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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 214


Page 214 of 512
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Grow faster, die sooner

Research by Technical University of Munich shows that faster-growing bacteria are more likely to die when deprived of food, highlighting the balance between growth and survivability in bacterial fitness. The study may lead to improved effectiveness of antibiotics by stimulating intestinal bacteria growth.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateAug 6, 2020

Credible assumptions replace missing data in COVID analysis

Researchers used 'partial identification' technique to make assumptions about COVID-19 data from Illinois, New York, and Italy. This approach narrowed the bounds of infection fatality rates, providing a more accurate understanding of the virus.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Econometrics·DateAug 6, 2020

Spintronics: Researchers show how to make non-magnetic materials magnetic

Scientists discovered a way to make non-magnetic oxide materials magnetic by controlling layer growth and creating vacancies in the atomic layers. This breakthrough enables the creation of new materials with unique properties, opening up possibilities for advanced technologies.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 6, 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.

COVID-19: The long road to recovery

Researchers identified a pattern of longer-term symptoms in COVID-19 patients, including fatigue, breathlessness, and psychological distress. The study found that some patients experienced symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), highlighting the need for specialist rehabilitation services.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of Medical Virology·DateAug 6, 2020

First food-grade intermediate wheatgrass released

The first commercially available intermediate wheatgrass (IWG) cultivar has been released, providing a sustainable crop option for agriculture. MN-Clearwater produces high grain yields of 696 kg ha-1, with minimal lodging and disease levels, making it suitable for the US Upper Midwest, southern Canada, and Northeast regions.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Plant Registrations·DateAug 6, 2020

Chemists build natural anti-cancer compound with lean new process

Researchers efficiently synthesized cepafungin I, a natural compound with promise as an anti-cancer agent, using a lean new process that overcame its complex molecular structure. The compound targets the proteasome, a strategy used by many existing cancer medications.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateAug 6, 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.

Brain waves can be used to predict future pain sensitivity

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have developed a reliable method to predict an individual's susceptibility to pain using alpha wave frequency. This breakthrough could help clinicians understand how patients will react to surgery and develop more effective pain management strategies.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateAug 6, 2020

Citizen scientists help geologists to identify earthquakes and tectonic tremors

Researchers from Northwestern University used a crowd-sourced platform to analyze seismic recordings and found that citizen scientists can classify earthquakes with 85% accuracy, outperforming machine learning algorithms. Citizen scientists also successfully identified tectonic tremors, which AI could not do previously.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Earth Science·DateAug 6, 2020

Researchers take the ultimate Earth selfie

A team led by astrophysicist Allison Youngblood used the Hubble Space Telescope to view Earth as if it were an exoplanet, capturing ultraviolet signals of ozone in its atmosphere. The study demonstrates a proof-of-concept for detecting biosignatures of life on distant planets.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·DateAug 6, 2020

How soft hair deforms the sharpest steel blades

Studies using realistic shaving experiments and in situ electron microscopy found that differences in cutting angle, microstructural variation, and location of variations contribute to blade failure. Implementing homogeneous microstructures at the cutting edge could be achieved through nanostructured alloys.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 6, 2020

New approach to airborne disinfection uses food-coloring dyes

The Purdue team's disinfection method uses edible materials and FDA-approved food coloring dyes to kill airborne pathogens. The technology has been patented and is being licensed for commercialization, with potential applications in medical settings and public spaces.

SourcePurdue University·DateAug 6, 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.

Fuel from disused tyres

A recent study published in Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews has explored the potential of using catalytic pyrolysis to convert used tyres into alternative fuels. The process produces liquid fuel with aromatic compounds, as well as gas and solid products that can be used for energy production and carbon black reuse.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateAug 6, 2020

New method makes magnetic maps of the solar corona

Researchers have developed a new method to map the magnetic field of the solar corona using near-infrared observations. The technique, presented in a recent study, can provide detailed maps of the coronal magnetic field across the entire observable corona.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 6, 2020

Virtual SLEEP 2020 annual meeting is online and better than ever

The Virtual SLEEP 2020 meeting provides a platform for live and on-demand access to over 1,200 research abstracts and presentations on various sleep-related topics. Clinical sleep specialists will discuss current practices in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders such as insomnia and narcolepsy.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·DateAug 6, 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.

