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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 17


Page 17 of 512

ModMol the new app to observe molecules in 3D

ModMol is an augmented reality app that allows users to visualize and edit molecules in 3D. The app currently supports 115 molecules, including organic and inorganic systems, biomolecules, polymers, and proteins. It enables users to customize molecules using the period table and standard fragments, and save edited structures for export.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·DateDec 15, 2020

HSS bone study sheds light on complications after spinal surgery

A new study by HSS researchers found that patients with skeletal abnormalities are more likely to experience complications after spinal fusion surgery. The study used high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) scans to assess bone quality and identified specific abnormalities linked to postoperative complicat...

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalBone·DateDec 15, 2020

How water helps the substrate into the enzyme

Researchers discovered water's unique properties when confined in a tiny cage, facilitating access to the catalytic center. The team showed that water forms a droplet inside the cage, structurally and dynamically distinct from known phases of water.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateDec 15, 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.

Scientists discover a new complex europium hydride

A team of researchers has discovered a new complex europium hydride, Eu8H46, which has a structure of 54 atoms. The discovery was made possible by the efficient USPEX crystal structure prediction tool, which helped understand and explain experimental data.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateDec 15, 2020

Fast walking in narrow corridors can increase COVID-19 transmission risk

Computational simulations reveal that fast walking in narrow corridors creates a higher transmission risk for COVID-19. The shape of the space and airflow patterns behind an individual playing a significant role in this outcome. Children are particularly vulnerable due to the trailing of virus-laden droplets at mouth level.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateDec 15, 2020

Study: Surge of teen vaping levels off, but remains high as of early 2020

Levels of nicotine and marijuana vaping among US teens remained high in early 2020, despite a slight decrease in some trends. Nicotine vaping declined among 10th and 12th graders, but daily use remained high. The MTF survey found that vaping device brands have shifted, with teens moving to disposable devices.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 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.

Climate change caused the demise of Central Asia's river civilizations, not Genghis Khan

A new study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests that climate change, not Genghis Khan, led to the decline of Central Asia's medieval river civilizations. The research found that decreasing river flow due to drought was equally important for the abandonment of these city-states as the Mongol invasion.

SourceUniversity of Lincoln·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 2020

The phantom chorus: birdsong boosts human well-being in protected areas

A recent study by California Polytechnic State University found that exposure to recorded birdsong can significantly improve humans' sense of well-being, especially in protected areas. The researchers discovered that even short periods of time spent listening to birdsong can have a positive impact on mental health.

SourceCalifornia Polytechnic State University·DateDec 15, 2020

Genes play a role in common knee injury

Researchers at Lund University found that genes contribute more than previously thought to knee injuries, accounting for 69% of cases. The genetic risk was equally high in men and women, suggesting a possible preventive strategy by family members.

SourceLund University·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateDec 15, 2020

Error correction means California's future wetter winters may never come

Researchers found that California's winter precipitation projections are likely to be drier than expected due to a persistent error in climate models known as the double-ITCZ bias. This bias can lead to reduced winter precipitation, less spring runoff, and increased wildfire risk in the state.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateDec 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.

Sights set on curbing gun crime

A Flinders University study found that guns and drugs are linked to serious crime and that reducing access and value in popular culture can decrease their appeal. Experts say broad social changes are needed to make guns less attractive for criminals.

SourceFlinders University·DateDec 15, 2020

Primitive fish fossils reveal developmental origins of teeth

Ancient fish fossils show that teeth and dermal odontodes, a hard structure similar to teeth, are linked by the same development system. High-resolution X-ray imaging reveals changes in their appearance as they develop, suggesting different chemical signals direct their growth.

SourceeLife·DateDec 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.

Study IDs four things that make people feel good about using chatbots

A recent study identified four attributes that predict user satisfaction with customer service chatbots: convenience, useful information, pleasant interaction, and social presence. The researchers found that companies investing in AI-driven chatbot services must prioritize data protection to boost user loyalty.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media·DateDec 15, 2020

Oceanographers have an explanation for the Arctic's puzzling ocean turbulence

A new study by MIT researchers reveals that Arctic eddies are driven by ice friction and ocean stratification, leading to a seasonal shift in their activity. The findings suggest that as the Arctic loses summertime ice, waters will become more turbulent, with implications for climate change predictions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Physical Oceanography·DateDec 15, 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.

