even with conservation efforts.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateSep 30, 2020

Virtual Heidelberg Laureate Forum - Experiment to Experience

The Virtual Heidelberg Laureate Forum successfully replicated in-person exchanges with interactive tools, discussing health, communication, and the pandemic. The event also marked a change in leadership with Prof. Dr. Anna Wienhard succeeding Prof. Dr. Andreas Reuter as Scientific Chairperson.

SourceHeidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation·DateSep 30, 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.

Pandemic provides unique opportunity for atmospheric chemists

A global decrease in emissions led to a sudden increase in data collection opportunities for atmospheric researchers, allowing them to study pollution in real-time. This data could help address climate change and air quality problems by informing policymakers on the impact of climate-friendly legislation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateSep 30, 2020

Scientists propose immune cocktail therapy to boost cancer-immunity cycle in multiple aspects

A research team from Chinese Academy of Sciences proposes an innovative immune cocktail therapy combining ICT with other approaches to enhance cancer treatment. The therapy achieves anti-tumor effects by enhancing T cell priming, killing tumor cells, and generating immune memory T cells.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalJournal of Mathematical Sciences Advances and Applications·DateSep 30, 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.

Cerebral palsy also has genetic underpinnings

A new study has identified mutations in single genes that can cause cerebral palsy, challenging the long-held notion that the disorder is caused by environmental factors. The research found that many of these mutations occur randomly and are not inherited from parents, but rather arise during development.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 30, 2020

3D printed 'invisible' fibers can sense breath, sound, and biological cells

Researchers from the University of Cambridge used 3D printing to create sensors beyond conventional film-based devices, outperforming commercial sensors in monitoring rapid breathing. The fibre sensors can detect breath moisture leaked through face coverings, providing potential indicators for viral transmission protection.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 30, 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.

"Liking" an article online may mean less time spent reading it

A new study suggests that interacting with online content may change how we consume it, as people tend to focus on self-expression over engagement. When participants could vote on articles agreeing with their views, their attitudes became stronger and time spent reading decreased.

SourceOhio State University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateSep 30, 2020

NIH awards $35.5 million to use bioengineered organ models to improve clinical trials

The National Institutes of Health has awarded grants to support researchers' efforts in using tiny, bioengineered models of human tissues and organ systems to study diseases and test drugs. The goal is to develop ways to predict which patients are most likely to benefit from an investigational therapy prior to initiating clinical trials.

SourceNIH/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)·DateSep 30, 2020

Financial distress linked to suicide risk in people with ADHD

A large population study found a strong link between ADHD and financial distress, which contributes to a higher risk of suicide. Adults with ADHD were more likely to experience bank overdrafts, unpaid debts, and default risk, especially as they aged.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 30, 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.

HPV vaccine effective against cervical cancer

A large study by Karolinska Institutet found that HPV vaccination significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer. Women vaccinated at a young age show a 88% reduced risk, while those vaccinated between ages 17 and 30 experience a halved risk.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 30, 2020

The heat is on for building 3D artificial organ tissues

Researchers at the University of Washington and Rice University are working on a novel technology that uses thermofluidic systems to manipulate gene expression in cells within 3D artificial organs. This could lead to the creation of functional artificial liver tissues that can be used for studying disease and developing new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 30, 2020

NASA imagery reveals Kujira transitioning into an extratropical cyclone

NASA's Aqua satellite captured visible images of Typhoon Kujira transitioning into an extra-tropical storm, highlighting the effects of strong wind shear. The storm's center of circulation was surrounded by wispy clouds, while powerful southwesterly vertical wind shear pushed clouds and showers northeast of the center.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 30, 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.

Coral's resilience to warming may depend on iron

A new study suggests that limited iron levels in corals could impair their ability to respond to climate change. High water temperatures and low iron availability compromise the algae living within coral cells, leading to reduced growth and function.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Phycology·DateSep 30, 2020

Hydroxychloroquine no more effective than placebo in preventing COVID-19

A clinical trial found that a daily regimen of hydroxychloroquine did not reduce infection rates among healthcare workers. The study suggests that other prevention measures such as social distancing and vaccination may be more effective in preventing COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 30, 2020

Mosquitos lost an essential gene with no ill effects

Researchers at UMD discovered that mosquitoes lack a critical gene for proper body segmentation, but a related gene took its place. This finding highlights the importance of caution in genetic studies and offers new potential avenues for targeted mosquito control strategies.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalCommunications Biology·DateSep 30, 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.

