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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 216


Page 216 of 512
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.

Online 'booster' improves attitudes toward hearing health among farm youths

A study by the University of Michigan found that incorporating online 'boosters' into existing safety programs increased knowledge and attitude towards hearing conservation practices among farm youths. The research showed significant improvements in favorable attitudes, but no impact on actual behavior.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalBMC Public Health·DateAug 5, 2020

New strategy against osteoporosis

Researchers identified a small protein that mobilizes bone resorbing cells under osteoporotic conditions. Chemical inhibitors targeting this protein show promise in blocking bone resorption without disrupting normal bone turnover.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 5, 2020

Herbivores, not predators, most at risk of extinction

A global study by Utah State University researchers suggests that plant-eaters, including megaherbivores, are the most at-risk group for extinction. Human activities have led to the disproportionate extinction of herbivores compared to predators since the late Pleistocene.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 5, 2020

Dinosaur relative's genome linked to mammals

The study reveals a remarkable genetic connection between the tuatara, a reptile that lived with dinosaurs, and mammals such as platypus and echidna. The genome analysis shows an unusual combination of mammalian and reptilian components, with some sequences similar to those found in platypus.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature·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.

Harnessing the sun to purify concentrated waste streams

Researchers at the University of Arizona are developing a hybrid solar desalination system that combines membrane distillation, concentrated solar power, and photovoltaics to recover water from concentrated waste streams. The system uses renewable energy resources to purify concentrate streams with maximum efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateAug 5, 2020

Algal symbiosis could shed light on dark ocean

Researchers discovered that salamander eggs and algae compete to assimilate carbon from their surroundings, challenging previous assumptions about the benefits of symbiotic relationships. This finding has implications for understanding dark ocean carbon fixation and its impact on global food webs.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateAug 5, 2020

New study may refine predicted survival outcomes and treatment in younger adults with acute leukemia

Researchers at Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center have found that molecular characteristics can refine prognostic recommendations for AML patients under age 60. The study detected mutations in several categories, which were associated with better or worse outcomes and may help improve treatment choices.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalLeukemia·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.

The three strategic priorities of marketing excellence

Researchers identified three strategic priorities for marketing excellence: marketing ecosystem, end-user, and marketing agility. The study found that investors value marketing excellence more highly than market orientation and marketing capabilities strategies, with average annual returns of 16.82%.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateAug 5, 2020

Geothermal brines could propel California's green economy

Scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory are working to develop technology for efficient lithium extraction from geothermal brine in California. The projects aim to unlock the state's potential as a major supplier of lithium, essential for battery production and global demand is expected to skyrocket.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateAug 5, 2020

Understanding why some children enjoy TV more than others

A new study reveals that 10-month-old babies' brain responses can predict their preference for fast-paced TV shows six months later. The research team found that infants who are driven to explore their surroundings and engage with new sights or sounds tend to enjoy watching fast-paced TV shows.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalInfancy·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.

New study to review COVID's impact on modern slavery survivors

A new study is analyzing how COVID-19 affects modern slavery survivors and victims, identifying risk factors such as non-detection, re-trafficking, and limited access to support services. The research aims to provide urgent recommendations for mitigation and protect those at risk from exploitation.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateAug 5, 2020

Skin findings described in patients with severe COVID-19

Livedo racemosa and retiform purpura are skin discolorations observed in patients with severe COVID-19. The study presents a rare but significant dermatological manifestation of the disease, shedding light on its complex clinical presentation.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·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.

New method to help spot gastric cancer cells

Researchers developed an optically induced electrokinetics (OEK) microfluidic method for label-free separation and characterization of gastric cancer cells. The new technique, published in Science Advances, achieved purity up to 71% in separating cancer cells from ascites and demonstrated rapid and non-destructive capabilities.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 5, 2020

Building dementia friendly churches

The Dementia Friendly Church programme has had a significant impact, improving interactions between church attendees and people with dementia. The project involves making practical changes to church layouts, worship, and hospitality to create 'friendly spaces' for those living with dementia.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalReligions·DateAug 5, 2020

Alcoholism treatment is potentially effective against COVID-19

Disulfiram, used to treat alcoholism, has shown potential against SARS-CoV-2 by inhibiting viral replication and reducing glutathione levels, while neratinib, an experimental breast cancer treatment, also demonstrates effectiveness in blocking coronavirus protease M pro.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalMendeleev Communications·DateAug 5, 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.

