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Science News for September 4, 2020


Key priorities for transplant and living donor advocacy during COVID-1

Researchers describe ways to achieve optimal patient advocacy for kidney recipients and donors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key areas include informing patients fully in their care decision process and honoring patient priorities in all care innovations and policies.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalCurrent Transplantation Reports·DateSep 4, 2020

Images of captive torment in art

A study of WWII art made by prisoners of war in Australian and New Zealand internment camps uncovers surprising quality and artistic confidence among the works. The artworks, created between 1942 and 1945, depict alluring female figures and cultural symbols, providing insight into the lives of ethnic and part-Japanese detainees.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAustralian and New Zealand Journal of Art·DateSep 4, 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.

Does the COVID-19 cytokine storm exist?

Researchers at Radboud University Medical Center measured cytokines in COVID-19 patients and found significantly lower levels compared to patients with septic shock and ARDS. This challenges the concept of a COVID-19 cytokine storm, potentially impacting treatment strategies.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateSep 4, 2020

Relief for people who struggle with CPAP masks

A new surgical trial found excellent outcomes for patients with obstructive sleep apnea who couldn't use CPAP masks, with significant reductions in night-time apnoea events and improvements in daytime sleepiness. The procedure combines palate surgery with a low-risk tongue procedure to create an improved airway.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJAMA·DateSep 4, 2020

Deep underground forces explain quakes on San Andreas Fault

New USC research reveals that rock-melting forces deep within the Earth's crust are responsible for tremors along a notorious segment of California's San Andreas Fault. The study suggests that these underground excitations can lead to instability and ruptures in the fault, generating anomalous seismic waves.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 4, 2020

NASA's Aqua Satellite finds wind shear not letting up on Omar

Tropical Depression Omar is being affected by persistent wind shear, which is weakening the storm's rotation and inhibiting thunderstorm development. The NASA Aqua satellite has provided temperature information about the system's clouds, confirming the presence of wind shear.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 4, 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.

Psychological abuse: obstetric care must delve deeper

A new study highlights the vital role that obstetric health practitioners play in a woman's decision to stay or leave an abusive relationship. Health professionals can offer empathy, support, and information to women experiencing coercive control during pregnancy, birth, and post-delivery.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalJournal of Family Violence·DateSep 4, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Chen studying true cost of dual-enrollment programs in Virginia

P. Daniel Chen examines cost of dual-enrollment programs in Virginia to estimate true costs for secondary schools and community colleges. The study aims to answer three questions: on-site course costs, administrative support costs, and Commonwealth spending per course and pupil.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateSep 4, 2020

Scientists predicted new hard and superhard ternary compounds

Researchers at Skoltech predicted high-entropy alloys with improved mechanical properties, such as hardness and fracture resistance, in the W-Mo-B system. The study aims to develop new hard materials that can withstand higher temperatures or pressures.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateSep 4, 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.

Squaring the circle -- Breaking the symmetry of a sphere to control the polarization of light

Scientists at Tokyo Tech and ICFO develop a method to generate circularly polarized light from a sphere by breaking its symmetry through electron beam excitation. This enables the precise control of phase and polarization, paving the way for novel quantum communication and encryption technologies. The approach has been experimentally v...

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 4, 2020

Striving and stumbling towards sustainability amongst pandas and people

Researchers studied the interactions between humans and nature in panda reserves, discovering nine synergies among Sustainable Development Goals, including economic growth and poverty alleviation. However, they also found that habitat disturbance occurred when hiking trails were built for tourists.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateSep 4, 2020

Electric current is manipulated by light in an organic superconductor

Scientists have successfully moved electrons in an organic superconductor by irradiation of ultrashort laser pulses, generating a polarized net current. The observed effect is attributed to scattering-free current, sensitive to superconducting fluctuations, with potential applications in ultra-fast computing and understanding microscop...

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 4, 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.

'Floppy' atomic dynamics help turn heat into electricity

Researchers at Duke University discovered that certain thermoelectric materials have low thermal conductivity due to their 'floppy' atomic vibrations at high temperatures. This understanding will help develop new and better options for technologies converting heat into electricity.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 4, 2020

Two top European grants for young researchers at Bielefeld University

Bielefeld University researchers Professor Dr Martina Hofmanová and Dr Toni Goßmann have been awarded ERC Starting Grants for their innovative research projects on fluid flows and epigenetic programming. The funding will support groundbreaking findings in mathematics, biology, and meteorology.

SourceBielefeld University·DateSep 4, 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.

