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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 248


Page 248 of 512
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.

High-fat diet with antibiotic use linked to gut inflammation

A high-fat diet combined with antibiotic use significantly increases the risk of developing pre-IBD. The study suggests that this combination disrupts mitochondria in cells of the large intestinal lining, leading to gut inflammation and a vicious cycle of replacing good bacteria with harmful microbes.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJul 14, 2020

Keeping innocent people out of jail using the science of perception

Salk scientists have developed a new lineup method that reveals the strength of recognition memory for each face and eliminates unconscious biases. This technique, called paired comparisons, estimates the probability of correctly identifying the culprit, offering an unprecedented quantitative index of certainty.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 14, 2020

Scientists find new link between delirium and brain energy disruption

Researchers from Trinity College Dublin have discovered a new link between impaired brain energy metabolism and delirium, a disorienting disorder common in the elderly. Collectively, their research suggests that therapies focusing on brain energy metabolism may offer new routes to mitigating delirium.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·DateJul 14, 2020

Correlations identified between insurance coverage and states' voting patterns

A recent study by Case Western Reserve University reveals a correlation between states' voting patterns in the 2016 presidential election and decreases in health insurance coverage. States classified as 'red' had the highest uninsured rates, while 'blue' states saw a decrease of over 7.6 million uninsured adults.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJul 14, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Nanoelectronics learn the same way as the human brain

Scientists at TU Dresden and HZDR successfully imitated brain neuron functioning using semiconductor materials. This development enables more efficient and intelligent computing, with potential applications in areas such as robotics and image recognition.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Electronics·DateJul 14, 2020

COVID-19 makes clear the need to address social determinants of health

The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of social determinants, such as housing, income, and chronic health conditions, in influencing an individual's ability to cope with infectious disease. Primary care can play a crucial role in addressing these disparities through emphasis on equity, social determinants, and prevention.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 14, 2020

Predation by Caspian terns on young steelhead means fewer return as adults

A study by Oregon State University found that Caspian terns have a significant impact on steelhead survival, with predation adding to the annual death toll. The birds' presence was connected to statistically significant decreases in steelhead survival rates, highlighting the need for effective predator management.

SourceOregon State University·JournalEcological Applications·DateJul 14, 2020

Designing better asteroid explorers

Researchers studied robotic explorers' impact on asteroid surfaces, finding that some rocks and boulders likely ricochet due to low gravity. The study provides critical information for designing successful asteroid missions.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalIcarus·DateJul 14, 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.

Autism researchers map brain circuitry of social preference

A new study from Scripps Research reveals how two key neural circuits control social preference in mice, providing insight into the challenges faced by individuals with autism. The research identifies a specific circuit linking higher-level thought and decision-making to emotional regulation, which is impaired in individuals with autism.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 14, 2020

International conference on social determinants of health identified change needs

Clinicians and experts gathered at the Toronto International Conference on Social Determinants of Health to discuss strategies for improving health equity in primary care. Key findings emphasized the need to incorporate community members, especially those with lived experiences of discrimination, into healthcare design teams.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 14, 2020

NREL research points to strategies for recycling of solar panels

Researchers at NREL conducted the first global assessment of solar panel recycling approaches. They recommend focusing on high-value silicon purification and exploring techno-economic analyses to mitigate environmental impacts. The study aims to contribute to a PV circular economy, reducing waste and conserving valuable materials.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateJul 14, 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.

Big data analytics enables scientists to model COVID-19 spread

Researchers from FAU College of Engineering and Computer Science developed a model to predict COVID-19 spread using innovative big data analytics techniques. The project leverages prior experience in modeling Ebola spread to create computational models that can quickly identify contacts of infected individuals.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·DateJul 14, 2020

A Raspberry Pi-based virtual reality system for small animals

Researchers developed a low-cost, customizable VR system to study animal behavior using freely moving small animals. The system, called PiVR, enables the delivery of virtual realities in real-time, allowing scientists to examine causal relationships between neural activity and specific behaviors.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 14, 2020

Mismatched caregiver-infant interactions during feeding could boost babies' risk of later obesity

Infants who are fed in the absence of hunger or beyond fullness may develop skewed perceptions of hunger and fullness, increasing their risk of obesity. Caregiver-infant interactions during feeding can shape infants' self-regulation of energy intake, with feeding responsiveness to cues being linked to obesity.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development Perspectives·DateJul 14, 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.

