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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 240


Page 240 of 512

USTC finds ultimate precision limit of multi-parameter quantum magnetometry

Researchers from USTC obtained the ultimate precision for estimating all three components of a magnetic field with entangled probe states under the parallel scheme. They found that tradeoff comes from incompatibility of optimal probe states and presented an approach to quantify tradeoff.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 20, 2020

Tidal variation of total suspended solids over the Yangtze bank

Researchers used GOCI to study high-resolution spatial distribution and tidal variation of suspended sediment over the Yangtze Bank, revealing a tongue-shaped structure and importance of topography in tidal-induced mixing. The study enhances understanding of short-term changes to TSS in Yellow and East China Seas.

SourceScience China Press·DateJul 20, 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.

NASA analyzes new eastern Pacific Ocean Tropical Depression 7E

Tropical Depression 7E formed in the Eastern Pacific Ocean near Mexico's Baja California Peninsula and is expected to track over cool waters, weakening it. NASA's Terra satellite detected strong storms with cold cloud top temperatures, indicating potential for heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 20, 2020

Immunotherapy safe for patients with COVID-19, cancer

Preliminary data suggests that immunotherapy won't worsen complications in patients with both conditions. Researchers found that an anti-diabetic drug metformin can reduce protein production by immune cells, offering a potential treatment option for COVID-19 complications.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateJul 20, 2020

Powerful human-like hands create safer human-robotics interactions

A team of Michigan State University engineers has designed a soft-hard hybrid flexible gripper that can generate larger grasping forces than traditional pure soft hands. The new research, published in Soft Robotics, aims to create safer human-robotics interactions for tasks such as fruit picking and medical care.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalSoft Robotics·DateJul 20, 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.

High school athletes require longer recovery following concussions

A recent study published in Orthopedics found that high school athletes require at least one month of recovery following a concussion. The study analyzed data from 357 adolescents who sustained one or more concussions and found that those with multiple concussions required longer recovery times, up to 30 days.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalOrthopedics·DateJul 20, 2020

Argonne's pivotal research discovers practices, technologies key to sustainable farming

A recent study by Argonne National Laboratory quantified how farms can reduce emissions by changing their practices and adopting novel technologies. Sustainable farming professionals can implement lower carbon footprint practices, such as conservation tillage and cover crops, to improve farm efficiency and help the environment.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 20, 2020

Assaying latent HIV proviruses

A new assay detects intact HIV latent proviruses at higher frequencies than previous methods, revealing a significant amount of intact virus in infected individuals; this finding is crucial for developing an HIV cure. The study provides a benchmark for assessing persistent proviral DNA and its composition.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2020

UCI receives record $529 million in research funding for fiscal 2019-20

UCI researchers received the most funding in campus history, with a 20% increase over last year, thanks to strong support from federal and state agencies, leading foundations, and companies. This milestone accelerates UCI's ascent as a world-class research university, with notable boosts in biomedical research and data privacy.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateJul 20, 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.

Socio-economic status predicts UK boys' development of essential thinking skills

A UK study found that British boys' executive functions are heavily influenced by their socio-economic status, while those from wealthier families performed better in tests. In contrast, girls and children from Hong Kong and mainland China outperformed their peers despite lower socio-economic backgrounds.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateJul 20, 2020

SLAC's upgraded X-ray laser facility produces first light

The SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory has successfully produced its first X-ray beam using the upgraded LCLS-II facility, demonstrating significant advancements in X-ray technology. The new undulators offer dramatic new capabilities, including precise control of X-ray beams and unprecedented repetition rates.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·DateJul 20, 2020

A mechanical way to stimulate neurons

Scientists have created magnetic nanodiscs that can detect and respond to mechanical forces, offering a new method for studying neural responses and potentially leading to new therapeutic treatments. The discovery could provide a more precise and non-invasive alternative to existing neurostimulation techniques.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 20, 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.

Conflicting theories about peace

A study of 500 Jewish-Israelis and 500 Palestinians reveals differing lay theories about peace, influencing conflict resolution. Peace is associated with war termination for both groups, but with different underlying values.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2020

How smart, ultrathin nanosheets go fishing for proteins

Researchers developed ultrathin 'smart nanosheets' that can capture protein complexes from mixtures, enabling faster and more accurate analysis with electron microscopy. This innovation can lead to better understanding of diseases and treatment with drugs.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 20, 2020

New research reveals antifungal symbiotic peptide in legume

A team of scientists at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center has identified a sub-class of peptides in legumes that inhibit the growth of gray mold fungus. The peptides, known as NCR044, work by concentrating in the nucleolus and targeting fungal spores and germlings.