Ailing frigatebird chick wins 7th BMC Ecology Image competition

A frigatebird chick suffering from a viral infection has won the 7th BMC Ecology Image competition. The winning image showcases the intricate relationships between species and their environments. David Costantini's powerful photo highlights pressing issues in ecology, including viral outbreaks affecting bird populations.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Ecology·DateAug 6, 2020

'Roaming reactions' study to shed new light on atmospheric molecules

A team of researchers discovered unexpected features in roaming reactions, enabling more accurate predictions about molecules in the atmosphere, including models of climate change and ozone depletion. The study provides new tools to understand reaction mechanisms in the atmosphere.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScience·DateAug 6, 2020

Brain noise contains unique signature of dream sleep

UC Berkeley researchers have identified a unique electrical signature in brain noise that distinguishes REM sleep from wakefulness. This breakthrough could enable the development of new diagnostic tools for sleep disorders and monitor patients under anesthesia during surgery.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateAug 6, 2020

COVID-19: Immune system derails

The study found that immune cells are produced in large quantities but their function is defective, leading to an ineffective immune response against the virus. In severe cases, immature cells with inhibitory effects on the immune response prevail.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalCell·DateAug 6, 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.

Faster rates of evolution are linked to tiny genomes, study finds

Scientists have found a link between mutation rate and genome size in prokaryotes, with higher mutation rates associated with faster gene loss and smaller genomes. The study challenges the current idea that population size is the main factor driving genome reduction in prokaryotes.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 6, 2020

Study gauges specific site stomach cancer risks among ethnic groups

A new study reveals that non-white Americans, especially Asian Americans, are at a higher risk of gastric cancer compared to non-Hispanic whites. The risk is highest among Korean Americans age 50 and older, who have a 12-fold to 14.5-fold higher risk of developing stomach cancer.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateAug 6, 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.

Study shows variation in hospital visitor & ICU communication policies due to COVID-19

A new study by Michigan Medicine researchers documents how hospitals reacted to the pandemic and found that most implemented a 'no visitors' policy, but some allowed exceptions for end-of-life visits. ICU teams also shifted to telephones and video chats to connect with families.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 6, 2020

Researchers discover predictor of laser treatment success in patients with glaucoma

A new study from the University of Missouri School of Medicine found that pre-treatment eye pressure is a key indicator of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) effectiveness in patients with open-angle glaucoma. Patients with higher baseline intraocular pressure achieved larger reductions in pressure after surgery.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 5, 2020

Influenza A virus directly modulates eosinophil responses

Researchers found that influenza A virus (IAV) infection leads to changes in eosinophil surface markers, antigen presentation, and survival. Eosinophils play an active role in resolving viral infections by recognizing IAV antigens and inducing epigenetic changes in CD8+ T-cells.

SourceLe Bonheur Children's Hospital·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateAug 5, 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.

Trajectories of antidepressant medication use during pregnancy

Researchers identified three antidepressant dispensing trajectories during pregnancy: continued treatment, interrupted and resumed, and stopped. Women on continuous treatment had more frequent complications and postpartum psychiatric disorders.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateAug 5, 2020

Long-term maternal Viagra treatment worsens growth-restriction in baby sheep

A new study found that prenatal Viagra treatment worsened growth-restriction in baby sheep by impairing the fetus' ability to redirect blood flow to essential organs. This impairment occurred despite lower levels of oxygen in the fetal blood, suggesting a potential mechanism underlying increased morbidity observed clinically.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateAug 5, 2020

Molecular forces: The surprising stretching behavior of DNA

Scientists at TU Wien have explained DNA's unusual behavior under tension using a unique combination of civil engineering and physics. The study reveals that DNA can twist more than expected when stretched, with significant consequences for biology and medicine.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalJournal of the Mechanics and Physics of Solids·DateAug 5, 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.

COVID-19 a perfect storm for conspiracy theories

A study published in Media International Australia found that COVID-19 misinformation led to a surge in conspiracy theories, particularly around 5G technology. The research highlighted the role of social media and celebrities in spreading false claims, which can have significant real-world impacts, such as attacks on mobile phone towers.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalSAGE Open·DateAug 5, 2020

Nonprofit expert awarded for excellence in online teaching

Karabi Bezboruah, associate professor at the University of Texas at Arlington, has won the 2020 USDLA International Excellence in Teaching/Training Award. She was recognized for her innovative approach to teaching and training, including incorporating experiential projects into her online courses.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateAug 5, 2020