Can community members deliver naloxone to reverse opioid overdoses?

Researchers at Drexel University developed a smartphone app, UnityPhilly, to empower community members in delivering naloxone during opioid overdoses. The study found that participants successfully reversed overdoses in 95.9% of cases and administered naloxone faster than EMS in over half the events.

SourceDrexel University·JournalEClinicalMedicine·DateAug 5, 2020

Bone drug may be beneficial for knee osteoarthritis

Researchers found that bisphosphonates can reduce bone marrow lesions in people with knee osteoarthritis, which could lead to improved pain management and halted disease progression.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalOsteoarthritis and Cartilage·DateAug 5, 2020

Scientists discover the switch that makes human brown fat burn energy

Researchers found that beta2-adrenergic receptors in brown fat cells stimulate thermogenesis, a process that burns calories and improves insulin sensitivity. The discovery could lead to new treatments for obesity and type 2 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 5, 2020

Autism: How a gene alteration modifies social behavior

Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered a connection between a genetic alteration and social difficulties related to autism. By targeting the oxytocin signaling pathway, they achieved promising results in an animal model and found that treatment with a pharmacological inhibitor can normalize social behavior.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature·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.

How tumor cells evade the immune defense

Researchers have developed a method to investigate how cancer cells evade the immune system, revealing that some genes can be downregulated over time to avoid detection. The study suggests that targeting these genes could lead to more effective immune therapies.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalImmunity·DateAug 5, 2020

Astronomers sink their teeth into special supernova

Researchers obtained critical data on a special type of exploding star, known as calcium-rich supernovae, which produce vast quantities of calcium. These events account for up to half of the calcium found in the universe and provide insights into how elements are expelled during a supernova explosion.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·DateAug 5, 2020

In ancient Arabia, some tools were created to show off skills

Researchers found that ancient Arabians used fluted projectile points not just for functionality but also to demonstrate their technical skills and social status. The study provides evidence of independent invention across continents, highlighting the unique cultural practices of these ancient civilizations.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 5, 2020

To bond with nature, kids need solitary activities outdoors

A new study found that solitary outdoor activities, such as fishing or hunting, are key to building a strong connection between children and nature. Social activities outdoors also help cement this bond. Children who engage in these activities enjoy being outside and feel comfortable, leading to mental and physical benefits.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalThe Journal of Environmental Education·DateAug 5, 2020

Discovery shows promise for treating Huntington's Disease

Scientists have identified an enzyme called TBK1 that can play a central role in treating Huntington's Disease. The enzyme regulates the degradation and clearance of the huntingtin protein, introducing chemical modifications that block its aggregation.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateAug 5, 2020
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

How climate change affects allergies, immune response and autism

Rising carbon dioxide levels and changes in the environment may contribute to increased prevalence of respiratory allergies, autoimmune diseases, and neurologic conditions such as autism. Disruptions to gut bacteria have also been linked to these disorders, highlighting the need for a greener lifestyle and reduced exposure to antimicro...

SourceRutgers University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateAug 5, 2020

IKBFU researchers study the Curonian Spit plants adaptation mechanism

Researchers from IKBFU Institute of Living Systems studied the protective mechanisms of beach pea plants (Lathyrus maritimus Bigel) on the Curonian Spit. The study found that these plants accumulate low-molecular antioxidants to adapt to extreme conditions, such as high salinity and low temperatures.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalPlants·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.

