Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2020 - Page 101


Page 101 of 512

Study finds lowering nicotine decreases addictiveness of smoking in vulnerable populations

A study published in JAMA Network Open found that reducing nicotine levels in cigarettes decreases addictiveness, particularly among those with mental illness and socioeconomic disadvantage. The research suggests that lower nicotine content could lead to policy changes benefiting all smokers, especially the most vulnerable.

SourceLarner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 20, 2020

New approach to fighting cancer could reduce costs and side effects

Researchers at the University of South Australia have developed a novel microfluidic approach to purify CAR-T cells, reducing dead cells by over 70% and increasing cell viability by 20%. This method could significantly benefit patients by lowering manufacturing costs and side effects associated with CAR T cell therapy.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·DateOct 20, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Predicting tornadoes on UK cold fronts for the first time

Researchers at the University of Leeds and the Met Office have developed a predictive tool to identify regions at increased risk of tornadoes on UK cold fronts. The tool uses wind fields ahead and behind the cold front to compute a percentage probability that tornadoes will occur.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalQuarterly Journal of the Royal Meteorological Society·DateOct 20, 2020

Most psoriasis patients taking drugs that affect the immune system survive COVID-19

A global registry of psoriasis and COVID-19 patients found that over 90% of patients taking immune system drugs survived the pandemic. The risk factors for severe outcomes were similar to those in the general population, with older, male patients and those with certain health conditions being more likely to require hospital admission.

SourceNational Institute for Health Research·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateOct 20, 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.

Slinging ink, raising temperatures

Researchers found that tattooed skin has reduced sweat rates, which can lead to increased risk of overheating. The study suggests that the tattooing process damages eccrine sweat glands, potentially causing long-term complications.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateOct 20, 2020

Safety considerations for visiting primary care doctors

Primary care doctors are taking safety measures to protect patients, including appointment-only offices, clear protocols posted online or over the phone, and staggered in-person visits. Patients can also take precautions such as calling labs before scheduling appointments and wearing masks during visits.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Public Health Management and Practice·DateOct 20, 2020

Removal of synthetic estrogen from water

Researchers found that a modified bentonite complex can remove 17α-ethinylestradiol and other pharmaceutical organic micropollutants from wastewater environments. The study demonstrates an effective and cost-efficient method for removing synthetic estrogen from bodies of water.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalEnvironmental Engineering Science·DateOct 20, 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.

Food waste: cities can make the difference

Cities are crucial actors in tackling food waste, launching effective policies and initiatives to address it. A new framework for assessing urban food waste policies and initiatives has been presented, highlighting the importance of integrated management and multi-actorial collaboration.

SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalResources·DateOct 19, 2020

Criteria to predict cytokine storm in COVID-19 patients identified by Temple Researchers

Temple researchers developed and validated predictive criteria to identify COVID-19 patients at risk of developing a cytokine storm, which can lead to life-threatening organ damage. The six criteria relate to inflammation, cell death, tissue damage, and electrolyte imbalance, and were validated in two cohorts of patients.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateOct 19, 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.

Newborn brains lack maturity to process emotions as adults do

Researchers found that newborns lack mature brain circuitry for emotionally attaching to visual stimuli. However, connections develop within a few months after birth. The study's findings have important clinical implications for disorders like autism and anxiety.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 19, 2020

Gut bacteria in multiple sclerosis: Probiotic or commensal, good or bad?

A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that Lactobacillus reuteri, a commonly used probiotic, can exacerbate multiple sclerosis in mouse models. The research suggests that gut microbiome balance is crucial in chronic diseases and that a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment may not be effective.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 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.

Researchers investigate impact of COVID-19 on BAME businesses

Researchers investigate the specific challenges faced by BAME business owners during COVID-19, finding that adaptability and evolution were crucial for survival. BAME-owned retail businesses that adapted to social distancing and new technologies fared better than those that didn't.

SourceStaffordshire University·DateOct 19, 2020

Journal series gives in-depth look at COVID-19's impact on the heart

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the complex relationship between the virus and cardiovascular health. Researchers discuss the emergence of a new cardiometabolic syndrome composed of abnormal adiposity, dysglycemia, dyslipidemia, and hypertension.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 19, 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.

