Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2020 - Page 199


Page 199 of 512

NASA looks at water vapor in remnants of tropical depression 10E

NASA's Terra satellite observed the remnants of Tropical Depression 10E, providing water vapor content data that sheds light on the storm's potential to develop. The analysis revealed a small area of coldest cloud top temperature, indicating the storm's strength and temperature.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 17, 2020

Targeted therapy combination effective for patients with advanced cholangiocarcinoma and BRAF mutations

A Phase II trial conducted at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center found a 51% overall response rate in patients with BRAF-mutated cholangiocarcinoma treated with dabrafenib plus trametinib, providing a much-needed treatment option for patients with treatment-resistant advanced disease.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateAug 17, 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.

Farmers help grow water plan

Using local producer knowledge helps estimate groundwater use in modelling for mapping sustainable use of scarce resources. Farmers' land use, agricultural practices and water use are key factors in this approach.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Hydrology·DateAug 17, 2020

Social distancing decreased paediatric respiratory tract infections in Finland

A recent study found that social distancing measures significantly decreased paediatric emergency room visits and hospital referrals due to viral respiratory tract infections, including bronchitis and pneumonia. The incidence of lower respiratory tract infections decreased by around one-fifth.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalThe Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal·DateAug 17, 2020

First ever observation of 'time crystals' interacting

Researchers have successfully observed the interaction of two time crystals, a major breakthrough that could lead to applications in quantum information processing. The discovery showcases controlled interactions between time crystals, a crucial step towards harnessing their potential.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 17, 2020

Genomic analysis of penguins' evolutionary success

New research sheds light on penguin evolution, revealing a pivotal role for climate change in their geographic expansion. Genetic analysis indicates that penguins originated along temperate coastlines before expanding into Antarctic regions.

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

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

The easy way to get a square deal

Researchers at Osaka University have discovered a new method to easily add lanthanide cubanes into an existing metallo-supramolecular framework. The team found that by soaking a crystal in a cubane-containing solution, the molecules become intercalated via a single-crystal-to-single-crystal transformation.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 17, 2020

Major savings possible with app-based osteoarthritis treatment

A new study from Lund University in Sweden found that app-based osteoarthritis treatment can halve patients' pain levels within six months and improve physical mobility. The digital program costs approximately 25% of conventional treatment, making it a cost-effective option.

SourceLund University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 17, 2020

USU mathematicians unravel a thread of string theory

Researchers from Utah State University, Thomas Hill and Andreas Malmendier, explore the duality between F-theory and heterotic string theory in eight dimensions. They discovered four unique ways to slice K3 surfaces as Jacobian elliptic fibrations, enabling investigation of underlying physical theories.

SourceUtah State University·JournalLetters in Mathematical Physics·DateAug 17, 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.

DNA damage triggers reprogramming into stem cells

Researchers discovered that DNA damage in moss Physcomitrella patens causes cells to reprogram into stem cells, producing an entire plant body. This phenomenon is a new adaptive strategy for plants under harsh environments.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Plants·DateAug 17, 2020

Does city life make bumblebees larger?

A new study reveals that city-dwelling bumblebees are larger and more productive than their rural counterparts due to fragmented habitats. This increase in body size may be linked to improved pollination services, as larger bees can see better, learn faster, and travel further.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateAug 17, 2020

NASA infrared data shows Genevieve strengthening into a hurricane

Genevieve strengthened into a hurricane, with the most powerful thunderstorms in its eyewall having coldest cloud top temperatures as low as minus 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The storm is expected to become major and bring life-threatening surf and rip current conditions to Mexico's southern coast.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 17, 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.

Applying machine learning to biomedical science

Researchers have developed a new approach to machine learning combining ensemble methods and deep learning to diagnose cancer, predict viral attacks, and revolutionize molecular biology. This emerging field has the potential to transform bioinformatics and biomedical sciences.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateAug 17, 2020

Cashew shell compound appears to mend damaged nerves

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center discovered a cashew shell compound that promotes myelin repair in laboratory experiments. The compound, anacardic acid, inhibits an enzyme involved in gene expression, leading to increased production of IL-33 and rapid induction of myelin genes and proteins.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020

Maternal pelvis and fetal skull covariation

The study found that the fetal skull and maternal pelvis show covariation to facilitate smooth delivery, contradicting previous hypotheses about bipedalism's role in this process. Researchers used CT scans to analyze the anatomy of rhesus macaques and found evidence of this adaptative relationship.