Palliative nursing's role during COVID-19 and beyond

A recent editorial by University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing researchers emphasizes the importance of palliative care in supporting patients, families, and healthcare systems during pandemics. The authors provide recommendations for integrating palliative nursing roles to mitigate the effects of future health crises.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalJournal of Nursing Scholarship·DateJul 14, 2020

The five phases of pandemic care for primary care

The article outlines a 5-phase roadmap for transforming US primary care during the COVID-19 pandemic. The first three phases focus on testing, triage, and virtual visits, while the fourth phase emphasizes recovery after acute care. The fifth phase addresses indirect consequences like worsening mental health and social risks.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 14, 2020

Scientists discuss evolution of white coloration of Thistle-down velvet ants

A team of researchers from Utah State University and the California Department of Food and Agriculture investigated the evolution of Thistle-down velvet ants' white coloration. They found that the wasps' pale coloring provides thermoecological benefits in their hot desert environment, rather than serving as camouflage to avoid predators.

SourceUtah State University·JournalBiology Letters·DateJul 14, 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.

Particulate plutonium released from the Fukushima Daiichi meltdowns

A recent study published in Science of the Total Environment reveals that small amounts of plutonium were released into the environment during the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster. The research found that plutonium was included inside cesium-rich microparticles, which were emitted from the damaged reactors and deposited across Japan.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJul 14, 2020

Thermonuclear blast sends supernova survivor star hurtling across the Milky Way

A team of scientists from the University of Warwick has discovered a white dwarf star that survived a partial thermonuclear supernova explosion. The star, SDSS J1240+6710, is traveling at an incredible velocity of 900,000 km/h and has a low mass consistent with the loss of mass during the explosion.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 14, 2020

Robot jaws shows medicated chewing gum could be the future

A new study uses a humanoid chewing robot to assess medicated chewing gum, replicating human chewing motion in a closed environment. The researchers found that the robot demonstrates a similar release rate of xylitol as human participants, with the greatest release occurring during the first five minutes of chewing.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateJul 14, 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.

Researchers found a link between genes and preeclampsia

A study published in EBiomedicine reveals a genetic link between the HLA-G gene and preeclampsia. The researchers found that certain alternative forms of the HLA-G gene are connected to the male-to-female ratio at birth, fetal survival, and pregnancy complications.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalEBioMedicine·DateJul 14, 2020

NHGRI researchers generate complete human X chromosome sequence

Researchers at NHGRI have produced the first end-to-end DNA sequence of a human chromosome, enabling the production of a complete human genome sequence. The achievement opens a new era in genomics research and will aid in gaining a comprehensive understanding of genome function.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNature·DateJul 14, 2020

'ENHANCE' receives prestigious grant from the European Commission

The ENHANCE alliance will strengthen mobility of students and staff, foster inclusiveness in European higher education, and promote joint strategy and European values. The seven partner universities aim to lay the foundation for structures enabling seamless mobility through innovative teaching formats.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·DateJul 14, 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.

More than one cognition: A call for change in the field of comparative psychology

A recent review in the Journal of Intelligence identifies two main problems hindering research in comparative psychology: anthropocentrism and a narrow view of cognition. The authors argue that studies should take a biocentric approach, considering each species in its own right, and focus on cognitive abilities unique to each species.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalJournal of Intelligence·DateJul 14, 2020

Molecularly thin interface between polymers -- for efficient CO2 capture membrane

Scientists at Kyushu University created composite membranes with ultrathin layers that selectively separate CO2 from nitrogen, thanks to the molecularly thin interface formed between polymers. The discovery opens a new area for designing more efficient membranes for industrial CO2 capture applications.

SourceKyushu University, I2CNER·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 14, 2020

Scientists found a way to identify diseases by blood serum

Researchers from Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University and Tsinghua University created a dynamic light scattering method to determine immune complex sizes in blood serum. The new method can detect diseases, such as autoimmune disorders and cancer, by analyzing changes in immune complex concentrations.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalBiology·DateJul 14, 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.

Wireless aquatic robot could clean water and transport cells

Researchers developed a tiny plastic robot that moves under the influence of light and magnetism, allowing it to attract and capture contaminant particles from the surrounding liquid or pick up and transport cells. The robot operates independently of the water composition, making it suitable for use in contaminated water.