Cells sacrifice themselves to boost immune response to viruses

A recent study published in Nature Immunology describes the crucial role of neutrophils in boosting the immune response against viral infections. By sacrificing themselves, these cells release essential molecules that help activate specialized T cells to target and destroy infected cells.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNature Immunology·DateSep 30, 2020

Texas A&M study: Marine heatwaves can strengthen hurricanes

A Texas A&M University study reveals that marine heatwaves can strengthen hurricanes by combining with extreme weather events. The research found that Hurricane Michael became a Category 5 storm due to the compounding effects of Tropical Storm Gordon and an atmospheric heatwave in the Gulf of Mexico.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 30, 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.

Study explores link between methamphetamine use and risky sexual behavior

A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers found that methamphetamine use increases the risk of casual sex without a condom, particularly among those with higher sexual desire. The study demonstrated that intense sexual arousal leads to rapid shift in preference for using a condom.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalExperimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology·DateSep 30, 2020

Chronically understudied, fences hold grave ecological threats

Research on fences, a ubiquitous human landscape alteration, highlights profound ecosystem consequences of movement restriction. Fences have been found to isolate specialist species, alter community composition, and disrupt turtle migration patterns.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateSep 30, 2020

UM171 saves another life

A young man suffering from severe aplastic anemia has been given a life-saving blood transplant using the UM171 molecule, which increases stem cell production and reduces immunological complications. The procedure was performed by a medical team at the Institute of Hemato-oncology and Cellular Therapy.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalEuropean Journal Of Haematology·DateSep 30, 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.

Colloidal quantum dot light emitters go broadband in the infrared

Researchers at ICFO have developed a new class of broadband solid state light emitters based on colloidal quantum dot technology, enabling efficient and compact infrared emission. The devices achieve outstanding photon conversion efficiency of up to 25% and tunable emission spectra, paving the way for various applications including spe...

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 30, 2020

Powering AI in sensors with energy harvested from nature

A team of researchers, led by Jingtong Hu from the University of Pittsburgh, aims to apply artificial intelligence to remote sensors deployed in hard-to-reach areas. By leveraging energy-harvesting technology, they plan to save power on sensor devices and increase their lifespan.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateSep 30, 2020

Novel role of microglia as modulators of neurons in the brain is discovered

A new study reveals that microglia, immune cells in the brain, regulate behavioral responses by sensing neuronal activation and providing negative feedback. This novel mechanism of neuromodulation has implications for treating neurodegenerative and inflammatory diseases.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateSep 30, 2020

Cardiac arrest, poor survival rates common in sickest patients with COVID-19

A new study found that cardiac arrest is common in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, with poor survival rates despite CPR efforts. The study, led by Michigan Medicine researchers, analyzed data from 68 US hospitals and found that patients admitted to ICUs for COVID-19 had a 14% risk of cardiac arrest within two weeks.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe BMJ·DateSep 30, 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.

Shedding light on how urban grime affects chemical reactions in cities

Researchers investigated urban grime samples from US cities, revealing that it absorbs sunlight, which can speed up or slow down chemical reactions affecting air and water quality. The study found differences in ion levels between North American and European cities.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Earth and Space Chemistry·DateSep 30, 2020

Videos most effective in communicating with parents about secondhand smoke risks

A study found that video messages are significantly more effective than text-only messages in influencing parent smokers' intentions to protect their children from secondhand smoke. Videos depicting the risks and solutions were most effective, especially when including recommendations for cessation and exposure reduction.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Health Communication·DateSep 30, 2020

Study looks at encoding the odor of cigarette smoke

A recent study by University of Kentucky researchers uses new technology to identify receptors responsible for encoding the complex odor of cigarette smoke. The study's findings could lead to the development of blockers to improve smoking cessation rates, which are notoriously low.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·DateSep 30, 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.

