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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 190


Page 190 of 512

Flexible targets help immune system make finely-tuned antibodies

Researchers discovered that when the foreign antigen is more flexible, the germinal centre can employ a greater number of evolution strategies to make antibodies that bind foreign but not self-molecules. The study provides new insights for vaccine design and may help address the major roadblock in generating effective HIV vaccines.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2020

Lessons from the COVID-19 front line captured in Health Worker Voices project

The COVID-19 Health Worker Voices project uses anonymous WhatsApp channel to collect stories and insights from healthcare workers, providing valuable information on challenges, innovations, and coping strategies. Researchers aim to engage frontline workers, give them a voice, and share their experiences to support global health efforts.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·DateAug 24, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ancient star explosions revealed in the deep sea

Researchers found clear traces of iron-60 in deep-sea sediments dating back 33,000 years, suggesting the Earth has been traveling through a cloud of faintly radioactive dust. The discovery suggests that the solar system may have recently passed through a denser cloud of gas and dust, known as the local interstellar cloud.

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

Greenhouse gas mitigation with biofuels

Biofuel production from former cropland or pasture yields comparable GHG mitigation to reforestation; future improvements enhance benefits. Advanced biofuels could achieve up to 4 times greater GHG mitigation than reforestation, according to the study.

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

Machines rival expert analysis of stored red blood cell quality

Researchers have developed two new strategies to automate the assessment of stored red blood cell quality, matching and surpassing expert analysis. Trained machines can analyze vast quantities of images to accurately predict RBC degradation, eliminating human error and improving consistency.

SourceRyerson University - Faculty of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 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.

Fat crystals trigger chronic inflammation

Researchers at the University of Bonn identify a disease mechanism where fat crystals cause immune system hyperreaction, leading to chronic inflammation. The study reveals that deoxysphingolipid crystals disrupt mitochondrial function and activate an inflammatory response in immune cells.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAutophagy·DateAug 24, 2020

New study: MassBiologics discovers antibodies that may protect against COVID-19

Researchers at MassBiologics discovered a cross-reactive human monoclonal antibody to SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins, blocking ACE2 receptor binding and potentially preventing or limiting COVID-19 disease. The antibodies, in the sIgA isotype, exhibited higher binding affinity and neutralization activity than usual circulating IgG antibodies.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 24, 2020

Illicit fentanyl, stimulants found in majority of overdose deaths in BC

A toxicology study found that nonprescribed fentanyl and stimulants were the primary contributors to overdose mortality in BC. Only 8.7% of individuals had taken prescribed opioids, highlighting the need for alternative strategies to address the current overdose crisis.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 24, 2020

Water availability has changed, and humans are to blame

A recent study found that human-induced climate change is responsible for changes in global average water availability on land during the dry season. The research analyzed data from 1902 to 2014 and showed a reduction in average water availability at a global level, with some regions experiencing increased humidity.

SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalNature Geoscience·DateAug 24, 2020

How dinosaur research can help medicine

A team of researchers led by Dr. Tanja Wintrich discovered that even Tyrannosaurus rex could have suffered a slipped disc, as ancient reptiles had intervertebral discs similar to those in humans. This finding provides new insights into human spine mobility and medicine.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScientific Reports·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.

Small change makes cancer vaccine more effective in animal tests

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have developed a cancer vaccine that shows promise in treating gastric, pancreatic, esophageal, and colon cancers. The new vaccine, Ad5.F35, is more effective than the original version due to its ability to evade the immune system's natural defenses.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·DateAug 24, 2020

Living at higher altitudes associated with higher levels of child stunting

A new study found that children growing up at higher altitudes experience increased stunting rates, even in ideal-home environments. The research suggests that altitude affects growth during the perinatal period, and highlights the need for targeted health-care guidance and nutrition interventions.

SourceInternational Food Policy Research Institute·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 24, 2020

Yoga linked with improved symptoms in heart patients

Researchers found yoga significantly improves symptoms and episodes of atrial fibrillation in heart patients. Yoga also shows benefits in anxiety, depression, and daily activities, with notable reductions in blood pressure.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 24, 2020

Optical illusions explained in a fly's eyes

Scientists at Yale University found that flies perceive motion in static images similarly to humans, using a shared strategy for motion detection. By analyzing specific neuron types and behavior, the researchers developed a theory explaining how optical illusions work, which may also apply to human visual systems.

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

Ancient mammoth ivory carving technology reconstructed by archeologists

A team of archeologists reconstructed a ancient mammoth ivory carving technology used to create ornaments and sculptures around 24 thousand years ago. The team analyzed microscopic images and chemical composition to identify the tools and techniques used, revealing new insights into Siberian tribes' relationships.