SourceDonald Danforth Plant Science Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2020

Study shows genetic markers are useful in predicting osteoporotic fracture risk

A new study published in PLOS Medicine shows that genetic pre-screening can reduce the number of screening tests needed to identify individuals at risk for osteoporotic fractures by up to 41 percent. This could lead to cost savings and more efficient screening programs.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 20, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

3D hand-sensing wristband signals future of wearable tech

Researchers from Cornell University and the University of Wisconsin, Madison, have developed a wrist-mounted device called FingerTrak that continuously tracks the entire human hand in 3D using thermal cameras. The technology has potential applications in sign language translation, virtual reality, mobile health, and human-robot interac...

SourceCornell University·DateJul 20, 2020

Reduced dose of prasugrel associated with reduced risk for bleeding in low-weight or elderly patient

A reduced dose of prasugrel was found to be as effective as a standard dose of ticagrelor in reducing the risk of bleeding without increasing it, particularly in elderly or low-weight patients with acute coronary syndrome. This finding is based on a randomized trial that assessed efficacy and safety in nearly 4,000 patients.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 20, 2020

If it's big enough and leafy enough the birds will come

A new study from Cornell University highlights the importance of urban green space and tree canopy for supporting diverse bird populations. The research found that increasing green space by 50% results in an 11.5% increase in annual species diversity.

SourceCornell University·JournalLandscape and Urban Planning·DateJul 20, 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.

Ultracold mystery: Solved

Scientists cooled potassium-rubidium molecules to near absolute zero, observing an intermediate complex that lived for 360 nanoseconds. The team found that laser light was forcing the molecules off their reaction path, leading to loss.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Physics·DateJul 20, 2020

The real reason behind goosebumps

Researchers found that the sympathetic nerve connects to hair follicle stem cells, bridging the gap between nervous system control and hair regeneration. The muscle facilitates this connection, allowing the nerve to directly regulate stem cell behavior and promote new hair growth in response to temperature changes.

SourceHarvard University·JournalCell·DateJul 20, 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.

Researchers identify possible drug target for prostate cancer

BRD4 protein regulates key proteins contributing to prostate cancer progression, suggesting new therapeutic target. Current treatments for castration-resistant prostate cancer are limited and focus on suppressing tumor cells' reliance on androgen receptor signaling.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalProstate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases·DateJul 20, 2020

Cell death in porpoises caused by environmental pollutants

Researchers isolated fibroblast cells from a stranded finless porpoise to predict the threat of environmental pollutants to its population. The study found that pollutants like PCBs and DDTs induce cell death and can cause cytotoxicity, apoptosis, and reduced cell viability.

SourceEhime University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 20, 2020

Immune system adaptations in cavefish may provide autoimmune disease insight

Researchers studied cavefish and surface fish for clues on immune system adaptations. The study found that cavefish have a more sensitive innate immune system but lower levels of inflammation due to their unique environment. This could provide insights into human autoimmune diseases like Type 1 diabetes.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 20, 2020

Climate scientists increasingly ignore ecological role of indigenous peoples

A Penn State researcher challenges the prevailing view that indigenous peoples' fires had a minor ecological impact. Instead, Abrams argues that indigenous peoples played a significant role in managing forests through frequent, low-intensity fires. This management approach allowed for extensive agriculture and supported wildlife habitats.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJul 20, 2020
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Simple test helps to predict and prevent falls

Scientists have developed a simple clinical test, the 'enhanced paper grip test,' to assess lower limb strength and predict falls. The test shows reliability and validity in detecting muscle weakness in patients with diabetes.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalGait & Posture·DateJul 20, 2020

Music on the brain

Researchers found that trained musicians showed greater powers of rhythmic prediction compared to nonmusicians, with subtle differences between those trained in Japanese or Western classical music. The study also reveals that different cultural upbringings can have a tangible effect on brain development.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateJul 20, 2020

Through the nanoscale looking glass -- determining boson peak frequency in ultra-thin alumina

The study used neutron spectroscopy to measure lattice vibrations in ultra-thin alumina particles, confirming theoretical predictions. The findings have implications for controlling heat transfer through ultra-thin materials, potentially benefiting electronics and future spacecraft designs.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateJul 20, 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.

