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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 215


Page 215 of 512

Drivers from poor cities can be exposed to 80% more air pollution

A study found that commuters in poor cities experience higher levels of in-car air pollution, with windows-open setting exposing passengers to hotspots of pollution for up to a third of the total travel length. Car cabin filters were more effective in removing pollutants than fine particles.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateAug 5, 2020

Implanted neural stem cell grafts show functionality in spinal cord injuries

In a breakthrough study, scientists successfully implanted highly specialized neural stem cell grafts directly into mouse spinal cord injuries, showing they integrated with host networks and behaved like neurons. The grafts displayed spontaneous activity, responded to sensory stimuli, and formed functional connections with host neurons.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateAug 5, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Local food

The study found that the Pacific Island Countries (PICTs) are vulnerable to food insecurity due to their reliance on global supply chains. However, researchers suggest that bolstering local production and intraregional trade can strengthen the food system and protect against malnutrition. The PICTs have the potential to rely on traditi...

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalFood Security·DateAug 5, 2020

Absorbed plant MIR2911 in honeysuckle decoction inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication

A new study found that absorbed plant miRNA MIR2911 in honeysuckle decoction can directly target SARS-CoV-2 genes and inhibit viral replication. Drinking the decoction accelerates negative COVID-19 patient conversion, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy for treating SARS-CoV-2 infection.

SourceNanjing University School of Life Sciences·JournalCell Discovery·DateAug 5, 2020

How cells keep growing even when under attack

Researchers discovered that stressed bacteria's damage-containment system can become overwhelmed, prompting cells to activate alternative pathways for DNA replication and growth. This response allows cells to maintain normal functions under stressful conditions.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalMolecular Cell·DateAug 5, 2020

Will automated vehicles cut parking revenue?

As autonomous vehicles challenge traditional auto-related funding streams, cities must prepare for potential revenue implications. Researchers analyzed transportation network companies' impact on parking demand and found a non-linear relationship between Uber trips and occupancy. Cities can adjust parking policies by time/day, lower pr...

SourcePortland State University·DateAug 5, 2020

Three-quarters of migrants traveling to US through Mexico experience food insecurity

A survey of 95 Central American migrants found that 74% experienced food insecurity, with factors including days in transit and travel companion illness. The researchers offer potential remedies for strengthening migrants' access to food, including information on procuring nutrition and prioritizing inexpensive food.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Immigrant and Minority Health·DateAug 5, 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.

Interpreting the human genome's instruction manual

A comprehensive catalogue of human genome's molecular elements has been produced by the ENCODE collaboration, providing insights into potential regulatory regions. The resource will help all human biology research moving forward, particularly in understanding genetic variants and their functions.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateAug 5, 2020

Are vultures spreaders of microbes that put human health at risk?

A new analysis found that microorganisms causing human diseases can be present in vultures, including multi-resistant bacteria. However, there is no clear evidence that vultures spread pathogens to humans and other species, but they may help prevent disease transmission by consuming carcasses.

SourceWiley·JournalIbis·DateAug 5, 2020

Organoids help bridge gap between laboratory study and animal modeling of disease

Researchers biofabricated human colorectal cancer organoids to understand how tumors grow in their natural microenvironment and respond to treatments. The study replicated native tumor tissue in a laboratory model and validated its effects on whole-body physiology, paving the way for new therapies targeting the extracellular matrix.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 5, 2020

Inappropriate prescriptions sending hospitalized seniors back to the ER

A new study led by McGill University researchers found that two-thirds of hospitalized seniors are prescribed inappropriate medications, increasing the risk of injury and adverse drug reactions. The study concludes that improving hospital prescribing practices can reduce this risk.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·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.

Manifestation of quantum distance in flat band materials

Scientists have found a way to measure the quantum distance of Bloch states in solids by applying a magnetic field, enabling the detection of anomalous Landau level spreading. This discovery reveals that the quantum metric plays a crucial role in determining material properties.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature·DateAug 5, 2020

Experiences of loneliness may differ by age

A cross-sectional study in the Netherlands found that loneliness experiences differ by age, with certain factors associated with loneliness varying across adult life stages. The strongest association with loneliness was found for those who felt excluded from society.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateAug 5, 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.

Consumers, quats and COVID-19: Are disinfectant products safe?