SourceSiberian Federal University·JournalArchaeological Research in Asia·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.

Mother transmitted COVID-19 to baby during pregnancy, UTSW physicians report

Researchers report a case where a pregnant mother transmitted COVID-19 to her prematurely born baby, highlighting the need to limit exposure for pregnant women. The study adds to evidence that SARS-CoV-2 virus can be transmitted in utero and emphasizes the importance of protecting mothers and newborns.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalThe Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal·DateAug 24, 2020

Faulty brain circuits arise from abnormal fusion

Researchers at the University of Queensland discovered that neurons can fuse together, disrupting electrical circuits and leading to behavioral impairments in nematode worms. The study provides a novel cause for malfunction of brain's electrical circuits and a possible underlying cause of neurological diseases.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2020

Value of agricultural water

The study provides a spatially distributed global estimation of the value of agricultural water worldwide across 16 globally important crops. Factoring in increased crop value associated with irrigation, the average water value is found to be around 0.23 USD/m3

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

Landmark HKU-led volume on past progress and new frontiers in the study of early birds and their close relatives

The publication provides a comprehensive overview of pennaraptoran theropods, covering their fossil record, systematics, anatomy, and early flight studies. Key findings include the identification of key avian traits that originated deep within theropod evolution and the discovery of unique reproductive strategies.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalBulletin of the American Museum of Natural History·DateAug 24, 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.

The mathematical magic of bending grids

A team of mathematicians from TU Wien has developed a technique to calculate flat grids that can be unfolded into desired three-dimensional shapes. The method uses findings in differential geometry and has been successfully tested in practice, resulting in stable and structurally sound 3D structures with good static properties.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·DateAug 24, 2020

Low health literacy may be a risk factor for postoperative infection

Researchers found that patients with low health literacy were 4.5 times more likely to experience a postoperative infection after colorectal surgical procedures. The study highlights the importance of designing interventions and tools to better support patients with limited health literacy.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·DateAug 24, 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.

COVID-19 taking a toll on everyday lives, UC Davis research suggests

Research by UC Davis suggests COVID-19 is severely impacting daily emotional lives and mental health, particularly among those with lower education levels and non-native English speakers. The study found that respondents experienced moderate to high levels of stress just 28 days into the pandemic.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalSustainability·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.

Storing information in antiferromagnetic materials

Scientists at Mainz University prove that information can be stored electrically in antiferromagnetic materials. By using currents instead of magnetic fields, they improve the efficiency of writing operations, paving the way for applications such as smart cards and ultrafast computers.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 24, 2020

Hydrogen vehicles might soon become the global norm

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed a new catalyst that can produce cheaper and more sustainable hydrogen-powered vehicles, reducing reliance on precious materials like platinum. The breakthrough could make hydrogen vehicles more durable and scalable, leading to a potential shift towards sustainable transportation.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 24, 2020

'Biggest holes in the system'

A new study by Washington State University scientist Raven Weaver found that older adults living in very rural settings are less likely to receive available services compared to those in mostly rural areas. The study highlights the most vulnerable groups within the rural classification, emphasizing the need for proactive support.

SourceWashington State University·JournalThe International Journal of Aging and Human Development·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.

Grass abundances during Dust Bowl

During extreme drought, C3 biomass production increased five-fold in grasslands while C4 plants declined. This shift is linked to changes in seasonal precipitation patterns favorable for C3 grasses

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

Protein 'chameleon' colors long-term memory

Researchers at Rice University and UTHealth have discovered how a chameleon-like protein, CPEB3, interacts with actin filaments in neurons. This interaction enables the protein to adapt its binding sites to either SUMO or actin, allowing it to form long-lived aggregates that store memories.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 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.

New treatment developed by CHOP shows success in high-risk solid tumors

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have developed a new treatment that shows long-term remissions in 80% to 100% of mice with drug-resistant or high-risk solid tumors. The treatment is less toxic than conventional chemotherapy, with fewer side effects.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 24, 2020

Strigolactones increase tolerance to weevils in tobacco plants

Research at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology found that strigolactones regulate plant defense against endophytic Trichobaris mucorea larvae by influencing jasmonate and auxin signaling pathways. This enables tobacco plants to produce defensive substances, increasing their tolerance to the weevil's attack.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 24, 2020

Researchers discover immune predictors of COVID-19 cases that fare the worst

Scientists at The Mount Sinai Hospital have discovered two inflammation markers that reliably predict COVID-19 severity and survival. Elevated levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in serum indicate a higher risk of death, allowing for early stratification and treatment optimization.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 24, 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.