Epigenetic changes in ADNP syndrome, a cause of autism, do not indicate profound presentation of the disorder

A study found that two blood epigenetic signatures associated with ADNP syndrome have only modest correlation with clinical manifestations. Researchers conclude that these signatures should be carefully evaluated before being considered as biomarkers for predicting behavioral outcomes.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateAug 5, 2020

Taste bud cells might not be a target of SARS-CoV-2

Research in mice indicates ACE2 receptor is primarily found on tongue cells with rough surfaces, not in taste bud cells, suggesting alternative mechanisms for SARS-CoV-2-induced taste loss.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Pharmacology & Translational Science·DateAug 5, 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 Guinea has the world's richest island flora

A new checklist of New Guinea's 13,634 vascular plant species has been built by 99 scientists from 56 institutions and 19 countries. The list contains 20% more species than Madagascar or Borneo, with many endemic plants found only in the region.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature·DateAug 5, 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.

Basic laws of physics spruce up machine learning

A researcher at Sandia National Laboratories has won an Early Career Research Program award to develop methods for applying physics laws to observe large-scale physical events. The project aims to achieve a millionfold change in scale, from meter- to microscale features.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateAug 5, 2020

Study suggests drug overdose linked to PTSD

A study of 380 female sex workers found that more than half reported symptoms of PTSD after experiencing or witnessing an overdose. The findings suggest that overdose treatment programs should include a strong mental health component to help survivors and witnesses recover from trauma.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·DateAug 5, 2020

CUNY ISPH study sheds new light on how ovarian cancer grows and evolves

A CUNY ISPH study reveals that ovarian cancer grows and evolves continuously, with mixtures of subclones accumulating mutations. The findings challenge previous simplistic models of discrete subtypes, offering a clearer picture of tumor heterogeneity.

SourceCUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 5, 2020

Study clarifies kinship of important plant group

A new study has provided the world's most detailed phylogenetic analysis of asterids, a group of flowering plants that include coffee, heather, and tomatoes. The research, conducted by the University of Bonn and international partners, sheds light on the evolutionary history of these species and their relationships.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateAug 5, 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 sheds new light on vein formation in plants

A study published in Nature Communications has found that plant hormones strigolactones reduce the transport of auxin, a key hormone involved in vein formation. This slowdown allows for more focused and efficient vein development, which can lead to improved crop yields and better adaptation to challenging climate conditions.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 5, 2020

Turning carbon dioxide into liquid fuel

A team led by Argonne National Laboratory has discovered a new electrocatalyst that converts carbon dioxide (CO2) and water into ethanol with very high energy efficiency, selectivity for the desired final product, and low cost. This process could contribute to the circular carbon economy by reusing CO2 from industrial processes.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateAug 5, 2020

Disparities in a common air pollutant are visible from space

Researchers used airplanes and satellite data to uncover neighborhood-level differences in nitrogen dioxide levels in Houston. The study found that areas with higher pollutant levels were predominantly low-income, non-white, and Hispanic neighborhoods, while high-income, white areas had lower pollution levels.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 5, 2020

Bay Area coastal flooding triggers regionwide commute disruptions

Researchers find that San Francisco Bay Area coastal flooding causes region-wide commute disruptions, particularly in areas with sparse road networks. Climate change exacerbates the issue, and measuring road network density is crucial for understanding community resilience to flood-related delays.

SourceStanford University·JournalJournal of Mathematical Sciences Advances and Applications·DateAug 5, 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.

Journalists' Twitter use shows them talking within smaller bubbles

Researchers identified nine clusters of journalists, including an 'elite/legacy' cluster dominated by The Washington Post and others, which showed high levels of insularity. In contrast, a long-form/enterprise cluster fostered exchange among journalists with diverse perspectives.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalSocial Media + Society·DateAug 5, 2020

Though concerned about COVID-19, cigar smokers are smoking more, survey finds

A recent survey of nearly 800 cigar smokers found that more than twice as many reported increasing their tobacco use since the pandemic's onset. The study suggests that stress, anxiety, and reduced access to cessation resources may contribute to this trend.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateAug 5, 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.

Chances of pregnancy no higher with frozen over fresh embryo transfer

A study published in The BMJ found that freezing embryos for later transfer does not result in a higher chance of pregnancy compared to fresh embryo transfer. Researchers recommend using fresh embryo transfer as the gold standard for women with no immediate risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateAug 5, 2020