Osteopontin, a protein not always as bad as it is made out to be

Researchers at UPV/EHU University of the Basque Country discover osteopontin's protective role in preventing early onset of metabolic fatty liver disease. Maintaining physiological levels of osteopontin is essential to delay disease progression during ageing.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalAging Cell·DateAug 5, 2020

Increase in immigration has little impact on the wages of US citizens

A recent study suggests that an increase in immigration to the US has little impact on the wages of native citizens. However, it does benefit low-skill workers, with average wage gains of around 4%. The study also found a small positive effect on high-skill natives' wages and reduced local real wage inequality.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalThe Review of Economic Studies·DateAug 5, 2020

New findings on enzymes with important role in SARS-CoV-2 infection

Researchers at Uppsala University have discovered that the ACE2 enzyme is present throughout the human body, but at very low levels in the respiratory system. This finding suggests that other factors may be necessary for SARS-CoV-2 infection and disease progression.

SourceUppsala University·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateAug 5, 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.

New study reveals lower energy limit for life on Earth

A new study by Queen Mary University of London reveals that microorganisms in deep-sea sediments can survive using far less energy than previously known to support life. This finding challenges our understanding of the limits of life on Earth and has implications for searching for life elsewhere.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 5, 2020

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

A Northwestern University-led team examined a calcium-rich supernova dubbed SN 2019ehk with X-ray imaging, providing an unprecedented glimpse into the star during its final month of life and ultimate explosion. The study revealed that the event is a compact star shedding an outer layer of gas before exploding, producing bright X-rays.

SourceW. M. Keck Observatory·DateAug 5, 2020

Surgery during pregnancy for gallbladder infections may be safer than postponing

A nationwide analysis of data from over 6,300 pregnant women reveals that those who underwent surgery during pregnancy had better outcomes compared to those whose surgeries were delayed. The study found a significant increase in maternal-fetal complications among women who did not have gallbladder surgery.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateAug 5, 2020

Gout diagnoses rising worldwide

The prevalence of gout increased worldwide between 1990 and 2017, reaching approximately 41.2 million cases in 2017. High body mass index and impaired kidney function were identified as key risk factors for the disease.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateAug 5, 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.

Vitamin D twice a day may keep vertigo away

A study found that taking vitamin D and calcium supplements twice daily can reduce the chances of getting vertigo again, especially for those with low vitamin D levels. The study showed a 24% reduction in annual recurrence rate among participants who took supplements.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateAug 5, 2020

May the force be with you: Detecting ultrafast light by its force

A McGill research team developed a new technique to detect nano-sized imperfections in materials using atomic force microscopy and ultrafast nonlinear optical methods. This discovery will lead to improvements in optical detectors used in various technologies, including solar cells and cell phones.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 5, 2020

NASA data helps uncover our solar system's shape

Scientists use NASA data to predict heliosphere's characteristics, revealing a deflated croissant shape without a long tail. The shape of the heliosphere acts as our solar system's shield against galactic cosmic rays, protecting Earth and space travelers.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature Astronomy·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.

Optical seismometer survives "hellish" summit of Caribbean volcano

A team of scientists installed an optical seismometer on La Soufrière de Guadeloupe volcano's summit to monitor gas and steam eruptions. The instrument collects data that will be combined with other observations to better understand the volcano's explosive potential.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateAug 5, 2020

Smartphones prove to be time-saving analytical tools

Researchers have created a novel method using smartphones to measure soil density, which is crucial for nutrient and carbon stock management. The new approach involves taking high-resolution photos of soil samples with a smartphone camera and analyzing them using photogrammetry software.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateAug 5, 2020

Rice researchers use InSight for deep Mars measurements

Researchers from Rice University have made the first direct measurements of three subsurface boundaries from Mars' crust to its core using NASA's InSight Lander data. The study provides insights into Mars' early history, planetary formation, and the planet's development from a chemical and thermal perspective.

SourceRice University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·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.

New website offers added decision support for patients searching for a transplant center

A new online tool developed by Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute and the University of Minnesota helps transplant candidates find matching programs based on their donor type and medical profile. The website uses data from the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients (SRTR) to provide personalized decision support.

SourceHennepin Healthcare Research Institute·JournalTransplantation Direct·DateAug 5, 2020

Open clinics aren't enough to ensure abortion access in Ohio

A new study finds that abortion care churn, including clinic-level instability and chronic uncertainty, creates barriers for patients and compromises access to abortion care in Ohio. The research highlights the need for policymakers to consider the multifaceted impacts of restrictions on abortion access.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 5, 2020