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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 107


Page 107 of 512

Predicting influenza epidemics

The study developed a unique method to forecast influenza epidemics using real episode data and consultations about symptoms, achieving accurate results for all seasons under stable conditions. The forecasts can help redistribute resources effectively during an epidemic, with potential applications in the ongoing corona pandemic as well.

SourceLinköping University·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateOct 15, 2020

Phosphate polymer forms a cornerstone of metabolic control

Researchers discovered that polyphosphate synthesis is deeply integrated with cellular metabolism, allowing organisms to adapt to nutrient deprivation. This knowledge could enable scientists to engineer the metabolism of organisms to be more resilient in a range of environments.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 15, 2020

Researchers develop framework to identify health impacts of self-driving vehicles

Texas A&M University researchers developed a conceptual model to systematically identify the potential health impacts of autonomous vehicles (AVs). The study found 17 risk factors that could negatively impact public health, while eight had positive effects. Seven areas of uncertain implications require further investigation.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalSustainable Cities and Society·DateOct 15, 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.

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.

Marriage or not? Rituals help dating couples decide relationship future

A University of Illinois study found that rituals in dating relationships can magnify normative experiences and provide a preview into family life and couple life. Rituals have the power to bond individuals and serve as diagnostic tools for where the relationship is going.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateOct 15, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Plant genetic engineering to fight 'hidden hunger'

A global research team led by the University of Göttingen explains how plant genetic engineering can combat micronutrient malnutrition. Biofortification using conventional breeding methods has already been successful in improving nutrition and health, but genetic engineering offers a way to further enhance benefits.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 15, 2020

Early trauma influences metabolism across generations

A study by University of Zurich's Brain Research Institute found that early childhood trauma can lead to changes in lipid metabolism and glucose levels in offspring and grand-offspring. The researchers discovered a molecular mechanism involving the PPAR receptor, which is activated by fatty acids and regulates gene expression.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateOct 15, 2020

What was responsible for the hottest spring in eastern China in 2018?

A record-breaking spring temperature event occurred in eastern China in 2018, with over 900 stations reaching their highest spring mean temperature on record. The analysis suggests that both human-induced global warming and anomalous circulation increased the chance of this extreme high-temperature event.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateOct 15, 2020

Chronic disease and public health failures fuel COVID-19 pandemic

A 30-year global study reveals that chronic illness and related risk factors like obesity, high blood sugar, and outdoor air pollution have fueled coronavirus deaths. People are living more years in poor health, despite treatment advancements, with stagnant life expectancy in many countries.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 15, 2020

Machine learning uncovers potential new TB drugs

Researchers at MIT developed a machine-learning algorithm that can predict the effectiveness of drug compounds against tuberculosis and other diseases. The algorithm, which incorporates uncertainty values to account for data variability, identified promising compounds targeting a critical protein required by the bacteria.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Systems·DateOct 15, 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.

Better measures reveal more COVID-19 smell loss

Researchers found that direct measures of smell ability reveal a higher prevalence of COVID-19-related smell loss, estimated at 77%, compared to self-report methods, which underestimate the true prevalence. The study suggests that measuring people's sense of smell may become as routine as measuring body temperature for fever.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalChemical Senses·DateOct 15, 2020

Magnetic fields on the moon are the remnant of an ancient core dynamo

A study published in Science Advances confirms that the Moon's localized strong magnetic fields are remnants of an ancient core dynamo. The researchers used complex simulations to disprove the asteroid impact theory, showing that the resulting magnetic field is a thousand times weaker than necessary to explain the observations.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 15, 2020

Small RNA as a central player in infections

Researchers found that small RNA molecule NikS regulates critical virulence factors in H. pylori, allowing it to colonize the stomach and develop disease. NikS influences bacterial internalization and helps overcome epithelial barriers.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalMolecular Cell·DateOct 15, 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.