Extra visit time with patients may explain wage gap for female physicians

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that female primary care physicians generated 11 percent less revenue than their male counterparts, despite spending 2.4 more minutes per visit on average. This suggests that the current system of paying doctors based on volume may be a flawed measure of work effort.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 30, 2020

How a toxic chromium species could form in drinking water

A study by Haizhou Liu and colleagues reveals that corroded cast iron pipes can react with residual disinfectants to form Cr(VI), a known carcinogen. The researchers suggest using less-reactive disinfectants and replacing cast iron pipes with chromium alloy could help mitigate Cr(VI) levels in drinking water.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateSep 30, 2020

Venus might be habitable today, if not for Jupiter

A study by UCR astrobiologist Stephen Kane suggests that Venus was likely habitable a billion years ago due to its more circular orbit. The findings could provide insights into how the Earth became habitable and what went wrong for Venus, which now has surface temperatures of up to 800 degrees Fahrenheit.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·DateSep 30, 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.

Measuring muscle strength provides insights regarding weakness in older adults

A collection of articles reviews the literature on using isokinetic testing to measure muscle strength in older adults with conditions such as COPD and stroke. The studies provide evidence for the validity and reliability of isokinetic strength testing, but highlight limitations in responsiveness and practicality.

SourceIOS Press·JournalIsokinetics and Exercise Science·DateSep 30, 2020

Cognitive flexibility training manages responses to social conflict

A computer-based training program has been developed to reduce negative responses to social conflict by minimizing hostile attribution bias. The training exposes participants to ambiguous word fragments that can form either aggressive or non-aggressive words, helping them to differentiate between the two.

SourceWalter Reed Army Institute of Research·JournalCognitive Therapy and Research·DateSep 30, 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.

Science snapshots September 2020

Researchers have developed a new technique to fabricate tiny circuits from ultrathin materials for next-generation electronics. Plants are being engineered to produce new molecules with enhanced properties, while lignin is transformed into a precursor for a useful chemical with wide range of applications

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalACS Central Science·DateSep 30, 2020

$5 million NIH grant awarded to reduce COVID-19-related disparities

A $5 million NIH grant will help identify disease hotspots and testing deserts in vulnerable populations in Texas, aiming to increase COVID-19 testing. Researchers will develop and evaluate intervention strategies to address these disparities, focusing on three racially diverse areas with high infection rates.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateSep 30, 2020

Investigational COVID-19 vaccine well-tolerated, generates immune response in older adults

A Phase 1 trial of an investigational mRNA COVID-19 vaccine has shown that the vaccine is well-tolerated and generates a strong immune response in older adults, with comparable efficacy to younger age groups. The study enrolled 40 healthy volunteers aged 56-71 years, who received two doses of the vaccine.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 30, 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.

Nights warming faster than days across much of the planet

Global warming is affecting nighttime temperatures differently, with more than half of the global land surface experiencing greater night-time warming. This 'warming asymmetry' has significant implications for plant growth and species interactions.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateSep 30, 2020

Stellar explosion in Earth's proximity

Researchers have confirmed the existence of a supernova that exploded near Earth 2.5 million years ago, producing iron-60 and manganese-53. The discovery was made using ultra-trace analysis, which detected the presence of these elements in ancient sediment layers.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateSep 30, 2020

Is it time to reframe the assisted dying debate?

Experts argue that the assisted dying debate needs a radical shift in perspective, moving beyond a medical framework. Studies show that depression, hopelessness, and perception of being a burden are stronger predictors of desire to hasten death.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateSep 30, 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.

Network reveals large variations in shaking in LA basin after Ridgecrest earthquake

The study found that long-period buildings experienced the most amplification of shaking from the Ridgecrest earthquake, with maximum amplification occurring in the western part of the L.A. basin and the south-central San Fernando Valley. This could result in high-rise buildings in those areas experiencing shaking four times larger tha...