Scientists discover compounds that could have helped to start life on Earth

Researchers from St. Petersburg University and Ben-Gurion University of the Negev discovered cyclophosphates, chemically active phosphorus-containing compounds found in rocks along the Dead Sea. These compounds are thought to have played a key role in prebiotic phosphorylation reactions that led to the emergence of primordial life.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalGeology·DateDec 14, 2020

Experts advocate responsible and transparent use of algorithms in government

A special issue of Information Polity explores the transparency challenges of using algorithms in government decision-making, highlighting potential benefits and drawbacks. Experts emphasize the need for regulations, organizational policies, and individual training to ensure transparent and responsible algorithm use.

SourceIOS Press·JournalInformation Polity·DateDec 14, 2020

Unexpected discovery leads to better understanding of migraine

Researchers discovered massive glutamate surges in brain, sparking spreading depolarizations, a precursor to migraine with aura. The study suggests an imbalance between glutamate release and reuptake may contribute to neurologic diseases, including stroke.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalNeuron·DateDec 14, 2020

Singing to preterm infants during kangaroo care reduces maternal anxiety

A study by the University of Helsinki found that singing to preterm infants during kangaroo care significantly reduced maternal anxiety. The intervention also improved mood, general wellbeing, and promoted interaction with the infant. Mothers reported continuing to sing at home after the study, establishing it as a daily family routine.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNordic Journal of Music Therapy·DateDec 14, 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.

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.

A smart ring shows it's possible to detect fever before you feel it

Researchers at UC San Diego used wearable devices to detect fevers in participants with COVID-19, showing promise for an early warning system. The study collected temperature data from over 50 participants and demonstrated that wearables can identify fever peaks more accurately than traditional spot checks.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 14, 2020

Sheets of carbon nanotubes come in a rainbow of colors

Scientists have developed a method to predict the specific colors of thin films made from combining any of the 466 varieties of single-walled carbon nanotubes. The research shows that the thinnest and most colorful tubes affect visible light more than those with larger diameters and faded colors.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 14, 2020

A comprehensive review of early-onset colorectal SEER data is the first to specifically assess adeno

Researchers analyzed SEER 18 data and found adenocarcinomas to be the predominant cancer subtype in screening, surveillance, and prevention. The study also revealed that carcinoid tumors are increasing at a faster rate than adenocarcinomas, but adenocarcinomas are still steadily increasing in most early-onset subgroups.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 14, 2020

Success in the Amazon

A landmark agreement, the Amazon Soy Moratorium, has prevented thousands of square kilometers of deforestation over its first decade, with no negative impact on agricultural growth. The policy's success can be attributed to cooperation among private companies, NGOs, and government agencies.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Food·DateDec 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.

Ocean heatwave has triggered new toxic algal blooms on the US west coast

Climate change is increasing the frequency of highly toxic algal blooms off the US west coast, producing a neurotoxin that causes severe digestive and neurological symptoms. A new study found that extreme marine heatwaves are now 20 times more likely to occur than they would be without climate change.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Climate·DateDec 14, 2020

Toward imperceptible electronics that you cannot see or feel

Osaka University researchers fabricated centimeter-scale cross-aligned silver nanowire arrays using high-resolution printing. The arrays exhibit excellent transparency and functionality, making them suitable for various applications such as healthcare and civil engineering.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·DateDec 14, 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.

Arctic sea ice and shrub growth

A study analyzing Arctic tundra shrub-ring chronologies from 1979 to 2008 found that most shrubs experienced increased radial growth as Arctic sea ice declined. However, 39% of shrubs showed decreased growth, often at drier sites, suggesting changes in moisture availability constrain responses to warming temperatures.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 2020

International research project investigates photosensitive carbon nanoparticles

Researchers have identified key challenges in understanding photophysics and photochemistry of carbon nanocolloids, a promising candidate for technological and biomedical applications. The findings may pave the way for using adaptable, non-toxic, and sustainable nanomaterials in various fields.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalChem·DateDec 14, 2020