European project aims to scale up quantum computing technology

The European project SEQUENCE is developing electronic devices and circuits compatible with low temperature operation for scaling up quantum computers. The project combines Si CMOS, III-V, and 3D integration technologies to support superconducting and spin qubit-based quantum computing.

SourceLund University·DateSep 4, 2020

Autophagy: the beginning of the end

Researchers have identified Atg9 vesicles as a platform for assembling the autophagy machinery to build autophagosomes. The biogenesis of autophagosomes involves numerous proteins, and isolating 21 components has enabled scientists to rebuild parts of the machinery in a controlled manner.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScience·DateSep 4, 2020

Running on fumes

A hospitalist reflects on his emotional struggle as he transitions from a COVID-19 pandemic high to a state of burnout and exhaustion. He shares his personal story of feeling overwhelmed and undervalued as healthcare workers face increasing demands.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 4, 2020

Unconventional T cells in severe COVID-19 patients could predict disease outcome

Researchers found that mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) and invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells were reduced in the blood of severe COVID-19 patients but increased in their airways. Highly activated MAIT and iNKT cells were associated with better outcomes, suggesting a beneficial role during severe COVID-19.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 4, 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.

Air pollution renders flower odors unattractive to moths

Research shows that air pollution from ozone levels damages the scent of flowers, deterring moths. However, when given a chance, moths quickly learn that even polluted floral odors may lead to nutritious nectar rewards. This learning ability is crucial for moths to adapt to changing environments.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalJournal of Chemical Ecology·DateSep 4, 2020

Cell-autonomous immunity and the pathogen-mediated evolution of humans

The paper discusses how cell-autonomous immunity, inherited from prokaryotic and single-celled ancestors, affects the human evolutionary story. It highlights the importance of understanding how pathogens manipulate these defenses, which are found in every cell in every body system.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalThe Quarterly Review of Biology·DateSep 4, 2020

Misaligned planet-forming rings around triple young stars

Researchers found three large, misaligned dust rings around the young triple star system GW Ori, with sufficient dust for planet formation. A computer simulation suggests that a hidden planet may have carved out a dust gap and broken the disk at the location of the current inner and outer rings.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·DateSep 4, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Unraveling the secrets of Tennessee whiskey

Researchers at UT Institute of Agriculture use gas chromatography-olfactometry to identify 49 odorants in Tennessee whiskey, including nine new discoveries. The study reveals that the Lincoln County Process decreases malty and rancid aromas while retaining desirable flavors.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateSep 4, 2020

Nanoearthquakes control spin centers in SiC

Researchers have demonstrated the use of elastic vibrations to manipulate the spin states of optically active color centers in SiC at room temperature. The findings show a non-trivial dependence on the spin quantization direction, enabling chiral spin-acoustic resonances and full control of spin states without external microwave fields.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 4, 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.

The genetics of blood: A global perspective

A large international consortium study found over 5,000 genetic mutations affecting blood characteristics worldwide. Researchers identified specific mutations linked to increased lymphocyte levels in South Asian populations, highlighting potential risks and treatment targets.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalCell·DateSep 4, 2020

2020 Virtual National Health Research Forum

The 2020 Virtual National Health Research Forum featured discussions on vaccine development, with experts discussing the progress made in developing COVID-19 vaccines. The forum also touched on the importance of diversity and inclusiveness in scientific research and its impact on health equity.

SourceResearch!America·DateSep 4, 2020

Common class of drugs linked to increased risk of Alzheimer's disease

A study published in Neurology found that anticholinergic drugs may accelerate cognitive decline in older adults, particularly those at risk for Alzheimer's disease. Researchers discovered that participants taking these medications were 47% more likely to develop mild cognitive impairment over a decade.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeurology·DateSep 4, 2020

Apps and social distancing: Why we accept corona rules - or not

A study by Professor Kai Kaspar found that people's motivation to socially distance increases with the severity of their perceived infection. Motivation to use corona apps also depends on trust in official providers and confidence in data handling, with users more likely to report higher motivation when they believe apps will help prev...

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateSep 4, 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.