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

North American cold-climate forests are already absorbing less carbon, study shows

A new study reveals that cold-climate forests at high latitudes are already absorbing less carbon, casting uncertainty on their ability to continue doing so. In contrast, Siberian forests have increased their carbon uptake four times more than other North American forests, suggesting stark divergent responses across regions.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020

Researchers discover how enzyme protects cells from DNA damage

Scientists have unraveled the structure and mechanism of DNA polymerase ζ, an enzyme that replicates through daily DNA-damaging events. This discovery offers valuable insights into developing effective inhibitors to make cancer cells more sensitive to chemotherapy.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateAug 17, 2020

Safer, more comfortable soldier uniforms are in the works

Scientists have created a novel way of creating a flame-retardant, insect-repellent fabric using nontoxic substances. The new fabric was found to perform at least 20% better than the untreated material in heat release capacity and total heat release tests.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 17, 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.

Higher day-time methane emissions from northern lakes

Researchers found that lake methane emissions peak between 10am and 4pm, suggesting wind plays a significant role. This discovery reduces estimated global methane emissions from northern lakes by 15%.

SourceLinköping University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020

UIC study examines high schoolers' accuracy in classification of their peers

A new study published in Social Psychology Quarterly explores how high school students categorize their peers into groups based on physical appearance. The research found correlations between these groupings and aspects of mental health, academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, social status, and risk-taking behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalSocial Psychology Quarterly·DateAug 17, 2020

568 genes identified with the potential to trigger cancer

Researchers from IRB Barcelona have identified 568 cancer driver genes, play specific roles in cell growth regulation, DNA replication, and more. These genes confer malignant cells rapid reproduction, immune evasion, and invasive capabilities.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Reviews Cancer·DateAug 17, 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.

Interest in quitting vaping among adolescents

Researchers examined adolescents' interest in quitting vaping through a survey, revealing that many have seriously thought about quitting. The study found that nearly half of the participants reported serious thoughts or attempts to quit vaping.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 17, 2020

Regional drivers of enhanced CO2 seasonal cycle

A study using atmospheric observations and modeling tools identifies Siberian and temperate ecosystems as primary drivers of the increased amplitude of the atmospheric CO2 seasonal cycle. In contrast, arctic-boreal North American ecosystems have relatively weak localized impacts on this increase.

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

New research will improve early warning of devastating megastorms

A new study by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology found that land surface conditions can affect mesoscale convective systems, allowing for more accurate forecasts and up to six hours' warning. This will inform alert systems for communities across Africa, enabling them to better prepare for severe flooding.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020

Smartphones may help detect diabetes

Researchers at UCSF have developed a smartphone-based digital biomarker to detect Type 2 diabetes, providing a potential in-home alternative to blood draws and clinic-based screening tools. The algorithm correctly identified the presence of diabetes in up to 81% of patients, offering a promising solution for widespread disease screening.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Medicine·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.

No limit yet for carbon nanotube fibers

Researchers at Rice University have developed carbon nanotube fibers that are stronger than Kevlar and conductive like copper. The fibers have doubled in strength and conductivity every three years, a trend spanning nearly two decades.

SourceRice University·JournalCarbon·DateAug 17, 2020

Information yield from search for extrasolar life

A Bayesian statistical framework analysis suggests that a positive result in the search for extrasolar biosignatures would greatly enhance our understanding of extraterrestrial life, potentially exceeding 105 inhabited planets. Conversely, a negative outcome would leave existing knowledge largely unchanged.