Astrocytes build synapses after cocaine use in mice

Researchers found that astrocytes play a critical role in forming synapses in response to cocaine exposure, which can contribute to addiction. Blocking these synapses may help prevent relapse, suggesting a new therapeutic target for substance use disorder.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 15, 2020

LiU researchers first to develop an organic battery

Researchers at Linköping University have developed an organic redox flow battery with a water-based electrolyte, increasing the energy density. The battery uses conducting polymer PEDOT electrodes and quinone molecules, making it safe, cheap, and recyclable.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateOct 15, 2020

Glutathione precursor GlyNAC reverses premature aging in people with HIV

Researchers found that supplementing people with HIV with GlyNAC, a combination of glycine and N-acetylcysteine, improves multiple deficits associated with premature aging. The supplement boosts glutathione levels, a natural antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and helps maintain cellular function.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalBiomedicines·DateOct 15, 2020

Stressed out volcanoes more likely to collapse and erupt, study finds

Researchers at Monash University have discovered how volcanoes experience stress, which can lead to collapse and eruptions. By studying a dormant volcano on La Palma, the team found that repeated movement of magma inside the volcano causes it to become 'stressed' and potentially unstable.

SourceMonash University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 15, 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.

New technology diagnoses sickle cell disease in record time

Researchers have developed a new technology to diagnose sickle cell disease with increased sensitivity and speed, using only a small droplet of blood and costing less than traditional methods. The Acousto Thermal Shift Assay (ATSA) measures protein interactions and mutations in under one minute.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalSmall·DateOct 15, 2020

Poor diet is top contributor to heart disease deaths globally

A recent study published in the European Heart Journal found that more than two-thirds of heart disease deaths worldwide can be prevented through healthier diets. The analysis of global data from 195 countries revealed that unhealthy eating, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are major contributors to ischaemic heart disease.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal - Quality of Care and Clinical Outcomes·DateOct 15, 2020

Cows prefer "live" co-moo-nication, study reveals

A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that cows are more relaxed when spoken to directly by a live human than when listening to a recorded voice. The researchers observed higher heart rate variability and lower heart rates after the live interaction, indicating improved mood.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateOct 15, 2020

Will the COVID-19 virus become endemic?

The COVID-19 virus may become endemic if immunity wanes within a year, allowing for yearly outbreaks. Reinfections are common, even within a year of prior infection, and the risk of severe clinical outcomes changes with subsequent infection.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalScience·DateOct 15, 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.

Mammalian lipid droplets organize and support innate host immunity

Researchers found that mammalian lipid droplets play a crucial role in organizing and supporting intracellular immune responses against microbial pathogens. The structures help drive metabolic shifts within cells toward an environment more conducive to host defense.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 15, 2020

Frank receives funding for NSF IPA Program

Associate Professor Toya Frank at George Mason University has received funding from the National Science Foundation for the IPA Program. She is responsible for long-range planning and budget development for various areas of science represented by the program.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateOct 15, 2020

Laser technology measures biomass in world's largest trees

Researchers at University College London have used laser technology to measure the volume and biomass of giant Californian redwood trees for the first time. The technique offers new insights into carbon storage and ecosystem structure, with estimates suggesting these large trees are up to 30% heavier than previous indirect methods.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 15, 2020

UCI-led 4D Nucleome project receives $3 million from NIH

Researchers at UCI will examine molecular 4D nucleome changes in the human hippocampus during aging, with a focus on physical activity's effects. The team aims to produce multi-omics cell atlases to understand chromatin organization and function in brain aging.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateOct 15, 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.

The Lancet: Latest global disease estimates reveal perfect storm of rising chronic diseases and public health failures fuelling COVID-19 pandemic

The study provides new data on health in 204 countries and territories, revealing a perfect storm of rising chronic diseases and public health failures. Key findings include low life expectancy in the USA, high rates of cardiovascular deaths and obesity, and increasing mortality rates among adults aged 25-34 years.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 15, 2020

Was Hong Kong once a coral reef paradise?

