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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 198


Page 198 of 512

NASA study maps the roots of global mangrove loss

Researchers created a map of global mangrove habitat changes between 2000 and 2016, revealing that human causes like farming and aquaculture led to more rapid losses than natural causes. The study's findings highlight the importance of addressing both human and natural threats in conservation efforts.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateAug 18, 2020

Artificial materials for more efficient electronics

Scientists have created a novel artificial material made of thin layers of nickelates, which can accurately control electronic properties and develop energy-efficient devices. By refining the layers to eight atoms, the entire sample behaves like a single material with one large jump in conductivity.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 18, 2020

Under pressure, nontoxic salt-based propellant performs well

Researchers at the University of Illinois have studied the combustion velocity of a nontoxic salt-based propellant called FAM-110A. The findings indicate that the propellant has a Goldilocks zone where its burn rate is neither too high nor too low, making it suitable for rocket engine design.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalCombustion and Flame·DateAug 18, 2020

Alternative cooling strategies could mitigate COVID-19 and climate change

Researchers developed a 'Cold Tube' technology that uses radiant cooling to keep people comfortable in hot environments. This method can significantly reduce energy consumption compared to air conditioning, making it an attractive alternative for mitigating climate change.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 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.

Exploding stars may have caused mass extinction on Earth, study shows

A new study led by University of Illinois astronomer Brian Fields explores the possibility that astronomical events were responsible for an extinction event 359 million years ago. Researchers found evidence suggesting long-lasting ozone-depletion, which could be caused by killer cosmic rays from nearby supernovae.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 2020

Heart attack damage reduced by shielded stem cells

Researchers from Rice University and Baylor College of Medicine have shown that shielding stem cells with a novel biomaterial can significantly enhance the healing process in rodents after heart attacks. The study demonstrated that shielded stem cells resulted in 2.5 times greater heart function recovery compared to non-shielded cells ...

SourceRice University·JournalBiomaterials Science·DateAug 18, 2020

The historical partnership that revolutionized battery research at Argonne

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory are working on a new generation of lithium-ion battery materials, including manganese-rich compounds and spinel-type structures. These materials have the potential to improve energy density, safety, and cost-effectiveness, enabling widespread adoption of electric vehicles.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateAug 18, 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.

How protein protects against fatty liver

A high-protein diet with a calorie-reduced intake was found to decrease liver fat by around 40% in obese individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The study suggests that the positive effect of the high-protein diet is due to suppressed uptake, storage, and synthesis of fat in the liver.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalLiver International·DateAug 18, 2020

Swans reserve aggression for each other

Researchers studied three swan species and found all were most frequently aggressive to their own kind, suggesting similar individuals compete for resources. The findings provide insight into how swan behavior affects other waterbirds over winter and highlight the importance of understanding bird competition.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAvian Research·DateAug 18, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Low-cost home air quality monitors prove useful for wildfire smoke

Four low-cost air quality monitors provided actionable information during wildfire events, with correlations to reference monitors being 'phenomenally good.' However, the devices required adjustments and checks to use their numbers, with an estimated adjustment factor of 0.48 for PurpleAir PA-II monitors.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalSensors·DateAug 18, 2020

Ratio of two proteins may add kidneys to the transplant donor pool

A new study has found that measuring the ratio of two proteins in deceased donor urine can identify kidneys with a higher probability for successful transplantation and long-term survival. The researchers believe this biomarker could help reduce the number of discarded kidneys and increase the organ donation pool.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalTransplantation·DateAug 18, 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.

Half of breast cancer survivors had delays in care due to COVID-19

A study by researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago found that nearly half of breast cancer survivors in the US experienced delays in care due to COVID-19. The most commonly reported delay was for routine follow-up visits, with other common delays including chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalBreast Cancer Research and Treatment·DateAug 18, 2020

The MOF-based multicolor single-mode microlaser

Scientists create hierarchical assembly of dye molecules in a host-guest hybrid metal-organic framework to achieve up to three-wavelength single-mode polarized lasing. The resulting three-color single-mode lasing has a large wavelength coverage of ~186 nm and a low threshold of ~1.72 mJ/cm2.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateAug 18, 2020

The Marine Technology Society announces its 2020 award recipients

The Marine Technology Society has recognized a diverse group of individuals and organizations for their significant contributions to marine science and technology. The award winners include CAPT (Ret.) Craig McLean, Dr. Vladimir Ryabinin, CODAR Ocean Sensors LTD, and Dr. Manhar Dhanak, among others.

