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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 177


Page 177 of 512

Can sunlight convert emissions into useful materials?

Researchers at USC Viterbi develop a method to upcycle carbon dioxide emissions into polymers and other materials using sunlight, breaking the need for energy-intensive processes. High school student researcher Samantha J. Gomez contributes to the study, which aims to reduce environmental impacts.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry A·DateSep 1, 2020

Legal performance-enhancing substances associated with future problematic alcohol use

A new study found that young adults who used legal performance-enhancing substances were more likely to report problematic alcohol use and drinking-related risk behaviors seven years later. The study highlights the need for government oversight and regulation of these substances, which can lead to health problems and worsen mental health.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 1, 2020

Blood marker may reduce cancer burden

Researchers at Flinders University have discovered a blood serum microRNA biomarker signature for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, which may help detect other head and neck cancers. The signature has potential for surveillance, earlier diagnosis, and treatment of head and neck cancer.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Translational Medicine·DateSep 1, 2020

How dangerous are burning electric cars?

Fire experiments in a test tunnel revealed that burning electric cars pose less risk than gasoline/diesel cars due to state-of-the-art ventilation systems. However, extinguishing water poses a challenge, as it's poisonous and requires special handling.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·DateSep 1, 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.

There's a shortage of info on drugs for children in Canada

A recent study by McMaster University found that only 28% of new Canadian drugs have clear pediatric data, and many critical diseases lack approved treatments. This absence perpetuates 'off-label' drug use, which can lead to inadequate treatment or increased side effects.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCMAJ Open·DateSep 1, 2020

Miniature antenna enables robotic teaming in complex environments

Researchers developed a novel design approach for a miniature, low-frequency antenna that improves upon limitations of conventional antennas. The new antenna enables robust networking among compact, mobile robots in complex environments with more than threefold bandwidth enhancement.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalIEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation·DateSep 1, 2020

Indigenous custody reporting made more effective

The Aboriginal Legal Service is developing a user-friendly digital platform to improve its Custody Notification Service. The project aims to optimize data collation and make information more accessible for wider insights and understanding. This enhancement will strengthen the organization's advocacy, policy, and law reform work.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·DateSep 1, 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.

Story tips: Cool smart walls, magnetism twist, fuel cost savings and polymers' impact

Researchers developed a smart wall that functions as both a support structure and a cooling system, potentially lowering energy bills. Scientists also discovered a way to control the size of magnetic quasi-particles called skyrmions, which could advance high-density data storage and quantum magnets. Additionally, a new method for gaugi...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 1, 2020

New research provides solution for the 'Dust Bowl Paradox'

Scientists have discovered that C3 grasses outcompete C4 grasses in hot, dry conditions due to precipitation patterns changing throughout the year. This shift has a self-fueling power, with C3 plants preemptively using soil water before C4 species become active.

SourceColorado State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 1, 2020

Venom from honeybees found to kill aggressive breast cancer cells

Research published in Nature Precision Oncology reveals that honeybee venom and its compound melittin rapidly destroy triple-negative and HER2-enriched breast cancer cells. The venom's potency allows for selective cell death with minimal effects on normal cells.

SourceHarry Perkins Institute of Medical Research·Journalnpj Precision Oncology·DateSep 1, 2020

How to get the upper body of a burrowing frog

A study analyzed CT scans from 54 frog families to show that burrowing frogs have a diverse and quirky skeleton. To train like a forward burrower, strengthen your upper back by doing exercises such as the Prone W and focus on building strength in the shoulder blade area with pullups and pushups.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalBiological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateSep 1, 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.

How to weigh a dinosaur

A new study published in Biological Reviews reviewed dinosaur body mass estimation techniques, finding that most estimates agree despite different approaches. The researchers recommend better-integrating scaling and reconstruction methods to estimate the sizes of Mesozoic dinosaurs more accurately.

SourceRoyal Ontario Museum·JournalBiological Reviews·DateSep 1, 2020

Notice me! Neglected for over a century, Black sea spider crab re-described

After a century of being ignored by scientists, the Black sea spider crab has been re-described by a research team led by Dr Vassily Spiridonov. The team analyzed molecular genetic barcode data to confirm that Macropodia czernjawskii is a distinct species with epibiosis, including a non-indigenous red alga species found in its epibiosis.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZoosystematics and Evolution·DateSep 1, 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.