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateSep 30, 2020

Aortic valve replacement during COVID-19 pandemic

Researchers evaluated deferred vs expedited aortic valve replacements for patients with severe aortic stenosis during the pandemic. The study found that delayed surgery may not significantly increase mortality rates, offering hope for those on waiting lists.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 30, 2020

Scientists discover bacterium linked to deadly childhood disorder

Researchers identified Paenibacillus species as the causative agent of post-infectious hydrocephalus (PIH), which affects millions of children worldwide. The discovery has the potential to reduce morbidity and mortality by shifting treatment from surgery to antibiotics and vaccines.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 30, 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 most sensitive and fastest graphene microwave bolometer

A team of scientists at ICFO has developed a graphene-based bolometer that can detect microwave photons with extremely high sensitivities and fast time responses. The device uses a microwave resonator to generate photons, which are then detected through the heating of graphene.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature·DateSep 30, 2020

Arnhem Land Maliwawa rock art opens window to past

Researchers have discovered 572 previously unknown rock art images in northwest Arnhem Land, dating back between 6,000 and 9,400 years. The images depict large, naturalistic humans and macropods with animals often shown more frequently than human figures.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalAustralian Archaeology·DateSep 30, 2020

Social novelty has a special place in the brain

Researchers at RIKEN Center for Brain Science discovered a brain region called the SuM that detects new social experiences and segregates them from unfamiliar places. This finding can help understand normal memory and conditions where recognizing new information is impaired.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature·DateSep 30, 2020

New research on how fungal cells respond to stress

Researchers at University of Maryland Baltimore County identified three coordinated pathways in filamentous fungi responding to cell wall stress. By understanding how cells work and respond to stress, scientists can develop new processes for improving crop quality and creating pharmaceuticals.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateSep 30, 2020

Dinosaur feather study debunked

A new study provides substantial evidence that a Jurassic fossil feather belongs to the iconic Archaeopteryx, a bird-like dinosaur. The research found that the feather matches a type of wing feather called a primary covert, identical in size and shape to those on an Archaeopteryx wing.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 30, 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.

Finding a cure for multiple sclerosis

A US researcher has received a National Multiple Sclerosis Society grant to identify compound analogues that can repair damaged axons in multiple sclerosis. The project aims to find a new treatment avenue that speeds up nerve impulses and promotes myelin repair.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateSep 30, 2020

How green hydrogen can become cheap enough to compete with fossil fuels

Researchers at UNSW Sydney have analyzed the costs of producing green hydrogen using electrolysis and solar power, finding that it can range from $2.89 to $4.67 per kilogram. The cost is influenced by factors such as electrolyser efficiency, available sunlight, and capital costs of electrolysers. To make green hydrogen more competitive...

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateSep 30, 2020

Computer model shows how COVID-19 could lead to runaway inflammation

A computer model reveals that a specific region of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein acts as a superantigen, triggering a massive immune response and leading to severe inflammation in some COVID-19 patients. The study also suggests that therapies targeting toxic shock syndrome may be effective for managing MIS-C and cytokine storm in adults.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 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.

Children hold leaders primarily responsible, not entitled

A new study published in Child Development found that young children conceptualize leadership as a hierarchy based on voluntary deference and respect. Children expected a leader to contribute more to joint goals and withdraw an equal share from common prizes, but judged leaders harsher for not adhering to these behaviors.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalChild Development·DateSep 30, 2020

Monitoring coronary artery disease in real-time

A new electronic stent design is being developed to continuously monitor coronary artery disease in real-time, providing a unique solution to prevent restenosis. The device will offer long-term monitoring capabilities without the need for frequent follow-up visits.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateSep 30, 2020

Can organic plant protection products damage crops?

A new disease affecting maize has been discovered by researchers at the University of Göttingen, caused by an aggressive strain of the fungus Trichoderma. This discovery raises concerns about the potential risks of using organic plant protection products in agriculture.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalFrontiers in Agronomy·DateSep 30, 2020

The ancient Neanderthal hand in severe COVID-19

A new study reveals that genetic variants from a 50,000-year-old Neanderthal from southern Europe are associated with an increased risk of severe COVID-19. Carriers of these variants have up to three times the risk of requiring mechanical ventilation, highlighting the importance of genetics in disease severity.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature·DateSep 30, 2020

Artificial intelligence in art: a simple tool or creative genius?