Quat-containing disinfectants have raised concerns over potential toxicity, with links to fertility and developmental problems found in animal and cell experiments. However, industry experts argue that skin irritation is the biggest concern, and typical exposures in people are unlikely to pose significant health risks.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateAug 5, 2020

Computational modeling enables heart valve visualizations

Researchers used computational modeling to visualize heart valve implant behavior for the first time, revealing that thinner biological tissues can induce leaflet flutter, compromising durability and causing blood cell damage. This study builds upon decades of research and showcases the importance of supercomputing power in improving s...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 5, 2020

Drug prevents multiple sclerosis relapses in phase 3 trial

A new drug, ofatumumab, has been shown to significantly reduce inflammation and clinical relapses in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis. Nearly nine out of ten patients on the treatment showed no sign of disease activity after one year.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 5, 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.

NIH harnesses AI for COVID-19 diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring

The NIH Medical Imaging and Data Resource Center (MIDRC) is a collaborative effort to develop new AI-powered diagnostic tools for COVID-19. The center aims to accelerate the development of personalized therapies by analyzing medical images and clinical data, leading to improved patient outcomes.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Biomedical Imaging & Bioengineering·DateAug 5, 2020

How microbes in 'starter cultures' make fermented sausage tasty

Researchers studied how microbes in fermented sausages influence fatty acid production, revealing differences between microbe combinations. The study found that specific bacteria alter the composition of fatty acids, contributing to desirable traits like antifungal activity and flavor profiles.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateAug 5, 2020

Herbivorous vertebrates may face most daunting extinction risk

A new study of over 44,000 species reveals herbivores have consistently faced the highest threat of extinction in modern times, past decades, and the late Pleistocene era. The research also shows that ocean predators are facing greater existential pressures than their land-dwelling counterparts.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 5, 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.

Move over Akita: Introducing 'Kuma mutant' mice for islet transplantation research

Researchers develop a new mouse model of permanent neonatal diabetes using the Kuma mutation, which exhibits severe insulin-deficiency and beta-cell dysfunction in an immune deficient background. The study successfully reverses hyperglycemia with insulin implants, making it suitable for islet transplantation research.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 5, 2020

Scientists discover novel drug target for pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute have discovered a novel drug target, PPP1R1B, that stops the spread of pancreatic cancer in mice. Increased levels of this protein have been found in tumor samples from people with metastatic pancreatic cancer, suggesting it has therapeutic potential.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateAug 5, 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.

Rheumatoid arthritis linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes

A recent analysis found that adults with rheumatoid arthritis had a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to other individuals. The study, published in Arthritis Care & Research, used a US commercial insurance database and included over 449,000 people.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateAug 5, 2020

Plate tectonics goes global

Researchers discovered evidence of ancient subduction in China and six other continents, revealing that plate tectonics went global 2 billion years ago. This finding provides the first global evidence for the operation of plate tectonics at this age.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·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.

NIH-Moderna investigational COVID-19 vaccine shows promise in mouse studies

The investigational vaccine induced neutralizing antibodies in mice, providing protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Additionally, mice challenged with the virus after a single dose showed protection against viral replication in the lung, indicating potential efficacy in humans.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature·DateAug 5, 2020

HPV vaccination linked to lower risk of precancerous condition

A study published in Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica found that HPV vaccination significantly reduces the risk of high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, a precancerous condition leading to cervical cancer. Vaccination coverage was high among young women born in 1993, resulting in a 30% lower risk compared to those...

SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateAug 5, 2020

Ammonia sparks unexpected, exotic lightning on Jupiter

Scientists have unexpectedly found lightning in Jupiter's upper atmosphere, with ammonia playing a crucial role. The discovery reveals a complex atmosphere that challenges previous predictions, indicating an unexpected process causing the phenomenon.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateAug 5, 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.

Career-readiness through cross-disciplinary project-based learning

The study combines communication, electrical engineering, and business students to tackle real industry challenges, fostering cross-disciplinary learning and intellectual dexterity. The initiative aims to create cohesion among disciplines and equip students with skills for success in professional settings.