Understanding the psychological aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic

This study aims to provide suggestions on how to ensure compliance with health-promoting behaviors and manage negative feelings associated with the pandemic. The research project focuses on three sub-studies: message framing, coping with negative emotions, and social distancing messages.

SourceSingapore Management University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateSep 1, 2020

Decorating windows for optimal sound transmission

Researchers developed a layered glass material allowing for acoustic propagation without air ventilation. The decorated window comprises ordinary glass, resulting in an inexpensive and optically transparent material.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 1, 2020

Mastodons took frequent trips north when climate changed

A new study reveals that American mastodons took frequent trips north when the climate changed, with northern populations being less genetically diverse and more at risk of extinction. The research suggests that examining how different species responded to climate change can provide valuable insights for modern conservation efforts.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 1, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Relatives in deep grief can be helped earlier

A study from Aarhus University found that relatives with severe long-term grief reactions have more frequent GP contact and higher medication use before bereavement. This suggests that early intervention may help prevent severe grief reactions.

SourceAarhus University·JournalBJGP Open·DateSep 1, 2020

Investigating host tolerance to genes that jump

Researcher Erin Kelleher is studying how some individuals can tolerate genetic mutations caused by 'jumping genes,' which can lead to devastating effects on reproductive cells. Her work aims to understand the underlying mechanisms of bruno-dependent tolerance in fruit flies and its potential implications for tumor cells.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 31, 2020

FSU researchers develop new X-ray detection technology

Researchers at Florida State University have created a new material for X-ray scintillators that uses an organic manganese halide compound, eliminating the need for lead or heavy metals. This breakthrough technology could pave the way for more affordable and sustainable X-ray detectors.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 31, 2020

Preparing accountants of the future

The study aims to examine the extent to which the AD&A Second Major programme equips students with key skills and competencies in the future accounting workplace. It will also measure students' learning outcomes and gather insights on how future programmes can be designed to equip students with necessary skills.

SourceSingapore Management University·DateAug 31, 2020

How's the transit weather?

A new study by University of Utah researchers found a correlation between media coverage of weather and air quality, and transit ridership. The study suggests that favorable weather conditions and comfort are associated with increased ridership, while poor air quality may discourage usage.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalVehicles·DateAug 31, 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.

Consortium of Brazilian researchers completes sequencing of native stingless bee's genome

A team of Brazilian researchers has completed the sequencing of Frieseomelitta varia, a native stingless bee species with economic interest as a pollinator. The study reveals conserved ancestral traits and regulatory functions in noncoding RNAs linked to the workers' sterility, providing valuable insights into social insect evolution.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBMC Genomics·DateAug 31, 2020

Being a selfish jerk doesn't get you ahead, research finds

Two 14-year longitudinal studies found that people with disagreeable personality traits, such as being combative and manipulative, are not more likely to achieve power than those who are nice. In contrast, extroverts were the most likely to advance in their organizations based on sociability, energy, and assertiveness.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 31, 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.

Common medicine used to treat gout found to prevent progression of coronary disease

A large Australian-Dutch trial confirmed low-dose colchicine significantly reduced cardiovascular death, heart attack, and stroke in patients with chronic coronary disease. Colchicine was safe and well-tolerated over the long-term, making it a potential cornerstone treatment alongside aspirin and statins.

SourceHarry Perkins Institute of Medical Research·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 31, 2020

Guam study advances research of cycads as an ecotoxin

Researchers have discovered that younger cycad seeds contain higher levels of neurotoxins, increasing the risk of exposure. The study provides new models for estimating seed age, adding clarity to future research and shedding light on the origins of a neurological disease prevalent on Guam.

SourceUniversity of Guam·JournalHorticulturae·DateAug 31, 2020

Once infected, twice infected

Researchers found that prior exposure to powdery mildew makes plants more susceptible to subsequent disease. In experiments and in the wild, early infection facilitated later infection, with some pathogen strains promoting infections from later-arriving strains. The findings highlight the importance of understanding interactions among ...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateAug 31, 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.

