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Science News for February 5, 2021


Chinese scientists use knowledge from climate system modeling to develop a global prediction system for the COVID-19 pandemic

A team of Chinese scientists, led by Professor Jianping Huang, developed the Global Prediction System of the COVID-19 Pandemic (GPCP) to predict the spread of the disease. The GPCP combines epidemiological data and models using advanced algorithms, achieving better results than traditional methods.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateFeb 5, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The Ramanujan Machine

The Ramanujan Machine generates mathematical conjectures without proof, imitating Ramanujan's intuition using AI and computer automation. It has already produced known formulas for pi, Euler's number, and other constants, as well as several unknown conjectures.

SourceTechnion-Israel Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateFeb 5, 2021

Tiny sensor technique reveals cellular forces involved in tissue generation

A new technique developed by Brown University researchers reveals the forces involved at the cellular level during biological tissue formation and growth processes. The technique makes use of cell-sized spheres made from a highly compliant polymer material, which can be placed in laboratory cultures of tissue-forming cells.

SourceBrown University·JournalBiomaterials·DateFeb 5, 2021
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.

Critical flaw found in lab models of the human blood-brain barrier

A study from Columbia University suggests that cells used to study the human blood-brain barrier in labs aren't what they seem. The researchers discovered a possible way to correct the error, raising hopes for creating a more accurate model for studying certain neurological diseases and developing drugs.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2021

Vegan diet better for weight loss and cholesterol control than Mediterranean diet

A new study found that a vegan diet is more effective than the Mediterranean diet for improving health markers and boosting weight loss. Participants who followed a low-fat vegan diet lost an average of 6 kg and had significant reductions in visceral fat, total and LDL cholesterol levels.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Nutrition·DateFeb 5, 2021
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.

Gap between the 'haves' and 'have nots' widened by the COVID pandemic, an IU study found

A new IU study reveals that women, younger individuals, those with lower education levels, and people of color are disproportionately affected by the pandemic. The research found significant disparities in economic hardship, including food insecurity, unemployment, and housing issues among historically disadvantaged groups.

SourceIndiana University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2021

Peginterferon-lambda shows strong antiviral action to accelerate clearance of COVID-19

A clinical study led by Dr. Jordan Feld showed that peginterferon-lambda can significantly speed up recovery for COVID-19 outpatients, with patients who received the treatment being over four times more likely to clear the infection within seven days. The study also found quicker improvement of respiratory symptoms in the treatment group.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateFeb 5, 2021

Audiovisual professionalisation affects how the brain perceives media content

A study published in Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience found that audiovisual professionalisation causes a decrease in eyeblink rate and impacts brain rhythms among media professionals. This research has implications for occupational health strategies and the design of consumption strategies for videos.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalFrontiers in Systems Neuroscience·DateFeb 5, 2021

Grape consumption may protect against UV damage to skin

A recent human study found that consuming grapes protected against ultraviolet (UV) skin damage by increasing resistance to sunburn and reducing markers of UV damage. The study attributed these beneficial effects to the natural components polyphenols in grapes, which may act as an edible sunscreen offering additional protection.

SourceRomano & Associates, LLC·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateFeb 5, 2021

Silicon anode structure generates new potential for lithium-ion batteries

Scientists at OIST have developed a new nanostructure that improves the silicon anode in lithium-ion batteries, increasing its charge capacity and lifespan. The vaulted structure formed by depositing silicon atoms on metallic nanoparticles increases the strength and structural integrity of the anode.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalCommunications Materials·DateFeb 5, 2021
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.

Drop the stress

Cells form 'lockdown' strategy by slowing down gene activity when stressed, allowing resources to be diverted for crisis response. NELF protein condensation plays key role in this process.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 5, 2021

Breakthrough in quantum photonics promises a new era in optical circuits

Researchers at USC have developed a method to create single photons from quantum dots arranged in a precise pattern, paving the way for the production of optical circuits. This breakthrough has potential applications in quantum communication, imaging, sensing, and computation.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalAPL Photonics·DateFeb 5, 2021

Raised mortality from cardiac arrest in people with COVID-19

A new study published in the European Heart Journal reveals that COVID-19 is associated with higher mortality rates from cardiac arrest. The research found divergent differences in mortality rates among various patient groups, including women already receiving inpatient care at the time of their cardiac arrest.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateFeb 5, 2021

Not all banking crises involve panics

A new paper by MIT researchers suggests that many banking crises create long-term macroeconomic damage, regardless of whether they involve panics or not. The study found that a 30% decline in bank equity predicts a 2.7% drop in real GDP after three years, even without a panic.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Quarterly Journal of Economics·DateFeb 5, 2021

At the core of the Integrator complex

The Galej group has discovered the structure and arrangement of the proteins comprising Integrator's catalytic core, revealing a network of multiple subunits interacting with each other. This complex is involved in the transcription attenuation process and plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 5, 2021
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.