SourceEdward R. Murrow College of Communication·DateAug 5, 2020

Sustainable chemistry at the quantum level

Researchers have developed a three-pronged approach to predict novel electrocatalysts, which can simulate many atoms at once and transform catalyst development. The new method allows for high-throughput screening powered by machine learning, accelerating the discovery of efficient electrocatalysts.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalInterface·DateAug 5, 2020

Discovery could lead to more potent garlic, boosting flavor and bad breath

A team of Virginia Tech researchers discovered a new biosynthetic pathway for allicin, the compound responsible for garlic's unique flavor and aroma. This finding enables farmers to predict and control the strength of their crops, leading to more consistent production and greater flavor profiles.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 5, 2020

Life at its limits

A new study reveals that microbes in the seabed can survive on extremely low levels of energy, with some using methane and sulphate as alternative sources. This discovery challenges our understanding of life's limits and has significant implications for Earth's carbon and nutrient cycles.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 5, 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.

Initiative to promote a culture of mobility in hospitals yields encouraging results

An initiative promoting hospital mobility in the US yielded encouraging results, with 76% of participating sites implementing successful programs. Implementing mobility programs reduced bed or chair alarm use by 1.8-fold and increased daily walks for patients by 2-fold.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 5, 2020

The curious genome of the tuatara, an ancient reptile in peril

Researchers sequenced the tuatara genome, confirming its divergence from lizards and snakes about 250 million years ago. The study found that tuatara have a unique constitution, including a lot of repetitive DNA segments with no known function, which may help them escape predators and live up to 100 years.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory - European Bioinformatics Institute·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.

Scientists find how clock gene wakes up green algae

Researchers at Nagoya University have found the mechanism of the night-to-day transition of the circadian rhythm in green algae. By controlling the activity of ROC75, they can wake up green algae and enhance their photosynthetic activities to produce larger amounts of lipids.

SourceNagoya University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 5, 2020

Real-time imaging can help prevent deadly dust explosions

Researchers at Purdue University have created an image- and video-based application using OpenCV algorithms that detects suspensible dust concentration, allowing employers to take safety measures before explosive atmospheres form.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries·DateAug 5, 2020

The yin and yang of inflammation controlled by a single molecule

Researchers identified HDAC3 as orchestrator of immune system's inflammation response to infection, with both triggering and reducing inflammation. The study highlights the need to target non-enzymatic functions of HDAC3 instead of its enzyme activity to mitigate lethal outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateAug 5, 2020

Study examines skin diseases in older adults

A study of 552 older adults found 80% had at least one skin disease requiring treatment, with fungal infections and eczema being the most prevalent. The research also revealed that more than a third had multiple simultaneous skin diseases, highlighting the importance of whole body skin evaluations in this age group.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 5, 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.

Tiniest secrets of integrated circuits revealed with new imaging technique

A new imaging paradigm using broadband electric force microscopy has been developed to non-destructively image and localize dopant structures in silicon chips. The technique provides a wealth of previously inaccessible detail about the electrical environment around these structures.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Electronics·DateAug 5, 2020

A one-step diagnostic may bring faster, cheaper cancer testing to remote settings

A rapid and affordable test for breast cancer has been developed to combat delayed diagnoses in developing regions. The compact CytoPAN test uses image cytometry to analyze individual cells, yielding results in under 1 hour and requiring minimal training, making it ideal for resource-limited settings.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 5, 2020

Neuroendocrine markers of grief

Research examines neuroendocrine effects of grief, finding elevated cortisol levels in bereaved individuals with possible long-term health consequences. The study calls for more research on potential markers of neuroendocrine activity associated with grief to inform tailored interventions.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Neuroendocrinology·DateAug 5, 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.

Land use changes may increase disease outbreak risks

A new study found that animals carrying diseases known to infect humans are more common in landscapes intensively used by people. The research suggests altering land use to reduce the risk of future spillovers of infectious diseases.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateAug 5, 2020

Calcium-rich supernova examined with X-rays for first time

A Northwestern University-led team has uncovered the true nature of rare, mysterious events called calcium-rich supernovae. The researchers used X-ray imaging to study a calcium-rich supernova and found that it is a compact star shedding an outer layer of gas before exploding, producing bright X-rays and massive amounts of calcium.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateAug 5, 2020

Fabrication advance: Spray-on clear coatings for cheaper smart windows

Researchers at RMIT University developed a simple method for making ultra-thin, cost-effective transparent electrodes that can block heat and conduct electricity. The new spray-on coatings rival current industry standards and could simplify the fabrication of smart windows and low-emissivity glass.

SourceRMIT University·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateAug 5, 2020