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that older patients and those with coexisting diseases were more likely to die from COVID-19. The 30-day cumulative mortality rate was 24.4% among hospitalized patients, with shortness of breath being the most prevalent symptom among those who died.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 20, 2020

New diagnostic test for heart failure patients could also help COVID-19 patients

A new diagnostic test for heart failure patients has been found to also predict COVID-19 patient outcomes, highlighting the connection between cardiovascular disease and COVID-19. The test measures a balance of beneficial and harmful peptides in the blood, suggesting that targeting this pathway could improve treatment for both conditions.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·DateJul 20, 2020

Race is a risk factor for postoperative death in apparently healthy children

Researchers found that being African American strongly associated with higher risk of postoperative complications and mortality among apparently healthy children. African American children had 27% greater odds of developing postoperative complications and 3.43 times higher odds of dying within 30 days after surgery compared to white peers

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 20, 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.

South Atlantic anomalies existed 8 - 11 million years ago

Research by University of Liverpool reveals strange magnetic behaviour in South Atlantic region dated back eight to 11 million years ago. The study suggests that today's South Atlantic Anomaly is not a new phenomenon and may be linked to features of the Earth's interior.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2020

Which way to the fridge? Common sense helps robots navigate

A Carnegie Mellon-developed navigation system, SemExp, uses machine learning to train robots to recognize objects and understand their locations in a home. This enables the system to think strategically about how to search for something, making it more efficient than classical robotic navigation systems.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateJul 20, 2020

A look inside a battery

Scientists at Oldenburg University have developed a new technique to observe chemical processes during battery operation. The team used scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) to track changes on the lithium anode's surface, revealing how dendrites form and limit durability.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalChemElectroChem·DateJul 20, 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.

Native bushland's fertility secret

New research highlights the importance of soil biological health and organic farm inputs for crop production in Australia. The study found that native vegetation acts as a reservoir for beneficial actinobacteria, which can enrich adjoining agricultural soils.

SourceFlinders University·JournalSoil Biology and Biochemistry·DateJul 20, 2020

Scientists boost stability and efficiency of next-gen solar tech

Scientists have created next-generation solar modules with high efficiency and good stability using perovskite material. The breakthroughs address key issues such as scalability and durability, paving the way for commercialization.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Energy·DateJul 20, 2020

Scientists identify a new drug target for dry age-related macular degeneration

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute have identified vitronectin, a blood protein, as a promising drug target for dry age-related macular degeneration. The study's findings suggest that vitronectin drives the formation of abnormal deposits that cause progressive vision loss.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2020

Cheese making relies on milk proteins to form structure

A recent study in the Journal of Dairy Science reveals that milk protein composition plays a crucial role in cheese production. The researchers found that non-coagulating milk has higher concentrations of certain proteins, leading to lower cheese yields and economic impacts.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateJul 20, 2020

Nearly 60% of American children lack healthy cardiorespiratory fitness

Children with low cardiorespiratory fitness are at risk for premature heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. Improving CRF through regular physical activity, such as sports or high-intensity interval training, can lead to better academic achievement, mental health, and overall health.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateJul 20, 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.

MRI scans of the brains of 130 mammals, including humans, indicate equal connectivity

A groundbreaking study using MRI scans of 130 mammalian brains found that brain connectivity levels are equal in all species, including humans. The research revealed a universal law: Conservation of Brain Connectivity, which suggests that the efficiency of information transfer in the brain's neural network is the same across mammals.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 20, 2020

Changes in farming urgent to rescue biodiversity

A global transition to agroecological production is crucial to reduce threats to biodiversity and support ecosystems. Agroecology can enhance biodiversity, promote connectivity between protected areas and increase species' ability to respond to environmental threats.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 20, 2020

Legal marijuana may be slowing reductions in teen marijuana use, study says

A new study from the University of Washington found that teens may be more likely to use marijuana following legalization due to increased adult use and store proliferation. The study's lead author notes that early use during adolescence can have negative health consequences, making it concerning that teen use may be going up.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJul 20, 2020

Bisexual orientation in men

A study of over 500 men found a U-shaped function in genital and self-reported arousal to erotic stimuli, suggesting a continuum of male sexual orientations. Bisexual-identifying men exhibited smaller differences in arousal between male and female stimuli compared to heterosexual and homosexual men.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 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.