Research dispels fears human stem cells contain cancer-causing mutations

New research from the University of Exeter's Living Systems Institute has found that human embryonic stem cells do not acquire cancer-causing mutations when grown in their most primitive state. The study provides a significant breakthrough in understanding the genetic stability of human pluripotent stem cells.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateDec 14, 2020

Proportionally more male bosses negative toward depression

A University of Gothenburg study reveals that male managers are more likely to hold negative attitudes toward depression, especially in senior positions. The research, which surveyed over 2,600 managers in Sweden, found that female managers had a significantly lower proportion of negative attitudes towards the mental disorder.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalBMC Public Health·DateDec 14, 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.

Chemists from RUDN University synthesized chitin-based antibiotics

Researchers from RUDN University have synthesized new chitin-based antibiotics with enhanced antibacterial activity, outperforming existing compounds like ampicillin and gentamicin. The newly created substances also exhibit non-toxicity and potential as catalysts in organic synthesis.

SourceRUDN University·JournalInternational Journal of Biological Macromolecules·DateDec 14, 2020

Mapping corals from the sky guides reef conservation

A new study mapped the geographic distribution of live corals across Hawaiian waters, revealing areas of degraded reef and 'refugia' where corals show resilience to human-driven environmental stressors. The detailed maps will inform conservation efforts and help protect coral reefs from critical threat levels by 2050.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 2020

A dynamical world undergrund

A new research group at the University of Oldenburg is studying subsurface processes on North Sea beaches with high waves and strong tides. The team aims to assess the importance of these underground habitats for coastal ecosystems and global carbon, nutrient, and trace element cycling.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·DateDec 14, 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.

Drugs create balancing act for patients with non-small cell lung cancer

A large retrospective study found that patients with non-small cell lung cancer who developed two immune-related side effects had improved patient survival and delayed tumor progression. The researchers identified a correlation between multisystem immune-related adverse events and improved survival outcomes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateDec 14, 2020

Compound derived from thunder god vine could help pancreatic cancer patients

A recent study published in Oncogenesis suggests that a compound derived from the thunder god vine can attack 'super-enhancers' in the DNA of cancer cells, as well as the stroma surrounding the tumor. This disruption leads to accelerated cancer cell death and improved clinical outcomes for pancreatic cancer patients.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalOncogenesis·DateDec 14, 2020

Most crop wild relatives may require urgent conservation action

A study suggests that 96% of US crop wild relatives require high conservation priority due to limited understanding of their geographic distribution and current conservation status. Conservation action is needed in taxonomic hotspots across the country to safeguard these genetic resources for breeding and food security.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 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.

Dallas Heart Study yields new insights about depression

Researchers found a correlation between inflammatory molecules and depression severity, as well as a link between specific symptoms of menopause and depression. The study used data from the Dallas Heart Study to analyze the association between GlycA levels and depressive symptoms in adults.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalMaturitas·DateDec 14, 2020

Fractured bedrock in forests is overlooked source of natural CO2

A study led by the University of Texas at Austin found that bedrock fractures can produce up to 29% of daily average CO2 emitted by land, depending on the season. This source challenges climate change models and sheds light on a previously inaccessible part of the landscape.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateDec 14, 2020

Scientists recruit new atomic heavyweights in targeted fight against cancer

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have developed new methods for producing cerium-134, a radioisotope that could serve as a tunable PET imaging surrogate for several alpha-emitting therapeutic isotopes. This breakthrough enables the creation of single molecular systems for both diagnosing and treating cancer in real time.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Chemistry·DateDec 14, 2020

Apathy could predict onset of dementia years before other symptoms

Researchers found that apathy can signal cognitive decline in people with frontotemporal dementia, even decades before other symptoms appear. The study used brain scans and memory tests to track changes in apathy over time and found that it predicted cognitive problems in individuals with a genetic mutation.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·DateDec 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.

One-step method to generate mice for vaccine research

Researchers at the Ragon Institute have developed a new one-step CRISPR technique to rapidly create mice capable of producing human antibodies. The method dramatically shortens the timeline for generating specialized mice, allowing scientists to accelerate their research and respond more quickly to new developments in the field.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·DateDec 14, 2020