SourceMarine Technology Society·DateAug 18, 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.

Unraveling the initial molecular events of respiration

Researchers have solved the debate on respiration's initial molecular events by studying nitrosyl-myoglobin. Using XES, they found that the transition from low-spin to high-spin domed heme is caused by a cascade among spin states.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 18, 2020

Women less likely to receive pay for college internships

New research from Binghamton University reveals a 34% lower odds of women receiving pay for college internships compared to men. The study analyzed data from the National Survey of Student Engagement and found that only 35% of female interns received pay, whereas 58% of male interns did so.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of College Student Development·DateAug 18, 2020

RNA as a future cure for hereditary diseases

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed RNA molecules that can compensate for gene mutations in bone marrow cells, a potential breakthrough for treating rare hereditary diseases. The molecules bind to the body's own RNA and restore ferrochelatase enzyme production, which is deficient in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateAug 18, 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.

Study identifies optimal timing for phone calls after skin surgery

A new study found that follow-up calls made the evening after Mohs micrographic surgery best identified patients with active pain. However, no single group was able to identify bleeding complications or highest pain levels. The study suggests that standard phone calls may not strongly contribute to overall patient satisfaction.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateAug 18, 2020

Smart AI makes all kinds of shapes on its own

A research team developed an AI system that recommends process conditions for plastic injection molding, enabling the creation of various shapes in real-time. The system achieved an average relative error of 0.66% and can be used by non-experts to produce uniform results.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·DateAug 18, 2020

NUS-led study considers potential and constraints of reforestation for climate mitigation

A recent study led by NUS researchers found that financial, land-use, and operational constraints can limit the climate mitigation potential of reforestation in Southeast Asia. The study estimated that 121 million hectares of land are suitable for reforestation, but only a fraction may be achievable due to these constraints.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 18, 2020
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Escape artists: How vibrio bacteria break out of cells

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered that Vibrio parahaemolyticus uses a novel pathway to escape human intestinal cells. The bacteria modify cholesterol molecules in the cell membrane, weakening it enough for the bacteria to break through and infect new cells.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·DateAug 18, 2020

Humid air can extend lifetime of virus-laden aerosol droplets

Researchers modelled how airflow and humidity affect exhaled droplets containing virus particles. They found that high humidity extends the airborne lifetime of medium-sized droplets, allowing them to travel further before falling to the ground.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateAug 18, 2020

Risk of diabetes complications increases with elevated levels of NT-proBNP

Elevated NT-proBNP levels are associated with a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes, especially in women. However, those who develop diabetes with elevated NT-proBNP have a higher risk of macro- and microvascular complications such as heart attack, stroke, or severe damage to eyes, kidneys, or nerves.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalDiabetes Care·DateAug 18, 2020

This 'Cold Tube' can beat the summer heat without relying on air conditioning

Researchers developed the Cold Tube, a system of rectangular panels that absorb heat radiation from a person's body, creating a cooling sensation. This technology can be used in outdoor spaces like summer fairs and public markets, reducing energy consumption by up to 50%.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 18, 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.

COVID-19 pandemic likely to cause sales tax loss for Ohio municipalities

A new study published in Local Development and Society found that most Ohio municipalities will lose money due to decreased retail sales during the COVID-19 pandemic. Smaller cities are likely to experience larger revenue declines, while larger cities will see losses of around 9.7-12.5%.

SourceOhio State University·JournalLocal Development & Society·DateAug 18, 2020

Low humidity increases COVID risk; another reason to wear a mask

A study by the University of Sydney found that lower humidity is associated with higher COVID-19 transmission rates. The researchers estimated a 7-8% increase in cases for every 1% decrease in relative humidity, highlighting the importance of wearing masks in dry conditions.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalTransboundary and Emerging Diseases·DateAug 18, 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.