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

Study reveals how two sex chromosomes communicate during female embryo development

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital discovered the role of an enzyme in X chromosome inactivation, which is essential for normal female development and sets the stage for genetic disorders. The study shows that a critical protein helps 'flip the switch' on one X chromosome, allowing the other to be silenced.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateAug 17, 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.

Experts question need to wait days between introducing new solid foods to infants

A recent survey of pediatricians found significant variability in recommendations for solid food introduction, leading experts to question the relevance of current guidelines. The long waiting period may delay peanut introduction and limit food diversity, which can decrease the development of allergic diseases in infants.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 17, 2020

Society perceives the poor as less affected by distress than those with more means

Researchers found a 'thick-skin bias' persists across various groups, including children and adults, professionals, and U.S. citizens, perceiving low-income individuals as less harmed by negative events than their high-income counterparts. This bias may lead to neglect of those most in need and exacerbate cycles of poverty.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalBehavioural Public Policy·DateAug 17, 2020

More than half of world's oceans already being affected by climate change

A new study estimates that 50% of the world's oceans are already being affected by climate change, with changes in temperature and salt levels detectable since the 1980s. The Southern Hemisphere oceans are being impacted more rapidly, highlighting the importance of this region for global heat storage.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 17, 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.

Racial concordance and newborn mortality

A study found that when Black physicians care for Black newborns, the mortality rate declines by 39-58%. This phenomenon suggests that Black physicians outperform their White colleagues in caring for Black newborns.

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

ACP, AAFP release new guideline for treatment of non-low back pain

The American College of Physicians and the American Academy of Family Physicians recommend treating acute pain from non-low back musculoskeletal injuries with topical NSAIDs, with or without menthol gel, as the first line of treatment. Topical NSAIDs were shown to be effective for pain reduction, physical function, treatment satisfacti...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 17, 2020

Filling the void in ammonia synthesis: The role of nitrogen vacancies in catalysts

Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology have created a high-performing catalyst for ammonia synthesis using cerium nitride, leveraging the role of nitrogen vacancies. The new catalyst's performance is comparable to that of ruthenium-based ones, offering a potential eco-friendly alternative.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 17, 2020

Overlap between Neanderthals and Homo sapiens

Researchers have recalibrated the radiocarbon age curve, revealing a time dilation that shifted the overlap between Neanderthals and Homo sapiens from over 6,000 years to less than 4,000 years. The revision is attributed to a geomagnetic field minimum 41,000 years ago.

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

Mixing silk with polymers could lead to better biomedical implants

Scientists develop versatile materials by mixing silk fabric with synthetic polymers, offering improved properties for human body tissues. The composites show hardness and stiffness compatible with bone, making them potentially more resilient yet comfortable than metal structures.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 17, 2020

New kind of interaction discovered in hydrogen-producing enzymes

Hydrogenases can convert hydrogen efficiently like platinum catalysts. A team from Ruhr-Universität Bochum found that proton and electron transfers take place spatially separated but are coupled, crucial for efficiency. This discovery may lead to more efficient miniaturized hydrogenase catalysts.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020

3D printing steps up to the frontlines in the battle against Covid-19

Researchers utilized 3D printing technology to produce personal protective equipment, medical devices, and isolation wards on-demand, addressing supply chain disruptions. The digital versatility of 3D printing enabled swift mobilization of the technology in response to COVID-19 emergencies.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalNature Reviews Materials·DateAug 17, 2020

Projected extreme heat and cold exposure in US cities

A new study projects that major US cities will experience significantly increased exposure to extreme heat and cold by the end of this century. The study's authors used a novel approach to account for urban development and its interactions with climate change to predict changes in population-weighted exposure to extreme temperatures.

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

Political polarization and objectivity illusion

Studies with over 2,500 participants reveal an 'objectivity illusion' where individuals on both sides perceive those who share their views as more objective. The findings suggest a self-reinforcing bias in information processing deepens the ideological divide.

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

Survival of the fit-ish

A study on parasitic gene elements in yeast found that they can persist in populations despite harming hosts. Meiotic drivers confer disadvantages to their host, but other genes help suppress this effect at a cost to fitness.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·DateAug 17, 2020