SourceEindhoven University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 14, 2020

Pesticide mixtures a bigger problem than previously thought

Research has found that nearly all water samples from 15 waterways discharging into the Great Barrier Reef lagoon contained pesticide mixtures, with up to 20 pesticides present in some samples. The study emphasizes the need for improved pesticide management practices among land managers and farmers to reduce losses to waterways.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateJul 14, 2020

Scientists ID gene responsible for deadly glioblastoma

Researchers have identified AVIL as an oncogene that plays a critical role in the development of glioblastoma. Targeting this gene shows promise as an effective approach for treating the disease.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 14, 2020

Machine learning accurately predicts who's who in the health care workforce

A machine learning algorithm accurately identifies medical specialties and primary care physicians with 95% accuracy, providing real-time data on the US healthcare workforce. The model correctly predicted 70% of physician practice types within five percentage points, including specialties such as emergency medicine and cardiology.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 14, 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.

Supercomputer reveals atmospheric impact of gigantic planetary collisions

A new study using supercomputer simulations reveals the scale of atmosphere loss during giant planetary collisions. Grazing impacts led to less atmospheric loss than direct hits, while higher speeds resulted in complete erosion of the atmosphere. The research provides insight into the evolution of planets and their atmospheres.

SourceDurham University·DateJul 14, 2020

Quantum body scanner? What happens when vector vortex beams meet scattering media

A team of researchers has made significant progress in developing a quantum body scanner that can detect cancer with high accuracy. By analyzing the transmission of vector vortex beams through scattering media, they have overcome major hurdles in biomedical imaging. The study's findings suggest that vector vortex beams can preserve the...

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJul 14, 2020

Study finds hidden emotions in the sound of words

A Cornell-led study reveals that sound combinations elicit emotionally intense responses, linking them to meaning. The research suggests that early humans may have used emotion to associate words with meanings, paving the way for language development.

SourceCornell University·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 14, 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.

Experts' high-flying study reveals secrets of soaring birds

The Andean condor flaps its wings only 1% of the time during flight, with most movement occurring through air currents. Research using high-tech flight-recorders revealed that over 75% of wing movements are associated with take-off.

SourceSwansea University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 14, 2020

Researchers cast doubt on earlier COVID-19 origins study citing dogs as possible hosts

A recent study claiming the coronavirus may have jumped from dogs to humans lacks direct evidence, according to a collaborative group of international researchers. The team refuted the earlier study, highlighting that dogs are not special in their content of proteins that interact with viral CpG content.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJul 14, 2020

Twisting magnetic fields for extreme plasma compression

Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered a method to stabilize plasma compression using twisted magnetic fields. The technique reduced escaping plasma tentacles by 70% and improved conditions for studying extreme plasma states.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 14, 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.

When a pandemic strikes, we still expect an ambulance

A study found that Australians prioritize paramedic safety and expect them to attend cases involving children or immediate families during a pandemic. However, concerns arise when PPE is scarce, as responders feel it becomes 'above and beyond the call of duty',

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalDisaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·DateJul 14, 2020

Customizable smart window technology could improve energy efficiency of buildings

Scientists developed a customizable smart window prototype that maximizes design across various criteria, balancing energy usage with lighting and temperature preferences. The approach uses comprehensive physical models and advanced computational techniques to optimize window designs for optimal energy efficiency.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 14, 2020

Transparent, reflective objects now within grasp of robots

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed a system that enables robots to pick up transparent and reflective objects using a color camera and depth images. The system outperforms previous methods in grasping these challenging objects, with high success rates in both clean and cluttered environments.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateJul 14, 2020

New lithium battery charges faster, reduces risk of device explosions

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a new anode design for lithium batteries using carbon nanotubes that enables safe storage of lithium ions and boosts charging speed. The technology prevents dendrite formation, reducing the risk of device explosions and improving battery performance.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 14, 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.

The earliest cat on the Northern Silk Road

A team of archaeologists has discovered the earliest known domestic cat in northern Eurasia, dating back to the late 8th century AD. The well-preserved skeleton revealed that humans cared for the tomcat, suggesting a longer history of human-cat interactions than previously thought.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 14, 2020