CU Anschutz researchers shed light on split-second decision making

A new study from CU Anschutz researchers has identified the cerebellum as a critical region for making fast `go-no go' decisions. The study used mice to investigate the molecular layer interneurons in the cerebellum, which were found to play a role in learning valence and determining whether something is good or not.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 31, 2020

Study: Portable, point-of-care COVID-19 test could bypass the lab

Researchers developed a rapid COVID-19 molecular test and portable instrument using a simpler process called LAMP, which can detect the virus in 30 minutes. The test uses a small 3D-printed microfluidic cartridge that reacts with chemicals to produce fluorescent light.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 31, 2020

Obesity -- the deadly disease that nobody dies of

A new study found that obesity-related illnesses frequently occur in people with a BMI over 30, yet only 9% had obesity recorded as a cause of death. Researchers argue that obesity is not being accurately documented on medical certificates, highlighting the need for further studies.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateAug 31, 2020
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.

How antibiotics interact

A joint study by University of Cologne researchers predicts the outcomes of combining certain antibiotics using mathematical models. The scientists found that interactions between antibiotics are often caused by bottlenecks in the translation cycle, allowing them to predict the effects of antibiotic combinations without trial and error.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 31, 2020

Preventing infections tied to ventilator intubation

Researchers developed a curcumin-functionalized endotracheal tube that inactivates up to 95% of bacteria when illuminated. This innovation may help prevent hospital-acquired infections and reduce the need for antibiotic treatment.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 31, 2020

Obesity prevalence varies widely among Latino populations, NYC study finds

A new NYC study reveals a significant variation in obesity prevalence among Latino populations, with Mexicans and Puerto Ricans more likely to have obesity. The study suggests that standardised treatment may obscure unique risks among specific groups, highlighting the need for culturally tailored approaches.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateAug 31, 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.

A global probe into how insolvency laws can help tanking businesses

The Singapore Global Restructuring Initiative aims to promote cooperation and cutting-edge research on corporate insolvency. The project explores how insolvency laws can minimize the economic effects of crises like COVID-19, facilitating entrepreneurship, innovation, and access to finance.

SourceSingapore Management University·DateAug 31, 2020

Genetic mutations may be linked to infertility, early menopause

A new study identifies a specific gene's role in fertility, finding mutations in this gene are associated with early menopause. The researchers used genetic techniques to find genes involved with eye development and discovered the gene is essential for reproductive organs.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 31, 2020

Perceptions of federal science advisory boards

A study of 900 US residents found that conservatives tend to view industry-majority boards as making unbiased decisions, while liberals see them as promoting business interests. The authors suggest this politicization could impact scientific advice given to the government.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 31, 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.

Evolution of oxygenic photosynthesis

Researchers discovered that rhodochrosite can be photooxidized by UV light under anoxic conditions, suggesting a possible alternative to biological catalysts for oxygenic photosynthesis. This finding provides insight into the evolution of oxygenic photosynthetic organisms on Earth.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 31, 2020

FEFU scientists are developing genetic methods to understand malignant tumors

Researchers at FEFU are working on genetically modified models of brain tumors to understand the role of IDH1 and TP53 gene mutations. They plan to create laboratory models of these mutations to develop new diagnostic markers and test antitumor compounds, potentially leading to personalized therapy for glioma patients.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·DateAug 31, 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.

Dodder uses the flowering signal of its host plant to flower

A team of scientists found that dodder parasites eavesdrop on their host plants' flowering signals to synchronize their own flowering. This allows the parasite to optimize its reproduction and increase its fitness.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 31, 2020

Humans' construction 'footprint' on ocean quantified for first time

A new study has quantified the extent of human development in oceans for the first time, mapping an area of approximately 30,000 square kilometers modified by human construction. This footprint is comparable to urbanized land and greater than some natural habitats like mangrove forests and seagrass beds.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Sustainability·DateAug 31, 2020

EBMT trial shows improvements in treatment of Severe Aplastic Anaemia

The RACE trial demonstrated that adding Eltrombopag to standard immunosuppressive treatment increases response rates in patients with Severe Aplastic Anaemia. The study found significant improvements in complete response rates, sustained at 6 months, and showed Eltrombopag was generally well-tolerated.

SourceEuropean Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation·DateAug 31, 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.

Sex cells have a sweet tooth, and they pass it on to the brain

Researchers at Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown discover that changes in sex cells' nutritional requirements make female flies crave sugar, affecting their food choice and fertility. The study's findings suggest a novel mechanism by which metabolism controls feeding behaviour, potentially relevant to human fertility.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNature Metabolism·DateAug 31, 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.