Women's voices in the media still outnumbered by those of men - study

A new study from Simon Fraser University found that women's voices are underrepresented in Canadian news media, with men quoted three times more often than women. Despite having prominent female leaders, the research team identified key areas for improvement, including hiring more women as reporters.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 5, 2021

Fingerprint for the formation of nitrous oxide emissions

Researchers led by Eliza Harris and Michael Bahn studied N2O emissions under environmental impacts, finding denitrification dominates production in dry soils. This process was previously thought to occur primarily in moist soils, leading to increased atmospheric emissions during drought.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 5, 2021

Forests of the world in 3D

A study led by the University of Göttingen analyzed global forest structures and found that precipitation patterns drive diversity in these complex ecosystems. The research team created maps showing regional variability in structural complexity, highlighting the importance of water availability for tree species coexistence.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 5, 2021
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.

'Runway Roadkill' rapidly increasing at airports across the world, UCC study finds

A global study led by UCC researcher Samantha Ball found 'runway roadkill' increasing by up to 68% annually, costing aviation authorities millions per annum. The study identified 47 countries with reported mammal strikes, including bats, rabbits, and coyotes, highlighting the need for effective Wildlife Hazard Management Plans.

SourceUniversity College Cork·JournalMammal Review·DateFeb 5, 2021

New AI tool can thwart coronavirus mutations

USC researchers have developed an AI-assisted method that can predict and design effective vaccines against the coronavirus in seconds, rather than months or years. The method uses machine learning to analyze potential mutations and pinpoint the best vaccine candidates, which could help combat the evolving virus.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 5, 2021

Stretching possibilities

Liheng Cai's lab creates a new synthetic rubber that is 1,000 times softer than conventional rubber but still holds its shape. The material has superior mechanical properties and can be used for various applications, including medical implants and soft robots.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateFeb 5, 2021
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.

New research studies 'domino effects' and synchrony in brain activity

Scientists at the University of Exeter made a breakthrough in understanding brain activity during seizures by studying synchronization patterns. The study found that excessive synchronization can lead to epileptic seizures and Parkinson's disease, impairing brain function.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalSIAM Journal on Applied Dynamical Systems·DateFeb 5, 2021

New research sheds light on vision loss in Batten disease

A new study reveals that the CLN3 gene mutation associated with Batten disease leads to degeneration of light-sensing photoreceptor cells in the retina. This understanding is crucial for developing new therapeutic strategies, including gene therapies and cell transplantation.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalCommunications Biology·DateFeb 5, 2021

New drug targets for childhood cancer neuroblastoma identified

Researchers discovered that all neuroblastomas arise from a single type of embryonic cell called sympathoblasts, making them an attractive drug target. This finding reveals novel treatment options for this rare and aggressive childhood cancer.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 5, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Biosensors to detect P. jirovecii, responsible for Pneumocystis pneumonia

Researchers developed more sensitive and efficient biosensors to detect specific sequences corresponding to P. jirovecii using nanotechnology and capture probes. These sensors can detect the fungus in real time without prior amplification steps, enabling a reliable diagnosis of infectious diseases.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalJournal of Fungi·DateFeb 5, 2021
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.

Machine learning generates realistic genomes for imaginary humans

Researchers used machine learning to generate high-quality synthetic human genomes without real human donors, addressing accessibility barriers in genomic research. The generated genomes mimic real human populations' complexities and can serve as proxies for underrepresented populations.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 5, 2021

Link found between time perception, risk for developmental coordination disorder

A study published in Child Development has linked children at risk for developmental coordination disorder (DCD) to difficulties with auditory time perception, crucial for basic skills like walking and processing speech. The research suggests that music with salient beats could be used as a therapy to help treat children with DCD.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalChild Development·DateFeb 5, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Healthy oceans need healthy soundscapes

A global team of researchers found overwhelming evidence that human-made noise impacts marine life from invertebrates to whales, disrupting behavior, physiology, reproduction, and causing mortality. They identify actions to restore healthy ocean sounds and reduce noise levels in the shipping industry.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateFeb 5, 2021

Pangolin coronavirus could jump to humans

Scientists at the Francis Crick Institute have discovered structural similarities between SARS-CoV-2 and a pangolin coronavirus, suggesting that a pangolin coronavirus could infect humans. The study found that the pangolin virus was able to bind to receptors from both pangolins and humans.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 5, 2021
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.