Fruit flies see illusory motion in stationary patterns

Research using fruit flies found that certain stationary patterns trigger the perception of illusory motion. The brain's motion-detecting neurons play a key role in this phenomenon, driven by imbalanced responses to stationary edges.

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

Reducing transmission risk of livestock disease

A new study found that transmission risk of the PPRV virus increases with specific husbandry practices, including introducing sheep or goats to herds and attending seasonal grazing camps. In contrast, herd size was not related to transmission risk, but rather social cliques formed within individual compounds.

SourcePenn State·JournalViruses·DateAug 24, 2020

Wireless device makes clean fuel from sunlight, CO2 and water

Researchers at the University of Cambridge developed a standalone device that converts sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water into oxygen and formic acid, a storable fuel. The device, based on 'photosheet' technology, has shown high selectivity with minimal by-products.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Energy·DateAug 24, 2020

Locust swarm could improve collision avoidance

A team of engineers has developed a low-power collision detector inspired by locusts' ability to avoid collisions. The device mimics the locust's response to incoming objects, responding in two seconds and using minimal energy.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Electronics·DateAug 24, 2020

Politicians' preferences for truth-telling

Researchers surveyed 816 Spanish mayors about receiving personalized truth-telling reports, with nearly 70% reporting receiving heads in a coin flip despite statistical odds indicating they should have. The study suggests politicians' preferences for honesty are unclear or manipulable.

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

Genetic timeline of physical events in Antarctic

The study found that three species had been genetically isolated for at least 3.52 million years, while the other three were isolated for less than 2 million years. The results suggest a correlation with large-scale changes in the West Antarctic Ice Sheet affecting arthropod dispersal and population mingling.

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

Small molecule treatment reduces colon cancer metastasis

A new small molecule treatment reduces colon cancer metastasis by locking up cancer cells' ability to change shape and move throughout the body. The treatment cut the rate of cancer metastasis in half, according to a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2020

Re-engineered enzyme could help reverse damage from spinal cord injury and stroke

Researchers at University of Toronto Engineering and University of Michigan have modified an enzyme from bacteria to promote regrowth of nerve tissue following injury. The new version is more stable than the natural enzyme, which could lead to new treatments for reversing nerve damage.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 24, 2020

Less aggressive treatment better for heart patients who go into shock

A new study found that more than 30% of hospital patients who have a heart attack complicated by low blood pressure undergo an aggressive treatment, despite the existence of a less aggressive approach called a 'culprit-only' strategy. This strategy places stents only in the blocked blood vessels that caused the heart attack.

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 24, 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.

Small quake clusters can't hide from AI

Researchers used data gathered before a 2017 deadly landslide in Greenland to demonstrate the effectiveness of deep learning in predicting seismic events. The study found weak but repetitive rumblings that accelerated over time, leading to the landslide, which could be detected by AI.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 24, 2020

Climate change and land use are accelerating soil erosion by water

Soil loss due to water runoff is projected to increase significantly by 2070, with potential losses of over 28 billion metric tons annually. Sustainable land cultivation practices can mitigate this threat and ensure food security for the world's population.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2020

Failure to 'flatten the curve' may kill more people than we thought

New research by the University of Minnesota and the University of Washington reveals that additional ICU beds and non-ICU beds filled by COVID-19 patients result in more deaths. The study found that for every six additional ICU beds or seven additional non-ICU beds, one additional COVID-19 death occurs over the following week.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateAug 24, 2020

Each human gut has a viral 'fingerprint'

A comprehensive database of 33,242 unique viral populations in the human digestive system has been assembled by Ohio State University scientists. This discovery reveals a complex relationship between viruses and bacteria in the gut, with higher diversity associated with healthier individuals.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateAug 24, 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.

Long-term exposure to air pollution linked to impaired breathing in children

Research presented at the European Respiratory Society International Congress shows that babies exposed to levels of air pollution within EU standards develop poorer lung function as children and teenagers. Long-term exposure to air pollution is also linked to a higher risk of developing asthma in adults, according to a second study.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·DateAug 24, 2020

Routing valley exciton emission of a WS2 monolayer via in-plane inversion-symmetry broken PhC slabs

Scientists demonstrate efficient separation of valley exciton emission of a WS2 monolayer using two-dimensional all-dielectric PhC slabs without in-plane inversion symmetry. The delocalized Bloch modes play a critical role in separating and enhancing directional valley exciton emission.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateAug 24, 2020