Researchers from The University of Hong Kong studied fossil corals and created the first palaeoecological baseline for coral communities in the Greater Bay Area. They found a 40% decrease in coral species, particularly staghorn corals (Acropora), which now occupy only 50% of their historic range.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 15, 2020

Anemic star cluster breaks metal-poor record

Researchers have found a globular star cluster with 800 times less iron than the Sun and is three times more iron-poor than the previous record-holder. The study contradicts the standard picture of how these old star clusters formed in the early universe.

SourceW. M. Keck Observatory·JournalScience·DateOct 15, 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.

Breakthrough blood test developed for brain tumors

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a non-invasive liquid biopsy test that can detect genetic mutations in brain tumor patients. The test, which improved detection sensitivity by tenfold, has the potential to revolutionize glioma diagnosis and monitoring.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateOct 14, 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.

Are corals genetically equipped to survive climate change?

Researchers sequenced and analyzed coral genomes, discovering genes that may help corals adapt to ocean warming. The study found that Acropora corals diversified when the world's oceans were warmer, suggesting they could handle temperature changes.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateOct 14, 2020

Making new materials using AI

Researchers from Pohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH) used artificial intelligence to create novel materials for memory devices. By controlling atomic structures, they discovered a unique ferroelectricity pattern, leading to the synthesis of a new material with unprecedented properties.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 14, 2020

A new protein discovered that repairs DNA

Researchers discovered a new protein called cryptochrome that repairs DNA damage caused by ultraviolet radiation, a function previously attributed to photolysis in cells. This breakthrough highlights how proteins can evolve and acquire new functions over time.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 14, 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.

Scientists show jet lag conditions impair immune response in mice

Researchers found that chronic jet lag alters the microenvironment surrounding tumor cells, making it favorable for tumor growth, while hindering the body's natural immune defenses. This study adds to the growing scientific field of circadian disruption on health and wellbeing.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 14, 2020

Bringing a power tool from math into quantum computing

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science design a new quantum circuit that calculates the fast Fourier transform, a key algorithm in engineering. The QFFT circuit exploits superposition of states to greatly increase computational speed and is more versatile than traditional QFT.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalQuantum Information Processing·DateOct 14, 2020

Robots are helping to advance developmental biology

Scientists use a custom robot to survey how mutations in regulatory regions of the genome affect animal development, revealing that most mutations alter gene expression in some way. The study finds that regulatory regions encode valuable information densely and that single mutations can have several different effects.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateOct 14, 2020

Clean and clear: How being more transparent over resources helps cut carbon emissions

A new study by the University of Sussex Business School reveals that countries signing up to the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) have seen significant reductions in carbon emissions, with an average decrease of 13% between 2000 and 2014. In contrast, the world average carbon footprint per capita grew by 23% over th...

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalThe Extractive Industries and Society·DateOct 14, 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.

Study confirms plastics threat to south pacific seabirds

A new study confirms that plastic pollution is a significant threat to seabirds in the South Pacific Ocean, with globally distributed impacts. The research found that seabirds ingest plastics from distant areas, highlighting the need for urgent solutions to this global problem.

SourceCanterbury Museum·DateOct 14, 2020

Solar-powered system extracts drinkable water from "dry" air

Researchers at MIT have developed a more practical and efficient solar-powered system that can extract drinkable water from dry air, doubling its output compared to an earlier version. The new system uses a readily available adsorbent material, increasing scalability and feasibility for remote regions with limited access to water.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJoule·DateOct 14, 2020

An alternative to animal experiments

Researchers at TUM have developed human intestinal organoids as a model for studying nutrient and drug transport in the intestines. These miniature intestines can accurately reflect physiological processes inside humans, paving the way for medical and pharmaceutical applications such as drug screening.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateOct 14, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

New insight into neovessel formation shows promise in future treatment of cardiovascular diseases

A new study by researchers at the University of Eastern Finland provides novel insight into the previously unknown effects of factors regulating blood vessel formation. Bone morphogenetic factor 6, BMP6, is shown to regulate blood vessel formation via vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) and Hippo signalling pathway.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalAngiogenesis·DateOct 14, 2020