New study shows how complex metabolism may have self-assembled from simple precursors

A new study by Tokyo Institute of Technology researchers shows that simple environmental reactions can form reactive thioesters similar to those used in modern biology. The reaction uses a thioacid and sulfur-containing thiol compounds, and may have served as a starting point for the evolution of more complex biochemistry.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalChemical Communications·DateOct 19, 2020

Natural killer cells also have a memory function

Researchers found that one third of human liver NK cells can remember viruses and respond specifically to them, making them an interesting target for prophylactic use in the fight against infections. This subset of NK cells exhibits a unique gene expression profile and could be used for specific vaccination strategies.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalScience Immunology·DateOct 19, 2020

Cognitive performance across lifespan and generations

A study of over 1.6 million chess moves reveals a hump-shaped curve in performance over the lifespan, peaking at 35 years old. Performance has improved significantly over the past 125 years, especially for younger players and those with increased experience.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 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.

Researchers discover neuroprotective treatment for chronic traumatic brain injury

Researchers have discovered a neuroprotective treatment that can reverse cognitive impairment caused by chronic traumatic brain injury. The brief pharmacologic treatment, known as P7C3-A20, restored normal cognitive function in mice and stopped chronic neurodegeneration.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2020

Mouthwashes, oral rinses may inactivate human coronaviruses

Researchers found that several nasal and oral rinses had a strong ability to neutralize human coronavirus, suggesting these products could reduce virus spread by COVID-19-positive individuals. The 1% baby shampoo solution inactivated over 99.9% of the virus after a two-minute contact time.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Medical Virology·DateOct 19, 2020

NUS study reveals severe air pollution drives food delivery consumption and plastic waste

A NUS study found that poor outdoor air quality in China drives consumers to use food delivery services, resulting in increased plastic waste from packaging. The study revealed a strong causal link between air pollution and plastic waste, with a 100 μg/m³ increase in PM2.5 levels raising food delivery consumption by 7.2%.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateOct 19, 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.

Fighting fire with data

A University of Pittsburgh professor is utilizing optimization techniques to find effective solutions for mitigating forest fires. The project aims to predict when and where fuel treatment methods should be implemented to best control wildfires.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateOct 19, 2020

Rodent mating plugs obstruct rival males' sperm

Bank voles produce mating plugs that promote the transport of their own sperm while partially obstructing rival males' ejaculates. Large plugs facilitate the transport of each male's own sperm, increasing the chances of fertilization.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 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.

AI methods of analyzing social networks find new cell types in tissue

Researchers at Uppsala University developed a new AI-based method for analyzing gene activity in tissues using graph neural networks. This approach enables the detection of new cell types and intra- or intercellular functions without prior knowledge of expected cell types, greatly expanding our understanding of cellular behavior.

SourceUppsala University·JournalFEBS Journal·DateOct 19, 2020

For toddlers with autism, more intervention hours are not necessarily better

Researchers compared two popular autism interventions and found that more intensive treatment did not lead to better results. The study, led by UC Davis Health, suggests that therapists can adapt their approaches to meet individual child needs.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateOct 19, 2020

Frère Jacques, are you sleeping?

A study published in Nature Human Behaviour found that American infants relaxed when played unfamiliar and foreign-language lullabies. The researchers discovered universal elements of songs that produced relaxation effects independently of experience, supporting the idea that there is something universal about lullabies.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateOct 19, 2020

How cancer cells escape crowded tumors

Researchers have discovered that cancer cells use their nucleus to sense environmental compression and trigger responses to evade overcrowded areas. The study proposes a new mechanism by which tumor cells cope with the lack of space and compressive stresses, involving the unfolded and stretched nuclear membranes.

SourceSt. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute·JournalScience·DateOct 19, 2020

Creating perfect edges in 2D-materials

Scientists at Chalmers University of Technology develop a new method for controlling the edges of two-dimensional materials, resulting in extremely sharp and atomically precise patterns. This breakthrough enables the creation of perfect edges in 2D materials, opening up new possibilities for nanoscience and technology.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 19, 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.