Police officers face multifaceted, compounding stressors that can lead to adverse events

A new study by researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston found that police officers are susceptible to adverse events due to multifaceted stressors. The study identified five themes influencing officer perception of call stress levels, including officer characteristics and civilian behavior.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalBMC Public Health·DateAug 18, 2020

LJI team gets first-ever look at a rare but vital stem cell in humans

Scientists at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have tracked down the rare stem cells that generate neutrophils in human bone marrow, offering a potential path for intervening in diseases where neutrophil development goes awry. This research may also provide clues to COVID-19 and cancer drug targets.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalImmunity·DateAug 18, 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.

Is turning back the clock in aging fat cells a remedy for lifestyle diseases?

A study published in Nature Communications found that reversing age-related changes in fat cells may help prevent the development of lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and fatty liver. The research team discovered that inhibiting autophagy in adipocytes can restore function and prevent metabolic disorders.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 18, 2020

Computer scientist makes big data more accessible

A computer science professor at UTA is working on a process called network decoupling, which converts large datasets into individual layers that can be connected and analyzed in different ways. This approach makes it easier to visualize data and results, enabling analysts to picture how the layers of data fit together.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateAug 18, 2020

Depression and use of marijuana among US adults

A study published in JAMA Network Open examines the association between depression and cannabis use among US adults. The analysis reveals a significant positive trend between cannabis use and depression, with the correlation strengthening over time.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 18, 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.

Epigenetic risk for PTSD in trauma survivors

Researchers studied epigenetic modifications associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in trauma survivors, finding a link to the gene NTRK2 and reduced PTSD risk. The study revealed that epigenetic modification of NTRK2 was predictive of PTSD risk, but its relationship with PTSD is complex and influenced by multiple factors.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020

Photo and collage by Elle Starkman/PPPL Office of Communications

Scientists at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory discover a network of interacting waves that plays a key role in triggering edge localized modes (ELMs) in fusion facilities. The findings provide new insights into the ELMs process and may help tame potentially damaging processes.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPlasma Physics and Controlled Fusion·DateAug 17, 2020

Scientists further cowpea research--boosting canopy CO2 assimilation, water-use efficiency

A recent study published in Food and Energy Security found that optimizing cowpea canopies can significantly improve CO2 assimilation and water-use efficiency, leading to increased crop yields. Researchers used a canopy gas exchange chamber to measure plant responses to different canopy architectures, revealing that higher biomass cano...

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalFood and Energy Security·DateAug 17, 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.

Targeted treatment for depression could benefit patients with psychosis

Researchers found that depression is an intrinsic part of early phase psychotic disorders and suggest targeting depression as a key factor in treatment. The study suggests antidepressants alongside anti-psychotic drugs could be an effective additional first-line treatment for psychosis.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalSchizophrenia Bulletin·DateAug 17, 2020

Arecibo Observatory data help lead to discovery of cosmic 'heartbeat'

A team of researchers used Arecibo Observatory data and NASA's Fermi Large Area Space Telescope to detect a gamma-ray heartbeat coming from a cosmic gas cloud. The 'heartbeat' rhythm matches the precession of a black hole's jets, suggesting that the cloud's emission is powered by the microquasar.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Astronomy·DateAug 17, 2020

Global warming is changing our plant communities

A comprehensive study reveals that climate change is causing entire plant ecosystems to shift towards warmer climates, leading to the decline of cold-loving species. This process, known as thermophilization, has significant implications for wildlife habitats and ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 17, 2020

Opioid use can trigger deafness

Researchers found a strong association between high-dose opioid use and degrees of hearing loss, with 21% experiencing permanent loss. The study suggests that health care providers should be aware of this potential link when evaluating patients with hearing issues.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Medical Toxicology·DateAug 17, 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 naming influences infants' memory of objects

Researchers found that infants who heard different names for each animal successfully recognized most of the training animals. Infants who heard the same name for all animals had difficulty recognizing the training animals due to lack of individual differences recognition.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020

Chatbots delivering psychotherapy help decrease opioid use after surgery

Researchers found that patients who received daily text messages from an automated chatbot experienced a significant decrease in opioid use, averaging 26 pills compared to 41 for non-participants. This low-effort approach aims to reduce opioid dependence and is potentially transferable to other patient populations.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateAug 17, 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.

Antibiotics associated with increased risk of inflammatory bowel disease

A large study found that antibiotic use, especially broad-spectrum antibiotics, is associated with an increased risk of new-onset inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and its subtypes. The study suggests that perturbing the gut microbiome may impact the risk of gastrointestinal disease.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology·DateAug 17, 2020