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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 188


Page 188 of 512

New method to track ultrafast change of magnetic state

Researchers developed a precise method to measure ultrafast magnetization changes in materials by observing emitted terahertz radiation. The technique enabled the detection of an acoustically-driven ultrafast magnetization signal, confirming its accuracy and sensitivity.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 25, 2020

Polymers prevent potentially hazardous mist during dentist visit

Researchers discovered that food-grade polymers can completely eliminate aerosolization of saliva droplets in dental settings. The polymers' viscoelastic properties restrict water aerosolization by creating snakelike strands that pull droplets back, preventing aerosolization.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateAug 25, 2020

Plastics, waste and recycling: It's not just a packaging problem

A new University of Michigan study reveals that two-thirds of the plastic put into use in the US in 2017 were used for other purposes, including electronics and furniture. The overall recycling rate for plastics in the US is slightly lower than previous estimates, at 8%.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateAug 25, 2020

Cutting surgical robots down to size

Researchers at Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard have developed a miniature manipulator that uses origami-inspired design to enhance precision and control during teleoperated surgical procedures. The new device enables surgeons to perform complex operations with increased accuracy and reduced tissue damage.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateAug 25, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Blocking cellular communication stops SARS-CoV-2

Researchers from Goethe University patented a method to interrupt SARS-CoV-2 signaling pathways using specific inhibitors, blocking viral replication. Tested cancer drugs showed promising results in laboratory experiments.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalMolecular Cell·DateAug 25, 2020

A galaxy's stop-and-start young radio jets

The Very Long Baseline Array revealed young radio-emitting jets that began 80 years ago and stopped, then resumed about 10 years ago. The bright core houses a supermassive black hole about one million times the mass of the Sun.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateAug 25, 2020

Thin layer protects battery, allows cold charging

A self-assembling monolayer of electrochemically active molecules protects the surface of the lithium anode, preventing dendritic growth and increasing cycle life. This technology enables cold charging and quick-charging capabilities in lithium metal batteries.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Energy·DateAug 25, 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.

'Oral' bacteria may disrupt the balance of the vaginal microbiome

A study suggests that oral bacteria like Fusobacterium nucleatum can promote the growth of harmful pathogens in the vagina, leading to bacterial vaginosis (BV). The research found that Fusobacterium may engage in mutually beneficial relationships with other vaginal bacteria, encouraging dysbiosis and BV features.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 25, 2020

Some of America's favorite produce crops may need to get a move on by 2045

A Berkeley Lab study predicts warmer California temperatures will impact cool-season crops like broccoli and lettuce, while warm-season crops like tomatoes may require relocation. The research aims to ensure food security by predicting future climate conditions and informing agricultural response strategies.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateAug 25, 2020

Danish researchers invent a new way to compress data

Researchers at Aarhus University have developed a new technique for compressing data from the Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The method enables random access to compressed files, reducing the need to decompress large amounts of data for analysis.

SourceAarhus University·DateAug 25, 2020

Treatment for teen anxiety

A University of Cincinnati-led study suggests that a specific selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) may be beneficial in treating childhood anxiety disorders. The treatment showed promise in reducing anxiety symptoms in adolescents with generalized anxiety disorder.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateAug 25, 2020

UCF researchers develop AI to detect fentanyl and derivatives remotely

The method can be used in a portable, tabletop device to rapidly identify known and emerging opioid fentanyl substances, aiding in the safety of law enforcement and military personnel. The AI algorithm had a 92.5 percent accuracy rate for correctly identifying molecules related to fentanyl.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 25, 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.

Researchers help inform cassava breeding worldwide

Scientists have identified over 40 quantitative trait loci associated with 14 traits in cassava, including disease responses and nutritional quality. This discovery aims to improve cassava breeding and provide a powerful tool for breeders.

SourceCornell University·JournalPlant Molecular Biology·DateAug 25, 2020

Before eyes open, they get ready to see?

Researchers used computational simulations to show that spontaneous retinal waves can generate long-range horizontal connectivity in the visual cortex, resolving a long-standing puzzle. The findings suggest that neural circuits must begin developing earlier than sensory input to prepare the brain for vision.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·DateAug 25, 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.