Odors as navigational cues for pigeons

Researchers have identified volatile organic compounds used for olfactory navigation by homing pigeons, generating regional olfactory maps that can be used as a compass to return home from unfamiliar sites. The study provides evidence for the existence of suitable regional chemical gradients in the air.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 19, 2020

Sludge-powered bacteria generate more electricity, faster

Scientists have discovered a novel electroactive bacterium, Desulfuromonas acetexigens, that preferentially grows on modified electrodes, producing higher current densities than existing species. This breakthrough could enable energy-neutral wastewater treatment using microbial electrolysis cells.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalWater Research·DateOct 19, 2020

ONR Robotics enter the COVID-19 fight

The ONR robotics program has deployed a decontamination robot using short-wave ultraviolet (UVC) light to combat Covid-19. The robot's mechanical arm can reposition UVC lamps over surfaces, reducing human exposure and enabling autonomous disinfection.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateOct 19, 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.

Media's reporting on gun violence does not reflect reality, study finds

A new study published in Preventive Medicine found that news reports place disproportionate emphasis on fatal and multiple shootings, while underreporting common victims. The researchers believe this could affect public perception of gun violence and shape policy decisions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateOct 19, 2020

What lies between grey and white in the brain

A multidisciplinary team has successfully visualized superficial white matter in living human brains using high-field MRI. The study reveals that this region contains significant amounts of iron, necessary for myelination, which can occur throughout lifespan but is predominant during development.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 19, 2020

Astrophysics team lights the way for more accurate model of the universe

Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas have developed a self-calibration method to remove contamination from gravitational lensing signals, allowing for more accurate measurements of key cosmological parameters. This breakthrough has significant implications for understanding dark energy and the structure of the universe.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateOct 19, 2020

Biochar helps hold water, saves money

A new study from Rice University shows that biochar can help farmers save money by retaining water in sandy soils, with potential irrigation savings of over 50%. The research provides formulas for farmers to estimate water-holding capacity and irrigation cost savings.

SourceRice University·DateOct 19, 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.

Tough love: intense glare helps next-gen solar tech through awkward phase

Researchers have found a surprising solution to stabilize mixed-halide perovskites, a crucial material for efficient solar photovoltaics. Increasing the intensity of light can undo the disruption caused by lower intensities, allowing researchers to control the material's bandgap and improve device efficiency.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science·JournalNature Materials·DateOct 19, 2020

Plague outbreaks accelerated during second pandemic

The study analyzed historical data to estimate mortality rates and transmission dynamics of plague epidemics. Climatic changes and human population density increased the growth rate of plague outbreaks, suggesting indirect flea-driven transmission.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2020

Sanctuary policies protect immigrants but don't threaten public safety

A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that sanctuary policies protect immigrants and reduce deportations, but have no measurable impact on crime rates. Sanctuary policies prevented about 22,300 deportations nationwide between 2013 and 2015.

SourceStanford University - Immigration Policy Lab·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2020

The line of succession

A specific region of messenger RNAs plays a crucial role in brain cell function. The study reveals an unusual EXAR (EXon-Activated Rescue) mechanism that secures this process, using ELAV and FNE proteins to determine neuronal transcript signatures.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalMolecular Cell·DateOct 19, 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.

American historian Mills Kelly receives Gutenberg Teaching Award

Professor Mills Kelly receives the prestigious award for his contributions to digital teaching methods and innovative approaches. The Gutenberg Teaching Council recognized him for his work on digitizing history teaching with his book 'Teaching History in the Digital Age'.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateOct 19, 2020

Triggerfish learns to catch more diverse food

A titan triggerfish was observed catching a Red Sea ghost crab in shallow water without beaching itself. This unique behavior highlights the fish's ability to learn and adapt its feeding strategy.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of Fish Biology·DateOct 19, 2020

Smarter models, smarter choices

Researchers developed a new mathematical framework that leverages uncertainty and expert knowledge to create more accurate and efficient computer models. This method provides guarantees on model performance and can lead to breakthroughs in renewable energy, battery technology, and other fields.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 19, 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.