Post-COVID syndrome severely damages children's hearts

A literature review found that Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) caused significant cardiac damage, including coronary blood vessel dilation, depressed ejection fraction, and aneurysms. Children with MIS-C require lifelong monitoring and interventions due to the severity of the condition.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalEClinicalMedicine·DateSep 4, 2020

How screen time and green time may affect youth psychological outcomes

A systematic scoping review of 186 studies found that high levels of screen time are linked to unfavorable psychological outcomes, while green time is associated with favorable outcomes among children and adolescents. Young people from low socioeconomic backgrounds may be disproportionately affected by high screen time and low green time.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 4, 2020

Researchers identify nanobody that may prevent COVID-19 infection

Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have identified a nanobody that can block SARS-CoV-2 from entering human cells, offering potential as an antiviral treatment for COVID-19. The nanobody, Ty1, neutralizes the virus by binding to its spike protein, preventing infection.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 4, 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.

Plant protein discovery could reduce need for fertilizer

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered a plant protein that controls mineral and water uptake, leading to improved stress tolerance and reduced fertilizer use. This breakthrough has the potential to increase crop yields and food security, particularly for subsistence farmers.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 4, 2020

Ocean carbon uptake widely underestimated

A new study finds the world's oceans soak up significantly more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than previous estimates, with a net flux up to twice as much in certain times and locations. This accounts for approximately 10% of global fossil fuel emissions.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 4, 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.

Inequality of opportunity drags down everyone's motivation

A UCL-led study found that unequal compensation reduces people's happiness and willingness to work. The research suggests that large disparities in rewards for the same task bring about greater unhappiness, leading to lower motivation and well-being. Participants who were told they would benefit from unfair advantages still showed a de...

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 4, 2020

Uncovering the genetics behind heart attacks that surprise young, healthy women

A genome-wide association study identified specific genetic regions associated with SCAD, which also predict the risk of SCAD among individuals with fibromuscular dysplasia. The findings suggest a shared genetic basis for migraine headache and SCAD, highlighting the need for further research into its clinical implications.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 4, 2020

Intelligent software for district renewable energy management

Maestro, a predictive software developed by CSEM, analyzes weather forecasts and data from local infrastructure to determine the best time to consume energy. The system can reduce heating costs by approximately 20% and is designed to keep costs down, making it suitable for individual homes and entire neighborhoods.

SourceSwiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology - CSEM·DateSep 4, 2020

Common cold combats influenza

A study by Yale researchers found that rhinovirus, the common cold virus, can prevent influenza virus from infecting airways by triggering antiviral defenses. This finding helps explain why there was no surge in swine flu cases in Europe during a similar period when the common cold became widespread.

SourceYale University·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·DateSep 4, 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.

Red hot meat: the wrong recipe for heart disease

A recent study published in Nutrients found that consuming red and processed meat increases a protein compound linked to heart disease. High-heat caramelization during cooking can create compounds called advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which accumulate in the body and interfere with normal cell functions.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalNutrients·DateSep 4, 2020

FSU researchers track nutrient transport in the Gulf of Mexico

Researchers from Florida State University tracked nutrient levels in the Gulf of Mexico, discovering that nitrate from the Mississippi-Atchafalaya River System is not mixing with open waters. The study found 90% of Mississippi River nutrients are retained nearshore, with implications for managing human inputs to coastal ecosystems.

SourceFlorida State University·DateSep 4, 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.

Surprise on Mars

Researchers detected a slight tilt in the seismometer's signal during solar eclipses, likely due to ground cooling and deformation. This effect could be used to map Phobos' orbit with increased precision, important for future missions to the Martian moon.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 4, 2020

Scientists propose nano-confinement strategy to form sub-nanometer reactors

Researchers have developed a novel approach to manipulate catalyst active centers at the subnanometer scale, using nano-confinement to host multiple Fe and Cu single atoms in graphitic carbon nitride. This strategy enhances electrocatalytic performance and efficiency, particularly for nitrogen reduction reactions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 4, 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.

Repulsion mechanism between neurons governs fly brain structure

A study by Makoto Sato and colleagues from Kanazawa University reveals that a gene called Dscam regulates the repulsion between neurons in fly brains, leading to the formation of columnar structures. This finding supports the radial unit hypothesis, which describes the development of the cerebral cortex in mammals.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 4, 2020

Mason researchers to provide bioinformatic analysis

Mason researchers are providing biostatistics and bioinformatic analysis for integrating multi-omic data sets from a breast cancer cohort. The study will include correlations between proteomic, metabolomic, genomic, and/or clinical data from patients with triple-negative breast tumors.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateSep 4, 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.

Blood breakdown product commandeers important enzyme

The study found that heme can be commandeered by activated protein C (APC), which can reduce the toxic effect of heme while also reducing the risk of clot formation in the bloodstream. This interaction may provide new insights into blood coagulation disorders and hemolytic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAntioxidants and Redox Signaling·DateSep 4, 2020