Trapping gases better with boron nitride "nanopores"

Scientists from Okayama University have demonstrated high-performance gas molecule confinement with boron nitride nanopores, surpassing activated carbon. The study found that the nanoporous structure of p-BN allows for strong interaction between nitrogen and its pores, leading to higher adsorption rates.

SourceOkayama University·DateFeb 5, 2021

UTIA researchers work to improve eastern grasslands

Researchers are testing novel grassland systems across the eastern US to improve beef production, soil health, and water quality. The study aims to evaluate tall fescue and native warm-season grasses for their effects on ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateFeb 5, 2021

Novel immunotherapy approach to treat cat allergy

Researchers developed a novel immunotherapy approach using CpG adjuvant to boost immune tolerance to the major cat allergen Fel d 1. The treatment reversed allergy hallmarks and reduced inflammation in allergic mice, offering new hope for treating cat allergy.

SourceLuxembourg Institute of Health·JournalAllergy·DateFeb 5, 2021

Establishment testing standards for particulate photocatalysts in solar fuel production proposed

A research team has proposed new testing standards for particulate photocatalysts in solar fuel production, aiming to improve the efficiency and reliability of this technology. The standards will provide a reliable guide for large-scale implementation and further promote research advances in the field.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJoule·DateFeb 5, 2021

COVID-19 transmission extremely low at group of North Carolina day camps

A study by Weill Cornell Medicine found that COVID-19 transmission was extremely low among children and staff at North Carolina day camps, with only two cases linked to possible on-site transmission. The camps implemented strict safety measures, including masking, distancing, and frequent hand washing, which helped avoid viral spread.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 5, 2021
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.

Today's stem cell special: Small intestine on a plate!

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology create novel enterocyte-like cells that closely resemble actual enterocytes, expressing efflux transporter proteins and CYP3A4. These cells can be used as an in vitro model of the small intestine for evaluating intestinal absorption of drugs in humans.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateFeb 5, 2021

Physical discipline and cognitive deprivation associated with specific types of developmental delay

A study published in JAACAP found associations between physical discipline, cognitive deprivation, and specific types of developmental delay. The research indicates that physical discipline is linked to a higher risk of socioemotional delay, while cognitive deprivation is associated with cognitive delay.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateFeb 5, 2021

Fungi in the gut prime immunity against infection

Researchers found that common fungi in the gut teach the immune system to respond to more dangerous relatives, priming immunity against infection. The discovery offers a potential new therapy to combat deadly fungal infections.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalCell·DateFeb 5, 2021
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.

Mathematics developed new classes of stellar dynamics systems solutions

Mathematicians from RUDN University and University of Munich introduced a new method for stationary solutions in three-dimensional Vlasov-Poisson equations, describing phenomena in stellar dynamics. The results provide insights into the interaction of gravitating particles and electromagnetic fields.

SourceRUDN University·JournalDoklady Mathematics·DateFeb 5, 2021

Sensor and detoxifier in one

A team of Chinese researchers developed a material that can both quickly detect and efficiently remove ozone. The porous material, called an imine COF, works reliably at high humidity and over a wide temperature range.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 5, 2021

New way to power up nanomaterials for electronic applications

Researchers at UCLA have discovered a new molecular component in perovskites that can enhance their electronic performance. The study, published in Science, shows that properly designed organic molecules can contribute to the materials' electronic properties, leading to improved efficiency in solar cells and LEDs.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalScience·DateFeb 5, 2021
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.