Study shines new light on young tree seedlings

Researchers used a synchrotron to take detailed X-ray images of ponderosa pine seedlings at various hydration stages. The findings show that the tissue surrounding the xylem, not the xylem itself, dries out when seedlings lose water, revealing new insights into tree seedling growth.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateAug 25, 2020

Scientists catalogue shark and ray distribution in Florida lagoon

Researchers from FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute conducted a fishery-independent survey to characterize the elasmobranch community in the Indian River Lagoon. The study found that many species use the lagoon throughout their life histories, and it may serve as an important nursery habitat for multiple species.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalEstuaries and Coasts·DateAug 25, 2020

Measles outbreaks in Niger linked to rainfall and temperature, study finds

Research in Niger links measles outbreaks to rainfall and temperature patterns, revealing a strong annual cycle associated with agricultural labor migrations. Vaccination strategies targeting migrating populations during the rainy season may break this pattern, reducing outbreaks.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateAug 25, 2020

SARS-CoV-2 RNA detected in untreated wastewater from Louisiana

Researchers detected SARS-CoV-2 genetic material in untreated wastewater samples from two treatment plants in Louisiana, USA. The virus was only found in untreated waste and not in treated wastewater, indicating standard processing may remove or destroy the virus.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateAug 25, 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.

Early adversity and mental health

A longitudinal study of 167 children found that early adversity increases the risk of depression by flattening testosterone slopes, leading to reduced hippocampal growth and increased emotion dysregulation. The findings suggest a need for interventions targeting mental health problems resulting from early poverty.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2020

Spurring our understanding

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have identified a gene critical to the development of columbines' iconic spurs, which has led to rapid expansion in the genus. The discovery provides new insights into how key innovations evolve and could shed light on the genetic changes underlying this trait.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2020

Veterans undergoing elective PCI at community hospitals may have increased chance of death compared to those treated at VA hospitals

According to an analysis of nearly 9,000 veterans, treatment in community facilities for elective PCI is associated with worse outcomes, including a 33% increased hazard of death within the first year after intervention. This trend may be linked to varying levels of expertise among community facilities.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 24, 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.

Birds of a feather flock together, but timing depends on typhoons

A team of researchers found that black-naped terns adjust their migration timing and path based on typhoon activity, with those migrating during peak typhoon season targeting stopover areas. The study used geographic tracking data from 20 birds to understand how the birds respond to environmental cues and optimize their routes.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalMarine Biology·DateAug 24, 2020

Wide variations in car seat breathing assessment conducted on premature newborns

A new study found significant differences in how hospitals assess premature newborns' breathing safety in car seats, highlighting the need for clearer guidelines to ensure consistent safety practices. The research recommends improved education for parents and caregivers on proper car seat placement and post-discharge follow-up.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateAug 24, 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.

Growth of children living at higher altitudes

Children growing at higher altitudes showed variations in growth rates, with some experiencing slower growth and others faster growth compared to those living at lower elevations. The study's findings suggest that altitude may play a role in shaping children's growth patterns.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 24, 2020

Japanese expedition identifies East Antarctic melting hotspot

A Japanese expedition has identified a surprising melting hotspot in East Antarctica, with ice beneath Shirase Glacier Tongue melting at an alarming rate of 7-16 meters per year. This finding could significantly impact predictions of sea level rise and climate change, as the Antarctic ice sheet is Earth's largest freshwater reservoir.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 24, 2020

Pigs grow new liver in lymph nodes, study shows

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have discovered that pigs can grow a new liver in their lymph nodes, which could potentially treat various liver diseases. The study found that large animals with damaged livers can regenerate hepatocytes, forming an ectopic liver that takes over liver functions.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalLiver Transplantation·DateAug 24, 2020

Fuel cells for hydrogen vehicles are becoming longer lasting

A team of international researchers, led by the University of Bern, has created an electrocatalyst that improves the electrochemical reaction in fuel cells without a carbon carrier. This breakthrough technology promises stable fuel cell operation even at higher temperatures and high current density.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 24, 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.

Excessive fructose consumption may cause a leaky gut, leading to fatty liver disease

A new study published in Nature Metabolism suggests that excessive fructose consumption can lead to a leaky gut and subsequently cause fatty liver disease. The researchers found that the high fructose corn syrup disrupts the epithelial barrier protecting internal organs from bacterial toxins, leading to chronic inflammatory conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Metabolism·DateAug 24, 2020

CPR choices of dialysis patients suggest many lack context

A study found that nearly 85% of dialysis patients prefer CPR in the event of a cardiac arrest, despite having poor survival rates. The respondents' appreciation for life is acknowledged, but the findings highlight the need for better discussions between doctors and patients about resuscitation and end-of-life care.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 24, 2020

Lensless light-field imaging through diffuser encoding

A novel modality for computational light-field imaging using a diffuser as an encoder has been developed, enabling lensless imaging with adjustable spatio-angular resolutions. This approach avoids the resolution limitation of traditional sensors, allowing for viewpoint shifting, post-capture refocusing and depth sensing capabilities.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateAug 24, 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.