A study by MIT and Max Planck Institute found that people perceive AI as creative genius or tool depending on information presented. The researchers manipulated language to change degree of humanization, influencing recognition and responsibility assigned to humans behind AI systems.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Development·JournaliScience·DateSep 30, 2020

Innate lymphoid cells regenerate within lung

Researchers have generated a single-cell atlas of mouse innate lymphoid cells in the lung, discovering a pool of local progenitors that can generate mature ILC2s. The study reveals the complexity of ILC2 functions and their developmental relationships, shedding light on how they contribute to immune defense and inflammatory diseases.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics·JournalImmunity·DateSep 30, 2020

Skoltech scientists discovered a new biomarker for liver cancer diagnosis

Researchers at Skoltech have identified a novel liver-specific non-coding RNA, named HELIS, which can be used as a biomarker for liver cancer diagnosis. The discovery provides a new panel of potential biomarkers that help distinguish between benign and malignant tumors.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology·DateSep 30, 2020

Neandertal gene variant increases risk of severe COVID-19

A recent study published in Nature reveals that a Neandertal gene variant significantly increases the risk of developing severe COVID-19. The research found that this genetic variant is inherited from Neandertals and affects around three times more people than expected, with varying prevalence across different regions.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature·DateSep 30, 2020

A lay person's guide to COVID-19

A 10-week virtual series provides insight into COVID-19 topics for the general public, including vaccine development, mask effectiveness and outbreak tracking. The symposium aims to address community impact and provide solutions.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·DateSep 30, 2020

Urgent need for blood-based biomarkers to diagnosis concussion

A new Expert Panel Discussion examines the status of blood-based biomarker development and point-of-care testing for concussion diagnosis. The discussion highlights the potential benefits of specific biomarkers in detecting brain trauma masked by other injuries or symptoms, adding value over current clinical methods.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateSep 30, 2020

New mechanism of cell survival in chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Researchers at The Wistar Institute discovered that CLL cells downregulate STING protein to allow for increased expression of B cell receptors on their surface, promoting survival. This reduction in STING expression enables stronger B cell receptor signaling, supporting CLL cell survival.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalCellular and Molecular Immunology·DateSep 30, 2020

New detector breakthrough pushes boundaries of quantum computing

Physicists at Aalto University have developed a new detector that can measure energy quanta with unprecedented resolution, overcoming limitations in current state-of-the-art detectors used in quantum computers. The graphene bolometer achieves speeds of well below a microsecond and higher theoretical accuracy than voltage measurements.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature·DateSep 30, 2020

Small molecule targets SARS-CoV-2 RNA for destruction

Researchers have identified small molecules that target the RNA genome of SARS-CoV-2, interfering with viral gene expression and targeting the RNA for destruction. By attaching a molecule called RIBOTAC, which recruits an RNA-chopping cellular enzyme, these compounds can increase potency by 10-fold.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateSep 30, 2020

Breaking COVID-19's 'clutch' to stop its spread

Scientists create drug-like compounds that bind and destroy COVID-19's frameshifting element to stop the virus from replicating. The findings demonstrate the feasibility of directly targeting viral RNA with small-molecule drugs.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalACS Central Science·DateSep 30, 2020

Hospital-based specialist palliative care may slightly improve patient experience and increase their chances of dying in their preferred place (measured by home death)

A Cochrane Review found that hospital-based specialist palliative care may offer small benefits for patient-centred outcomes like quality of life, symptom burden, depression, and satisfaction with care. The review also showed an increased likelihood of patients dying in their preferred place by 22%, measured by home death.

SourceKing's College London·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateSep 30, 2020

Heading upriver

Researchers have discovered that rivers will jump course more often on deltas than in the past, with avulsions occurring up to 20 times farther upstream. The combination of sea level rise, increased floods, and finer sediment size enables these destructive events to occur ever farther inland.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 30, 2020

Researchers exploit weaknesses of master game bots

A new algorithm has been developed by Penn State researchers to train adversarial bots that can exploit weaknesses in master game bots using deep reinforcement learning. The algorithm successfully defeated a world-class AI bot in StarCraft II, highlighting the security threat of using such agents.

SourcePenn State·DateSep 30, 2020

Study highlights dual burden of menstruation and homelessness

A study highlights the dual burden of menstruation and homelessness among homeless New Yorkers, who face stigma and lack of access to basic necessities. The research emphasizes the need for improved bathroom quality, supply, and accessibility, as well as easier access to bathing and laundering services.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalHealth & Place·DateSep 30, 2020