'Hidden biological link' among autism genes revealed in study

A new study by UC San Francisco and UC Berkeley scientists has identified a crucial biological link between autism risk genes and the process of prenatal neurogenesis. The research also highlights the protective role of estrogen in preventing disruption to this process, which can steer the brain on a normal course of development.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 5, 2021

Improving our understanding of cells

Scientists are gaining a deeper understanding of extracellular vesicles (EVs), tiny particles that carry unique cargo from cells. EVs play a critical role in communication between cells, contributing to conditions like cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateFeb 5, 2021

Center for BrainHealth researchers create virtual reality cognitive assessment

A new virtual reality cognitive assessment has been developed by Center for BrainHealth researchers, effectively testing executive function in everyday tasks. The study found that participants' performance is not related to their working memory capacity, but rather on their strategies and approaches.

SourceCenter for BrainHealth·JournalComputers in Human Behavior Reports·DateFeb 5, 2021
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.

Gilmore receives funding for postdoctoral fellowship program

Michael Gilmore, Associate Professor at George Mason University, has received $40,334 in funding for a postdoctoral fellowship program. As part of the arrangement, Dr. Brian Griffiths will dedicate 25% of his time to teaching and active research in ecology, conservation, and sustainability.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 5, 2021

Climate change may have driven the emergence of SARS-CoV-2

A new study reveals climate change has altered habitats, driving growth of forest habitat favored by bats. This created a suitable environment for many bat species to harbor more types of bat-borne coronavirus, including SARS-CoV-2.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateFeb 5, 2021

Bioplastics in the sustainability dilemma

Researchers found bioplastics' carbon footprint is larger than estimated, with Thailand being an exception. The study suggests careful assessment of bio-based production to understand potential sustainability risks.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·DateFeb 5, 2021
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.

Birds living in natural habits can help inform captive care

A review published in the Journal Birds suggests that studying birds in their natural habitats can improve zoo management and conservation efforts. By analyzing the ecological role of bird species, zoos can design enclosures that support reproduction and develop conservation actions.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBirds·DateFeb 5, 2021

Signs of burnout can be detected in sweat

A wearable sensor developed by EPFL's Nanolab and Xsensio measures cortisol levels in sweat to detect signs of burnout, providing a non-invasive and precise way to quantify stress levels. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize the study of physiological rhythms and the treatment of stress-related diseases.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCommunications Materials·DateFeb 5, 2021

If healthy people are purposefully infected with COVID-19 for the sake of science, they should be paid

A multidisciplinary team of international experts recommends that healthy individuals participating in COVID-19 challenge trials should receive substantial payment. The study's findings reflect the importance of compensating research-related harms and minimizing risk to promote social value. The researchers' framework provides guidance...

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalThe American Journal of Bioethics·DateFeb 5, 2021

New microscopy concept enters into force

A team led by Alexander Eichler has demonstrated the first scanning force microscope with a vibrating substrate, pushing sensitivity to its fundamental limit. The approach uses a perforated membrane as the 'table' and features an optical interferometer for sensitive measurement.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateFeb 5, 2021
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.

Technion researchers discover new pathway for attacking cancer cells

Researchers at Technion-Israel Institute of Technology have discovered a new pathway that targets cancer cells specifically, minimizing damage to healthy cells. The folate cycle is essential for DNA and RNA production, and the team found that tumor cells relying on the cytosolic pathway are more susceptible to targeted treatments.

SourceTechnion-Israel Institute of Technology·JournalCell Metabolism·DateFeb 5, 2021

Genes for face shape identified

A UCL-led team discovered 32 gene regions affecting facial features such as nose and lip shapes. The analysis of over 6,000 volunteers found that one gene, TBX15, was inherited from the Denisovans, an extinct group of ancient humans.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 5, 2021

Study: 'Hidden' genes could be key in development of new antibiotics

A study from Texas A&M AgriLife Communications reveals that membrane-localized phage proteins may help revitalize and enhance existing antibiotics. Researchers identified 35 unique lysis genes in E. coli bacteria, which could potentially represent new mechanisms for bacterial cell lysis.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 5, 2021
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.

SSRgenotyper: A new tool to digitally genotype simple sequence repeats

SSRgenotyper is a free bioinformatic tool that digitally genotypes sequenced populations using simple sequence repeats. The tool reduces the time and work required for genotype analysis and solves the transferability problem inherent in electrophoresis estimates.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2021

Nehandertals' gut microbiota and the bacteria helping our health

Researchers analyzed 50,000-year-old Neanderthal feces to identify beneficial bacteria essential for human health. The study suggests that targeted diet- and lifestyle-tailored solutions can help safeguard the microorganisms crucial to our physiology.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalCommunications Biology·DateFeb 5, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.