Examining shifts in hominin diet

Researchers analyzed stable carbon isotope data from hominin fossils to determine the timing of dietary shifts. The study found that Paranthropus robustus and boisei had different diets, with P. boisei consuming C4-plant-based foods.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2020

Are antivitamins the new antibiotics?

Researchers from the University of Göttingen have developed a promising new approach involving antivitamins to combat bacterial infections. The study found that antivitamins can inhibit bacterial proteins, preventing their function and leading to potential antibiotic effects.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateAug 24, 2020

RNA quality control system goes awry in frontotemporal lobar degeneration

A new study by Osaka University researchers reveals that an abnormality of the C9orf72 gene leads to toxic protein production and hinders the cell's ability to destroy defective RNA. This creates a vicious cycle that accelerates disease progression in FTLD/ALS, opening up avenues for potential therapy options.

SourceOsaka University·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateAug 24, 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.

New syringe technology could enable injection of highly concentrated biologic drugs

Researchers have developed a simple, low-cost technology for subcutaneous injection of viscous formulations, making it possible to administer high-concentration biologics. The device reduces the required injection force by up to 99%, allowing for self-administration of medication and vaccines in remote areas.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateAug 24, 2020

Autistic people's nerve cells differ before birth

Researchers found autistic nerve cells differ in structure and gene expression from typical individuals as early as 9 days into development. The study used induced pluripotent stem cells to model brain development and provides new insights into the origins of autism.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateAug 24, 2020

Study offers new insights for sun-gathering technologies

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new strategy to harness sunlight and store it as carbon-neutral fuels. The study highlights the importance of catalysts in photoelectrosynthesis and proposes a less-is-more approach to improve energy efficiency.

SourceArizona State University·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateAug 24, 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.

UVA-led team warns negative emissions technologies may not solve climate crisis

A UVA-led team explores the potential costs of negative emissions technologies, which remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The research suggests that these technologies may not be able to offset current CO2 emissions, despite being touted as a solution by the UN and other institutions.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 24, 2020

Scientists get atomistic picture of platinum catalyst degradation

Researchers have deciphered the movements of platinum atoms leading to surface degradation, enabling the development of more stable catalysts. This breakthrough paves the way for longer-lasting electrochemical energy conversion devices like fuel cells in the transportation sector.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalNature Catalysis·DateAug 24, 2020

Primary care at a crossroads: Experts call for change

Primary care providers face increasing workload with limited time due to insurance, EMR systems, and COVID-19. Many have reduced clinical schedules or switched to hospital medicine to manage workload.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateAug 24, 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.

Advanced biofuels show real promise for replacing some fossil fuels

A new study by Colorado State University predicts significant climate benefits from advanced biofuel technologies, accounting for carbon flows and comparing them to grasslands and forests. The team found clear strategies for biofuels to have a net carbon benefit, particularly in regions where planting trees is not an option.

SourceColorado State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2020

A leap forward for biomaterials design using AI

A team of researchers at Tokyo Tech successfully used machine learning with an artificial neural network model to predict two key properties of self-assembled monolayers, enabling advanced material screening and design. This approach opens up new possibilities for the development of biomaterials with desired functions.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·DateAug 24, 2020

IKBFU scientists suggest using heather as an antioxidant

Researchers at IKBFU have discovered that heather is a rich source of biologically active compounds with various medicinal properties. The study found that the budding stage of heather plants contains the highest amount of flavonoids, which are of great medicinal value.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalPlants·DateAug 24, 2020

NCI and Cancer Research UK to announce new partnership

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) and Cancer Research UK will establish the Cancer Grand Challenges program to tackle cancer research challenges. The initiative aims to facilitate global collaboration, foster innovation, and accelerate progress against cancer.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·DateAug 24, 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.

Machine learning peeks into nano-aquariums

Researchers developed a machine learning workflow to streamline the analysis of liquid-phase electron microscopy videos, enabling the extraction of valuable information from nanoparticle dynamics. The new technique has potential applications in medicine, energy, environmental sustainability, and biomaterials research.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalACS Central Science·DateAug 24, 2020

Citizens' adherence to COVID-19 social distancing measures depends on government response

A new study found that citizens' adherence to COVID-19 social distancing measures depends on government response and citizen perception of trust. The researchers suggest policymakers explore ways to improve adherence, including providing more precise instructions and using social media channels to communicate with citizens.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Denver·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateAug 24, 2020

Energy-efficient design for mmWave-enabled NOMA-UAV networks

Researchers designed an energy-efficient transmission scheme for mmWave-enabled NOMA-UAV networks by optimizing UAV placement, hybrid precoding and power allocation. The proposed design achieved better performance in user fairness, spectrum efficiency and energy efficiency compared to other schemes without UAV placement optimization.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Information Sciences·DateAug 24, 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.